Essex IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Essex, Iowa.
1. The Restored Burlington Northern Depot & WWII Memorial Museum
HISTORIC RAILWAY HERITAGE
The Restored Burlington Northern Depot & WWII Memorial Museum preserves the rich railway heritage of Essex, Iowa. Visitors can explore historical exhibits featuring artifacts from the Burlington Northern Railroad and World War II memorabilia. This well-maintained museum offers a glimpse into the transportation history that shaped the development of the region.
2. Greater Shenandoah Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Greater Shenandoah Historical Society Museum showcases the cultural heritage of Shenandoah and surrounding areas including Essex. The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling the region's development. Visitors can learn about the agricultural traditions, pioneer life, and community growth of southwest Iowa.
3. Indian Creek Historical Society
CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Indian Creek Historical Society serves as a guardian of Essex's local history and cultural heritage. The society maintains collections of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the area's settlement and growth. Visitors can gain insights into the lives of early settlers and the evolution of this small Iowa community.
4. Sergeant Floyd Monument
FIRST NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
The Sergeant Floyd Monument stands as a 100-foot-tall white stone obelisk overlooking Sioux City and the Missouri River valley. This impressive structure marks the burial place of Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to die during the journey. As the first registered National Historic Landmark in the United States, it represents a significant piece of American exploration history.
5. Sergeant Floyd Towboat
MISSOURI RIVER MARITIME HISTORY
The Sergeant Floyd Towboat served as the flagship of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction fleet for 50 years. This historic diesel inspection ship now houses one of America's largest displays of scale Missouri River steamboat and keelboat models. Visitors can explore rare photos, artifacts, and dioramas that showcase the history of Missouri River transportation.
6. Terrace Hill
GOVERNOR'S VICTORIAN MANSION
Terrace Hill is an opulent Victorian mansion built in 1869 by Iowa's first millionaire, Benjamin F. Allen. This magnificent structure now serves as the official residence of Iowa's governor and overlooks downtown Des Moines. The historic property spans eight acres and features a beautiful Victorian formal garden that transports visitors to another era.
7. Toolesboro Mounds
ANCIENT HOPEWELLIAN CULTURE
The Toolesboro Mounds represent some of the best-preserved remnants of the Hopewellian culture that flourished from approximately 200 B.C. to 300 A.D. This five-acre archaeological site contains several large surviving burial mounds that offer insights into ancient Native American traditions. Visitors can explore the educational center and prairie demonstration plot to learn about this significant prehistoric culture.
8. Amana Colonies
HISTORIC GERMAN SETTLEMENT
The Amana Colonies consist of seven historic villages established by German Pietists seeking religious freedom in the 1850s. Visitors can explore well-preserved buildings, shops, and restaurants that showcase the communal lifestyle once practiced by the settlers. The colonies are renowned for their handcrafted furniture, woolen goods, and traditional German cuisine that continue to attract tourists from across the country.
9. Farm House Museum
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Farm House Museum stands as the first building constructed on the Iowa State University campus in 1860. This historic structure served as home to the first presidents of the university and now preserves the agricultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore period furnishings and exhibits that illustrate rural Iowa life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
10. George M. Verity Riverboat
HISTORIC MISSISSIPPI PADDLE WHEELER
The George M. Verity Riverboat is a preserved paddle wheeler that once navigated the waters of the Mississippi River. Built in 1927, this historic vessel now serves as a museum showcasing the golden age of river transportation in America. Visitors can explore the boat's machinery, living quarters, and exhibits detailing the importance of riverboat commerce to Iowa's development.
11. Winterset City Park
COVERED BRIDGE HERITAGE
Winterset City Park encompasses 76 acres of historical landmarks and recreational amenities near Essex. The park features the historic Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, which has been preserved as a testament to Iowa's architectural heritage. Visitors can also enjoy the unique hedge maze and other Clark Tower attractions while exploring this expansive green space.
12. Blood Run Site
ANCIENT NATIVE SETTLEMENT
The Blood Run Site represents an important archaeological area that once served as a major trading center for Native American tribes between 1500 and 1700 AD. This National Historic Landmark preserves evidence of the Oneota culture and their interactions with other indigenous peoples. Visitors can explore the site to learn about Native American history and the significance of this once-thriving community along the Big Sioux River.
13. Shenandoah Historical Museum
PAGE COUNTY HERITAGE
The Shenandoah Historical Museum preserves the rich heritage of Shenandoah and surrounding Page County communities including Essex. The museum houses extensive collections documenting the area's agricultural traditions, radio broadcasting history, and community development. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring vintage photographs, pioneer artifacts, and memorabilia that tell the story of southwest Iowa's past.
14. Southwest Iowa Rural Heritage Farm
AGRICULTURAL LIVING HISTORY
The Southwest Iowa Rural Heritage Farm recreates rural life in the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This living history museum features restored farm buildings, period equipment, and demonstrations of traditional agricultural practices. Visitors can experience the daily routines of Iowa farm families and gain appreciation for the agricultural foundations of communities like Essex.
15. Wabash Trace Nature Trail
SCENIC RAILWAY TRAIL
The Wabash Trace Nature Trail is a 63-mile converted railroad corridor that passes near Essex and connects Council Bluffs to the Missouri border. This popular recreational path winds through woodlands, prairies, and small communities, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The trail preserves the historic route of the Wabash Railroad while providing outdoor enthusiasts with scenic vistas of Southwest Iowa's natural landscape.