Dunlap IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dunlap, Iowa.
1. McLean Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The McLean Museum is owned by the Dunlap Historical Society and located on Iowa Avenue in Dunlap. It houses artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history of Dunlap and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the museum to gain insights into the town's development since it was platted in 1867.
2. Dougal House
HISTORIC HOME TOUR
The Dougal House stands as a preserved historic building on Iowa Avenue in Dunlap. This historic home provides visitors with a glimpse into early life in the Loess Hills region. The property is maintained by the Dunlap Historical Society as part of their commitment to preserving local heritage.
3. Dunham Barn
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Dunham Barn is a historic structure owned by the Dunlap Historical Society that showcases the agricultural heritage of the region. During the town's annual Fourth of July celebration, the barn hosts horse rides and demonstrations of pioneer crafts. The barn serves as a living museum connecting visitors to the farming traditions that shaped the community.
4. 4-County Fairgrounds
HISTORIC FAIR VENUE
The 4-County Fairgrounds in Dunlap hosts the annual 4-County Fair held the first weekend in August. This old-fashioned celebration features exhibits, a horse show, tractor pull, livestock competitions, and food vendors. The fairgrounds serve as a gathering place that brings together the community in a perfect family atmosphere.
5. Dunlap City Park
RECREATION AND RELAXATION
Dunlap City Park offers picnic shelters, playgrounds, and basketball courts for community enjoyment. The park serves as a central recreational space for residents and visitors alike. Its facilities provide opportunities for both active sports and relaxed outdoor gatherings.
6. Pleasant View Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Pleasant View Park features picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a frisbee golf course for family enjoyment. The disc golf course offers a fun outdoor activity accessible to players of all skill levels. The park provides a pleasant venue for community recreation in the heart of Dunlap.
7. Schaben Park
NATURE AND CAMPING DESTINATION
Schaben Park offers a 6-acre fishing lake, modern campground facilities, tent campsites, and recreational amenities including a picnic shelter and playground. Woodland and prairie trails invite visitors to explore the natural landscape, perfect for hunting and birdwatching. The park's diverse offerings make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with the natural beauty of western Iowa.
8. Dunlap Golf Club
SCENIC 9-HOLE COURSE
Dunlap Golf Club features a scenic 9-hole course nestled within the rolling terrain of western Iowa. This private golf course offers challenging play for golf enthusiasts amid beautiful natural surroundings. The club provides a recreational outlet that takes advantage of the region's distinctive topography.
9. Boyer Valley Sports Complex
COMMUNITY ATHLETIC VENUE
The Boyer Valley Sports Complex is located on the north side of Dunlap and facilitates a variety of sporting events for multiple age groups. The complex serves as the center for community athletics and school competitions. Its facilities support the Boyer Valley Community School's strong athletic programs.
10. Dunlap Pocket Park
DOWNTOWN GREEN SPACE
Dunlap Pocket Park provides a charming green space within the revitalized historic downtown area. The park offers a place for relaxation and casual gatherings amid the community's commercial hub. Its central location makes it a convenient spot to rest while exploring Dunlap's attractive main street.
11. Lonely Oak Distillery
LOCAL SPIRITS PRODUCER
Lonely Oak Distillery offers visitors a taste of locally produced spirits in Dunlap. The distillery has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors who appreciate their craft beverages. Tours and tastings provide an opportunity to learn about the distillation process while sampling regional flavors.
12. Loess Hills Hospitality Association and Gift Shop
REGIONAL TOURISM CENTER
The Loess Hills Hospitality Association and Gift Shop serves as a welcome center for visitors to the unique Loess Hills region. The shop offers local products, souvenirs, and information about regional attractions with a perfect 5.0 visitor rating. It provides valuable resources for tourists seeking to explore the distinctive natural landscape and cultural heritage of western Iowa.
13. Preparation Canyon State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
Preparation Canyon State Park is located near Dunlap in the heart of Iowa's Loess Hills. The park offers hiking trails through a unique landscape formed by wind-deposited silt, creating a terrain unlike anywhere else in North America except China. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and exploring the distinctive ecology of this natural wonder that has earned a 4.5 rating from travelers.
14. Boyer Valley FFA Field Plot and Greenhouse
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION SITE
The Boyer Valley FFA Field Plot and Greenhouse provides hands-on agricultural education opportunities for students in Dunlap. This dedicated facility allows students to gain practical experience in crop cultivation and plant science. The greenhouse represents the community's commitment to agricultural heritage and education.
15. Dunlap Public Swimming Pool
COMMUNITY AQUATIC CENTER
The Dunlap Public Swimming Pool offers outdoor aquatic recreation for residents and visitors during the summer months. The facility provides a refreshing escape from the heat with swimming areas suitable for various ages and abilities. This community amenity enhances the quality of life in this charming Midwest town.