Centralia IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Centralia, Iowa.
1. Amana Colonies
HISTORIC GERMAN VILLAGES
The Amana Colonies, located just a short drive from Centralia, are a collection of seven historic villages founded by German immigrants in 1855. Visitors can explore over 450 preserved buildings, sample local crafts and foods, and learn about the community's unique religious and cultural heritage. The area is designated as a National Historic Landmark District, making it a significant destination for history enthusiasts.
2. Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
EXPANSIVE PUBLIC GARDENS
The Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens features beautifully maintained gardens, including traditional Japanese and English gardens. Located in Dubuque, the arboretum offers walking trails and a tranquil setting for nature lovers. Seasonal events and educational programs make it a favorite for families and horticulture enthusiasts.
3. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVER HISTORY AND WILDLIFE
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque combines aquarium exhibits with the history of America's waterways. Visitors can see river creatures, interactive displays, and historical artifacts about commerce and ecology. The museum engages all ages and connects them to the importance of the Mississippi River.
4. Field of Dreams Movie Site
ICONIC FILM LOCATION
The Field of Dreams Movie Site in Dyersville is where the classic baseball film was filmed. Guests can walk on the famous baseball diamond, visit the farmhouse, and relive scenes from the movie. The site also hosts seasonal events and is a pilgrimage spot for film fans.
5. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY PARK
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site preserves the birthplace and legacy of America's 31st president. Visitors can explore Hoover's childhood cottage, a blacksmith shop, reconstructed one-room schoolhouse, and museum exhibits. The National Park Service offers guided tours and interactive displays about Hoover's life and humanitarian work.
6. Blood Run National Historic Landmark
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Blood Run National Historic Landmark marks an ancient Native American settlement and ceremonial center established between 900 and 1720 A.D. The area contains burial mounds and remnants of village life, accessible by walking trails. Interpretive signs along the paths share insights into the site's cultural significance.
7. Eagle Point Park
SCENIC RIVER VIEWS
Eagle Point Park in Dubuque is famous for its panoramic views of the Mississippi River from limestone bluffs. The park features picnic areas, gardens, historic shelters, and a fish pond. It's a top spot for family gatherings, outdoor weddings, and photography.
8. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC FUNICULAR RIDE
The Fenelon Place Elevator in Dubuque is billed as the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway. The funicular takes passengers up a steep bluff for sweeping views of the city and river valley. This quirky attraction is a favorite for tourists seeking a unique experience.
9. Crystal Lake Cave
UNDERGROUND WONDER
Crystal Lake Cave offers guided tours through stunning underground caverns with formations of stalactites and crystals. Located just outside Dubuque, this natural wonder is great for geology enthusiasts and families. The cave stays naturally cool, making it a pleasant escape in warmer months.
10. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARK
The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area features over 1,400 acres of scenic landscapes and trails along the Mississippi River. This park offers hiking, birdwatching, and historical sites, including the Julien Dubuque Monument. Nature enthusiasts flock here to enjoy its diversity and beauty year-round.
11. Historic General Dodge House
VICTORIAN MANSION MUSEUM
The Historic General Dodge House, built in 1869, is a grand Victorian-era mansion that was home to Civil War General Grenville Dodge. Fully restored and preserved, the house features period furnishings and stories of Dodge's life. Guided tours provide insights into architecture, transportation history, and 19th-century living.
12. Millwork District
REVITALIZED URBAN CENTER
The Millwork District in Dubuque is a lively area known for its renovated warehouses now housing trendy restaurants, shops, and arts venues. The district highlights sustainable redevelopment and preserves the city's industrial past. It's a great place to explore local cuisine and culture.
13. Swiss Valley Nature Preserve
NATURE TRAILS AND WILDLIFE
Swiss Valley Nature Preserve near Centralia boasts miles of hiking trails through varied habitats, including forests and streams. Visitors can observe native wildlife and enjoy birdwatching in tranquil surroundings. The preserve's nature center offers educational programs for all ages.
14. Cathedral of St. Raphael
HISTORIC CATHOLIC CHURCH
The Cathedral of St. Raphael is Iowa's oldest Catholic cathedral and an architectural landmark in Dubuque. Open for services and tours, it features stunning stained glass, historic artwork, and a peaceful atmosphere. The cathedral is an important spiritual and historical site for visitors to the city.
15. Julien Dubuque Monument
RIVER BLUFF LANDMARK
The Julien Dubuque Monument commemorates the French-Canadian pioneer who established early settlement in the Dubuque area. Perched atop a bluff in the Mines of Spain park, it offers breathtaking views over the Mississippi River. The monument is a popular spot for history buffs and photographers alike.