Default Banner
Guests enjoying exhibits

Upper Mississippi River Pool

The lock and dam system created 29 pools in the Upper Mississippi River, manmade reservoirs that slow the river flow and deepen its channel. While critical for navigation of large vessels, the dams have complicated life for native wildlife. The American paddlefish is the last of a family that used to have different species around the world. Along with the sturgeon that swim in this exhibit they are known as living fossils whose habitats were altered with dams threatening their existence.

Trout Stream

Trout are not the first fish most people think about when considering the fish found in Iowa, but the coldwater springs of the Driftless Area are perfect for native Brook Trout and stocked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Early agricultural practices that increased farming yield had a negative impact on stream erosion and water quality. Recent restoration efforts have helped trout populations rebound. Trout fishing fees help to maintain and restore high quality trout streams. Trout are confined to the upper pool, which is connected to the lower stream by a waterfall.

Mississippi River Gallery

Combination Erosion & Flood Table

An interactive display where the visitor controls the flow of water to learn concepts of erosion and impacts of flooding. These concepts are further explored in our prairie and wetland displays, where we highlight the role of deep prairie roots in preventing erosion and the way wetlands help mitigate flood damage.

Fun Fact: this display was designed and engineered completely in-house!

Ripple Effect Collective

Be the Change — One Ripple at a time

At the Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and the Mathias Ham Historic Site, every ripple creates a wave of change. By joining the Ripple Effect Collective, our recurring monthly giving program, you provide essential, sustained support for educational experiences, conservation projects, and the preservation of our shared history.

Secrets of the Shell

Turtles are one of the most distinctive and recognizable of all animals. Though many other creatures have some sort of "shell," no other animal looks quite like a turtle.

Secret of the Shell will engage your visitors through hands on, educational programming focusing on turtle life cycles, behavior, diversity, physical adaptations and how changes in these animals' habitats affect their numbers and behaviors. 

Outdoor Aviaries

WE have three different aviaries out in our boatyard so make sure you see them all!

Raptor Roost

Raptors play a key role in natural pest control as their diet consists of rodents and insects. As predators, they are at risk of bioaccumulation of toxins from rodenticides and insecticides. Humans can reduce this risk by using less of these substances. Visit our resident American Kestrel and Barn Owl in our roost.

Subscribe to Exhibits