All animal museums to visit in Iowa

Delve into the diverse world of animals at 7 animal museums in Iowa. These museums showcase a variety of species, habitats, and the role of animals in our ecosystem.

Are you an animal lover looking to explore the best animal museums in Iowa? Here are your best options:

  1. Effigy Mounds National Monument1

    Effigy Mounds National Monument

     Harpers Ferry, IA
    Effigy Mounds National Monument is a significant national monument situated on the border of Allamakee and Clayton counties in Iowa. This location is known for its historical and cultural significance, offering visitors a unique insight into the prehistoric era.
  2. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium2

    National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

     Dubuque, IA
    The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a maritime museum situated in Dubuque, Iowa. It is owned and managed by the Dubuque County Historical Society. The museum is a significant cultural and educational institution that provides insights into the maritime history and ecology of the Mississippi River and other American rivers.
  3. University of Iowa Museum of Natural History3

    University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

     Iowa City, IA
    The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History, located on the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City, Iowa, is a significant institution with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1858. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the natural history of Iowa and beyond, with a vast collection of around 140,000 objects.
  4. Putnam Museum4

    Putnam Museum

     Davenport, IA
    The Putnam Museum and Science Center, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a museum of history and natural science. It was formerly known as the Davenport Academy of Natural Sciences. The museum is a significant cultural and educational institution in the region, offering a wide range of exhibits and programs that cater to various interests.
  5. Blank Park Zoo5

    Blank Park Zoo

     Des Moines, IA
    Blank Park Zoo, located on the south side of Des Moines, Iowa, near the historic Fort Des Moines, spans across 49 acres. This zoological park is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and is the only accredited zoo in Iowa. The zoo's mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.
  6. Sioux City Public Museum6

    Sioux City Public Museum

     Sioux City, IA
    The Sioux City Public Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of Sioux City, Iowa. Visitors can explore a variety of displays including a video about the city's history, Native American artifacts, pioneer artifacts, historic transportation vehicles, agriculture, industry, geology and fossils. This wide range of exhibits provides a rich understanding of the city's past and its cultural heritage.
  7. Porter House Museum7

    Porter House Museum

     Decorah, IA
    The Porter House Museum, located in Decorah, Iowa, is a historic house and museum that was once the residence of Adelbert Field Porter and his wife, Grace Young Porter. This Italianate style house, situated at 401 W. Broadway, is part of the Broadway–Phelps Park Historic District, which is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The house was built in 1867 and has a rich history, having been home to several generations of the Porter and Young families.