The National Ornamental Metal Museum is the one and only institution in the country that is exclusively devoted to preserving and promoting fine metalwork. It is unlike other museums because it is a place for displaying and making art. Visitors who tour the place get to see the works of art that are displayed and the artists who are in the process of making them while learning the craft.

Visitors can also view and enjoy the special exhibitions and selections from its permanent collection and tour the site's sculpture garden and metal shop. They can watch the artists in the smithy and foundry while taking in the Mississippi River's magnificent view.

Visitors can also purchase handcrafted and unique items from the Museum's Gift Store that come with complimentary boxes.