Heritage and History
Storm Lake is a city alive with history and culture. The area's early settlers came from all over the world, and those rich cultural influences are seen still on the streets today.
Whether you're standing under one of Johnny Appleseed's trees or sitting at a desk in the restored one-room schoolhouse, visitors to Storm Lake witness the past come to life.
Buena Vista Historical Society
It's easy to think you've walked back in time when you stroll down the Pioneer Main Street or step in the two-story, authentic 1870s log house. The Society preserves and displays the rich history of Storm Lake and the surrounding area in the BV Historical Society Museum.
Hours: Monday-Friday 12:00-4:00pm or by appointment
Admission: $2 for Adults and $1 for children under 12
Located: 214 W 5th St
Storm Lake, IA
Phone: (712) 732.4955
Website: www.stormlake-ia.com/bvchs/
Santa's Castle
Everyone's a kid when they visit Santa's Castle. With the purchase of four animated elves in 1962, Santa's Castle began acquiring one of the largest displays of antique, animated Christmas characters. The collection is on display in Storm Lake's historic Carnegie Library, delighting kids of all ages.
Hours in Season:
Thanksgiving Weekend
Thursday: 2:00-5:00pm_thumb.jpg)
Friday & Saturday: 1:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00pm
Sunday: 1:00-4:00pm
November 30-December 20
Weekdays: 6:00-8:00pm
Saturdays: 1:00-8:00pm
Sundays: 1:00-4:00pm
December 21-23: 1:00-4:00pm & 6:00-8:00pm
Christmas Eve: 1:00-4:00pm
Closed Christmas Day
December 26-30
Weekdays & Saturday: 1:00-4:00pm & 6:00-8:00pm
Sunday: 1:00-4:00pm
Admission: $4 for Adults and $2.50 for children
Location: 200 E 5th St, Storm Lake, IA
Phone: (712) 749.9247
**Call anytime throughout the year to make a special tour appointment.
The Harker House
Beautifully restored Victorian homes grace the tree-lined streets of Storm Lake, but none are more impressive than the Harker House. Constructed in 1875, this home impresses visitors with its open porches, brick walkway and imposing widow's walk. The interior is fully restored and contains the Harker family's furniture and photos.
Location: 328 Lake Ave, Storm Lake, IA
Phone: (712) 732.3267
Email: info@harkerhouse.com
Website: www.harkerhouse.com
Living Heritage Tree Museum
Where else can you take a break and rest in the shade of history? Containing nearly fifty "famous" trees, The Living History Tree Museum serves a unique historical and educational purpose. Connect with the past as you face a tree descended from the one whose apple fell on Newton's head or the offspring of a walnut tree that witnessed the Wright Brothers first flight.
Website: http://www.stormlake.org/index.aspxNID=301 Brochure: Click Here
Location: Sunset Park, West Lakeshore Drive, Storm Lake, IA
Phone: (712) 732.3780
Buena Vista University
One of the nation's top private, liberal arts universities calls Storm Lake home. Buena Vista University, its beautiful, state-of-the-art campus nestled on the shores of the lake, captivates students and visitors alike. The American Heritage Lecture series has hosted speakers known worldwide - Mexican President Vicente Fox, former President Jimmy Carter and former Secretaries of State Madeline Albright and Colin Powell. Edge-of-your-seat sporting events and an enlightening arts and cultural events program are only a few of the experiences visitors enjoy at BVU.
Location: 610 W 4th St, Storm Lake, IA
Phone: (800) 383.9600
Website: www.bvu.edu