State Historical Building

In a modern glass and granite building, discover an exciting hands-on approach to exploring Iowa’s past. This showcase of the State Historical Society of Iowa includes native wildlife, American Indian and pioneer artifacts, political and military items, and a new permanent exhibit entitled “Mammoth: Witness to Change.” Historical Library houses most extensive collection of Iowa’s historical records for genealogists and researchers. Visit the Museum Store for unique Iowa gifts.

Getting There & Details

Admission
Fee
Hours
9-4:30 Tue.-Sat., noon-4:30 Sun. Open Mon. June-Aug. (museum only) Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, N
Address
600 E. Locust St.
Phone
515-281-5111
Website
www.iowahistory.org
Map
Get Directions →

More Things to Do

Stop when something catches your eye.

Those moments tend to matter more than the planned ones.

A. H. Blank Golf Course

Course Access: PublicHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 7 days

Learn more →

Follow what feels interesting.

Curiosity is usually a better guide than a strict plan.

Basilica of St. John

Designated a basilica in 1989. Northern Italian/Lombardy Romanesque style, with gold-leaf coffered ceilings and 46…

Learn more →

Keep it easy.

The best days usually come without pressure or overplanning.

Civic Center

Learn more →

Not every place needs a reason.

Sometimes it's enough just to be there.

Blank Park Zoo

Beautifully-landscaped 22-acre zoological park featuring naturalistic exhibits with more than 800 animals from five continents,…

Learn more →

Explore all of Des Moines →

Events in Des Moines

Nearby Lakes & Parks