4.5John Wayne Birthplace & Museum(484 reviews) - Must do for John Wayne fans Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
Tour the modest 4-room home where John Wayne was born, and visit the John Wayne Birthplace Museum featuring the largest diversified exhibit of John Wayne artifacts in existence, including original movie posters, film wardrobe, scripts, letters, artwork and sculpture--even one of his customized automobiles. Admission includes the Museum, a visit to the Birthplace house, and a small theater with a documentary on John Wayne's life, with a special welcome by his daughter Aissa.See more..
This library-museum commemorates the 31st President of the U.S. and the first born west of the Mississippi River. Exhibits track Hoovers life and political career. The large temporary gallery has changing exhibits that relate to American history. The Museum sits on the grounds of the Hoover National historic site where visitors can tour Hoover's birthplace cottage, blacksmith shop, Quaker meeting house, the local school and the Hoover's gravesite.See more..
The history of Amana Colonies, a National Historic Landmark and one of America’s longest-lived communal societies, begins in 1714 in the villages of Germany and continues today on the Iowa prairie. Amana Colonies Today Today the seven villages of the Amana Colonies represent an American dream come true; a thriving community founded by religious faith and community spirit. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965, the Amana Colonies attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually all of whom come to see and enjoy a place where the past is cherished and where hospitality is a way of life. Evocative of another age, the streets of the Amana Colonies with their historic brick, stone and clapboard homes, their flower and vegetable gardens, their lanterns and walkways recall Amana yesterday. But a vibrant community, celebrating both its past and its future, is here today for you to experience.See more..
5.0Grotto of the Redemption(270 reviews) - Amazing Shrine - Has to be seen to appreciate Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Caverns & Caves
Stunning man-made grottoes representing scenes of the life of Christ. Father Dobberstein’s years of work using minerals, gemstones, petrified wood and other elements make this Shrine an extraordinary example of his devotion to Christ and the Virgin Mary. Admission to the Shrine and adjacent Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church is free but donations are accepted. We stayed overnight in the RV Campground - 30A service for $20/night or $10/Passport America discount.See more..
4.5Brucemore(269 reviews) - Time well spent Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Brucemore is a living landmark that charts the history of Cedar Rapids. The 26-acre, park-like estate invites exploration of its history, gardens, grounds, and 21-room mansion. Each season, nature's changing beauty entices visitors to the estate offering new experiences. Concerts, theater, festivals, garden walks, holiday celebrations, and tours enliven the site and celebrate the heritage of the community.See more..
4.5Effigy Mounds National Monument(250 reviews) - Totally worth it Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites • Parks • Monuments & Statues
29 Of This Park's 191 Mounds Are In The Shape Of Animals.See more..
Lovely area containing a nice visitors center, with a short film about Herbert Hoovers early life, and his boyhood home and burial site. Also his official museum is on site too. The visit to his boyhood home and village and the visitors center are all free. The presidential library is an extra fee and although ran by the park service, season and lifetime park passes are not accepted. The grounds are beautiful. They also had a blacksmith on site demonstrating various techniques. Hoovers Dad had been a blacksmith. The blacksmith was very good demonstrating how to make a bottle opener. A short walk up the hill is Herbert and Lou’s burial site. Highly recommend a visit. Very close to I80 just east of Iowa City. Well marked on I80 where to exit.See more..
4.5Living History Farms(223 reviews) - Very interesting and enjoyable. Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Farms
Living History Farms is located in the western suburbs of Des Moines, Iowa in Urbandale and is conveniently located right off Interstates 35/80. It is an interactive outdoor museum which educates, entertains and connects people of all ages to Midwestern rural life experiences. 300 years of agricultural history are represented including a 1700 Ioway Indian Farm, 1850 Pioneer Farm, 1900 Horse-Powered Farm and an 1875 town. Tours are self guided and historic interpreters are at each farm site are dressed in clothing from each era to explain what it would have been like to live in that time. The general touring season is May 1 through October 14th. Many special events and historic dinners take place in the off-season. Visit the website for details.See more..
5.0Stockman House Museum(207 reviews) - Another great Wright designed house Friday: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
This is the only Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie Style House open to the public in Iowa. Private tours are offered on a daily basis by reservation. Check our website for more detailed information. As of May 22, 2021 no masks are required either by visitors or volunteers. For current hours, please visit our web site.See more..
