All person & artist museums to visit in Iowa

Explore the lives and works of notable individuals at 23 museums in Iowa dedicated to specific persons and artists. These museums offer a deep dive into their contributions and legacy.

Are you curious about the lives of remarkable individuals? Here are the top person and artist museums in Iowa:

  1. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site1

    Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

     West Branch, IA
    The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is a protected area located in West Branch, Iowa. This site is dedicated to preserving the former home of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the life and legacy of this notable figure in American history.
  2. Cedar Rock State Park2

    Cedar Rock State Park

     Independence, IA
    The Cedar Rock Lowell Walter House is not just an architectural marvel, but also a showcase of innovative design elements. The house is constructed with materials such as concrete, red brick, and walnut wood. The interior is designed in the typical usonia style with integrated furniture. The house also features skylights, a heated floor, a roof terrace, an independent boat shed, and large windows that provide stunning views of the hilly wooded terrain and the river.
  3. Stockman House3

    Stockman House

     Mason City, IA
    The Dr. G.C. Stockman House, located in Mason City, Iowa, is a significant architectural landmark designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Built in 1908 for Dr. George C. and Eleanor Stockman, the house stands as a testament to Wright's innovative design principles and his ability to adapt his style to different contexts and budgets.
  4. The Palmer Family Residence4

    The Palmer Family Residence

     Davenport, IA
    The B.J. Palmer House, also known as the Palmer Family Residence, is a historic building located on the Brady Street Hill in Davenport, Iowa. It is situated on the campus of Palmer College of Chiropractic and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1984. This historic building offers a glimpse into the past and the legacy of the Palmer family, who played a significant role in the development of chiropractic.
  5. The Jordan House Museum5

    The Jordan House Museum

     West Des Moines, IA
    The Jordan House, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a historic building with a rich past. Built by abolitionist James C. Jordan, it served as a station on the Underground Railroad in Iowa. The house has been recognized for its historical significance and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973.
  6. Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead6

    Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead

     Princeton, IA
    The Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead is a significant historical site as it served as the boyhood home of Buffalo Bill Cody, a renowned government scout and Wild West showman. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the life and times of Buffalo Bill, gaining a deeper understanding of this iconic figure in American history.
  7. Reverend George B. Hitchcock House7

    Reverend George B. Hitchcock House

     Lewis, IA
    The Reverend George B. Hitchcock House is a historic house museum located in Cass County, Iowa, near the city of Lewis. Built in 1856 by the Congregationalist minister George B. Hitchcock, the house is a testament to a significant period in American history. It served as a station on the Underground Railway, providing shelter and transport for escaped slaves. The house was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2006 and now serves as a museum.
  8. Historic General Dodge House8

    Historic General Dodge House

     Council Bluffs, IA
    The Grenville M. Dodge House is a historic house museum located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, United States. This Second Empire mansion was built in 1869 and was the home of Grenville M. Dodge, a Union Army general, politician, and a major figure in the development of the railroads across the American West. The house was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1961 and is now owned by the city of Council Bluffs and is open for tours.
  9. Liberty Hall Historic Center - Joseph Smith III Home9

    Liberty Hall Historic Center - Joseph Smith III Home

     Lamoni, IA
    Liberty Hall, located in Lamoni, Iowa, is a historic building with a rich history. Constructed in 1881, it was the residence of Joseph Smith III, who served as the president and prophet of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints when its headquarters were in Lamoni. This significant past makes it a place of interest for those keen on understanding the history of the church and its key figures.
  10. Harlan–Lincoln House10

    Harlan–Lincoln House

     Mt Pleasant, IA
    The Harlan–Lincoln House is a historic structure that can be found on the campus of Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, United States. This house is not just a building, but a piece of history that has stood the test of time. It offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing a tangible connection to the lives of Senator James Harlan and President Abraham Lincoln, who are associated with the house.
  11. Todd House11

