NATIONAL PEARL BUTTON MUSEUM

Experience the Muscatine that was the “Pearl Button Capital of the World,” a story proudly being told as the “gold rush of the Midwest”, it wasn’t gold, it wasn’t silver, it was mother of pearl shells, taken from rivers of 19 states to make 1.5 billion pearl buttons annually, 1/3 of the world’s pearl buttons.. a story started in the 1890’s.



Learn about how Muscatine is still a thriving manufacturing center on the second level of the museum through displays on

1940's and 1950's entrepreneurial giants who led to the manufacturing of products like office furniture, retread tires and corn product processing.

Be sure to visit the gift shop to find locally-made Muscatine and pearl button memorabilia…you will receive clam good luck!

WILDCAT DEN STATE PARK

Wildcat Den State Park is located about 10 miles northeast of the city of Muscatine. There's a lot to do at the park, so plan on spending significant time there.

While at Wildcat Den, take a moment to step into life in a small frontier town by visiting Melpine Schoolhouse and Pine Creek Grist Mill. Listening to the rumble of grinding wheels turning, one can almost see the miller grinding flour for the townspeople. Tour guides share the history of the mill along with life in the 1800s. The Mill has regular hours during the summer months, but is fascinating at any time of year. Also, don't forget to check out the Old Stone Church!

Hiking trails help visitors enjoy the beauty of nature at Wildcat Den. Trails wind through various terrain; you can find a trail perfect for hikers of any experience level. They lead visitors past Steamboat Rock, Devil’s Punchbowl and Fat Man’s Squeeze, offering spectacular views along the way. While always stunning, the park is especially beautiful in the fall, when the leaves are turning.

WORLD'S LARGEST WATERMELON SLICE

Muscatine is home to the "unofficial" World's Largest Watermelon Slice which was installed in Fall of 2023. The sculpture measures at a whopping 40 feet long, 16 feet tall, stands 26 feet high, and weighs 16,000 pounds! It's located on Muscatine's riverfront, a short walk from the Pearl City Station along the path and is lit in the evenings.

MUSCATINE AQUATIC CENTER

Soak up the sun at the Muscatine Aquatic Center, located inside picturesque Weed Park, and have some fun with five slides (two drop slides, one family slide and two long slides), a zero-depth entry area, and interactive play structure with kid slide and spray features.

The center also has family restrooms, self-service lockers, a multi-purpose room and full concessions. The facility is available for rent for private events.