The African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) will celebrate its grand opening Saturday, May 11, after a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of its multi-million-dollar renovation project.
The museum will mark the occasion with a $1 day admission from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 11.
The family-friendly day will include self-guided exhibit tours through the museum’s permanent exhibit, “Endless Possibilities,” as well as the museum’s new temporary exhibit, “Thirty Years of the AAMI,” an exploration of the museum’s 30-year history and exhibits.
Activities will take place with community organizations in the museum parking lot, newly-expanded lobby, and Aldeen Davis Celebration Hall throughout the day.
Patrons will also have the opportunity to shop at the museum’s merchandise counter for t-shirts, mugs, books, and other branded items. Opportunities to renew existing membership or become a new member will also be available.
Food will be available in the museum’s parking lot, with options from Hatchett’s BBQ and Catering and Jays Water Ice food trucks.
Renovations to the building include a new entrance, expanded lobby, new roof, and sprinkler system, as well as updated features throughout. The major renovation to the museum has been in the works since late 2019, brought about by the ongoing implementation of the city’s flood control system.
The renovations to the museum, at 55 12th Ave. SE, were funded by a $6 million fundraising campaign, including $5 million for the renovation project itself and an added “stretch goal” of $1 million to enhance the museum’s endowment fund.
Fundraising continues to meet the museum’s “stretch goal.” Contributions toward the campaign can be made on-site via QR code and at blackiowa.org/support/vip/.
