Putnam Museum Vacations

It is widely known that one of the best ways to learn is by taking a hands-on approach, which is why the Putnam Museum provides a fantastic fun and educational outing. Try building a rocket, see relics from ancient Egypt and interact with 3-D characters.

Located on what residents refer to as “Museum Hill” in Davenport, the Putnam Museum was one of the very first museums to be set up west of the Mississippi River. It opened its doors in 1867 and has expanded its collection over the years to more than 160,000 items. Visit to see how a museum that looks relatively small on the outside can pack so much information and materials inside. 

Start your tour of the museum in the Science Center, which has many of the interactive exhibits. Learn about the science behind pulleys as you try to move heavy objects from one place to another. Speak to a robot to find out about advanced robotic technology. Safely experience the power of electricity in an exhibit about the voltage delivered to our homes every day.

Continue on to the natural science section, where you can view live animals and learn about the environment. Watch as river fish swim along in the aquarium. Marvel at the size of a giant oak tree. In the underwater exhibit, explore the ocean’s varied creatures and ecosystems.

Finish your day with a stop in the history section, featuring thousands of artifacts. One exhibit, specifically dedicated to the earliest prairie inhabitants, tells the story of the founding of Davenport. Walk into an Egyptian tomb in the Egypt exhibit, where a curated collection of Egyptian pots and mummies gives you an idea of the fascinating culture of these ancient people.

Visit the Putnam Museum any day of the week. It operates year round, except on major holidays. The basic admission price covers access to all the permanent exhibits. Pay a bit extra to be able to see a film on the museum’s large movie screen.