Kirkville IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kirkville, Iowa.
1. Cedar Creek Golf Course
SCENIC LOCAL GOLFING
Cedar Creek Golf Course offers a lush, well-maintained course that attracts both local golfers and visitors. The course is known for its picturesque setting and challenging layout, making it an enjoyable destination for players of all skill levels. Golfers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to take in the natural surroundings while playing.
2. Airpower Museum
AVIATION HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Airpower Museum proudly displays a wide array of vintage aircraft and aviation artifacts, providing insights into the region's rich aviation heritage. Visitors can tour hangars filled with historic planes, engines, and memorabilia from various eras of flight. The museum also hosts events and fly-ins that celebrate the history and excitement of aviation.
3. Mahaska Bowl
FAMILY BOWLING FUN
Mahaska Bowl is a popular bowling alley in nearby Oskaloosa that offers a fun experience for families, friends, and league players. The facility features multiple lanes, an arcade area, and a snack bar for guests to enjoy. It's a go-to destination for recreational activities and social gatherings in the area.
4. Eat and Tour, Oskaloosa Food Tours
TASTING LOCAL FLAVORS
Eat and Tour offers food tours through Oskaloosa, providing visitors with a chance to sample dishes from beloved local eateries. The guided tours combine culinary experiences with stories about the town's history and culture. It's a flavorful way to explore the best of the region's food scene.
5. Chief Mahaska Statue
HISTORICAL OUTDOOR LANDMARK
Chief Mahaska Statue honors the area's Native American heritage and serves as a striking landmark in Oskaloosa. The statue represents Chief Mahaska, a notable Ioway leader, and is located in a scenic park setting. Visitors often stop for photos and to learn about local history.
6. Barnyard Tenderloin Xpress
CLASSIC IOWA EATERY
Barnyard Tenderloin Xpress is a local dining favorite, known for serving up some of the best tenderloin sandwiches in the region. This casual eatery offers a simple, welcoming atmosphere and is celebrated for its hearty, home-cooked meals. It's a great stop for anyone seeking authentic Iowa comfort food.
7. Naval Air Station Ottumwa Museum
WORLD WAR II HISTORY
The Naval Air Station Ottumwa Museum preserves the history of the area's important military airfield from World War II. Visitors can view artifacts, photographs, and displays chronicling the training and operations that once took place at the site. The museum offers an educational glimpse into the region's military and aviation past.
8. Eddyville Sand Dunes Prairie
NATURAL PRAIRIE PRESERVE
Eddyville Sand Dunes Prairie is a unique conservation area that showcases native Iowa prairie and rare sand dune habitats. Visitors can hike throughout the preserve, observe local wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful natural landscape. The site is popular for nature walks, photography, and environmental education.
9. Mars Hill Church
HISTORIC RURAL CHURCH
Mars Hill Church stands as an enduring example of early Iowa religious architecture and community spirit. Known for its striking wooden construction and peaceful rural setting, the church is one of the oldest in the area. It continues to attract visitors interested in regional history and heritage.
10. Chief Wapello's Memorial Park
NATIVE HERITAGE SITE
Chief Wapello's Memorial Park pays tribute to the prominent Native American leader, Chief Wapello, and his legacy in the region. The park features a memorial, informative signs, and serene natural surroundings. Visitors come to reflect, learn about local Indigenous history, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
11. Eddyville Dunes Sand Prairie Park
WILDLIFE AND TRAILS
Eddyville Dunes Sand Prairie Park offers a rare chance to explore sand prairie ecosystems in Iowa. The park is noted for its trails, unique plant species, and opportunities for birdwatching. It is a favorite destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts interested in Iowa's diverse habitats.
12. Stone City Art Colony
ARTISTIC HERITAGE SITE
Stone City Art Colony once served as a gathering place for artists during the 1930s and remains a symbol of Iowa's creative legacy. The site highlights the connection between the arts and the natural landscape of the region. Visitors can explore art installations and learn about the colony's influence on American art.
13. Hurstville Lime Kilns
INDUSTRIAL ARCHAEOLOGY LANDMARK
The Hurstville Lime Kilns represent a significant piece of Iowa's industrial heritage, featuring preserved lime kilns that operated in the late 1800s. Interpretive displays provide insights into lime production and its importance to the region. The site is managed as a historic area open for self-guided tours and educational visits.
14. McLaren's Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary & Resthaven Cemetery
HISTORIC CEMETERY GROUNDS
McLaren's Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary & Resthaven Cemetery offers tranquil, beautifully landscaped grounds with a long history in the community. The cemetery features unique monuments and serene spaces for reflection. It is notable for its historic significance and memorial traditions in central Iowa.
15. Baxter's Grill
FAMILY DINING SPOT
Baxter's Grill is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its welcoming atmosphere and tasty menu featuring American classics. The restaurant specializes in grilled dishes, hearty entrees, and friendly service. It's a reliable option for a satisfying meal before or after exploring area attractions.