Celebrate Iowa's rich and varied history at the Iowa State Historical Museum, just west of the Capitol complex in downtown Des Moines. Exhibits are based on a wide range of themes, including Iowa's natural heritage, the state's role in nationwide events, and recognition of famous and everyday Iowans alike.Parking and public transportation to the Iowa State Historical MuseumThe complex is easily accessible from Interstate Highway 235. Take the East Sixth Street/Pennsylvania Avenue exit and head south to Grand Avenue. Free ramp parking for visitors is available on the north side of Grand directly across from the museum. There's also street parking nearby. The local transit routes that serve the state fairgrounds and East 14th Street both stop at several locations near the museum.Admission to the Iowa State Historical MuseumThe site is open daily all year long, except for major holidays. Admission is free.Must see/do at the Iowa State Historical MuseumDon't miss an extensive collection of early 1900s wildlife dioramas that honored native animals that were beginning to disappear from the state. There are also vintage airplanes, a display about the USS Iowa battleship, and exhibits detailing Iowa's pioneer past. Another exhibit recognizes Iowans' contributions during the Civil War. Learn about how the state has been portrayed in films, including "Field of Dreams."Other places to visit near the Iowa State Historical MuseumGet another view of Iowa's past at the State Capitol complex just east of the museum. Take the family to experience the hands-on fun at the Science Center of Iowa. Walk through the indoor and outdoor displays at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.Insider tip for visitors to the Iowa State Historical MuseumSign up for what's known locally as the museum's vault tours, which take visitors underground to get an up-close look at many more rare and unusual items. With only about 10 percent of the site's articles on display at any one time, there's much more to see in the basement. Reservations are required and the cost is roughly $10 per person.Author's bio: Melanie Lageschulte is a freelance writer and editor. She is an Iowa native and has lived in Des Moines for 15 years.