Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips.
Our listing of Iowa field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a Iowa field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.
Ackley Heritage CenterAckley
Situated on the rolling prairie plains of North Central Iowa, Ackley's lush land offered an invitation for settlement, particularly to the German people from Ostfriesland, Germany. Those German pioneers' hard work, self reliance, and commitment to family laid the foundations for the strong community that Ackley is today. Recording and preserving the history and artifacts of this great migration is the goal and purpose of the Ackley Heritage Center. Explore the History Center with its displays featuring the lives of the early settlers. Visit the Clutterville Country School, see Marianna's Prairie Garden, and marvel at the authenticity of the restoration efforts of this 1870 I-House.
Communal Kitchen and Coopershop MuseumAmana
The Ruedy Kuche (kitchen house), built in 1863, served up to 40 community members at each meal during the communal era and was one of about nine kitchen houses in Middle Amana. In the communal Amana Colonies no residents had their own kitchens; community members and Taglohners (hired hands) ate at one of the over 50 kitchens operated in the Amana Colonies.
Barn Museum & Communal Agriculture MuseumAmana
Contains exhibits that reflect Amana's agricultural heritage. The Communal Agriculture Museum, which was once an ox barn or Ochsentall contains antique agricultural implements used on Amana's communal farms as well as photographs depicting the role of agriculture in communal Amana. What was once a Gaustall (horse barn) is now the Barn Museum. This museum features the miniature woodcrafting of Henry Moore and is the largest known collection of miniatures made by one man. In the scale of one inch to the foot, Henry Moore built a unique world with dozens of buildings of both regional and national historic significance.
Octagon Center for the ArtsAmes
The Octagon Center for the Arts was established in 1966 as a community arts center, originally housed in a 100-year-old octagon-shaped building that gave the center its name. Since then, the Octagon has expanded to become a comprehensive community arts center located in the Masonic Building. The Community Gallery is free and open to the public.
Art on Campus CollectionAmes
Iowa State University is home to one of the largest campus public art programs in the United States. Over 2,500 works of public art, including 600 by significant national and international artists, are located across campus in buildings, courtyards, open spaces and offices. The cost is free; donations are appreciated. Indoor works of art are viewable during building hours. Outdoor works of art are viewable all hours every day.
Brunnier Art MuseumAmes
The Brunnier Art Museum is the state's only accredited museum emphasizing a decorative arts collection, and one of the nation's few museum located within a performing arts and conference complex (Iowa State Center). Founded in 1975, the museum is named after its benefactors, Iowa State alumnus Henry J. Brunnier and his wife Ann. The decorative arts collection they donated, called the Brunnier Collection, is extensive, consisting of ceramics, glass, dolls, ivory, jade, and enameled metals. The University Art Collection includes prints, paintings, sculptures, textiles, carpets, wood, lacquered objects, silver, and furniture. The regularly-changing exhibitions, from the permanent collection or a visiting collection, provide educational opportunities for all ages. Lectures, receptions, conferences, university classes, panel discussions, and gallery walks are available to further the interpretation of these fine objects.
Christian Petersen Art MuseumAmes
The Christian Petersen Art Museum is named for the nation's first permanent campus artist-in-residence, Christian Petersen, who sculpted and taught at Iowa State from 1934 through 1955. Petersen is considered the founding artist of the Art on Campus Collection. The body of work produced during his time at Iowa State constitutes Petersen’s best-known sculptures. The sculptures are all representational and reflect the missions and themes of the various departments at the time. Petersen’s works of art are among the best of the Regionalist art produced in the 1930s and 40s, representing the history and culture of the Midwest.
Farm House MuseumAmes
The Farm House Museum is an on-campus resource providing a changing environment of exhibitions among the historical permanent collection objects that are on display. A walk through the Farm House Museum immerses visitors in the Victorian era and colorful state and local history. Programs, receptions, university classes, and educational tours are presented on a regular basis to enhance visual literacy. Our relationship with Iowa State University, local K-12 schools and the community facilitates the design and presentation of insightful tours, curriculum connections, and programming tailored to the diversity of our audience. The Farm House Museum provides educational opportunities for all ages -- from learning traditional soap making techniques to analyzing the lifestyle of Victorian-era farm children.