This is quite a sizable shopping area for finds that are unusual ...out of the ordinary. Some expensive, many not. Priced for what you are getting. My friend and I did a lot of shopping and gift purchasing. Antique stores, clothing boutiques, home décor and more! Easy to spend a day there. Good lunch spots too!See more..
Well worth the visit and $10 entry fee. Our tour guide was actually born in Holland. The windmill tour was so informative. And my favorite part was the miniature village. I also enjoyed walking around the historic village which is part of the admission price as well. Wish we had gotten there earlier in the day so we could have spent several hours. Very Covid safe. Masks required and social distancing. See more..
5.0Historic Park Inn Hotel(198 reviews) - Great Stay at a Historic Hotel! Friday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
We really enjoyed our stay at this hotel. Being Frank Lloyd Wright buffs made it a special treat. The hotel has been beautifully restored and great thought has gone into making the hotels rooms modern and yet in the appropriate style. Don't expect large rooms - but expect beauty and comfort. Make sure you wander and enjoy all the other lovely spaces in this hotel. We stayed on a Monday night so were not able to enjoy the restaurant or bar. Next time we will!See more..
4.0Amana Woolen Mill(192 reviews) - Fall Getaway Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
4.5Old Capitol Museum(160 reviews) - A museum of Iowa Territorial and early State government Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
The Old Capitol remains one of the most recognizable symbols of the state of Iowa. In the many years since the cornerstone was laid in 1840, the building has served state legislatures, countless university uses, and has undergone multiple additions and renovations. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Old Capitol Museum welcomes you to explore. Located in the heart of downtown Iowa City, the building offers special event venue rentals and also features both permanent and changing exhibitions. Admission is always free. Join us!See more..
4.0Village of East Davenport(159 reviews) - back in time Friday: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites
This 120-acre historic district has been a center of commerce for more than 150 years. Highlights include unique shops, restaurants & bars, wine tasting, live music and festivals.See more..
4.5Salisbury House(156 reviews) - Historic English-style mansion Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Art Museums • History Museums
The King's House in Salisbury, England, was the inspiration for this Tudor mansion.See more..
4.0Amana Heritage Museum(105 reviews) - Best part of visit Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
History of the Amana Colonies, which from 1855 to 1932 were an experiment in Utopian living.See more..
I love covered bridges and there are several in the Winterset/Madison County area. Most of them were featured in the movie "The Bridges of Madison County." I was a little pressed for time and decided to visit the Hogback Covered Bridge because it was fairly close to my intended route and would not require me to go too far out of my way. It is a beautiful well maintained bridge that was built about 1884. It is about 100-feet long and is still at its original location. It was a quick photo stop for me and I spent probably less than 30-minutes on site.See more..
Came on Tue Oct 6 in the early afternoon. Great weather, great state park, etc. The mill is very neat and it's pretty and relaxing to sit and watch the water. We weren't able to get inside.... only downfall. See more..
4.5Sioux City Railroad Museum(45 reviews) - Best and Most Complete Train History! Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
Originally known as the Milwaukee Railroad Shops, the Railroad Museum is located along Highway 12 in Sioux City, Iowa. This historical treasure, nestled in between the scenic Loess Hills and the Big Sioux River, was built in 1917. At one time this site was a large industrial complex that serviced and repaired locomotives and railcars for 65 years. Today this 30-acre complex is home to the Sioux City Railroad Museum. Only a handful these places still exist in the United States. Today, after several years of preserving and restoring what remained, the museum is able to showcase rare artifacts and architecture that represent an important and influential time in our nation’s history. The Railroad Museum and its historical atmosphere create a unique environment for friends and families to learn and enjoy. We are building tracks for the future!See more..
4.0Klokkenspel(41 reviews) - Cute Clock Tour Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas • Monuments & Statues
Right in downtown Pella, the clock plays every 30 minutes. Walking through the walkway from the street was a great surprise! Pretty walk with seating, Dutch murals on both sides, and beautiful tulips. It's right near the windmill downtown, worth a stop. The little bakery-type shop next door had long lines for the Dutch pastries, so it must have great treats! We couldn't wait. Worth a stop. The bells on top were very neat. I wish the windows were a little easier to see through. Maybe they're using tinted glass, but we could still see them fine.See more..
This was the site of a prisoner of war camp that housed more than 10,000 German prisoners from 1943 to 1946.See more..
