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

Spooky Night @ The Museum promotional image

Spooky Night @ The Museum

Wednesday, October 29, 2025 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Old Capitol Museum

Happy Spooky Szn, Hawkeyes!

The Pentacrest Museums are excited to put on Spooky Night @ The Museum, open for all of our campus and community to enjoy. We'll keep the Old Capitol Museum open after hours for guests to find a treat and roam the galleries. Stumble upon docents with some slightly spooky history to share with you in our galleries like the original University President's Office, the original UI Library, and the original Iowa House Chamber where our Iowa Constitution was first drafted...

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