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.

This venue is fabulous for events! The owners are great to work with, the venue is beautiful,…read moreversatile and very clean. 10/10 recommend it!

From the owner: Services: Air Conditioned Barn, Baby Showers, Birthday…read moreParties, Bridal Showers, Corporate Events, Decorating Services, Event Venue, Graduation Parties, Outdoor Ceremony, Party Bus, Private Parties, Shuttle Services, Venue with Water Feature, wedding venue with creek, Weddings. Location Facts; On-Site Parking

This review is for the museum and the historical part of the place. The Surf Ballroom is best…read moreremembered as the final place that Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and Big Bopper performed just hours before the tragic fatal plane crash. The place is not just a museum and landmark but it is mostly an events place as well as still being a music venue! The museum is self-guided and free, though donations are encouraged. They also have a souvenir shop so be prepared to spend some $$. But plan on at least an hour just looking around if you're a rock and roll history geek like me. Several photos on the wall and memorabilia. You'll be very surprised on who has played here - from the 1940s big bands to modern-day rock and pop/country acts. Be sure to step onto behind the stage as well as the green room. I could go on, but be sure to check this out for yourself sometime. Yes, the location is in central-northern Iowa, one of the least visited spots in the USA. It's between the Twin Cities and Des Moines, but driving all the way to Clear Lake to check this out is, in my mind, worth it. Check it out!

Wow...so much history here! I had no idea what I was walking into here...its definitely a must do…read morefor anyone with a love for music.

Wow! This place is modern, newly-renovated, and immaculately clean. The hallway still has that…read more"newly-renovated" smell. The decor in our room is super cute, with adorable duvets, a gorgeous orange desk chair and mirror (I'd buy both for my home, tbh), and lots of sensible storage. There are outlets for USB and USB-C charging, ample attractive lighting, and you have the option to close the opaque window shade, a sheer shade, or both. You even get your choice of a soft or firm pillow. The bathroom and mini fridge are immaculately clean. I can't recommend this place highly enough. I almost wish we were here for longer than one night, as it really is so nice. It's refreshing not to be grossed out by a hotel. The woman at the desk was friendly and efficient! I would definitely stay here again if I were passing through. I'm so impressed that I forgot to wait until morning so I can comment on breakfast. I'll do that tomorrow. After a gloriously hot shower with moderate water pressure, we're at breakfast. There is a great array of options. I'm having a banana, Oikos yogurt, and an egg white omelet (a circle of egg white and peppers folded in half--genius). My mom is eating her weight in bacon, a banana nut muffin, and a biscuit with sausage gravy. There is sausage, as well as a cheese omelet and a pancake machine. Lots of fruit, cereal, yogurt, bread/bagels, etc. If you're on Mason City, it's impossible to imagine a better option than this Holiday Inn Express. Found the flaw: Fox News on the breakfast room tv. :(

Amazing staff, clean and impressive accommodations. Lovely breakfast. The best experience I've had…read morein a long time.