Elizabeth and Byron Anderson Sculpture GardenAmes
The sculpture garden design incorporates sculptures, a gathering arena, and sidewalks and pathways. Planted with perennials, ground cover, shrubs, and flowering trees, the landscape design provides a distinctive setting for important works of twentieth and twenty-first century sculpture, primarily American. Ranging from forty-four inches to nearly nine feet high and from bronze to other metals, these works of art represent the richly diverse character of modern and contemporary sculpture.
Reiman GardensAmes
Now one of the largest public gardens in Iowa, Reiman Gardens creates a striking entrance to Iowa State University and the city of Ames. Situated on a 14-acre site, the year-round facility features distinct gardens throughout the indoor and outdoor areas, an indoor conservatory, 2,500-square-foot indoor butterfly wing, butterfly emergence cases, a gift shop, and five supporting greenhouses. Reiman Gardens has many award-winning features, and has recently planted one of the first rose gardens in a public garden that incorporates both sustainable designs, plants, and gardening practices. It's Reiman Gardens' goal to show gardeners how to have beautiful and practical gardens and cut the use of chemicals, incorporate more native and hardy plants, and use less labor.
Abbie Gardner Sharp CabinArnolds Park
In 1857, amidst rising tensions between Native Americans and new settlers, 13-year-old Abbie Gardner’s family was killed by men of the Dakota Indian nation. This tragedy became known as the Spirit Lake Conflict. Young Abbie was taken hostage by the Dakota band and released 84 days later. Decades after the massacre, in 1891, Abbie returned to Arnolds Park and purchased the cabin, operating it as one of Iowa’s earliest tourist attractions.
Bloomsbury FarmAtkins
We believe that education about agriculture, tied with FUN activities, is essential for everyone - especially kids! Here at Bloomsbury Farm we are surrounded by rich heritage, history, and farming; and we are passionate about sharing it with all who visit! We invite you to bring your students to experience the rural magic of the Iowa farm with an added twist of extremely unique and exciting activities! We have a giant Jumping Pillow, Corn Box, Barnyard Buddies, Hayrack Rides, and much more here at Bloomsbury Farm!
Family MuseumBettendorf
Engaging families, caregivers, and teachers with children eight years and under in active play and learning experiences and environments that spark their curiosity, explore their interests, foster their potential, and nourish a sense of belonging. "The Family Museum is pleased to offer visitors a special sensory kit to assist those who may need support with calming children with special needs. Upon request, our Guest Services staff will gladly provide you with a kit filled with such items as calming brushes, sensory toys, and tools to assist children with tension that they may endure while playing at the Museum. Also, the Museum's staff is happy to provide you with a quiet low-lit room when necessary to help your child."
Phelps House MuseumBurlington
The Phelps House Museum graces the top of Snake Alley, known as the crookedest street in the world. Family treasures from three generations of the Garret-Phelps family fill this Victorian Mansion home. Discover the medical memories of Burlington in the first Protestant Hospital in Des Moines County.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & MuseumBurr Oak
"In 1876, when Laura was nine years old, the Ingalls family left Walnut Grove, Minnesota, after suffering through two years of grasshopper plagues. They traveled to Burr Oak, Iowa, to help manage the Masters Hotel, owned by their friend, William Steadman, also from Walnut Grove. Burr Oak is often referred to as “The Missing Link” in the Little House book series. The Masters Hotel is the only childhood home of Laura Ingalls Wilder that remains on its original site. It is registered on the National Register of Historical Places."
Hearst Center for the ArtsCedar Falls
At the Hearst Center for the Arts you will find: outstanding artworks and fascinating exhibitions, great performances, valuable workshops in the creative arts, vibrant gatherings with other art lovers, stimulating programs and discussions, and classes for all age groups.
Ice House MuseumCedar Falls
The Ice House Museum features an outstanding display of the items used in cutting, harvesting, storing, selling, and the use of natural ice. The 600-square-foot display area for tools and implements used to cut natural ice was completed in 1991. A large mural showing the Cedar River in winter forms the background for a "frozen" river where tools of the trade are displayed. Blocks of "ice" are stacked as they would have been in the ice house with the tools used by the men who delivered ice to homes and businesses throughout the area.
University of Northern Iowa museumCedar Falls
Antique AcresCedar Falls
Antique Acres is a private organization whose members own, preserve and display working examples of antique threshing, steam, plowing and saw milling machinery. Antique Acres was incorporated in 1964 to purchase 80 acres of land and to organize what has become an annual "Old Time Power Show," held each August on this site. The Antique Acres collection includes a 1918 Moline Universal tractor. A museum on the grounds features a large collection of old farm machinery, including items more than 100 years old.
