Did you know Iowa has a long and rich tradition of Norwegian immigration? These historic residents have a legacy dating back hundreds of years, and they pay tribute to it at Vesterheim. This Decorah complex is the largest ethnic heritage museum in the United States, and it’s the most unique museum in Iowa. A massive four-story building features art, recreations, and historic artifacts from the immigrant families who settled in Iowa and from the culture of the old country. But the museum is so much more than that – it also features preserved historic buildings in the nearby Heritage Park exhibition. And several times a year, Vesterheim comes alive with memorable festivals filled with music, food, and adventure. So open the doors to Vesterheim and travel back in time to explore Iowa’s Norwegian heritage for an unforgettable adventure.

Vesterheim towers over Decorah's streets, and it's one of Iowa's most impressive and charming museums.
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The four-story museum has been heavily enhanced in recent years, and you can explore its multiple galleries and interactive exhibits and demonstrations all day for an adult admission fee of only $12.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum/Facebook
The art galleries inside display multiple techniques and feature some pieces that are several hundreds of years old.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum/Facebook
Norway has a rich mythology of trolls and other magical beings, and you can see crafts bringing these imposing and whimsical beings to life.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum/Facebook

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Obviously, seafaring has been a big part of Norwegian culture spanning from the Vikings to immigrant fishermen, so it's no surprise there are a good number of ship recreations in the museum.
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No visit to Vesterheim is complete without exploring Heritage Park, which features twelve historic buildings including an old mill and schoolhouse.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum/Facebook
Several times a year, Vesterheim plays host to musicians for special events. They even have raffles to win a trip to Norway!
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum/Facebook
But no event at Vesterheim is as beautiful as their annual Christmas celebration, kicking off for 2022 and showing how they celebrate the season back in Norway - with great food, music, and revelry.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum/Facebook

Have you visited Vesterheim in Decorah? Let us know about your trip to this unique museum in Iowa in the comments section. If you’re planning a visit, check out the museum’s website and Facebook page for all the details on their latest exhibitions. For another look into Iowa’s immigrant roots, why not visit the German food capital of Iowa?

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Vesterheim The National Norwegian-American Museum & Folk Art School, 520 W Water St, Decorah, IA 52101, USA