Sioux City, located at the very northwest corner of Iowa, is one of the state’s most underrated destinations. Bordering Nebraska and South Dakota, it’s home to one of the most famous spots in the state – the Sergeant Floyd Monument. This towering obelisk is an iconic sight in the Hawkeye State, paying tribute to the quartermaster of the Lewis and Clark expedition, Charles Floyd. But did you know that the obelisk isn’t the only tribute he has in the state? His name was given to a famous towboat built in 1932. It served as a support vehicle, but today it serves a very different purpose – as a museum boat! And the Sergeant Floyd Monument visitors center is one of the coolest visitors centers in Iowa. Not only can you learn a lot about the state here, but you can enter the boat itself and get an up-close look at Iowa’s history on the river.

Like all other Iowa welcome centers, the Sergeant Floyd Welcome Center is a great place to learn about Iowa.
James Zaworski/Google Local
However, it has one thing that sets it apart from the others - it's set on an actual museum boat, permanently docked in Sioux City!
LA Glickman/Google Local
You enter the museum just like you would board a boat, which is a very cool experience.
Cindy M/Google Local
Inside, you'll find dozens of historic exhibits relating to the Lewis and Clark expedition, in which the boat's namesake participated.
Paul Bridges/Google Local

Related Stories

Take A Stroll Through Iowa's Past At This Historic Museum And Arboretum

Take A Stroll Through Iowa's Past At This Historic Museum And Arboretum

 There Is A Unique Man-Made Wonder Hiding In This City In Iowa

There Is A Unique Man-Made Wonder Hiding In This City In Iowa

 A Trip To This Iowa City Isn’t Complete Without Visiting This Massive Science Museum

A Trip To This Iowa City Isn’t Complete Without Visiting This Massive Science Museum
But that's only the start - you can see exhibits relating to all of Iowa's extensive exploration and travel history.
Lester Mac/Google Local
It's no surprise that this fascinating exhibit is a local favorite for tour groups and school trips.
SXS Rider/Google Local
The museum is full of interactive activities that give visitors an idea of what it was like to guide this famous boat.
Leif Norman/Google Local
However, the fan-favorite exhibit has got to be the extensive selection of miniatures recreating Iowa's history and geography!
Yona Wurzburger/Google Local

Have you visited the Sergeant Floyd Monument visitors center in Iowa? Do you agree it’s one of the coolest Iowa visitors centers? Tell us about your visit to this Sioux City institution in the comments section! You can find out more about the museum on the Sioux City Museum website. While you’re in the area, why not book a stay at The Warrior Hotel?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Iowa

Featured Addresses
Sergeant Floyd River Museum, 1000 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103, USA