4.5Abbie Gardner Cabin(34 reviews) - So interesting! Historic Sites • History Museums
Be certain to watch the movie first before looking around---be sure to look at the grave sites to the east. Curator is very knowledgeableSee more..
4.5Mathias Ham Historic Site(34 reviews) - Very interesting glimpse into the past. Friday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites
Personally, I thought the video introduction was surprisingly professionally done. It was quite informative and well presented. Just enough history to be informative, just enough personal information to feel like we know a little about the original resident. The costumed "interpreters" were fun and informative. They explained some details that I certainly would have missed. It was good to learn some details of the what and why of similar things I have seen touring other old mansions. They are a great addition for a tour. This trip to Dubuque was the first that the house has been open since it is seasonal. Not sure if I would go back again soon, but will in coming years. Not all kids would appreciate it, especially young ones, but older kids or adults with any interest in the past should. Very close to Eagle Point Park.See more..
old school "dive" feel, quaint, intimate type setting. If you wanna sit in comfy chairs or be in state of art arena, this isnt your place. but if you want the music to rattle the wood floor under your feet and to feel like you are able to reach out and touch the performers on stage, THIS is your place! I think the only thing that has been updated since the 40's is the bathrooms.See more..
4.5Kanesville Tabernacle(31 reviews) - Great place to learn great history Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues • Educational sites • Churches & Cathedrals
If you have questions about LDS history and ties to the Omaha area... you need to make a visit. Elder Hunsacker was great to explain and answer any question that we had. So very knowledgeable .... not only about the tabernacle, but LDS church questions. I highly recommend. See more..
4.0Ushers Ferry Historic Village(30 reviews) - Ushers Ferry; where fond memories are created . . . Friday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites
Ushers Ferry is open to the public for touring June-August, Monday-Friday, from 9:00 a.M. - 3:30 P.M. Call for more information on off-season hours and availability. Ushers Ferry Historic Village provides the citizens of Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa with a venue for family friendly activities, events and programs that build community from the historical perspective of a small Iowa town at the turn of the 20th century. Located on a ten acre site in beautiful Seminole Valley Park, Ushers Ferry features 20 historic buildings that depict life in a small Iowa town between the years of 1890 and 1910. The village features approximately 20 historic buildings, a picnic pavilion, bandstand, and a Lodge banquet facility capable of seating up to 300 persons at tables and chairs. The village offers school tours, special events and educational programs throughout the year and is available for weddings and corporate or private party rentals.See more..
Glenn Miller Birthplace Home and Museum, a historical tour of the famous Glenn Miller who was born in Clarinda, Iowa in 1904See more..
4.5Hausbarn(24 reviews) - worth the stop Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites
The hausbarn was simply amazing. It is incredible that something built in the 1600's and moved several times was so intact and in such good condition. Very interesting and informative to see such an authentic piece of history and how farmers lived in that era. Also on site is a beautiful century old farmstead complete with carriage house, barn, and something I've never seen before, a brick chicken coop. There is also a large display of antique farm equipment. The house is filled with beautiful woodwork, cut glass, and furnishings. Hard to imagine such a fine home for the time period in such a rural area. Really enjoyed our visit.See more..
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 Country 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. The sixteen period rooms serve as a fitting backdrop of displaying the many antique treasures gathered from the rich heritage of West Des Moines. Visitors will also be interested in both the Underground Railroad Exhibit and the many artifacts from the regular railroad which played an important role in the early years of West Des Moines. One hour guided tours are offered beginning at 11am and then again at 1pm. Doors open 15 minutes before tour begins. Dates of tours: Memorial Day-Labor Day: Friday, Saturday and Sunday Labor Day-Memorial Day: Friday and SundaySee more..
4.0Jesse James Historical Site(23 reviews) - Great leg stretcher! Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites
Great little slice of history. Pretty close to Interstate, makes it easy stop, has interesting features. And the breeze was wonderful! They do offer a trail if you need a break from road, and a selfie contest.. like! Had a blast!See more..
Wright on the Park is the nonprofit organization that restored, owns and maintains Frank Lloyd Wright's Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank in Mason City, Iowa. The hotel is the last designed by Wright left in existance. As part of their mission Wright on the Park conducts docent led tours of the historic hotel and the neighboring Rock Crest - Rock Glen Historical District.See more..
