Alta Iowa
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do in Alta, Iowa.
1. Buena Vista County Fair
The Buena Vista County Fair in Alta is a summer highlight, showcasing local agriculture, crafts, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy grandstand events like tractor pulls, motocross, bull riding, and barrel racing. Concerts and demolition derbies add to the excitement, making this fair a family-friendly spectacle. With a variety of activities and food vendors, it’s a perfect way to experience the community spirit of Alta.
2. Buena Vista Raceway
The Buena Vista Raceway is a thrilling destination for auto-racing fans during the summer months. This dirt track hosts weekly races that bring together drivers and spectators from across the region. The high-speed action and competitive spirit make for an electrifying evening. Whether you're a motorsport enthusiast or just looking for excitement, the raceway delivers unforgettable entertainment.
3. Alta City Park
Alta City Park features a unique wooden “castle” playground built entirely by volunteers, making it a favorite spot for families. The park also offers picnic areas and open spaces for relaxation or recreational activities. Its charming design and community-focused atmosphere make it ideal for spending quality time outdoors. The park is a testament to Alta's dedication to creating welcoming spaces for all ages.
4. Alta Community Library
The Alta Community Library is a hub of learning and culture, shared with the local school district. It offers internet services, e-books, and inter-library loans, ensuring access to diverse resources. Special programs and events cater to readers of all ages, fostering education in a warm environment. Whether you’re researching or simply enjoying a good book, this library is a treasure for visitors and residents alike.
5. Wind Turbines of Alta
Alta’s countryside is dotted with sleek wind turbines that generate electricity for thousands of households annually. These modern structures are not only functional but also visually striking against the rural landscape. Visitors can take scenic drives to admire these engineering marvels while learning about renewable energy efforts in the region. The turbines symbolize Alta’s commitment to sustainability.
6. Alta Golf Courses
Alta boasts two private golf courses that provide serene landscapes for golfers of all skill levels. With manicured greens and challenging holes, these courses are perfect for leisurely games or competitive tournaments. Clubhouses offer refreshments and social spaces to unwind after play. Golfing in Alta combines sport with relaxation amidst picturesque surroundings.
7. Public Swimming Pool
The public swimming pool in Alta is a refreshing retreat during warm summer days. It features areas suitable for swimmers of all ages, making it ideal for family outings or solo relaxation. Lifeguards ensure safety while visitors enjoy cooling off or practicing their strokes. The pool serves as a lively community gathering spot during the season.
8. Alta Community Theater
The Alta Community Theater brings local talent to life through engaging performances year-round. From musicals to dramas, the theater showcases creativity and storytelling that captivates audiences of all ages. Its intimate setting fosters connection between performers and viewers, creating memorable cultural experiences. Attending a show here is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Alta’s vibrant arts scene.
9. Baseball/Softball Complex
Alta’s baseball/softball complex is renowned as one of the finest in Northwest Iowa. It hosts local leagues and tournaments that draw athletes and spectators alike throughout the season. The well-maintained fields are complemented by amenities like seating areas and concessions stands. This facility embodies community pride and love for sports.
10. Buena Vista County Historical Museum
Located nearby in Storm Lake, this museum offers insights into the region’s rich history through interactive exhibits and preserved artifacts. Highlights include displays on pioneer life, Native American culture, and early farming practices. A genealogical library allows visitors to explore their ancestry while learning about local heritage. The museum provides an educational yet entertaining experience for history enthusiasts.
11. King’s Pointe Waterpark Resort
A short drive from Alta leads to King’s Pointe Resort in Storm Lake, featuring both indoor and outdoor waterparks perfect for year-round fun. Adventure slides, lazy rivers, splash zones, and themed play areas cater to families seeking excitement or relaxation. Concession stands ensure visitors stay refreshed throughout their visit. This resort combines recreation with comfort in a stunning lakeside setting.
12. Awaysis Beach
Storm Lake’s Awaysis Beach offers sandy shores alongside picnic pavilions, playgrounds, gardens, and lake trails—a haven for outdoor enthusiasts near Alta. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboats to explore the lake or climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the area. The beach is ideal for sunbathing or building sandcastles during summer getaways.
13. Pirate’s Pointe Mini Golf
Pirate’s Pointe Mini Golf provides family-friendly fun with its pirate-themed course featuring waterfalls, caves, and shipwrecks near Storm Lake. The 18-hole course challenges players amidst whimsical settings that spark imagination at every turn. Perfectly suited for groups or solo players seeking lighthearted recreation.
14. Witter Gallery
Art lovers will enjoy Witter Gallery in Storm Lake, which hosts monthly themed exhibits showcasing diverse artistic styles and mediums near Alta's vicinity. The gallery also offers workshops and classes for aspiring artists of all ages throughout the year. This cultural gem provides creative inspiration while supporting regional talent.
15. Heritage Tree Museum
Storm Lake’s Heritage Tree Museum tells stories through descendants of historic trees from around the world—a unique attraction close to Alta worth exploring on an afternoon trip! Informative audio tours enhance understanding of these living witnesses to history while providing tranquil moments among nature's beauty.