Cedar Rapids Museum of ArtCedar Rapids
The mission of the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art is to excite, engage, and educate our community and visitors through our collection, exhibitions, and programs.
BrucemoreCedar Rapids
You can't experience Brucemore by looking at a screen. Grab the family, take a tour of the mansion, stroll the gardens, pack a picnic, and attend outdoor theatre. Brucemore, a National Trust Historic Site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a museum and so much more. As a community cultural center, Brucemore's 26-acres are alive with concerts, festivals, performances, and activities. So log off and come over to the big house.
Carl & Mary Koehler History CenterCedar Rapids
"There is a lot to see and learn when you visit The History Center in the historic Douglas Mansion. Our permanent gallery showcases a number of unique and interesting artifacts, photos, stories and information regarding the history of Linn County's culture, people, businesses, neighborhoods and more."
Floyd County MuseumCharles City
Come explore the history of the heartland. The Floyd County Museum is one of the Midwest's largest rural county museum, with over 50,000 artifacts depicting early and recent prairie life, both agricultural and industrial.
Sanford Museum and PlanetariumCherokee
Exhibits and activities on a variety of subjects including: Archaeology, Art, Astronomy, Geology, History, Natural History, and Paleontology. "The public is always welcome to join us for any of our events! Everything we do is always free and open to the public."
Nodaway Valley MuseumClarinda
Come in and see the unique history of Southwest Iowa with many different exhibits and buildings including: Birthplace of 3H and 4H. Follow the work of Jessie Field Shambaugh who was superintendent when Page County was recognized as "The Best Rural Schools in America." She pioneered the Boys' Corn Club and the Girls' Home Club which developed into 3H and 4H.
Iowa Children's MuseumCoralville
The Iowa Children's Museum is a vibrant cultural attraction, educational family resource, and vital element in the Iowa economy. The mission of The Iowa Children's Museum is to inspire every child to imagine, create, discover, and explore through the power of play. The museum serves this mission through interactive exhibits, engaging hands-on programs, and community outreach.
Heritage Museum of Johnson CountyCoralville
Discover Johnson County's past in the unique stories of our fascinating people. Located in the 1876 Old Coralville Public School, the Heritage Museum features changing exhibits which vividly illustrate the culture and heritage of Iowa and Johnson County. A turn-of-the-century school room gives visitors an appreciation of the days when school children drank from a common dipper, and 'ciphered' on hand-held slates.
Prairie Trails MuseumCorydon
The large main brick building houses 25,000 artifacts in five galleries covering over 21,000 sq. ft. The eye-catching red Heritage Barn contains an extensive collection of early farm artifacts displayed in interesting interpretive exhibits.
RailsWest History CenterCouncil Bluffs
Rock Island Depot Museum, Historic Railcars, and working Model Railroad. The Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Passenger Depot was constructed in 1899 on the south edge of downtown Council Bluffs and today is operated as a museum and model railroad display.
The Union Pacific Railroad MuseumCouncil Bluffs
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum houses one of the oldest corporate collections in the nation. It includes artifacts, photographs and documents that trace the development of the railroad and the American West. The Union Pacific Collection dates to the mid-1800's, featuring original editions of reports from survey teams that searched for the best land route to join the nation, east to west. Surveying equipment, early rail equipment, and artifacts from the construction of the nation's first transcontinental railroad tell the story of one of the world's construction marvels.
Figge Art MuseumDavenport
The Davenport Municipal Art Gallery opened in 1925, through a gift of 350 European and Mexican Colonial paintings, creating the first municipal art gallery in the State of Iowa. Today, the collections have grown over ten-fold and include more than 3,500 paintings, sculptures, and works on paper from the 16th century to the present. The museum was renamed the Figge Art Museum in 2003.
