Metal working on the Mississippi
Located on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, the National Ornamental Metal Museum is a cool place to take wedding vows. Beyond the spectacular view, the museum has an impressive, wide-ranging collection from contemporary American sculpture to ancient European lockboxes.

“Our temporary exhibitions often showcase sculptors who have made names for themselves,” said Stephanie Swindle, marketing coordinator.

Entering the property, the site of a public health service hospital, I was awed by the magnificent gates. “These are studded with rosettes crafted by more than 180 metalsmiths from 18 nations,” Swindle said.

After observing a demonstration by a museum intern, I enjoyed time in an outdoor space adorned with sculptures, among them handcrafted grills. My favorite was the Sarah Palin hog roaster, a 20-foot-tall metal cooking implement with an impressive resemblance to the bespectacled politician.

www.metalmuseum.org