Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum & Grout Museum of History & Science

This expansive museum complex, located in the city of Waterloo, is a unique blend of military history, science, and local lore. The Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, which opened in 2008, is the crown jewel of the district. It is dedicated to the memory of the five Sullivan brothers who were tragically lost during World War II and honors all Iowans who have served their country from the Civil War to the present day.

The second major part of the complex is the Grout Museum of History & Science, founded in 1956 with funds from philanthropist Henry Grout. Here, visitors can dive into the natural riches and history of the USA region through traditional and modern multimedia exhibits. The museum is officially accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, highlighting its high standing.

Of particular note are the more than 35 interactive exhibits and the Voices of Iowa project, which houses thousands of audio recordings of veterans' memories. This approach makes history literally "come alive," turning a standard tour into a profound emotional journey that appeals to visitors of all ages.

For more information about special exhibitions or to arrange group tours, you can contact the museum administration directly.

Within the walls of the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, a deep dive into military history awaits. Be sure to spend time at the Electronic Wall of Honor and the interactive table, which uses maps and sound effects to illustrate key World War II battles. Visitors can see a recreation of the Sullivan family's living room and hear the living voices of history through the audio project, which includes thousands of interviews.

For those interested in science and everyday life, the Grout Museum offers numerous artifacts and demonstrations focused on Iowa's development. Planetarium shows and educational programs like the "Holiday Tea" are held regularly. Many hands-on exhibits allow you to literally touch science, making the museum a great place to visit with children.

After an immersive walk through the halls, you can relax in the picturesque gazebo across the street from the entrance. It is a great spot for a small picnic, as food is not allowed inside the exhibition halls. Make sure to visit every floor—the collection is much larger than it might first appear!

The museum complex is conveniently located in the heart of Waterloo, in an area known as the Cedar Valley. If you are traveling by car, reaching it is easy via the state's main highways by navigating to 503 South St. Free parking is provided for visitors right at the entrance, making your visit as comfortable as possible.

While public transportation is available in the city, most tourists prefer to get there by taxi or a rental car to save time. If you plan to walk around the city center, the museum is within walking distance of many city landmarks. On your way to the main building, you can also drive past the historic Sullivan family home at 98 Adams Street to complete your experience.

The history of this site is inextricably linked with the name Henry W. Grout, a well-known financier and legislator. His extensive personal collection formed the basis of the first museum, which opened back in 1934. The modern Grout Museum of History & Science building opened its doors in 1956, becoming a hub for preserving the region's cultural and scientific heritage.

The Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, opened in 2008, carries a special emotional weight. It is dedicated to the memory of the five brothers—George, Francis, Joseph, Madison, and Albert Sullivan. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, they enlisted together in the U.S. Navy. Tragedy struck in November 1942 when their ship, the USS Juneau, was sunk by a Japanese submarine. The loss of all five brothers was the greatest loss by a single family in the history of the American armed forces.

Today, the museum is more than just a repository for artifacts; it is a living archive. Since 2003, the Voices of Iowa project has collected more than 2,300 oral histories from veterans. Thanks to this careful preservation of memory, the city of Waterloo has been officially designated a World War II Heritage City.

To fully appreciate the wealth of exhibits, we recommend setting aside at least 2 hours for the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum alone. The abundance of interactive materials and the opportunity to listen to veterans' personal stories require a thoughtful approach and no rushing.

If you plan to explore the entire Grout Museum District, including the science and history halls, it is best to budget 3–4 hours or even half a day. This is an ideal option for family leisure, as the interactive zones and planetarium are sure to engage both adults and children for a long time.

The museum complex is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note that the museum is closed to the general public on Mondays and Sundays.

Occasionally, on weekdays (such as Wednesdays in August), special admission discounts may apply. Before your visit, it is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on holiday hours.

The museum's central location allows tourists to easily combine their visit with exploring other interesting sites. A walk around the neighborhood will reveal cozy parks and historic buildings that reflect the spirit of Iowa.