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Iowa's State Historical Building

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Discover Iowa's heritage at the State Historical Building in Des Moines, featuring a museum, research center, and archives. Free admission!

The State Historical Building in Des Moines is home to the State Historical Museum of Iowa, a research center, library, and archives. Visitors can explore Iowa's past through exhibits, collections, and programs, with free admission to the museum and research center.

A brief summary to State Historical Building

  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience.
  • Check the museum's website for special events and temporary exhibitions.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available in the garage across the street.
  • Explore the online collection catalog for a preview of the museum's artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Iowa State Capitol, walk west on E Locust Street for approximately 2 blocks. The State Historical Building will be on your left. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides bus service to the State Historical Building. Several local routes serve the area, including routes 1 and 4, which also serve the Iowa State Capitol Complex. Check the DART website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Driving

    From I-235, take exit 7C for East 6th Street. Continue on East 6th Street and turn left onto Locust Street. The State Historical Building will be on your right. Free parking is available in the parking garage at 650 Grand Avenue, at the northwest corner of East Grand and Pennsylvania avenues. Metered street parking is also available around the building for $1.25/hour, Monday-Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Discover more about State Historical Building

The State Historical Building in Des Moines offers an immersive journey through Iowa's history and culture. Housing the State Historical Museum of Iowa, a research center, and the State Historical Library and Archives, the building serves as a hub for historical exploration. The museum features a variety of exhibits, showcasing over 80,000 artifacts, with approximately 1,500 on display at any given time. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including Iowa's legacy in film, the Civil War, and the state's rich natural resources. Visitors can explore interactive displays, view vintage aircraft, and learn about the people and events that have shaped Iowa. The building itself is an architectural landmark, designed in a high-tech modernist style. Its tiered structure and expansive terraces offer views of the State Capitol. Inside, a soaring atrium lobby with a grand staircase welcomes visitors.Admission to the museum and research center is free. The museum also provides programs for students and families, including Goldie's Kids Club.

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