Knoxville IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Knoxville, Iowa.
1. Knoxville Raceway
SPRINT CAR RACING CAPITAL
Knoxville Raceway is renowned as the 'Sprint Car Capital of the World' and hosts thrilling racing competitions throughout the season. Visitors from around the world flock to this famous half-mile dirt track to witness high-speed sprint car races. The venue has a rich history in motorsports and has become an iconic destination for racing enthusiasts.
2. National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum
RACING HISTORY PRESERVED
The National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the heritage and achievements of sprint car racing legends. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring historic race cars, memorabilia, and interactive displays that chronicle the evolution of the sport. The museum is located adjacent to the Knoxville Raceway, creating a complete experience for racing fans.
3. Lake Red Rock
IOWA'S LARGEST LAKE
Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest lake, offering 15,000 acres of water surrounded by scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife watching in this beautiful natural setting. The lake features multiple recreation areas, beaches, and campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Elk Rock State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Elk Rock State Park provides a serene natural retreat with diverse outdoor activities along the shores of Lake Red Rock. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, camping facilities, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the lake and surrounding woodlands throughout all seasons.
5. Nearwood Winery & Vineyards
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Nearwood Winery & Vineyards offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in a charming rural setting. Guests can tour the vineyard, participate in wine tastings, and learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle. The winery frequently hosts special events and provides a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy Iowa's growing wine culture.
6. The Grand Theater
HISTORIC CINEMA VENUE
The Grand Theater is a beautifully preserved historic cinema that continues to screen films for the community. This charming theater offers an authentic movie-going experience with modern amenities while maintaining its vintage appeal. Visitors appreciate the affordable tickets, concessions, and the theater's contribution to Knoxville's cultural landscape.
7. Whitebreast Recreation Area
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Whitebreast Recreation Area provides excellent access to Lake Red Rock with its popular beach and boat ramp facilities. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, picnic, and enjoy water sports in this well-maintained lakeside park. The area also connects to hiking trails and offers camping opportunities for those wanting to extend their stay.
8. Slideways
MINIATURE SPRINT CAR RACING
Slideways offers visitors the chance to experience sprint car racing on a smaller scale with miniature race cars. Guests can test their racing skills on specially designed tracks that mimic the excitement of professional sprint car competition. This family-friendly attraction provides a hands-on connection to Knoxville's racing heritage.
9. Veterans Park Splash Pad
FAMILY WATER FUN
Veterans Park Splash Pad offers refreshing summer fun for families with its interactive water features. Children can cool off and play in the various sprayers, fountains, and water elements designed for safe enjoyment. The park provides a welcoming community gathering space with shaded seating areas for parents and caregivers.
10. Marion County Historical Village
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Marion County Historical Village preserves and showcases the region's rich cultural heritage through historical buildings and artifacts. Visitors can step back in time as they explore restored structures that represent different eras of local history. The village offers educational exhibits and special events that celebrate the area's past and the people who shaped it.
11. Horn's Ferry Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
Horn's Ferry Bridge is a historic structure that once served as an important crossing over the Des Moines River before Lake Red Rock was created. Today, the restored bridge serves as a pedestrian walkway offering spectacular views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The bridge connects to the Volksweg Trail system, making it a popular spot for hikers and photographers.
12. Knoxville Mural
PUBLIC ART DISPLAY
The Knoxville Mural beautifies the downtown area with artistic representations of the community's history and culture. This large-scale public art installation depicts scenes from Knoxville's past and present, including its racing heritage and natural landscapes. Visitors often stop to photograph and admire this colorful tribute to local identity.
13. Bessie Spaur Butterfly Garden
PEACEFUL NATURE RETREAT
The Bessie Spaur Butterfly Garden creates a tranquil environment designed to attract butterflies and other pollinators. Visitors can stroll through the garden to observe various butterfly species among native flowering plants and educational displays. The garden provides a serene setting for nature appreciation and photography.
14. Red Rock Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL
The Red Rock Dam is an impressive engineering structure that created Lake Red Rock when completed in 1969. Visitors can learn about flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and the environmental management of the Des Moines River watershed. The dam's observation areas provide panoramic views of both the lake and the river below.
15. Volksweg Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL PATH
The Volksweg Trail is a 14-mile paved path that winds along the shores of Lake Red Rock, connecting Knoxville to nearby Pella. Trail users can bike, walk, or jog while enjoying spectacular views of the lake, woodlands, and prairie landscapes. The well-maintained trail features interpretive signs about local ecology, history, and wildlife.