PLEASE NOTE: The Pentacrest Museums will be closed to the public during the following dates:

  • Annual Winter Closure: 12/25/24 - 1/15/25

Welcome to the Museum. 

Old Capitol; State Historical Society of Iowa photo

The Old Capitol remains one of the most recognizable symbols of the state of Iowa.  In the many years since the cornerstone was laid, the building has served state legislatures, countless university uses, and has undergone multiple additions and renovations, even surviving a major fire in 2001. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Old Capitol Museum welcomes you to explore.

Learn more about our history

Calendar

INTO LIGHT Project's Exhibit: Opening Reception promotional image

INTO LIGHT Project's Exhibit: Opening Reception

Saturday, January 25, 2025 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Old Capitol Museum
INTO LIGHT Project's Exhibit: Opening Reception The Old Capitol Museum will debut a new exhibition with an opening reception featuring guest speakers, exhibition engagement, and refreshments. -Opening remarks by University of Iowa Executive Vice President and Provost Kevin Kregel -Remarks by INTO LIGHT Project Founder/CEO Theresa Clower -Exhibit exploration & refreshments The INTO LIGHT Project's Iowa exhibition, Drug Addiction: Real People, Real Stories, will hold powerful...

The University of Iowa Pentacrest Museums (Old Capitol Museum & The UI Museum of Natural History) serve to strengthen the vital role of both Museums in the educational, research, and engagement missions of the University, enhancing the campus-wide focus on cultural and environmental diversity. 

UI Campus graphic illustration