Porter House MuseumDecorah
This house museum illustrates the life and times of its owners, Adelbert and Grace Porter, with their personal furnishings, collections, artwork, photographs, and library. A.F. Porter's collection of exotic butterflies is the focal point of the museum, and "the Porters' story" is closely tied to Bert's work as a naturalist and photographer. The museum grounds include a unique rock wall, designed by Bert, and built from his extensive collection of rocks and minerals. Fountains, birdbaths, planters, and a water garden enhance the park surrounding the house.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American MuseumDecorah
Embodies the living heritage of Norwegian immigrants to America. Sharing this cultural legacy can inspire people of all backgrounds to celebrate tradition. With 16 historic buildings in its main complex, which occupies most of a square block in downtown Decorah, Iowa, and two National Register sites just outside the city, Vesterheim houses over 24,000 artifacts, which include large samplings from the fine, decorative, and folk arts, and the tools and machinery of early agriculture, lumbering, and other immigrant industries.
Des Moines Art CenterDes Moines
The Art Center presents thought-provoking exhibitions and educational programs, as well as hands-on studio art classes. We are proud of our world-class architecture and our outstanding Permanent Collections.
Greater Des Moines Botanical GardenDes Moines
Offering field trips where students are engaged in fun hands-on learning while exploring plants and growing science skills. Interdisciplinary tours and programs are aligned with the Iowa Core, Next Generation Science Standards, and local curricula for grades PreK - 12th.
Terrace HillDes Moines
The official home of Iowa's governors. This beautiful mansion is filled with art, antiques and architecture that remind us of Iowa's rich history and heritage. Each year, more than 18,000 visitors tour Terrace Hill. Please use the website as a guide to help you learn about the history of one of Iowa's most famous homes, plan a tour, and find out about upcoming events at Terrace Hill.
Science Center of IowaDes Moines
Imagine. Experiment. Play! At the Science Center of Iowa, the experience is yours! From the inner workings of the human body to the outer reaches of the solar system, science surrounds you with dynamic live programs and hands-on interactive exhibits that will inspire the curiosity in us all. Interact, experiment and explore and see what you and science can do!
Salisbury House & GardensDes Moines
Discover the enduring charm of 16th century England, the changing America of the 1920s, the vibrant culture of the 21st century. Salisbury House is all of that. Imagine moving through room after majestic room...the expansive Great Hall, the art-filled Common Room, the elegant dining room, the rare book-filled Library. And the experience has just begun. Treasures of art and antiquity create the dazzling mosaic that is Salisbury House. Experience Salisbury House for yourself!
Blank Park ZooDes Moines
Blank Park Zoo inspires visitors to appreciate the natural world through conservation, education and recreation. The zoo offers special classes specifically designed for home school students.
Dubuque Museum of ArtDubuque
Our Mission: We will promote cultural growth through arts education, interpretation and preservation to enhance quality of life. - Iowa's oldest cultural institution established in 1874 located in the heart of downtown Dubuque's cultural corridor
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature CenterDubuque
The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area in Dubuque is a National Historic Landmark. Village sites, rock shelters, and trading post sites dot the landscape, and the area was once the location for lead mining until after the Civil War. The Julien Dubuque Monument, honoring the area's first European settler, sits high above the Mississippi River and serves as a landmark for the Mines of Spain area. This state recreation area provides ample opportunity for visitors to explore a variety of trails and learn more about the history of the state. Learn about the history and natural features of the park at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center and visit The Betty Hauptli Bird and Butterfly Garden. Programs are offered throughout the year and special arrangements can be made with park staff.
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature Center website
Backbone State ParkDundee
Iowa’s first state park, Backbone State Park is one of the most geographically unique locations in Iowa. The steep and narrow ridge of bedrock from the Maquoketa River forms the highest point in northeast Iowa - The Devil’s Backbone - giving the park its legendary name.
National Farm Toy MuseumDyersville
Features thousands of toys and exhibits between its two floors. Tractors, implements, trucks, miniature farm dioramas, toy manufacturing information, and pedal tractors are on display around the museum. Also displayed are two Doug Schlesier sculptures, plaques honoring inductees into the National Farm Toy Hall of Fame, and a plaque honoring the founders of the world's largest farm toy manufacturer headquartered in Dyersville, the Ertl Company.
Field of Dreams Movie SiteDyersville
Field of Dreams, released in 1989, is a movie that has inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for "Best Picture of the Year." Welcome to this home, this farm, this baseball field, this little piece of heaven on earth. Welcome to this place where reality mixes with fantasy and dreams can come true.
Danish Immigrant MuseumElk Horn
The Danish Immigrant Museum shares the legacy and continuing influence of Danish culture as realized in the experiences and contributions of Danish immigrants, their descendents and Danes living in America.
