Ferguson IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ferguson, Iowa.
1. Big Treehouse
UNIQUE ARBOREAL WONDER
The Big Treehouse is one of Ferguson's most distinctive attractions, drawing visitors with its impressive wooden architecture. Visitors can explore this unique structure built among the trees, offering a perspective that combines nature with human craftsmanship. The treehouse provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of childlike wonder for guests of all ages.
2. Historical Society of Marshall County
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Historical Society of Marshall County offers visitors a glimpse into the rich past of Ferguson and the surrounding region. The society maintains exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area's development. Visitors consistently rate this attraction highly for its educational value and well-preserved local history displays.
3. Meskwaki Bingo & Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Meskwaki Bingo & Casino provides entertainment options for visitors looking for gaming experiences near Ferguson. The facility offers a variety of gaming options including slot machines, table games, and bingo sessions throughout the week. Beyond gambling, the venue typically features dining options and occasionally hosts live entertainment events.
4. Rock Creek State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Rock Creek State Park offers a natural escape with multiple recreational opportunities for visitors near Ferguson. The park features a lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming during appropriate seasons. Hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore the park's trails while enjoying the diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.
5. Science Center of Iowa
INTERACTIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE
The Science Center of Iowa provides an educational experience with hands-on exhibits focusing on various scientific disciplines. Visitors can engage with interactive displays that make complex scientific concepts accessible and entertaining for all ages. The center regularly updates its offerings and often features special exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.
6. Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum commemorates the military service of Iowans throughout American history. The museum pays special tribute to the five Sullivan brothers who died together during World War II when their ship was sunk. Exhibits feature personal stories, artifacts, and interactive displays that bring the experiences of Iowa veterans to life for visitors.
7. Pella Historical Village & Vermeer Windmill
DUTCH HERITAGE SITE
Pella Historical Village & Vermeer Windmill transports visitors to a slice of the Netherlands in the heart of Iowa. The village features authentic Dutch architecture, including the tallest working windmill in the United States. Visitors can explore historical buildings, gardens, and learn about the Dutch immigrants who settled the area in the 1800s.
8. Reiman Gardens
BOTANICAL BEAUTY YEAR-ROUND
Reiman Gardens offers a spectacular display of plant life across its 17 acres at Iowa State University. The gardens feature different themed areas, including a tropical conservatory and one of the world's largest butterfly collections in the Butterfly Wing. Throughout the year, the gardens transform with seasonal displays and special exhibitions that highlight the beauty of Iowa's changing seasons.
9. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
URBAN PLANT OASIS
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden provides a year-round tropical retreat in the heart of Iowa's capital city. The geodesic dome conservatory houses exotic plants from around the world, creating a lush environment regardless of the season outside. Surrounding outdoor gardens showcase native plantings and artistic landscape design that changes throughout the growing season.
10. Iowa State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Iowa State Capitol stands as an architectural masterpiece with its distinctive 23-karat gold dome visible from miles away. Inside, visitors can marvel at the ornate interior featuring 29 types of marble, decorative murals, and a grand staircase. Free guided tours offer insights into Iowa's governmental history and the building's impressive collection of art and artifacts.
11. Iowa 80 Trucking Museum
AMERICA'S TRUCKING HISTORY
The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum celebrates the history of trucking with over 100 vintage trucks and thousands of artifacts on display. Located at the World's Largest Truck Stop, this museum chronicles the evolution of the trucking industry from its early days to modern times. Visitors can see rare and antique trucks, including some dating back to the early 1900s, all meticulously restored to their original condition.
12. Buddy Holly Crash Site
MUSIC HISTORY MEMORIAL
The Buddy Holly Crash Site marks the tragic location where rock 'n' roll legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson perished in a plane crash on February 3, 1959. A memorial featuring a steel guitar and three records commemorates this day, often referred to as "The Day the Music Died." Music fans make pilgrimages to this humble roadside memorial to pay respects to these influential early rock pioneers.
13. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL BIRTHPLACE MEMORIAL
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site preserves the birthplace cottage and childhood surroundings of America's 31st president. The grounds include Hoover's birthplace cottage, the graves of President Hoover and his wife, a reconstructed blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. Visitors can explore the 76-acre tall-grass prairie and learn about Hoover's early life in Iowa through exhibits at the visitor center.
14. John Wayne Birthplace Museum
HOLLYWOOD LEGEND'S HOME
The John Wayne Birthplace Museum honors the Hollywood legend who was born Marion Robert Morrison in Winterset, Iowa in 1907. The museum houses the largest collection of John Wayne artifacts in existence, including original movie posters, scripts, contracts, letters, artwork, and sculptures. Visitors can tour the modest four-room home where Wayne was born and explore exhibits chronicling his rise from small-town Iowa to international stardom.
15. Sergeant Floyd Monument
LEWIS AND CLARK MEMORIAL
The Sergeant Floyd Monument is a 100-foot-tall white stone obelisk that was the first registered National Historic Landmark in the United States. It marks the burial place of Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to die during their journey of exploration. From its position overlooking Sioux City and the Missouri River valley, the monument offers historical significance and scenic views for visitors interested in American exploration history.