Allison IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Allison, Iowa.
1. Wilder Park
FAMILY FUN OUTDOOR RECREATION
Wilder Park is a beautiful city park in Allison offering great fun for the whole family. The park features two playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, pickleball, mini golf, and giant chess and checkers games. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities in this well-maintained outdoor space.
2. Rolling Prairie Bike Trail
SCENIC PAVED CYCLING PATH
The Rolling Prairie Bike Trail is a 21-mile paved trail connecting Clarksville, Allison, Bristow, and Shell Rock. This hard-surface trail features a nice mix of natural canopy and scenic bridges, with the expansion from Allison to Bristow completed in 2018. Each trailhead has a kiosk with maps and trail information, with future plans to expand west to Dumont once funding is secured.
3. Little Valley Church
IOWA'S SMALLEST CHURCH
Little Valley Church is said to be the smallest church in Iowa, measuring just six feet by eight feet and ten feet tall, not including the steeple. The interior contains four small pews that seat four adults, an altar, and enough room to stand up, having hosted visitors from over 40 states since its construction in 1972. Owner Sally Schneiderman welcomes visitors to the church and adjacent flower gardens, though it is open by request only.
4. Butler County Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVATION
The Butler County Historical Society maintains a relocated historic building on the courthouse square in Allison. This building serves as the first attraction of the society, preserving local history and heritage. Visitors can explore artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history of Butler County.
5. Butler County Barn Quilts
RURAL ART TOUR
Butler County Barn Quilts offer a scenic driving tour of colorful quilt patterns displayed on barns throughout the county. These artistic installations celebrate the agricultural heritage and artistic traditions of the area. Visitors can follow self-guided routes to discover these unique cultural landmarks scattered across the rural landscape.
6. All Veterans Memorial
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The All Veterans Memorial in Butler County pays tribute to local veterans who served in the armed forces. The memorial provides a space for reflection and remembrance of those who sacrificed for their country. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the military history of the community at this solemn site.
7. CARD, Inc. Golf Course
RELAXING GOLF EXPERIENCE
CARD, Inc. Golf Course offers a pleasant golfing experience near Allison. The course provides well-maintained fairways and greens for golfers of various skill levels. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf in the peaceful rural setting of Butler County.
8. Bristow Memories
SMALL TOWN HISTORY MUSEUM
Bristow Memories is a history museum preserving the heritage of this small town near Allison. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and stories from Bristow's past. Visitors can gain insights into local history and the development of this Butler County community.
9. Trains on the Farm
AGRICULTURAL RAILWAY HISTORY
Trains on the Farm is a unique history museum highlighting the connection between railroads and agriculture in rural Iowa. The museum features exhibits on how trains transformed farming and rural communities in Butler County. Visitors can explore the historical relationship between transportation and agricultural development in the region.
10. TP's Cooler
LOCAL FOOD DESTINATION
TP's Cooler is a popular local eatery serving residents and visitors in Allison. The establishment offers a menu of comfort food favorites in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a taste of local cuisine while mingling with community members at this hometown gathering spot.
11. Rita the Robot Dairy Farm
MODERN AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Visitors can see "Rita the Robot" milking cows at this 5th generation family dairy farm in Butler County. The modern working dairy farm offers experiences such as petting baby calves, observing the robotic milking system, and learning about milk production. Guests gain insight into contemporary farming practices and the journey of milk from farm to table.
12. Comet Trail
SCENIC LIMESTONE PATH
The Comet Trail is a crushed limestone-surfaced recreational trail featuring a 60-foot suspension bridge. This scenic path connects the towns of Beaman, Conrad, and Gladbrook, providing access to natural areas. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy the trail's connection to a 93-acre multi-purpose recreation area with Bur Oak forested and reconstructed prairie sections.
13. Grundy Center Theatre
HISTORIC ART-DECO CINEMA
The Grundy Center Theatre is a historic Art-Deco era movie theater in downtown Grundy Center near Butler County. The venue features two screens showing current 2D and 3D movies in a charming vintage setting. The theater operates Friday through Tuesday with nightly shows, offering entertainment options for visitors to the region.
14. Conrad Heritage Hall and Museum
COMMUNITY HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Conrad Heritage Hall and Museum is located inside City Hall and serves as a shrine to the history of the community. The museum contains a host of local artifacts and features rotating exhibits about the area's heritage. Visitors can explore the collections to learn about the development and culture of this town near Butler County.
15. Heery Woods
WINTER RECREATION AREA
Heery Woods in Clarksville offers seasonal outdoor activities including the popular Lighted Night Ski events. The natural area provides trails and recreational opportunities throughout the year for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of this woodland space located along the Rolling Prairie Bike Trail network.