When we choose to visit the museum, we were not sure what we would find. Iowa is a really neat place but not really known for it’s rock-n-roll pedigree. Of course there is the famous accident that took Richie Valens, The Big Bopper, and Buddy Holly in 1959 at Clear Lake but not much else immediately comes to mind. But actually there is more to Iowa and the rock scene, especially in the early years.
We found parking and followed the signs to the building. At the entrance, there is a good-sized gift shop, so we walked in and chatted with the staff. They confirmed that entrance into the museum was free and they also explained other points of interest including a maritime museum as well as a funhouse museum.
We walked out of the shop and into the music museum. There were mostly displays on famous Iowans, of important historical music events. It took us about 30 minutes to walk through. As a music person, I thought it was very informative and interesting. If you’re not a music person then it might be a quick 10 minutes for you. There might be some things that are of interest to younger children but they’ll likely try to head out the door and across the street to the Arnolds Park Amusement Park.
There are a number of restaurants, coffee shops and gift shops in very close walking distance. The amusement park is across the street as well as the Roof Top Music venue. Our scheduled did not allow us time to go to a concert but the place looked like fun! Also close by was West Okobochi Lake and the Queen II, a cruise ship with affordable fees. I’m betting a summer sunset cruise would be awesome!
Check out Arnolds Park, it’s certainly worth a look.
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