Halfway Between Omaha And Des Moines Is Iowa's Historic Danish Experience With Charming Sights

Thousands of Danes immigrated to the United States in the 19th century, with many making Elk Horn, Iowa, their home. Generations later, this Midwestern city continues to embrace its roots and offers visitors the opportunity to do the same at the Museum of Danish America, established in 1983. This institution is the only national museum of its kind, and it's easily accessible from Omaha, Nebraska, and Iowa's largest city, Des Moines (it's located halfway between these two destinations, which are both a little over an hour away from Elk Horn). 

The first thing visitors will notice about the Museum of Danish America is its storybook-like structure, set within the verdant Jens Jensen Prairie Landscape Park. Inside, there are three floors to explore, with the interior featuring exposed beams and large windows that look out onto the bucolic grounds. The Museum of Danish America offers a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits, which have previously touched on everything from music to sports. 

These displays highlight the lasting impact of this Scandinavian country, its heritage, and history. However, exhibits like Danish Roots, American Dreams offer insight into the immigrant experience. In fact, the museum has a collection with more than 46,000 items and includes belongings from those who emigrated from Denmark, such as a piano once owned by the late comedian Victor Borge. "If you are someone that loves history and loves culture from a different nation, this place is a must visit!" states a review from Google. 

Other items at the Museum of Danish America include military relics and inventions, among other things, with some originating from the 1800s and even earlier. You can view these artifacts in the museum's Visual Storage, featuring packed shelves visible through glass walls. Plus, the museum has kid-friendly offerings. In the children's area, they'll find LEGOs (this iconic toy company hails from Denmark), as well as books by Hans Christian Andersen. It goes without saying that Elk Horn, the gateway to Iowa's Western Skies Scenic Byway, is rich with Danish culture. The Museum of Danish America, as well as the Jens Jensen Prairie Landscape Park, are proof of this. 

Don't overlook the latter; this green space, named after the revered landscape architect, offers charming sights. On Google, a reviewer described it as "Peaceful, pastoral prairie with trails, birds and butterflies." Likewise, this sprawling greenery is brimming with colorful wildflowers, trees, and other native flora. Plus, its paths lead to other places of interest within this 35-acre site, like the Jens Dixen House. This postcard-worthy red cabin was once the residence of a Danish immigrant in the early 1900s. Inside are a bed and other items that reflect this time period. 

What's more, the grounds are home to Fjord Færgemand (aka Fjord the ferryman), a troll created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Unveiled in April of 2026, this whimsical 20-foot sculpture can be seen rowing a boat and, according to The Jefferson Herald, honors Elk Horn's early Danish immigrants. Some reviewers on Google write that they came specifically to view the troll, only to stay to experience the rest of the museum.  

Fjord Færgemand isn't the only Dambo piece at the Museum of Danish America. There's also Nordic Swan, a sculpture that looms over the prairie. Still, there's even more to see outside the Museum of Danish America. From the Jens Jensen Prairie Landscape Park, you can make your way into town via the Friends Walk Trail to the Bedstemor's House. This beautiful early 20th-century Victorian is part of the museum and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It's only open seasonally, though it is free and will appeal to architecture and antique enthusiasts.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in authentic Danish culture and history? As an individual who identified themselves as a Dane on Google explained, "experiencing the museum brought back lots of good memories and makes one feel homesick for the 'old country' for sure!" The Museum of Danish America is typically open daily, and entrance fees can be found on the official website. Note that a ticket is not required for the Jens Jensen Prairie Landscape Park. Be sure to stop by the Design Store on your visit, which offers nature and Fjord Færgemand-themed souvenirs, as well as Danish decor.

If you're a history buff, you might want to consider making the 20-minute drive to Harlan, a friendly city with downtown shops and museum fun. Another interesting destination in the area is the 'World's Largest Bull', a roadside attraction in Audubon, Iowa.