Berkley IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Berkley, Iowa.
1. Stone City Art Colony
HISTORIC ARTISTS' RETREAT
The Stone City Art Colony was an influential artists' community established in rural Iowa. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and learn about the significant cultural impact this colony had on Midwestern art. The picturesque setting continues to inspire artists and tourists alike with its unique blend of natural beauty and artistic heritage.
2. Hurstville Lime Kilns
INDUSTRIAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Hurstville Lime Kilns represent an important piece of Iowa's industrial heritage. These preserved structures showcase the lime-making process that was vital to early construction and agriculture in the region. Visitors can walk among these historical kilns and gain insight into 19th-century industrial practices.
3. Heavenly Delights Chocolates
SWEET LOCAL TREATS
Heavenly Delights Chocolates offers visitors a taste of locally-made confections in Berkley. This charming shop specializes in handcrafted chocolates using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. Visitors can watch the chocolate-making process and sample a variety of sweet creations.
4. Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway
HISTORIC AMERICAN HIGHWAY
The Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway passes through Berkley, offering a journey along America's first coast-to-coast highway. This historic route features interpretive signs that tell the story of early automobile travel and the development of American road infrastructure. Travelers can enjoy scenic views and historic roadside attractions that have been preserved along this iconic pathway.
5. Ben's Five and Dime
NOSTALGIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Ben's Five and Dime is a charming old-fashioned general store that harkens back to a simpler era. The store offers a nostalgic shopping experience with vintage toys, candies, and household items that are hard to find elsewhere. Visitors can step back in time while browsing the diverse collection of merchandise at this Berkley landmark.
6. FiveOnTheFly Comedy Showcase
LOCAL LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
FiveOnTheFly Comedy Showcase is a popular entertainment venue featuring regional comedic talent. The intimate setting provides an excellent atmosphere for enjoying live performances and supporting local artists. Visitors can expect a night of laughter and fun at this beloved Berkley establishment.
7. Berkley Bedell State Pier
ICONIC LAKESIDE LANDMARK
The Berkley Bedell State Pier sits on the south shore of West Lake Okoboji and serves as an iconic landmark in the region. This pier offers visitors spectacular views of the lake and is a popular spot for fishing, relaxing, and watching boats pass by. The site also hosts the Memorial Boat Parade, a celebrated local tradition that draws visitors from across the state.
8. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC INCLINE RAILWAY
The Fenelon Place Elevator is the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway, originally built in 1882. Visitors can ride the historic cable car system for panoramic views of the Mississippi River valley, downtown Dubuque, and three states. This National Historic Landmark offers a unique transportation experience that combines engineering marvel with breathtaking vistas.
9. Grotto of the Redemption
RELIGIOUS STONE MARVEL
The Grotto of the Redemption is one of the largest religious grottos in the world, constructed from precious stones and gems. This massive structure was built by Father Paul Dobberstein over a 42-year period as a testament to his faith and artistic vision. Visitors marvel at the nine grottos depicting scenes from the life of Christ, all made from an estimated $4 million worth of rocks and minerals.
10. Iowa State Capitol
GOLDEN DOME LANDMARK
The Iowa State Capitol building is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture topped with its distinctive golden dome. Visitors can take guided tours to see the ornate interior featuring 29 types of marble, decorative murals, and a magnificent law library. The building houses historical artifacts including Civil War battle flags and a model of the USS Iowa battleship.
11. Herbert Hoover Birthplace
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIC SITE
The Herbert Hoover Birthplace is a National Historic Landmark where the 31st president was born in a small cottage in 1874. The grounds include the president's birthplace cottage, grave sites of President and Mrs. Hoover, a reconstructed blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, and 76 acres of tall-grass prairie. The visitor center interprets Hoover's early life in Iowa through exhibits and educational programs.
12. Historic General Dodge House
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Historic General Dodge House is a 14-room, three-story Victorian mansion built in 1869 by Civil War general Grenville Dodge. The home features advanced technologies for its time, including central heating and hot and cold running water. Visitors can tour this well-preserved residence to learn about the life of Dodge, who was instrumental in railroad development and Iowa politics.
13. Old Capitol
IOWA'S FIRST STATEHOUSE
The Old Capitol served as the last territorial capitol of Iowa and the first state capitol building before the government moved to Des Moines. Restored to reflect its 1840s appearance, this Greek Revival structure now houses museum exhibits on Iowa's history, culture, and heritage. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the historic chambers, including the Supreme Court room and legislative halls.
14. Reverend George B. Hitchcock House
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD STATION
The Reverend George B. Hitchcock House was built in 1856 and served as a vital station on the Underground Railroad. This historic home was constructed by Congregational minister George Hitchcock who risked his life to help enslaved people escape to freedom. In 2001, the property gained recognition as a National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site, cementing its importance in American civil rights history.
15. Iowa State Fairgrounds
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Iowa State Fairgrounds hosts one of America's oldest and largest agricultural expositions, dating back to 1854. The 450-acre complex features over 100 buildings including the historic Grandstand and the Agricultural Building with its famous butter cow sculpture. Visitors can explore the grounds year-round for various events, though the 11-day Iowa State Fair in August remains the premier attraction drawing over a million visitors annually.