Fort Atkinson State PreserveFayette
Fort Atkinson State Preserve in northeast Iowa’s Winneshiek County contains the structural remains and buildings of a frontier-era U.S. military post. Constructed between 1840 and 1842, and occupied until 1849, the post featured prominently in the removal of the Winnebago (Ho-Chunk) people from their ancestral lands. The structures still in existence including a wooden and stone stockade encompassing the footprint of the site. The remaining buildings are the North Barracks, Northeast Cannon House, Southwest Cannon House, and a Powder Magazine.
Blanden Memorial Art MuseumFort Dodge
The museum permanent collection includes the Ann R. Smeltzer Modernist collection of European and American painting and sculpture, the Harold D. Peterson collection of European and American prints, American photography, contemporary American art, Iowa artists, and Japanese screens and prints.
Fort MuseumFort Dodge
The Fort Museum and Fort Trading Post is the first and finest attraction in highlighting the past and present history of Northwest Iowa. The Fort Museum is truly one of the finest locations to document the development of the Des Moines River basin, and the Fort Dodge, Iowa area. The Fort Museum is also the home of the Original "Cardiff Giant". The Gypsum material to carve the statue was quarried in the Fort Dodge area quarries.
Iowa Aviation MuseumGreenfield
The museum consists of three areas. The showroom’s displays of donated memorabilia portrays the vast history of Iowa aviation in chronological order from balloons to the space program. The heart of the museum, the hangar, consists of numerous rare and unique aircraft as well as stories of rich aviation history. In the Hall of Fame/ library are the photos and biographies that recognize and honor lowans who have contributed to the advancement of aviation.
Effigy Mounds National MonumentHarpers Ferry
Before Europeans arrived, a unique American Indian "Effigy Mound" culture developed in the upper Midwest building thousands of earthen mounds in the shape of animals across the landscape. Today, over two-hundred mounds are preserved intact here; thirty-one are effigies in the shape of bears and birds found along hiking trails. Ranger Programs 11:00 & 1:00 Daily
Cedar Rock State ParkIndependence
The Walter Residence: Cedar Rock designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The Walter house was one of Wright's most complete designs. Nearly everything at Cedar Rock bears the architect's imprint. Wright designed the furniture, selected the carpets, chose the draperies, and even picked out the accessories. Cedar Rock was begun in 1948 and completed in 1950. Its roof and floors are concrete; the walls are brick, glass, and walnut. Cedar Rock is one of nine Wright-designed residences in Iowa. There is also a bank and hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the state. Of all the Wright designs in Iowa, Cedar Rock is the only home chosen by Wright to bear his coveted signature tile. The visitor center and The Walter Residence are open to the public 5 days a week from Mid-May into early October.
University of Iowa Museum of Natural HistoryIowa City
"The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History is the second oldest museum in the United States west of the Mississippi River. Established in 1858, the museum has been free and open to the public for more than 160 years housing specimens, objects, and artifacts on display to support learning and exploration."
ArtiFactoryIowa City
Creating a place in Iowa City for education, practice, exhibition and collaboration in fine arts and crafts.
Kalona Historical VillageKalona
The Kalona Historical Village Visitors Center is the home of the nationally known Quilt and Textile Museum. We have two galleries one "English" and one "Amish" (reminding visitors that the Amish call anyone "English" that is not Amish). The Visitors Center also houses 100 pieces of Iowa City and Keota glass made in the area in the 1800s, the Reif Gem and Mineral Museum, the largest collection of spool cabinets, and many family showcases featuring collectibles from families in the area.
National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and MuseumKnoxville
When you are in or near Knoxville it is an absolute must that you stop by and see the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum and of course a visit next door to the famed Knoxville Raceway, you will never forget them.
Buffalo Bill MuseumLe Claire
"The Buffalo Bill Museum of LeClaire serves as a nonprofit historical, cultural, educational resource for the preservation of memorabilia related to William F. Cody, Mississippi River pilots, and local farm and home pioneer history."
Clay Castle MuseumMadrid
Houses one of the largest collections of dolls in the country. Many were made by Margaret Keigley, who donated her collection to the Madrid Historical Society. Included in the collection are dollhouses, sewing machines, and a variety of other toys.
