Madrid IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Madrid, Iowa.
1. High Trestle Trail Bridge
ILLUMINATED ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a half-mile-long, 130-foot-tall bridge that gets bathed in blue light at night. Visitors can bike, walk, or jog across this unique architectural landmark for a one-of-a-kind experience. The bridge stands as both a nature lover's paradise and an impressive work of art near Madrid.
2. Snus Hill Vineyard and Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Snus Hill Vineyard and Winery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in a picturesque setting. The winery provides wine tastings and a relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy the Iowa countryside. Visitors can explore the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process during their visit.
3. Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of Iowa
CULTURAL AND SPIRITUAL HUB
The Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of Iowa serves as an important spiritual and cultural landmark in Madrid. The center provides a place for worship, community gatherings, and cultural education for visitors of all backgrounds. Its architecture and design reflect traditional Hindu temple aesthetics while serving the local community.
4. Madrid Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
Madrid Historical Museum showcases the rich history of this Iowa town through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. The museum is maintained by the Madrid Historical Society and offers insights into the area's development over time. Visitors can learn about Madrid's coal mining heritage and the community's evolution through the years.
5. Treehouse Village at Iowa Arboretum
INCLUSIVE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
The Treehouse Village at Iowa Arboretum features both elevated and ground-level treehouses designed to serve children of all ages and abilities. The area includes accessible ramps, wheelchair-accessible swings, slides, hammock swings, and a ground-level zipline among other activities. Visitors shouldn't miss the suspension bridge and scenic views from the walkout and observation treehouses that make this attraction unique.
6. Flat Tire Lounge
TRAIL-SIDE GATHERING SPOT
The Flat Tire Lounge is a popular gathering spot for cyclists and visitors exploring the High Trestle Trail. This unique venue offers refreshments, local beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for weary travelers to rest and socialize. The lounge has become a cultural hub for the community and travelers passing through Madrid.
7. Swede Point Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Swede Point Park provides outdoor enthusiasts with beautiful natural spaces for recreation and relaxation near Madrid. The park offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Its natural setting along the Des Moines River makes it a peaceful retreat for families and nature lovers.
8. The Cellar Winery
RUSTIC WINE DESTINATION
The Cellar Winery invites visitors to sample locally crafted wines in a charming rural setting. The winery offers tastings of their unique varieties produced from locally grown grapes. Guests can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while learning about Iowa's growing wine industry.
9. Des Moines River Water Trail
SCENIC WATER ADVENTURE
The Des Moines River Water Trail offers paddlers and water enthusiasts a scenic route through Iowa's heartland near Madrid. The water trail provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing along its course. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of Iowa from a unique perspective on the water.
10. Ledges State Park
DRAMATIC NATURAL FORMATIONS
Ledges State Park features dramatic sandstone formations and scenic overlooks just a short drive from Madrid. The park offers hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and along canyon walls formed by Pea's Creek. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the unique geological features that give the park its name.
11. Iowa Arboretum
BOTANICAL EDUCATION CENTER
The Iowa Arboretum serves as both a botanical garden and educational center showcasing native and adapted plants. Spanning over 378 acres, the arboretum features themed gardens, walking paths, and natural woodlands for visitors to explore. The facility hosts educational programs and seasonal events throughout the year for plant enthusiasts of all ages.
12. Boone County Historical Society
REGIONAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Boone County Historical Society preserves and shares the rich history of the region surrounding Madrid. Their museum displays artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Boone County's development. Visitors can learn about the area's agricultural heritage, railroad influence, and community growth through the years.
13. Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
HISTORIC RAILWAY EXPERIENCE
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad offers visitors a chance to ride historic trains through the picturesque Des Moines River Valley. Passengers can choose from diesel, steam, or electric trolley excursions that showcase Iowa's beautiful countryside. The railway museum at the station provides additional context about the importance of railroads to the region's development.
14. Seven Oaks Recreation
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Seven Oaks Recreation is a four-season outdoor adventure center offering skiing and snowboarding in winter and river tubing, kayaking, and canoeing in summer. The facility features multiple ski runs, terrain parks, and river access points to accommodate visitors year-round. Its proximity to Madrid makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking outdoor recreation.
15. Kate Shelley High Bridge
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
The Kate Shelley High Bridge stands as one of the highest and longest double-track railroad bridges in the United States. Named after local hero Kate Shelley, who risked her life to prevent a train disaster in 1881, the bridge represents an important piece of Iowa's transportation history. Visitors can view this impressive structure from designated observation points in the area near Boone.