Sanford Museum & Planetarium

Sanford Museum & Planetarium The Sanford Museum and Planetarium has exhibits and activities on a variety of subjects W.A. Sanford of Cherokee, in memory of their only son, Tiel.

The museum was made possible through a trust fund established by the late Mr. & Mrs. It was their intention to create a charitable trust for historical, cultural and educational purposes that was to be free and open to the public. The facility was officially opened to the public in 1951. Since then, more than one million visitors have viewed exhibits, attended demonstrations, and taken part in a wide variety of activities.

Only a few more days to enjoy Michael Hayden's photography!
05/26/2026

Only a few more days to enjoy Michael Hayden's photography!

05/22/2026
Our 2026 Field School Opportunity!
05/15/2026

Our 2026 Field School Opportunity!

We've had a wonderful time with our Work Bas Student, Emy Rose Etse. Best wishes on your future, Emy!
05/14/2026

We've had a wonderful time with our Work Bas Student, Emy Rose Etse. Best wishes on your future, Emy!

Our last PIE Partner event of the year! Thanks for everything, Mrs. Lockin! We will miss you!
05/12/2026

Our last PIE Partner event of the year! Thanks for everything, Mrs. Lockin! We will miss you!

Among the many wonderful photos on our Art Wall this month, are some of photographer Michael Hayden's favorites. These i...
05/08/2026

Among the many wonderful photos on our Art Wall this month, are some of photographer Michael Hayden's favorites. These include the three in the middle, a sunrise in Acadia national Park, a diamond ring face of the 2024 solar eclipsse, and the sunset featuring a "green flash".

We are so happy to be able to show Michael Hayden’s amazing photographs! Stop in the month of May and check them out!
05/04/2026

We are so happy to be able to show Michael Hayden’s amazing photographs! Stop in the month of May and check them out!

Just some Colonial ladies trading at the market in our Ben Franklin Exhibit!
04/29/2026

Just some Colonial ladies trading at the market in our Ben Franklin Exhibit!

Did you know? The Sanford Museum has hosted some of the greatest artists from around the midwest!Each year, our facility...
04/28/2026

Did you know? The Sanford Museum has hosted some of the greatest artists from around the midwest!

Each year, our facility proudly hosts a diverse group of exceptional artists, creating a vibrant and inspiring environment for both creators and visitors. This annual opportunity offers artists a unique platform to showcase their work, connect with new audiences, and be part of a dynamic creative community. At the same time, it provides guests with the chance to experience a wide range of remarkable artwork, from emerging voices to highly accomplished talents. The exchange of ideas, perspectives, and creativity makes this an enriching experience for everyone involved, celebrating the power of art to engage, inspire, and bring people together.

We are currently working on our 2027 schedule. Feel free to PM this page for any further information.

Just a little over a week to enjoy Heather Dittmar's beautiful work on our East Gallery Art Wall!
04/21/2026

Just a little over a week to enjoy Heather Dittmar's beautiful work on our East Gallery Art Wall!

Address

117 E Willow Street
Cherokee, IA
51012

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 12pm - 5pm
Sunday 12pm - 5pm

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