Hurstville Interpretive CenterMaquoketa
The Jackson County Conservation environmental education staff are here to help you and your students, group, business, or organization learn more about Iowa's natural resources. Whether it be a program about a specific topic or a trip to a park, we are here to help you experience the outdoors and learn more about our natural world! Groups of all ages are welcome to explore on their own or work with a naturalist to develop a personalized learning experience that align with Iowa Core Standards. Free admission, open year round.
Maquoketa Caves State ParkMaquoketa
With more caves than any state park, Maquoketa Caves is one of Iowa’s most unique outdoor attractions. Highlights of the park include the “Natural Bridge” standing 50 feet above Raccoon Creek and the 17-ton “Balanced Rock.” Explore the 1,100-foot “Dancehall Cave” and many others such as Hernado’s Hideaway, Shinbone Cave, and Wye Cave. About 13 caves can be found in the park, some of which can be explored by walking, while others are better suited for serious spelunkers who are used to crawling in tight spaces. Learn about the geology of cave formations and park history at the new interpretive center, formerly known as Sager’s Museum. The facility is open on weekends during the summer and includes a video tour of the park as well as park history.
Granger House MuseumMarion
The Granger House Museum is a restored middle-class family home representing the American Victorian era. The house, built in the 1840s and occupied by a single family for nearly 100 years, showcases an extensive collection that includes many original furnishings. The 1879 brick carriage house, next to the family home, is a virtually untouched treasure and the only one of its design in the Midwest. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Granger House represents the lifestyle of a middle-class family living in late 19th-century Marion. The museum's guided tours, demonstrations, and seasonal activities bring our town's history to life.
MacNider Art MuseumMason City
The Museum exhibits and interprets a permanent collection of American art; temporary exhibitions of art; provides art classes for all ages; offers enriching arts programs; and maintains an art library. The MacNider Art Museum is a free admission museum open to the public without appointment.
Stockman House by Frank Lloyd WrightMason City
The Stockman House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1908 for Dr. George and Eleanor Stockman as their family home, is now a museum. Restored to its 1908 presentation and furnished with period pieces and reproductions of furnishings Wright designed for other houses, the Stockman House provides visitors with Wright's vision of a modest home of the time. The house is located within easy walking distance of other significant Prairie School buildings.
Midwest Old ThreshersMt. Pleasant
The Mission of the Midwest Old Settlers and Threshers Association is to preserve and celebrate our agricultural heritage through education and entertainment.
Mormon Pioneer National Historic TrailMulti-state
70,000 Mormons, led by Brigham Young, traveled from Nauvoo, Illinois, to Salt Lake City, Utah between 1846 to 1869 in order to escape religious persecution. "There are a number of ways to enjoy the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, including auto-touring, visiting interpretive sites, hiking, camping, biking or horseback riding along trail segments, and visiting museums and interpretive centers. Depending on which segment you would like to explore, some or all of these activities may be available. Although the word "trail" is used in the name, the Mormon Pioneer NHT is not necessarily a hiking trail. With 1,300 miles of the original route now in the hands of various private and public entities, access to trail segments depends upon the permission of the land owner. Some segments are open to the public for hiking and other means of recreation, while others are not."
Lewis & Clark National Historic TrailMulti-state
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through the homelands of more than 60 Tribal nations. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the Pacific Ocean.
Muscatine History and Industry CenterMuscatine
The Muscatine History and Industry Center examines products made locally -- from buttons to file cabinets and retread for tires to animal feed. The companies producing these goods have more in common than the location of Muscatine. Their histories are made of humble beginnings, risk-taking entrepreneurs, innovative technologies, strenuous days, and moments when driven individuals pushed on in spite of possible failure. "Made in Muscatine" means taking a chance, turning a vision into prosperity, and evolving to meet new demands.
Wildcat Den State ParkMuscatine
Explore the 19th century Pine Creek Grist Mill located on Pine Creek in the eastern part of the park. The mill was built by Benjamin Nye in 1848 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park is also home to the “turn of the century” one-room Melpine schoolhouse. The mill is open for tours to the public Wednesday-Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm from May through early October.
Carnegie Cultural CenterNew Hampton
Kids of all ages will enjoy the 23-foot long diorama "Main Street Circus Parade" where elephants shuffle in brightly colored advertisements and circus wagons parade through New Hampton circa 1910. This eclectic toy museum also has exhibits about steam engines, dollhouses, license plates, tractors, and farms. The Doc & Mabel Tunnell Collection, assembled by a New Hampton's optometrist and his wife, features historic eyeglasses with distinguishing pairs for the eskimo, sportsman, and 19th century automobile driver. Downstairs in the Railroad Room a large interpretive model of Chickasaw County has three operating train lines that the visitor can turn on and off.
