Museums


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Grout Museum of History and Science
503 South Street, Waterloo
(319) 234-6357
The Grout Museum of History and Science's history collection focuses on the period from 1833, when Iowa was opened for settlement, to the present. The Maytag Car, 1915 Waterloo Boy, Rath Packing Company whistle and Pioneer Hall Mural help visitors envision and understand bygone eras. Tuesday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm; closed Sunday and Monday.


Bluedorn Science Imaginarium
520 West 3rd Street, Waterloo
(319) 233-0262
A "playground for the imagination," this interactive science center provides fun and hands-on exhibits that demonstrate how science affects everyday life. Visitors unravel the mysteries of motion with scientific experiments. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Ice House Museum
1st and Franklin Streets, Cedar Falls
(319) 266-5149
A circular structure built in 1921, which once housed a flourishing ice business, now displays ice-harvesting equipment and photos depicting ice farming operations. Early farming, homemaking and business memorabilia are also displayed. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 2 - 4:30pm, May - October, and by appointment.

Victorian Home & Carriage House Museum
308 West 3rd Street, Cedar Falls
(319) 266-5149
The 1863 Italianate style home features furnishings and memorabilia documenting the area's early history. The Carriage House contains the Historical Society's research library and permanent and changing exhibits, including the William J. Lenoir O-gauge Model Railroad exhibit. Open Wednesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm; Sunday, 1 - 4pm; and by appointment.

Rensselaer Russell House Museum
520 West 3rd Street, Waterloo
(319) 233-0262
Nestled in the heart of northeast Iowa is a small jewel of American mid-Victorian architecture. Completed in 1861, this lovely brick structure is one of the oldest homes in Black Hawk County. Guided tours allow visitors to step into an authentic Victorian interior, including original family belongings; make purchases in the Pie Safe Museum Gift Shop; and wander through picturesque Victorian gardens. Hours vary year round. Please call for current hours.

George Wyth House & Viking Pump Museum
303 Franklin Street, Cedar Falls
(319) 266-5149
A treasure of the Cedar Falls Historical Society built in 1907, the former family home of George Wyth is restored and decorated with the influence of the Art Deco Period of the 1920's and 30's. The third floor is a small museum dedicated to the Viking Pump Company, of which George Wyth was the first president. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 2 - 4:30pm; May - October and by appointment.

Little Red Schoolhouse Museum
1st and Clay Streets, Cedar Falls
(319) 266-5149
Built in 1909, this charming schoolhouse is equipped with blackboards, books, a pot belly stove and turn-of-the-century furnishings. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 2 - 4:30pm, May - October. Tours by appointment.