Keokuk IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Keokuk, Iowa.
1. George M. Verity Riverboat Museum
HISTORIC RIVERBOAT MUSEUM
The George M. Verity Riverboat Museum preserves a historic towboat that once worked on the Mississippi River. Visitors can tour the boat to learn about its working life, river commerce, and the importance of river travel to Keokuk's history. Exhibits inside detail the vessel's mechanics, crews, and a bygone era of river navigation.
2. Rand Park
EXPANSIVE CITY PARK
Rand Park is a large public green space overlooking the Mississippi River, offering scenic walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is a popular spot for community events and provides beautiful river views, especially during seasonal blooms. It is also the site for the Chief Keokuk Monument and frequent local gatherings.
3. Keokuk National Cemetery
HISTORIC MILITARY CEMETERY
Keokuk National Cemetery is one of the original national cemeteries established during the Civil War, serving as the final resting place for many Union soldiers. The grounds are well maintained, with rows of neat headstones reflecting the area's military heritage. The cemetery is a solemn site for reflection and remembrance in Keokuk.
4. Lock and Dam No. 19
ENGINEERING MARVEL ON RIVER
Lock and Dam No. 19 is a major structure on the Mississippi River, known both for its scale and historical significance. Visitors can view the lock in operation and observe the passage of river traffic. The dam played a vital role in the development of Keokuk as a river city and remains an engineering attraction today.
5. Bridge Observation Deck
MISSISSIPPI RIVER OVERLOOK
The Bridge Observation Deck provides panoramic views of the Mississippi River, the dam, and river traffic below. It is a favorite spot for photographers and those interested in watching barges and boats navigate the waterway. The deck is easily accessible and offers a unique vantage point in Keokuk.
6. Chief Keokuk Monument
NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBUTE
The Chief Keokuk Monument honors the Sauk leader after whom the city is named, recognizing his historical significance and impact on the region. The monument stands within Rand Park, serving as a cultural and historical landmark. Visitors can read interpretive signage about his life and legacy amid a peaceful park setting.
7. Keokuk Union Depot
RESTORED HISTORIC TRAIN DEPOT
The Keokuk Union Depot is a beautifully restored 19th-century railroad station featuring unique architecture and historic exhibits. It often hosts community events, tours, and periodic displays about local railroad history. The building stands as a testament to Keokuk's importance as a transportation hub.
8. Lost Canvas
LOCAL ART GALLERY
Lost Canvas is a vibrant art gallery that showcases works by local and regional artists. The space hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, and community art events to promote creative expression. Visitors can view and purchase artworks in various media, supporting the area's cultural scene.
9. The Grand Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Grand Theatre in Keokuk is a historic venue dating back to the early 1900s, hosting concerts, plays, and community events. Its restored interior features beautiful vintage décor and modern amenities for audiences. The theatre is a cultural cornerstone, offering entertainment throughout the year.
10. Keokuk Veterans' Memorial
TRIBUTE TO LOCAL VETERANS
The Keokuk Veterans' Memorial is dedicated to honoring the men and women from the area who have served in the military. Located near the National Cemetery, the memorial includes plaques and monuments commemorating various conflicts. It serves as a place of reflection and gratitude for visitors.
11. Keokuk WaterWorks 7th Street Water Tower
UNIQUE HISTORIC WATER TOWER
The Keokuk WaterWorks 7th Street Water Tower is an architecturally distinctive water tower that has become a local landmark. Built to supply the city with water, it now stands as a symbol of Keokuk's infrastructure history. The structure is often admired for its design and its role in the city's development.
12. Miller House Museum
VICTORIAN-ERA HISTORIC HOME
The Miller House Museum is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion that offers guided tours of its period-furnished rooms and local historical exhibits. The house provides insight into life in Keokuk during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its collection includes artifacts and stories from prominent area families.
13. Hydro-Power Turbine
HYDROELECTRIC LANDMARK
The Hydro-Power Turbine in Keokuk is a testament to the city's history as a pioneer in hydroelectric energy production. Installed as part of the early 20th-century dam project, it represents innovative engineering and sustainable power. The site is emblematic of Keokuk's contribution to industrial progress.
14. Hamilton Dam Museum
HYDROELECTRIC HISTORY MUSEUM
The Hamilton Dam Museum details the construction and impact of the dam across the Mississippi River from Keokuk. Exhibits cover the technological advancements and local history surrounding the dam's operation. It provides an interesting look at regional development and river engineering.
15. Belva Deer Lake & Recreation Area
LAKE AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Belva Deer Lake & Recreation Area is a popular destination in Keokuk County offering fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. The park features nature trails, picnic sites, and a scenic lake surrounded by woodlands. This spot is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the greater Keokuk region.