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Children's Museums

Putnam Museum and Science Center

Name: Putnam Museum and Science Center
Address: 1717 W 12th St, Davenport, IA 52804, Davenport, IA, US
Telephone: (563) 324-1933
Rating: 4.6

★★★★☆ 4.6 (1519 reviews)

📍 1717 W 12th St, Davenport, IA 52804

📞 (563) 324-1933

🌐 www.putnam.org

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

🕐 Hours

Monday	10 AM–5 PM
Tuesday	10 AM–5 PM
Wednesday	10 AM–5 PM
Thursday	10 AM–5 PM
Friday	10 AM–5 PM
Saturday	10 AM–5 PM
Sunday	12–5 PM

⭐ Want to stand out? Get featured ⭐

About Putnam Museum and Science Center

Region-based history & science exhibits. Historic educational venue offers regional natural history & science exhibits, films & performances. Features a unique 'Putnam Vault' exhibit with floor-to-ceiling glass storage displaying artifacts and archives not currently designated to permanent exhibits, allowing visitors to see the museum's broader collection. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,519 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Science Center
Best For: All ages, especially families with young children
Highlights: Family Discovery Center, Kaleidoscope Odyssey, Putnam Vault with 250,000 items, Ancient Egypt exhibit with mummies
Notable Programming: Pre-K Story Time, Dino Days, Pumpkin Launch, Polar Express Pajama Party

💡 Did You Know?

⭐Features a unique 'Putnam Vault' exhibit with floor-to-ceiling glass storage displaying artifacts and archives not currently designated to permanent exhibits, allowing visitors to see the museum's broader collection
🏛️Offered throwback anniversary pricing during its 60th anniversary celebration in October, with adult admission at $0.25 and youth admission at $0.10
⭐Houses an 'Unearthing Ancient Egypt' exhibit featuring actual mummies, making it a notable destination for Egyptology education in the region
⭐Offers specialized programming including the 'Polar Express Pajama Party' event in December where general admission closes early, indicating a significant seasonal attraction

💬 What Visitors Say

💬Plan to spend several hours exploring all exhibits. Visitors consistently report there is so much to see across the diverse collection, including the standout Putnam Vault with floor-to-ceiling glass storage and interactive pieces not currently in main exhibits.
🕐Book the Polar Express Pajama Party experience well in advance—general admission closes early on those days (December 17-20), so plan accordingly or consider attending the special event instead.
💡The new toddler room in the Family Discovery Center is excellent for young children. The museum is stroller-friendly and features clean bathrooms and helpful staff, making it ideal for families with pre-K and early elementary-age kids.
💬Take advantage of special throwback pricing during anniversary celebrations (like $0.25 adult admission during the 60th anniversary in October) to visit at a significant discount.
💡Start with the Weather Center and Kaleidoscope Odyssey for engaging, interactive experiences that appeal to multiple age groups, then explore the Putnam Dino Expedition and Unearthing Ancient Egypt exhibits for diverse learning opportunities.