In the historic village of Bentonsport, Iowa, you can explore the ruins of old mills along the Des Moines River, stroll across a century-old iron bridge, or just sit on the riverbank and imagine the sight of a steamboat comin' round the bend. Treasures await you in the specialty shops, including antiques, gemstones, pottery and a blacksmith shop. Enjoy some delicious fudge, go hiking or canoeing, and spend the night at the 1846 bed and breakfast. Festivals and other special events are held often, including musical entertainment and hands-on educational experiences.See more..
I grew up very near Montauk. It is one of my favorite places to visit. The view is AMAZING. I love touring the house and learning more about the history of both the house and the town. My family has a dairy farm and our original cows were purchased from Governor Larabee.See more..
5.0Masters Hotel(16 reviews) - Must See for Laura Fans! Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Great tour about the part of Laura's childhood she didn't write about, but stayed tuned...her autobiography is being released in August of 2013. Also interesting opportunity to see what a typical "hotel" was like during prairie times. The nearby store/restaurant was not open when we were there.See more..
4.5The Palmer Family Residence(16 reviews) - Aladdin's cave of bric-a-brac Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
The Residence was home to B.J. and Mabel Palmer from 1912 until their deaths, Mabel in 1949 and B.J. in 1961. Their son Dave was raised in the house, and it was also home to various relatives that spent summers with "Uncle B.J." and "Aunt Mamie." The Residence was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 because of the uniqueness of the porch, a showplace of the Palmer collections. Although the house only holds a fraction of the collections once owned by the Palmers, it is still a wonderful example of the collecting mania that gripped the world travelers of that era. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL TOURS.See more..
4.0Johnson County Historical Society(15 reviews) - A good place to spend a rainy day Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
Johnson County Historical Society is a private, non-profit group committed to serving the public by furthering an appreciation of the historical and cultural heritage of the Johnson County community through education, preservation and interpretation. In addition to the JCHS Museum, the society also manages and interprets four historic sites: Plum Grove Historic Home, the 1855 Johnson County Poor Farm & Asylum, Coralville Old Town Hall, and the 1876 Coralville Schoolhouse.See more..
This 56 foot golden concrete spike was erected in 1939 with the premiere of the film "Union Pacific." It commemorates the junction of the Union Pacific and Central Pacific rail lines at the Promontory Summit in Utah on May 10, 1869. This spot commemorates "Mile Marker Zero" as the eastern terminus of the transcontinental railroad.See more..
Good place to hike. Cool old buildings to check out. Scenic views right on the river. Campgound close by.See more..
4.5Scholte House Museum(13 reviews) - Tea Time Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
The flowers are worth the time. They have a new experience called Marie's Tea which is located in the Museum. Reservations are needed but ir was wonderful. We went on an off day (Monday) and went before Tulip Time and are glad we did. The Gardens etc, were free but the Tea was $10 and they were actual Dutch treats and were wonderful. Worth your time and money.See more..
4.5Historical Society of Marshall County(12 reviews) - A treasure for Marshalltown Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
The Mowry-Irvine Mansion is a wonderful piece of architectural history as well as great venue for meetings and family events. I have toured it twice, once when it was beautifully decorated for the holidays, and once as part of a study club meeting that was held there. Michelle is such a knowledgeable and engaging tour guide. It was a pleasure to have our meeting in such gorgeous surroundings. I'm so glad that the historical society makes the mansion available to the community for groups to use.See more..
5.01910 Lounge(12 reviews) - Nice place to sit and chat with someone Friday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM Historic Sites • Bars & Clubs
My wife and I go there to have a quiet talk and enjoy an appetizer. A very friendly and unhurried atmosphere.See more..
4.5Wilton Candy Kitchen(10 reviews) - Great stop! Speciality & Gift Shops • Historic Sites
We appreciate people who take the time, effort, and money to preserve our history in all its forms. They have especially done that here at the Wilton Candy Kitchen. The people were friendly and patient as we tried to decide what we wanted. They have all types of ice cream available and it was delicious. Please support businesses like this so they can stay in business and provide wonderful memories for us all.See more..
We passed this Beautiful little Schoolhouse (on the prairie) on our last visit and for its age it is still in great shape, built in 1874 but no sign as to how you can access it ? Since our last visit they have sneakily added an outdoor restroom or a Dunny or Thunderbox in Australian ! It has been made to reflect the period but wasn't there in 2014 ?? Oh well , it looks the part !See more..
