Year: 2023

Igniting Interest in Chemistry Interest Form

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Igniting Interest in Chemistry

Join St. Ambrose University Chemistry professor Dr. Andy, along with Putnam educators, for hands-on chemistry learning. This program is a unique opportunity for high school students currently enrolled in chemistry classes or with at least one year of chemistry.
 
Limited to six students, this program will allow students to work collaboratively and with a chemistry professional to engage the community in all the fun and excitement chemistry has to offer. This 6-week program culminates in a student-directed chemistry demonstration and American Chemical Society booth at the Putnam Palooza, our largest community event of the year on Saturday, May 9th. Students must be recommended by their high school chemistry teacher, be available to participate in all 6 sessions, and must attend the May 9th event to participate in this free program.
 
Please contact mfranklin@putnam.org for questions or details. Spaces are limited! Deadline for submission is Friday, March 13th.
ACS Igniting Chemistry Interest Form
Please select all dates that you are available
I understand transportation is not provided and students will need drop off and pick up each night.

Sponsored by the American Chemical Society and Illinois-Iowa Local Section of the American Chemical Society

History On Tap

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Where Education Meets Libation!

Are you tired of the same old lectures in stuffy lecture halls? Do you crave a more engaging and refreshing approach to learning? Then join us at the Putnam Museum for our new lecture series, History On Tap!

Every third Thursday, we’ll be serving up fascinating talks on a variety of topics, all while you enjoy a cold brew or your favorite beverage.

From ancient civilizations to modern innovations, our guest speakers will quench your thirst for knowledge with their expertise and passion. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn and socialize in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. History On Tap: where education meets libation!

Thank you to our History on Tap Sponsor

Upcoming Lectures

No events

Party at the Putnam

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Unforgettable Celebrations!

Are you searching for the perfect spot to host your next birthday party? Look no further! The Putnam is the ultimate place to celebrate in style. Have your party in the heart of all the action, we have multiple rooms that are the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

We offer a variety of party packages to suit your needs, so you can sit back and enjoy the festivities while we take care of the rest. Don’t wait any longer, book your special event today and let’s get this party started!

The perfect setting for kid’s birthdays, baby showers, and other special occasions. You and your guests will have access to all of our fascinating exhibits and interactive displays, adding an extra layer of excitement to your event.

Our Birthday Packages!

Looking for a fun place to host a birthday party? Throw the perfect party with our different birthday packages listed below! 

General Admission Party Package

$250  |  Member Pricing $200

Weekday Rate $175

Includes:

  • General Admission for 15
  • One complimentary adult for every five kids
  • Additional adults and children can be added on for $7 each
  • Use of the Theater Overlook for three hours
  • Special Putnam gift for the birthday person

Add-on a special visit from JP the Polar Bear for only $30!

Movie Party Package

$375  |  Member Pricing $325

Weekday Rate $300

Includes:

  • General Admission for 15
  • One complimentary adult for every five kids
  • Additional adults and children can be added for $7 each
  • Use of the Theater Overlook for three hours
  • Admission for 15 to documentary film (films are limited to whatever is playing that day)
  • One complimentary adult for every five kids
  • Combo box from concessions for each moviegoer
  • Special Putnam gift for the birthday person

For more information, or to make a reservation, please fill out a rental form below.

Questions?

Email our Visitor Service Sales Specialist

Start Booking Your Event

GIANT Screen Theater

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Make A GIANT Impression

Our spectacular GIANT Screen Theater is the perfect venue for a variety of events, including corporate meetings, conferences, private screenings, and community gatherings.

With a capacity of up to 264 guests, our theater features a 50-by-70-foot screen and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, providing an immersive experience for your attendees.

Capacity: 264

Start Booking Your Event

Lardner Balcony

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The Best View In Town

Make your special occasion even more memorable by hosting it on the charming Lardner Balcony at the Putnam Museum. Our balcony overlooks the beautiful Davenport riverfront and provides a stunning backdrop for any event.

Whether it’s a birthday party, graduation party or a corporate event, our balcony can accommodate up to 80 guests and offers an unforgettable experience.

