Welcome to the Porter House Museum!
Home of A.F. Porter, Naturalist
Decorah, Iowa
Located in the former Decorah home of Adelbert Field Porter (1879 – 1968) and Grace Young Porter (1880 – 1964), the Porter House Museum is an inspiring exploration of history, nature, and art.
“Bert” (as he was more commonly called) was a gentleman naturalist, collector, and photographer who traveled throughout the world in pursuit of butterflies, rocks, and other curiosities. A man of artistic sensibilities, Bert used his nature collections to create unique “nature art,” for which he became well known during his lifetime.
At the museum, visitors experience the historic travels, art, and collecting of this naturalist and his wife against the backdrop of Victorian elegance that was their home and heritage.
Hours and Location
The Porter House Museum is located in the Broadway Historic District, two blocks south of downtown Decorah.
401 West Broadway Street
Decorah, Iowa 52101
UPDATE ON 2020 HOURS :(5/17/2020)
At this time, we are closed for house tours indefinitely for the 2020 season.
We encourage guests to still enjoy the free outdoor Rock Wall and Gardens during daylight hours.
(563) 382-8465
News and Events
Summer 2020: Virtual Exhibit Videos
We’re thrilled to unlock a special selection of objects and stories from the Porter House Museum, sharing the experience with visitors, near and far. Learn more...
Summer 2020: Adventurer's Scavenger Hunt
We hid a glimpse of some of our favorites from inside the Porter House collection around the garden for you to find! Learn more...
House Tours & 2020 Lecture Series
We have postponed indefinitely as a precautionary measure due to Coronavirus.