    Todd House

     Tabor, IA
    The Todd House, located on Park Street in Tabor, Iowa, is a historic house museum that once served as the home to John Todd, a notable abolitionist and Congregationalist minister. This house holds significant historical value as it provides a glimpse into the life of a key figure in the abolitionist movement.
  12. State Historical Museum of Iowa12

    State Historical Museum of Iowa

     Des Moines, IA
    The State Historical Society of Iowa maintains a museum, library, archives, and research center in Des Moines, as well as a research library in Iowa City. These facilities house a wealth of information and artifacts that provide insight into the history of Iowa. In addition, the SHSI oversees several historic sites throughout the state, offering visitors a chance to experience Iowa's history firsthand.
  13. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art13

    Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

     Cedar Rapids, IA
    The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, located in the heart of downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a privately owned institution that was established in 1905. This museum is a significant part of the city's cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art collections and exhibitions.
  14. African American Museum Of Iowa14

    African American Museum Of Iowa

     Cedar Rapids, IA
    The African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) is a significant cultural institution located near downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Since its establishment in 1993, the museum has been dedicated to preserving, publicizing, and educating the public on the African American heritage and culture of Iowa. It is a leading educational resource on African American history in the state.
  15. Samuel F. Miller House and Museum15

    Samuel F. Miller House and Museum

     Keokuk, IA
    The Justice Samuel Freeman Miller House, located in Keokuk, Iowa, is a historic building that is currently operated as the Miller House Museum by the Lee County Historical Society. This museum offers visitors a chance to delve into the life and times of Samuel Freeman Miller, a prominent figure in American history.
  16. Kossuth County Historical Museum16

    Kossuth County Historical Museum

     Algona, IA
    Kossuth county history preserved in 1867 wooden schoolhouse and prairie front Fargo Express buildings. Over 10, ooo artifacts on display.
  17. American Gothic House Center17

    American Gothic House Center

     Eldon, IA
    The Dibble House, also known as the American Gothic House, is a protected residential building located in Eldon, Wapello County, in the US state of Iowa. This historic monument is recognized for its cultural significance and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.
  18. National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum18

    National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum

     Knoxville, IA
    The National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum is a unique institution dedicated to the world of sprint car racing. It serves as a Hall of Fame and museum for a wide range of individuals involved in the sport, including drivers, owners, mechanics, builders, manufacturers, promoters, sanctioning officials, and media members. This makes it a comprehensive destination for anyone interested in learning more about the history and key figures of sprint car racing.
  19. Buffalo Bill Museum19

    Buffalo Bill Museum

     Le Claire, IA
    The Buffalo Bill Museum is a significant cultural institution located in LeClaire, Iowa. The museum's primary focus is on life along the Mississippi River and the local history of the area. Visitors can gain a deep understanding of the region's past and its relationship with the river, which has played a crucial role in shaping the local culture and economy.
  20. 20

    Match Stick Marvels

     Gladbrook, IA
    The Matchstick Marvels Museum, located in Gladbrook, Iowa, is a unique attraction that showcases the intricate work of local resident Pat Acton. Since 1977, Acton has been creating models entirely out of wooden matchsticks. These models, some of which are large-scale, are a testament to Acton's dedication and craftsmanship.
  21. 21

    Plum Grove Historic Home

     Iowa City, IA
    Plum Grove is a historic house situated in Iowa City, United States. This house holds significant historical value as it was the retirement home of Gov. Robert Lucas and the childhood home of the author Eleanor Hoyt Brainerd. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the lives of these notable figures.
  22. 22

    National Balloon Museum

     Indianola, IA
    The National Balloon Museum in Indianola, Iowa, is home to the U.S. Ballooning Hall of Fame. This prestigious institution recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport and development of ballooning. It's a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and key figures of this fascinating sport.
  23. 23

    Forest Park Museum and Arboretum

     Perry, IA
    The Forest Park Museum and Arboretum is a spacious 17-acre site located near Perry, Iowa. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.