Capacity: 80

Start Booking Your Event

Grand Lobby

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Make Your Event Grand

With its stunning architecture and beautiful interiors, the Grand Lobby exudes elegance and grandeur—perfect for making your event memorable. Whether it’s a wedding reception, corporate event, or a private party, the Grand Lobby provides an ideal setting that is sure to impress your guests. Our team of experts will work with you to plan and execute your event, ensuring that it is a success.

Capacity: 300

Perfect For Your Special Day

Our stunning facility provides the perfect backdrop for your special day, with its historic charm and modern amenities. Don’t settle for a cookie-cutter wedding venue. Host your wedding at the Putnam Museum and Science Center and make a lasting impression on your guests. Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your dream wedding!

Additional Pricing & Rental Information
As Seen on The Knot
Start Booking Your Event

Mary Louisa Putnam

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Nurturing A Love of Learning

Born in 1832, Mary Louisa Putnam moved to Davenport with her family in 1855. In 1863 they built their home in west Davenport and named it Woodlawn. Mary was a devoted mother who encouraged her children to get an education. Her son Duncan spent most of his time at home due to his poor health and developed an interest in entomology. He encouraged his family to join the Davenport Academy of Natural Sciences.

In 1868, Mary Louisa became the first female member of the Davenport Academy of Natural Sciences and secured most of the donations for the academy’s building and worldwide publications. She became the first female president of the academy in 1879. After Duncan’s death in 1881, she dedicated the rest of her life to the academy in his memory.

In 1902, Mary Louisa Putnam was named a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. After her death, she left money in trust to the Davenport Academy of Natural Sciences, which in 1938 became the Davenport Public Museum.

Today, in honor of Mary and Duncan, this museum is now called the Putnam Museum and Science Center!

Learn more about Mary Louisa Putnam and other Quad City historical figures in our Common Ground Exhibit.

Oceans: Our Blue Planet – 3D

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Take A Dive Into The Deep Blue!

Embark on a global odyssey with Oceans: Our Blue Planet and go further into the unknown than ever thought possible using new ocean science and technology. From the coastal shallows to deeper, more mysterious worlds, you’re invited to discover the untold stories of the oceans’ most astonishing creatures during this expedition narrated by Academy Award-winning actress Kate Winslet.

While watching this film, you’ll explore coral reefs and meet fascinating characters like the ingenious tusk fish that uses a tool to open its food. In the great forests of the sea, you’ll meet a cunning octopus who shields herself in an armory of shells to hide from predators.

More surprises await during this journey through the oceans to uncover a spectacular world of life beneath the waves! Oceans includes various filming firsts, including professional footage of rarely observed animal behavior and deep-sea volcanic activity…all on the Putnam’s GIANT Screen!

Upcoming Showtimes

  • No events

Jerusalem

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Journey to the Ancient City

Soar high above the ancient city of Jerusalem—a city of many religions and an important crossroads of civilization. After being granted special permission in the region’s strict no-fly zone, the filmmakers behind Jerusalem were able to capture the first-ever large format aerial footage of the Old City and throughout the Holy Land, giving viewers an incredible view of the city…and now you can see it on the Putnam’s six-story GIANT Screen Theater!

Through breathtaking aerial footage, eye-opening personal stories, and remarkable historical perspective, Jerusalem takes viewers inside the heart of the ancient city in ways never seen before. This inspiring film also features exclusive footage that will take you to the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Dome of the Rock, the Jordan River, the Sea of Galilee and the mountain fortress of Masada. Jerusalem is narrated by Oscar-nominated actor Benedict Cumberbatch.

Adult tickets are $9, youth tickets $8, and senior/military/college student tickets are $8. Movie tickets are $5 with the purchase of general admission. Members save $1 on the price of tickets.

Not a member yet? Become a member and save!

Become a Member

Upcoming Showtimes

  • No events

Flight of the Butterflies – 3D

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An Amazing Journey

The monarch butterfly weighs less than a penny, yet makes one of the longest migrations on Earth! You can follow this journey and join hundreds of millions of real butterflies in Flight of the Butterflies in 3D.

This film is an interconnected scientific adventure story that spans not only thousands of miles, but generations! It’s about the remarkable monarch butterfly migration and the determined scientist who spent 40 years trying to discover exactly where the butterflies mysteriously disappeared when they flew south for winter. You’ll be captivated by mystery and breathtaking cinematography on the GIANT Screen Theater at the Putnam!

Upcoming Showtimes

  • No events