Are you interested in experiencing history firsthand? These are the best open air museums in Iowa:
1Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Des Moines, IAThe John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located within Western Gateway Park in Des Moines, Iowa, spans 4.4 acres. The park, which opened in 2009, initially featured 24 sculptures, but has since added four more to its collection. 2Dan Nagle Walnut Grove Pioneer Village
Long Grove, IAThe Dan Nagle Walnut Grove Pioneer Village is an open-air museum situated at the northern edge of Scott County Park. This location is approximately four miles northeast of Long Grove in Scott County, Iowa. The museum offers a unique opportunity to experience history in a natural and open setting. 3Lidtke Mill
Lime Springs, IALidtke Mill, also known as the Lime Springs Mill Complex, is a historic building located on the Upper Iowa River in the 'Old Town' area of Lime Springs, Iowa. This L-shaped structure is composed of limestone covered with a yellow brick veneer. The main section was completed in 1857 and was rebuilt after a fire in 1894. It is part of the 10-acre Lidtke Park. 4Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum
Decorah, IAThe Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, located in Decorah, Iowa, serves as the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School. It boasts a collection of over 33,000 artifacts, 12 historic buildings, and a library and archives. This extensive collection provides a comprehensive insight into the Norwegian-American experience, making it a valuable destination for those interested in cultural history and folk art. 5Living History Farms
Urbandale, IALiving History Farms, situated in Urbandale, Iowa, is a sprawling 500-acre open-air museum. Its primary objective is to educate visitors about the agricultural history of Iowa spanning the past 300 years. The museum uses the methodology of living history to depict the lives of people living on farms in the years of 1700, 1850, and 1900, engaging in various agricultural activities.- 6
Living Heritage Tree Museum
Storm Lake, IAThe Living Heritage Tree Museum is situated in the city of Storm Lake, Iowa, in the United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a collection of heritage trees in an open-air setting. - 7
Delaware County Historical Museum Complex
Hopkinton, IAThe Delaware County Historical Museum Complex is an open-air museum situated in Hopkinton, Iowa. It comprises nine buildings that are located on the grounds of the former Lenox College. This unique setting provides a rich historical context and a unique experience for visitors.