Charles H. MacNider Art Museum — Attraction in Mason City

This is a wonderful treasure in the heart of Mason City. The building itself is a joy, with bright windows overlooking the river, and the beautiful mansion is itself very enjoyable. There is a small goldfish pond and several interactive activities for children, including drawing stations, Imagination Station blue construction foam blocks, kids' puppet theater, and a dress up station and mirror that teaches about portraiture (the costumes match the ones in the paintings). Exhibits change frequently and the collection is impressive. Also not to be missed are the Bil Baird marionettes (Sound of Music and many programs in the classic age of TV); and the extensive list of classes, lectures, events, and workshops. It is a full-fledged...

A friend and I planned a girls' day trip and Mason City was the chosen destination. The Charles H. MacNider Museum was our first stop. What a hidden gem! The art work was amazing.: a photography competition was running with fabulous regional captured images. There were Grant Wood on display and the Dr. Chang section was filled with gorgeous pottery, sculpture and more. The Bill Baird puppets from The Sound of Music were delightful to see up close. The Museum store was filled with the work of local artisans, local history books to educate and more for purchase. I can't wait to...

Small but nice museum with free admission. Had the big blue blocks out on the front lawn for kids to play with when we were there on a Saturday. Big hit with my two. Museum had some interesting American pieces, and a large collection of Bill Baird puppets. There's a puppet theater and hand puppets that the kids can use to put on a show for those seated on the pillows in front of the theater. The museum building itself also has some interesting features, including the undulating roof. We parked in the library parking lot and walked down a short path dotted with sculptures...