Nishna Heritage MuseumOakland
This museum is the largest Little Town Museum in Iowa. We are very proud of our"little" Museum. We started the Historical Society in the mid 1900's. We purchased our first "Store" and opened the Museum in "that store" in the mid 1970's. We later purchased two more stores and linked them together. Our museum is about 150' by 150' in overall size. Our displays are mostly of the local area but not confined to this. We have displays from around the world, brought in by local people.
Lakes Art CenterOkoboji
The Pearson Lakes Art Center delivers educational programming to students of all ages through instructional classes, lectures and exhibitions; exposes community members to the numerous forms of art including, visual, music, drama, writing and film; serves as an advocate for the arts with partners in the schools and other neighboring organizations; and provides an important outlet for local and regional artists to exhibit and market their work. The Pearson Lakes Art Center is also fortunate to display the Pearson Art Collection.
Guthrie County Historical VillagePanora
The Guthrie County Historical Village features twelve buildings, numerous exhibits, and thousands of artifacts that explore the history of Guthrie County from 1850 to the early-20th Century. The museum is a county-wide project that started in 1968 with the acquisition of the Panora Depot. The majority of our collection has been donated by families and friends in the surrounding communities.
Pella Historical VillagePella
Pella Historical Village is a collage of more than twenty buildings, some more than 150 years old. Others were built later or moved and restored in keeping with our Dutch heritage. These structures are nestled in a courtyard laced with brick walkways.
National Mississippi River Museum & AquariumPort of Dubuque
"The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is operated by the Dubuque County Historical Society. Our focus blends the interpretation of the stories of Dubuque, the county and the region with the history and role of rivers like the Mississippi. The main campus features three buildings, the Diamond Jo National River Center, Fred W. Woodward Freight House, and the William Woodward Mississippi River Center, connected by a walkway along Dubuque’s historic Ice Harbor. Throughout campus and our Mathias Ham Historic Site, National Rivers Hall of Fame, and RiverWorks Discovery® program, there are many ways to connect to stories of natural science and human innovation all influenced by our inland waterways."
Buffalo Bill Cody HomesteadScott County
The boyhood home of Buffalo Bill Cody, government Scout and Wild West Showman, is located in the broad valley of the Wapsipinicon River. The 1847 farmhouse, entered in the National Registry of Historic Places, was built by Isaac Cody, Buffalo Bill's father, of native limestone and contains walnut floors and trim. The Homestead has been restored and furnished with items typical of the mid-19th century. Cody Homestead is nestled in scenic hillside overlooking the rich Iowa prairie where buffalo and long horn cattle graze on the land surrounding the house.
Greater Shenandoah Historical Society MuseumShendoah
The museum contains thousands of artifacts significant to Shenandoah's interesting and rich historical past. Displays include tributes to the two Shenandoah radio stations which were among the first in the nation and the history of the seed and nursery companies that earned Shenandoah the title "The Nursery Capital of the World".
Sioux City Art CenterSioux City
"Whether you would like to discover new artwork in an upcoming exhibition, visit one of your favorites from the Permanent Collection, or create your own masterpiece in a youth or adult class, we have something for everyone!"
Stone State ParkSioux City
Learn about the natural history of Stone State Park at the nearby Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, which is managed by the Woodbury County Conservation Board. Interpretive displays include a “walk-under” prairie, fish aquarium and children’s discovery area with hands-on furs and artifacts. The Nature Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Parker Historical MuseumSpencer
"The Parker Museum is an excellent example of the arts-and-crafts style of architecture. The house was built in 1916 for the Roy Webb family and was later donated to be a historic house museum. This museum showcases the lifestyle of rural Iowa throughout the years and the house's primary residents, the James E. Parker family. The backyard Duroe Building contains a Blacksmith shop as well as an expansive agricultural collection."
Bily Clocks MuseumSpillville
Marvel at the unique clocks that two brothers, Frank and Joseph Bily (bee-lee) hand-carved. The clocks depict history, art, religion and culture and are covered with hundreds of expertly carved figures. Some stand over nine feet tall.
