​Welcome to the Porter House Museum!
Home of A.F. Porter, Naturalist​
Decorah, Iowa
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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.
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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.
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Hours and Location
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The Porter House Museum is located in the Broadway Historic District, two blocks south of downtown Decorah.

401 West Broadway Street
Decorah, Iowa 52101

REGULAR HOURS :
The Museum is open May & September Saturdays and Sundays; and Tuesday-Sunday from June through August with guided tours beginning at 1:00 and 2:30 p.m. We are closed October through April, except for special events.
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We encourage guests to enjoy the free outdoor Rock Wall and Gardens during daylight hours.

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June 28th Open House​
Unveiling the One-Room Butterfly Museum
You're invited to a special Open House on Saturday, June 28th, from 1:00–4:00 PM at the Porter House Museum!
Be among the first to explore our newly unveiled One-Room Butterfly Museum—a unique and intimate exhibit showcasing the beauty and history of our butterfly collection.
Enjoy light refreshments, wander through the historic gardens, and take a rare peek inside the Prairie Style garage, typically closed to the public.
This is a free, self-guided event open to all. Come celebrate with us and discover what’s been hiding behind closed doors!