Baxter IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Baxter, Iowa.
1. Chichaqua Valley Trail
SCENIC PAVED PATHWAY
The Chichaqua Valley Trail is a 24-mile paved path with its trailhead located in the center of Baxter. The trail was developed on abandoned Chicago-Northwestern right-of-way through a joint effort of the Department of Natural Resources and the Polk and Jasper County Conservation Boards. Visitors can enjoy sprawling meadows, rolling farmland, and beautiful hardwood timbers teeming with wildlife while experiencing serene landscapes of Iowa's countryside.
2. Baxter Area Recreation Complex
SPORTS AND RECREATION HUB
The Baxter Area Recreation Complex is a 25-acre recreational area located at the west edge of Baxter, adjacent to the West Field Horizons residential development. The complex houses numerous athletic facilities including soccer fields, football fields, baseball diamonds, and a 400m all-weather track with lighting for around-the-clock use. Visitors can also enjoy picnic shelters with electricity and a children's playground area for family recreation.
3. Historic Caboose
RESTORED RAILROAD HISTORY
The Historic Caboose is a restored 1913 wooden rail car located at the northern trailhead of the Chichaqua Valley Bike & Nature Trail in downtown Baxter. This historical attraction houses memorabilia of Baxter and the railroad that once ran through the community. The caboose serves as a link between the community's rural beginning and its prosperous years to come.
4. The Harvester Golf Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Harvester Golf Club is a highly-rated golf course near Baxter that offers an exceptional golfing experience with a 4.7/5 rating from visitors. The course features well-maintained fairways and greens that challenge golfers of all skill levels. Visitors appreciate the scenic views and professional atmosphere that make this a standout attraction in the area.
5. Valle Drive-In
NOSTALGIC OUTDOOR CINEMA
The Valle Drive-In is a popular entertainment venue near Baxter with a 4.3/5 rating from visitors. This nostalgic outdoor cinema offers moviegoers a chance to experience films under the stars in a classic American setting. The drive-in theater combines modern movie screenings with retro charm for a unique family-friendly outing.
6. Maytag Dairy Farm
ICONIC CHEESE PRODUCER
The Maytag Dairy Farm is a renowned cheese producer located near Baxter that has earned a 4.3/5 rating from visitors. The farm is famous for its blue cheese, which has been handcrafted using the same time-honored techniques since 1941. Visitors can tour the facilities, learn about the cheese-making process, and purchase various dairy products directly from the source.
7. Westwood Golf Course
RELAXING GOLF GETAWAY
Westwood Golf Course is a well-maintained golf facility near Baxter with a 4.5/5 rating from visitors. The course offers a pleasant golfing experience with varied terrain and challenging holes suitable for players of different skill levels. Golfers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and reasonable rates that make this a popular destination for both casual and serious players.
8. Ashton Wildwood Park
NATURAL WOODLAND ESCAPE
Ashton Wildwood Park is a natural retreat located in the Baxter area that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. The park features wooded trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout the seasons. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking, bird watching, and nature photography in this peaceful woodland setting.
9. Chichaqua Valley Trail - Ira Trailhead
TRAIL ACCESS POINT
The Chichaqua Valley Trail - Ira Trailhead serves as an additional access point to the popular 24-mile trail system near Baxter. This trailhead provides convenient parking and facilities for cyclists and pedestrians looking to explore the scenic path. Visitors using this entry point can enjoy the natural beauty of central Iowa while traveling through multiple small communities along the route.
10. A Sampling of Quilts
TEXTILE ART DISPLAY
A Sampling of Quilts is a cultural attraction in the Baxter area that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of local quilters. Visitors can admire intricate designs and patterns that represent both traditional and contemporary quilt-making techniques. The exhibit highlights the rich textile heritage of central Iowa and provides insight into this important cultural tradition.
11. Cinemark Altoona and XD
MODERN CINEMA EXPERIENCE
Cinemark Altoona and XD is a modern movie theater complex located within driving distance of Baxter. The theater features state-of-the-art projection and sound systems, including XD extreme digital cinema for an immersive viewing experience. Moviegoers can enjoy comfortable seating, a variety of concessions, and the latest film releases in this contemporary entertainment venue.
12. Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
NATIVE PRAIRIE ECOSYSTEM
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is a natural preserve near Baxter dedicated to restoring native tallgrass prairie and oak savanna ecosystems. The refuge is home to a herd of American bison and elk that roam in a natural setting, offering visitors a glimpse of Iowa's pre-settlement landscape. An educational visitor center provides exhibits about prairie ecology and conservation efforts taking place throughout the 5,600-acre refuge.
13. Iowa Speedway
PREMIER RACING VENUE
Iowa Speedway is a 7/8-mile asphalt paved tri-oval race track located near Baxter that hosts NASCAR and IndyCar Series events. The track, designed by NASCAR champion Rusty Wallace, offers fans an exciting up-close racing experience with exceptional sightlines from every seat. Visitors can enjoy high-speed racing action, driver meet-and-greets, and various entertainment options during race weekends throughout the season.
14. Rock Creek State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Rock Creek State Park is a 1,697-acre outdoor recreation area centered around a 491-acre lake near Baxter. The park offers numerous activities including fishing, boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and wildlife observation throughout its scenic grounds. Visitors can enjoy modern campground facilities, picnic areas with shelters, and beautiful lake views in this popular state park destination.
15. Jasper County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Jasper County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region surrounding Baxter through various exhibits and artifacts. The museum houses collections that tell the story of early settlers, agricultural development, and the evolution of local industries over time. Visitors can explore displays of historical photographs, documents, tools, household items, and other memorabilia that bring the county's past to life.