The Heritage Center Museum opened in 1898 as the Burlington Public Library. One hundred years later, the Des Moines County Historical Society renovated the historic building, preserving the detailed woodwork, the elegant, open spaces, and many other architectural features. Combining 19th century elegance and 21st century technology, the DMC Heritage Center exhibits the history and creative spirit of the many people who have lived in Des Moines County, Iowa. Come visit us here at the museum!
Hours & Location
The Heritage Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.
The Museum is closed for New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Day After Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
The Heritage Museum is located at 501 N 4th St. on the corner of 4th and Columbia, just a few blocks from downtown Burlington, IA.
Parking
Plenty of free, street-side parking is available on 4th St. in front of the Heritage Museum.
Admission Fees
- Members: Free
- Adults (17 to 60) $10.00
- Seniors/Veterans (61+) $8.00
- Children (16 and under) $2.00
Gift Shop
The Heritage Museum gift shop has a variety of historical-themed merchandise that will delight visitors of all ages, including toys, books, postcards, and more!
Accessability
The Museum is fully accessible in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
An accessible entrance located on Main Street provides access to our facility from street level. The elevator provides full access to the three levels of exhibits and a lobby. Our facility is equipped with a foldable push wheelchair for visitors; please contact us for details.
Service Animal Protocol
Use of Service Animals on Historical Society Property
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), The Des Moines County Historical Society allows service animals to access most public areas within its property. Service animals must be harnessed, leashed or tethered, unless the devices interfere with the animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using these devices. The patron must remain in control of the animal at all times.
Definition
Service Animal as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act refers to any dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. Service animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task performed must be directly related to the person’s disability.
Service animals whose sole function is to provide emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted.
Rules
To ensure the protection of our artifacts, please follow the guidelines below while visiting:
- Artifacts should not be handled or touched except where signs explicitly permit touching
- Beverages and snacks are prohibited except in the Bart Howard Lounge
- Flash photography and videotaping in the museum are not permitted
- All children under the age of 12 years should be accompanied by a parent or guardian
Discover More
While you are visiting, there are many other things to see and do in Burlington. Check out the Burlington Convention and Visitors Bureau page to learn about everything Burlington has to offer.