This was a fantastic museum to stumble upon in Mason City. We could have spent longer here looking…read moreat everything (but we were pressed for time). Bil Baird's puppets were my absolute favorite permanent collection. Such a variety of puppets - you'll even get to see some of the puppets featured in The Sound of Music from 1965. (If you've seen the movie, you'll recognize them immediately.) MacNider has the most extensive Bil Baird puppet collection anywhere in the world; I suspect it's because Bil grew up in Mason City. The museum resides in a Tudor-style home, previously a private residence and a convent. The house has gone through several renovations over the years. The original staircase is beautiful. The art outside the museum between it and the library is neat, too. If you're going to Mason City, take advantage of MacNider! Free admission.

Such a great museum. A must see when visiting Mason City…read more It's FREE, so no worries if you've just spent all your money at the local ice-cream shop. Donations only. Full of rich history and great exhibits. They even have a small gift shop with items made from local artist. Upstairs the Bill Baird puppets are on display. If you don't know who Bill Baird is, he's the guy who created the puppets for the movie.... The Sound Of Music. They have an Imagination playground for younger children and even a few local exhibits from artists all over the Mid-West. Some of the local exhibits change monthly. They also offer art classes like painting and pottery. Fun place to visit.

A MUST SEE while visiting Clear Lake! Not only a MUST SEE, but go BUY stuff!!…read more Open and accepting! This art center features local artists ware and some beautiful goods from far away. It's a huge place that offers classes - has a great studio space for an art exhibit (saw a fabulous one while there) - has a great space for local art AND a nice little store that sells local art for all budgets. (I bought an adorable pendant made by a local Iowan silver smith. If I could give this place 10 Stars I would! If I lived in Clear Lake I'd drag All my friends there! GO!

When in Clear Lake, I always make it a point to stop in to see what items I can add to my…read morecollection at home. While there are certainly lake-themed items made by local artists for sale, there's a little something for everyone - pottery, paintings, glass, paintings. A quaint establishment, it has a definite museum gift-shop feel (which I love) combined with a small gallery area exhibiting more high-end art pieces for sale. What I appreciate is the eclectic options in all price ranges for folks who appreciate unique pieces to add to their home collection. It's slightly off main street, so if you're touristing - make sure to walk the extra block out off the main drag. It's worth the visit.

Very cool piece of architecture, start at the visitor center. The ladies are…read moreVery nice and Jean is great at answering your questions.

Enjoyed an excellent tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Stockman House located in Mason Iowa…read more Nancy was our fabulous guide. She is knowledge about the history of the house, its owners, and the role FLW played in its design. The hour long tour is well-worth the time to see, tour and learn about this national treasure. The house is modern, functional and ancient all at the same time. The word "timeless" seems a fitting way to capture this remarkable structure. If you ever have a reason to be in Iowa consider making the trek to take the tour. Once done step back into the gift shop and look at the array of miniature examples of other FLW buildings, purchase some postcards or a book. You will not be disappointed

OPA!!!! Whooooo hoooo...my 250th review!! My Big fat Greek…read moreFestival. It's hot and humid but that doesn't stop people from enjoying a good Greek festival. I came at 11:30am and things were just getting started. By the time I left, it was packed with people. It's not a huge festival, but it's till worth visiting. This festival lasts all day long until 10pm. Plenty of Greek food, Greek beer, Greek music, dancing and more. Remember to go to the ticket booth first. Each ticket is worth $1.00 You can redeem your tickets at each of the booths you desire to go to. Example: Want a Gyro? That's 6 tickets. Service is fast so you don't have to wait too long. Grab a chair under the canopy and enjoy the sights and sounds. There's even a Greek bake sale inside the church if you want to take home some baklava or other Greek pastries. Have fun! OPA!!!