Putnam Museum and Science Center
4.6(1.5K)google
3.9(32)yelp
ScienceHistoryInteractiveEducationalFamilyIndoor
Overview
The Putnam Museum and Science Center, originally Davenport Academy of Natural Sciences, is a museum of history and natural science with an interactive science center in Davenport, Iowa, United States. The museum was founded in 1867 and was one of the first museums west of the Mississippi River. It houses around 250,000 historical artifacts and specimens in its collections.
Practical Info
Mon10:00 AM – 5:00PM
Tue10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wed10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thu10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sun12:00 – 5:00 PM
Suggested Duration3-5 hours
Best TimeAn exceptional year-round all-weather science and history hub. Entering on weekday afternoons between 1:30 PM and 5:00 PM is highly recommended; this timing allows you to avoid the intense morning school buses and field trips, granting peaceful access to the immersive 3-story giant-screen Sci-Fi theater, the authentic Egyptian mummy tomb vaults, and the local glacial history exhibits.
Getting TherePerched atop the scenic bluffs in western Davenport at 1717 West 12th Street. Driving is the most logical option; steer from major Locust St onto N Division St southbound, then make a right onto W 12th St. The hilltop cultural complex features a massive, sprawling surface parking lot that is fully complimentary for all patrons.
Travel Tips
- The GIANT Screen Theater works on strict standalone session intervals requiring upfront time validation; late entries are systematically barred by gate usher logs, making arrival 15 minutes early essential.
- Built on a slope, the gravel transitions near 12th and Division Streets introduce slick incline geometry during precipitation; heavy trailer rigs should utilize the hard-paved lower asphalt parking tiers.
- Regional field trips crowd the science hands-on interactive decks Monday through Friday from 10:00 to 12:30; scheduling family tracks after 13:30 guarantees zero-delay station interactions.
Reviews
Positive
- The interactive science stations and GIANT Screen movie theater are amazing, giving kids hands-on lessons in physics and history.
- The Egyptian mummy collection and local wildlife specimens are incredibly substantial, keeping families engaged for 2–3 hours.
- Excellent crowd control; even with school field trips, staff route groups efficiently. Restrooms feature child-height sinks.
- A single combo ticket grants access to both science and history wings, delivering great value and a perfect indoor rainy-day escape.
Heads up
- Several mechanical interactive props in the science hands-on area show heavy wear or are broken without prompt repairs.
- The building architecture and some traditional history galleries feel dated and dim, carrying an outdated 1990s vibe.
- The snack bar only sells basic microwaved food and pre-packed sodas, severely lacking healthy meal options for families.
- For foreign independent travelers without a car, reaching the venue involves climbing a long slope from the nearest bus stop.