Living History FarmsUrbandale
Travel Through 300 Years of Iowa's Agricultural Heritage. At Living History Farms, visitors experience first-hand what it was like to live on an Ioway Indian farm, on a pioneer farmstead, in an early Iowa town, on a farm from 100 years ago and what farming is like today! Discover America's agricultural heritage as you walk through three working farms, each with authentic crops and livestock. Learn how Native Americans grew crops in Iowa at the 1700 Farm. See how early farmers opened the prairie with oxen at the 1850 Farm. Find out how horse-power and cast-iron machines revolutionized agriculture at the 1900 Farm. Then, reconnect with today's agriculture in the Wallace Exhibit Center where you can see the many ways two-percent of the people in the United States (farmers) feed, clothe - and even fuel - the other 98 percent.
Waterloo Center for the ArtsWaterloo
"The Center collects Midwest Art, American Decorative Arts and International Folk Art, including a significant collection of Mexican Folk Art and the world’s largest public collection of Haitian Art. Selections from our collection are always on display in one or several of our galleries at any given time. We also feature changing exhibits in five separate galleries throughout the building."
National Wrestling Hall of Fame and MuseumWaterloo
The museum boasts over 600 displays as it takes visitors through the history of wrestling, from ancient Greece through the present-day Olympics. The Professional Wing of the museum has a half-size wrestling ring, a wall devoted to the legendary Frank Gotch, the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, and many other exciting displays.
Bluedorn Science ImaginariumWaterloo
This hands-on science center makes learning scientific principles fun through interactive exhibits and formal demonstrations. Exhibits focus on light and electricity, momentum, liquids, gases and sound.
Grout Museum of History & ScienceWaterloo
The Grout Museum of History and Science features permanent and continually changing exhibitions of area history, and the only public planetarium in Northeast Iowa, which holds weekly shows.
Herbert Hoover National Historic SiteWest Branch
"Orphaned at age nine, Herbert Hoover left West Branch never to live here again. In later years, he returned to his humble birthplace to celebrate his long career of public service. A memorial landscape remains to tell his story: how community, hard work, honesty, and usefulness to others opened a world of opportunity— and the presidency of the United States— to a child of simple beginnings."
Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and MuseumWest Branch
Enables visitors to experience for themselves the many sides of Iowa's only president: The permanent galleries begin with Hoover's boyhood in Iowa and continue on to the Waldorf Towers in New York where he spent the final years of his life. The Quarton Gallery offers exciting temporary exhibits relating to American history. In the Hoover Library people of all ages can learn about President Hoover's life and career. Using manuscripts, photographs and oral histories, one can learn the stories of our history.
The Jordan House MuseumWest Des Moines
The Jordan House, a stately Victorian home of Italianate Gothic design, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. It is one of the oldest structures in Polk County and the oldest in West Des Moines. Built by one of West Des Moines' first settlers, James C. Jordan, the house today serves both as a museum for West Des Moines and as the office of West Des Moines Historical Society. Admission is $5 and tour reservations are encouraged in advance.
Our Lady of the Prairie RetreatWheatland
Our Lady of the Prairie Retreat, nestled in rural east-central Iowa along the Wapsipinicon River, offers a rejuvenating escape on its 100-acre expanse of native grass prairie, wetlands and woodlands. The retreat features: *winding woodland paths *50 acres of tall grass prairie *25 acres of forest *a peaceful nature pond and wetland *an ancient labyrinth *a Cosmic Walk – a 2-mile nature trail with 22 stone markers that represent significant events on a chronological timeline *Bee hives *Pollinator Strips *Compost area *Solar Panels *Weather Station The Prairie Retreat is an ideal destination for those seeking a serene, environmentally conscious educational field trip designed for all ages. Lunch is available - call 563-374-1092 for details.
John Wayne BirthplaceWinterset
Step back in time and picture the life of a young midwestern boy and his family near the turn of the century. This modest four-room home has been restored to reflect its appearance in 1907, the year of Duke's birth. An impressive collection of John Wayne memorabilia includes unique items such as the eyepatch worn in the movie True Grit, a hat worn in Rio Lobo, and a prop suitcase used in the film Stagecoach. Hundreds of rare photographs of Duke are on display as well as letters from Lucille Ball, Gene Autry, Maureen O'Hara, Jimmy Stewart, Kirk Douglas, Bob Hope, Ronald Reagan and George Burns.
