Agency Iowa
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do in Agency, Iowa.
1. American Gothic House & Center
Located in Eldon, this iconic house served as the backdrop for Grant Wood's famous American Gothic painting. Visitors can dress in 1930s attire and pose for their own version of the painting, making it a memorable photo opportunity. The adjacent visitor center offers exhibits and a media room that delve into the history of the painting and its artist.
2. Air Power Museum
This 20,000-square-foot museum on an antique airfield showcases Iowa’s aviation history through aircraft, engines, and aviation memorabilia. Visitors can explore over 20 vintage airplanes and learn about the evolution of flight. The museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.
3. Old School Pinball and Arcade
Ottumwa’s claim as the "Video Game Capital of the World" is celebrated at this retro arcade. Featuring classic games like Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-Man, and Mario Bros., it’s a nostalgic trip for gaming fans. The arcade also honors Ottumwa’s role in hosting the first North American Video Olympics in 1982.
4. Bridge View Center
This premier event venue sits along the Des Moines River and hosts concerts, comedy shows, and expos throughout the year. Its modern facilities include a theater, exposition hall, meeting rooms, and catering services. Visitors can also admire architectural details like a bald eagle mosaic embedded in the floor.
5. Wapello County Freedom Rock
Painted by Ray “Bubba” Sorenson II, this massive boulder honors local veterans and historical figures like the Tuskegee Airmen. Located near Bridge View Center, it serves as a tribute to military service members from Wapello County. The artwork changes annually to commemorate different aspects of Iowa’s history.
6. Beach Ottumwa
This indoor-outdoor water park features a wave pool, slides, sand volleyball courts, and an aquatic playground for children. During colder months, visitors can enjoy an eight-lane indoor pool with an inflatable obstacle course. It’s a year-round destination for family fun.
7. Pioneer Ridge Nature Area & Center
Spanning over 1,000 acres, this nature area offers hiking trails, fishing ponds, camping cabins, and picnic shelters. The center provides educational programming about local wildlife and ecosystems. Visitors can also explore historic sites like Garrison Rock and Horse Thief Cave.
8. Wapello County Courthouse
Built in 1894 in Richardsonian Romanesque style, this courthouse is a historic landmark featuring intricate stonework and a statue of Chief Wapello above its entrance. Although its clock tower was removed in 1950 due to structural concerns, the building remains a centerpiece of downtown Ottumwa. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.
9. Wapello County Civil War Trail
This trail highlights significant Civil War sites throughout the county, including monuments and gravesites like Curtis King's—the oldest Union soldier to enlist at age 80. Visitors can explore Central Park's Soldiers Monument bearing names of over 2,400 servicemen from the era.
10. Blanchard Hills Wildlife Area
This natural environment area offers opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing across its 42 acres of grasslands and woodlands. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a quiet retreat to observe local flora and fauna.
11. Garrison Rock Resource Area
A sandstone outcrop overlooking the Des Moines River Valley, Garrison Rock has historical significance as a Native American gathering site and early settler landmark. Visitors can hike its trails or explore nearby historic cemeteries on bluff tops.
12. Canteen Lunch in the Alley
A beloved Ottumwa institution for over 90 years, this diner is famous for its loose-meat sandwiches served with homemade pie or hand-dipped ice cream cones. Its nostalgic charm makes it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
13. Iowa Heartland History Connection
Located in downtown Ottumwa, this museum preserves local history through exhibits on Native American heritage, pioneer life, and industrial development in Wapello County. Interactive displays make it engaging for visitors of all ages.
14. Agency Indian Trading Post Site & Chief Wapello's Grave
Agency is home to the historic site of an Indian trading post established in 1838 and Chief Wapello's resting place alongside General Joseph M. Street. This site offers insight into Native American history and early settler interactions in Iowa.
15. Wapello County Trails System
With five loops spanning over 16 miles along the Des Moines River, these trails are perfect for hiking or biking enthusiasts. Highlights include Harmony Park with interactive musical instruments and scenic views of abandoned railroad trestles near Gray Eagle Wildlife Preserve.