Manning IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Manning, Iowa.
1. Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park
GERMAN HERITAGE TREASURE
The Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park features a 350-year-old German barn that was dismantled in Germany and reconstructed in Manning by 2000. Visitors can step back in time to the late 1800s and get a glimpse of the area's rich German heritage through this preserved dwelling originally constructed in the 1660s. The park is open to visitors from May 1 to October 31, with operating hours Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday from 1 to 4 pm.
2. Leet-Hassler Farmstead
HISTORIC BUNGALOW HOME
The Leet-Hassler Farmstead showcases a beautiful bungalow-style home built by William Leet in 1915. For its time period, this elegant home was considered cutting-edge as it featured both running water and electricity. The farmstead is part of the Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park, allowing visitors to experience early 20th century rural Iowa living.
3. Trinity Church
RELOCATED HISTORIC CHAPEL
Trinity Church is a historic chapel built in 1916 that was moved to the Manning Heritage Park in 2006 after its congregation disbanded. The church was transported an impressive 11 miles from its original location in one piece, requiring 64 wheels rolling underneath the building to safely complete the journey. Today, visitors can peek inside this well-preserved piece of local religious history as part of the Heritage Park experience.
4. Main Street Manning
HISTORIC COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
Main Street Manning is a charming historic commercial district lined with brick buildings that showcases the town's rich heritage. Visitors can stroll down the street to shop at local businesses, dine at restaurants, and appreciate the well-preserved architecture. The district was recognized for its historical significance on September 12, 2020.
5. Historic Manning Water Tower
ICONIC TOWN LANDMARK
The Historic Manning Water Tower stands as an iconic landmark in the town's skyline. This structure, documented by photographer Tom Porter, represents an important piece of the community's infrastructure history. The water tower serves as both a functional utility and a distinctive visual element that helps define Manning's identity.
6. Trestle Bridge
HISTORIC RAILWAY STRUCTURE
The Trestle Bridge in Manning is a notable historic railway structure captured in photographs by Tom Porter. This engineering landmark represents an important piece of the region's transportation history and infrastructure development. The bridge stands as a testament to the role of railways in the growth and connection of rural Iowa communities.
7. Forgotten Corner Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Forgotten Corner Museum preserves and displays artifacts that tell the story of Manning and the surrounding area's rich history. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the cultural heritage, daily life, and significant events that have shaped the community. The museum serves as an educational resource that helps connect current residents and visitors with Manning's past.
8. Level B Grill
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
The Level B Grill offers visitors to Manning a delicious local dining experience with homestyle cuisine. The restaurant serves as a gathering place for both locals and tourists to enjoy good food in a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can grab a satisfying meal here while exploring Manning's attractions.
9. The Market
LOCAL SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Market in Manning provides shoppers with a variety of local goods and products in a charming retail environment. Visitors can browse through unique items that often reflect the culture and craftsmanship of the area. This shopping destination offers both necessities and special finds that contribute to Manning's appeal as a place to visit.
10. Carroll County Freedom Rock
PATRIOTIC MEMORIAL ART
The Carroll County Freedom Rock is a painted boulder that honors veterans and celebrates American freedom as part of Iowa's statewide Freedom Rock project. The rock features custom artwork depicting local military history and patriotic themes specific to Carroll County. Visitors can pay their respects while appreciating this unique combination of public art and memorial.
11. Manning-Manilla Golf Course
SCENIC RURAL LINKS
The Manning-Manilla Golf Course offers golfers a pleasant round in the scenic countryside of western Iowa. The course provides a recreational opportunity for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors while testing their golfing skills. Players can appreciate the well-maintained greens and fairways set against the backdrop of Iowa's agricultural landscape.
12. Swan Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Swan Lake State Park is a natural retreat located near Manning that offers various outdoor recreational activities including fishing, hiking, and camping. The park features a beautiful lake surrounded by scenic landscapes that showcase Iowa's natural beauty. Visitors can also explore the Conservation Education Center within the park to learn about local ecology and wildlife.
13. Sauk Rail Trail
SCENIC BIKING PATH
The Sauk Rail Trail is a converted railway path that provides cyclists, runners, and walkers with miles of scenic outdoor recreation near Manning. The trail connects several communities and natural areas, allowing users to experience the diverse landscapes of Carroll County. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities and seasonal changes along this well-maintained path.
14. Santa Maria Vineyard & Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Santa Maria Vineyard & Winery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in a charming setting near Manning. Guests can tour the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a variety of wines crafted from regionally grown grapes. The winery provides a sophisticated yet relaxed destination for those seeking to experience Iowa's growing viticulture scene.
15. Templeton Rye Whiskey Distillery
HISTORIC SPIRITS PRODUCTION
The Templeton Rye Whiskey Distillery produces a renowned spirit with roots dating back to Prohibition when it was made illicitly in the area. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the whiskey's colorful history and the modern production methods that maintain its distinctive character. The distillery represents an important part of the region's cultural heritage while producing a product that has gained national recognition.