Lidderdale IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lidderdale, Iowa.
1. Templeton Rye
HISTORIC IOWA WHISKEY
Templeton Rye is a highly-rated distillery near Lidderdale that showcases Iowa's whiskey-making heritage. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the production process and history dating back to Prohibition times. The experience culminates with a tasting of their premium rye whiskey products.
2. Manning Heritage Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY PARK
Manning Heritage Park preserves the local history and culture of the region near Lidderdale. The park features historical buildings, exhibits, and outdoor spaces that tell the story of Manning's development. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful grounds while learning about Iowa's rural heritage.
3. Whiterock Conservancy
NATURAL IOWA LANDSCAPE
Whiterock Conservancy is a 5,500-acre nature preserve offering outdoor recreation near Lidderdale. The conservancy features hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and river access for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems including prairies, woodlands, and river valleys while enjoying the natural beauty of rural Iowa.
4. Deal's Orchard
FAMILY APPLE FARM
Deal's Orchard is a beloved family-owned farm that has become a popular destination near Lidderdale. Visitors can pick apples, enjoy fresh cider, and browse homemade goods in the country store. The orchard offers seasonal activities including a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and family-friendly events throughout the harvest season.
5. Leet-Hassler Farmstead
HISTORIC RURAL PROPERTY
The Leet-Hassler Farmstead provides a glimpse into Iowa's agricultural past near Lidderdale. This perfectly-preserved historic property showcases traditional farm buildings and implements from earlier eras. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about rural farming practices that shaped the region.
6. Cascade Falls Aquatic Center
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
Cascade Falls Aquatic Center offers refreshing water recreation for families visiting the Lidderdale area. The center features water slides, a lazy river, and swimming pools for all ages to enjoy. During summer months, it serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists seeking to cool off.
7. Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing
SCENIC RIVER EXPERIENCE
Rock-n-Row Adventures offers exciting river tubing expeditions not far from Lidderdale. Visitors can float down the scenic Iowa River while enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. The company provides all necessary equipment and transportation for a carefree river adventure.
8. Amana Colonies
HISTORIC GERMAN VILLAGES
The Amana Colonies are seven historic villages founded by German immigrants as a religious communal society in 1855. This National Historic Landmark preserves distinctive crafts, culture, and architecture that tell the story of this unique community. Visitors can explore museums, shops, restaurants, and historical sites throughout the colonies.
9. Herbert Hoover Birthplace
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIC SITE
The Herbert Hoover Birthplace in West Branch showcases the humble beginnings of America's 31st president. The grounds include Hoover's birthplace cottage, grave sites, a reconstructed blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and a 76-acre tall-grass prairie. The visitor center interprets Hoover's early life in Iowa through exhibits and educational programs.
10. Historic General Dodge House
VICTORIAN MANSION TOUR
The Historic General Dodge House is an impressive 14-room Victorian mansion built in 1869 by Civil War general Grenville Dodge. This architectural gem features innovative elements for its time, including central heating and hot and cold running water. Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved home to learn about Dodge's significant contributions as a railroad builder, banker, and politician.
11. Blood Run Site
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
The Blood Run Site served as an intertribal and ceremonial center for Oneota and Prairie Dakota tribes from 900 to 1720 A.D. This National Historic Landmark along the Big Sioux River preserves important burial mounds and village sites of historical significance. Visitors can access the site by foot to explore this ancient cultural landscape.
12. Farm House Museum
HISTORIC AGRICULTURAL LANDMARK
The Farm House Museum in Ames stands as the first building on the Iowa State University campus. This National Historic Landmark has been beautifully preserved to showcase rural Iowa life in the mid-19th century. Visitors can tour the historic home to view period furnishings and learn about early agricultural education in Iowa.
13. George M. Verity Riverboat
HISTORIC MISSISSIPPI VESSEL
The George M. Verity Riverboat represents an important piece of Mississippi River transportation history in Iowa. This preserved steamboat offers visitors a glimpse into river commerce that shaped the region's development. Tours of the vessel showcase the living quarters, engine room, and working areas of this historic riverboat.
14. Diventures
UNDERWATER ADVENTURE CENTER
Diventures offers unique underwater experiences for visitors to the region surrounding Lidderdale. This full-service scuba and swimming center provides lessons, equipment, and guided diving adventures. The facility features indoor pools specifically designed for training new divers and enhancing skills for experienced underwater enthusiasts.
15. CanoeSport Outfitters
RIVER RECREATION SPECIALISTS
CanoeSport Outfitters provides equipment and guidance for water adventures on Iowa's rivers not far from Lidderdale. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards for self-guided exploration of scenic waterways. The knowledgeable staff offers recommendations for the best routes based on skill level and desired experience.