Duncombe IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Duncombe, Iowa.
1. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR PARADISE FOR ADVENTURERS
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area offers extensive hiking trails, camping facilities, and water activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park spans over 6,000 acres of natural beauty featuring lush forests and a 690-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, horseback riding, and wildlife observation throughout the year.
2. Dolliver Memorial State Park
HISTORIC NATURAL WONDER
Dolliver Memorial State Park showcases dramatic sandstone cliffs and archaeological sites along the Des Moines River. The park features unique geological formations including Copperas Beds, where mineral-laden water seeps through sandstone creating colorful patterns. Visitors can explore Native American mounds, hike woodland trails, and enjoy picnicking in this historic natural setting.
3. Fort Frenzy
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION
Fort Frenzy is a popular indoor/outdoor entertainment complex offering activities for all ages. The facility features go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and bowling for family fun throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy the facility's restaurant and bar while taking a break from the various attractions.
4. Hamilton County Speedway
HISTORIC DIRT TRACK RACING
Hamilton County Speedway is Iowa's oldest continuously operating dirt track dating back to 1910. The half-mile oval track hosts weekly racing events featuring late models, modifieds, stock cars, and other racing divisions. Spectators can experience the thrill of dirt track racing while enjoying concessions and the electric atmosphere of this historic venue.
5. Camp WaNoKi
RUSTIC RETREAT EXPERIENCE
Camp WaNoKi offers a serene natural setting for outdoor recreation and education along the Boone River. The camp features hiking trails, cabins, and educational programs including the popular Fireside Chat series. Nature enthusiasts can participate in various activities including flint knapping demonstrations and wildlife observation.
6. Kate Shelley High Bridge
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
Kate Shelley High Bridge stands as one of the highest and longest double-track railroad bridges in the United States. The bridge is named after local hero Kate Shelley, who at age 15 crawled across a damaged bridge during a storm to warn an approaching passenger train of danger. Visitors can view this impressive structure that spans the Des Moines River valley and learn about its historical significance.
7. Iowa Events Center
ENTERTAINMENT AND CONVENTION HUB
The Iowa Events Center is a major entertainment complex hosting concerts, sporting events, and conventions throughout the year. The facility includes Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall, and Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center. Visitors from across the state travel to this venue for major performers, Iowa Wild hockey games, and various expositions.
8. Iowa State Capitol
ARCHITECTURAL GOVERNMENT LANDMARK
The Iowa State Capitol showcases stunning 23-karat gold dome architecture and historical significance as the seat of Iowa government. The building features impressive marble staircases, decorative murals, and a collection of battle flags from Iowa regiments. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the state's history and see the beautiful chambers where legislation is debated.
9. Lake Time Brewery
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Lake Time Brewery offers craft beer enthusiasts a selection of locally brewed beverages in a relaxed atmosphere. The brewery features rotating seasonal selections alongside their popular flagship beers. Visitors can enjoy tasting flights, brewery tours, and special events throughout the year.
10. Dunning's Spring Park
NATURAL WATERFALL OASIS
Dunning's Spring Park features a stunning 200-foot waterfall cascading down limestone bluffs in northeast Iowa. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and excellent photography opportunities amidst natural beauty. Visitors can climb stone stairs alongside the falls for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
11. Jester Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION COMPLEX
Jester Park encompasses 1,675 acres of diverse natural landscapes including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands along Saylorville Lake. The park features a natural playscape, golf course, equestrian center, and the Jester Park Nature Center for environmental education. Visitors can observe the park's bison and elk herds, camp at modern facilities, or enjoy water recreation on the lake.
12. Outlets of Des Moines
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Outlets of Des Moines offers premium brand shopping at discounted prices with over 50 stores in an open-air setting. The shopping center features popular retailers including Nike, Under Armour, Kate Spade, and Michael Kors. Shoppers can enjoy various dining options and special events throughout the year while hunting for bargains.
13. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
URBAN PLANT PARADISE
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden showcases diverse plant collections both indoors and throughout its outdoor gardens along the Des Moines River. The facility features a spectacular geodesic dome conservatory housing tropical plants and seasonal displays throughout the year. Visitors can attend gardening workshops, special events, and explore themed gardens including the popular Bonsai collection.
14. Fort Dodge Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Fort Dodge Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts relating to the region's rich cultural and industrial history. The museum houses exhibits on gypsum mining, frontier life, and military history including the original Fort Dodge. Visitors can view extensive collections of historical photographs, documents, and memorabilia that tell the story of Webster County's development.
15. Duncombe City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Duncombe City Park offers local residents and visitors a pleasant space for outdoor recreation and community gatherings. The park features playground equipment, picnic shelters, and sports facilities for family enjoyment. Community events and celebrations are regularly held in this central gathering place throughout the warm months.