๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums

Uncover the regionโ€™s rich past with local history museums showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and untold stories from Iowa and Illinois.

Get Discovered by Locals & Travelers

Feature your business on QC.LocalDayTrips.com

Feature your business on QC.LocalDayTrips.com

Discover how a featured listing can spotlight your business and attract more customers โ€” explore our listing packages today!

Putnam Museum & Science Center

Putnam Museum & Science Center

The Putnam Museum & Science Center in Davenport, Iowa is a regional treasure offering hands-on exhibits, giant screen films, and immersive experiences in science, history, and culture. Visitors of all ages can explore everything from ancient civilizations to modern innovation โ€” all under one roof.

๐Ÿฟ Drive-In & Indie Movies
๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums
Educational
Food Nearby
Great for Photos
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Large Group Activities
Less Than 1 Hour Away
Paid Admission
Walkins Welcome
Wheelchair Accessible

University of Iowa Museum of Natural History | The University of Iowa

Welcome to the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History. Exhibition galleries, educational programming, research collections, and more await at the heart of Iowa City.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums

Old Capitol Museum | The University of Iowa

Welcome to the Old Capitol Museum. At the center of the University of Iowa campus, featuring history of our state and university, the museum is a National Historic Landmark and welcomes guests to explore Iowa history. Restored period rooms, tours, special events, and more, visit the museum for

๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

Located in historic downtown Council Bluffs, Iowa, we're a great place for friends and family to come and learn about the Union Pacific Railroad.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums

Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum - Iowa Museum - Grout Museum District

๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums

John Deere Pavilion

Explore the legacy of American innovation at John Deereโ€™s Quad Cities attractions. From hands-on exhibits at the John Deere Pavilion to immersive history at the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum and the historic Deere family home, these destinations bring agriculture, technology, and Midwest pride to life for visitors of all ages. Addresses (key locations): John Deere Pavilion 1400 River Dr, Moline, IL 61265 Tractor & Engine Museum 500 W. Field Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701 (Note: not in Quad Cities but sometimes mentioned as part of extended visits) Historic Deere Family Home (Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House) 1105 8th St, Moline, IL 61265

๐Ÿฐ Historic Landmarks
๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums
Educational
Free Admission
Great for Photos
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Less Than 1 Hour Away
Outdoor
Wheelchair Accessible
Grant Home State Historic Site

Grant Home State Historic Site

Visit the beautifully preserved home of Ulysses S. Grant in historic Galena, Illinois. The Grant Home State Historic Site gives visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of the Civil War general and 18th U.S. president through period furnishings, artifacts, and guided tours in a picturesque setting.

๐Ÿฐ Historic Landmarks
๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums
1โ€“2 Hours Away
Educational
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Paid Admission
Colonel Davenport House

Colonel Davenport House

Step back in time with a visit to the Colonel Davenport House, located on Arsenal Island. This historic landmark offers guided tours and immersive exhibits that highlight early pioneer life and military history in the Mississippi Valley. A perfect stop for history buffs and educational day-trippers alike.

๐Ÿฐ Historic Landmarks
๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums
Educational
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Less Than 1 Hour Away
Paid Admission
Seasonal
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Dive into the wonders of the Mississippi River and beyond at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, IA. This unique destination blends history, science, and wildlife through immersive exhibits, live animals, and interactive displays. Perfect for families and curious minds, itโ€™s an engaging indoor adventure year-round.

๐Ÿ  Aquariums
๐Ÿ›๏ธ History Museums
๐Ÿ›๏ธ Unique Museums
1โ€“2 Hours Away
Educational
Great for Photos
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Large Group Activities
Paid Admission
Walkins Welcome
Wheelchair Accessible

Filters

Tags

#Kid Friendly

#Pet Friendly

#Free Admission

#Less Than 1 Hour Away

#Great for Photos

#Indoor

#Educational

#Seasonal

#Food Nearby

#Wheelchair Accessible

#Weekend-Only

#Camping Nearby

#Paid Admission

#1โ€“2 Hours Away

#Over 2 Hours Away

#Outdoor

#Scenic Views

#Adult Only

#Overnight Stay

#Large Group Activities

#Birthday Party Venue

#Booking Required

#Walkins Welcome