Moravia IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Moravia, Iowa.
1. Honey Creek State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Honey Creek State Park offers visitors expansive opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and boating along the scenic shores of Rathbun Lake. The park features well-maintained trails, modern amenities, and abundant wildlife, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. Families and nature lovers appreciate its beaches, picnic areas, and year-round activities.
2. The Preserve on Rathbun Lake
GOLF AND SCENIC VIEWS
The Preserve on Rathbun Lake is a premier golf course and resort destination, offering a beautifully maintained 18-hole course amid rolling hills and lake vistas. Golfers of all levels enjoy the challenging layout and modern clubhouse facilities. The resort aspect provides lodging, dining, and easy access to lake recreation.
3. Lake Rathbun Country Music Theater
LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC EVENTS
Lake Rathbun Country Music Theater hosts regular live performances featuring local and regional country musicians. The venue creates a welcoming environment for community gatherings and showcases a variety of musical talents. It is a popular weekend destination for music lovers and visitors seeking authentic Iowa entertainment.
4. Prairie Ridge Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LOCAL PARK
Prairie Ridge Park provides open green spaces, playground equipment, and picnic shelters for families and visitors. The park is a local favorite for casual outdoor activities, gatherings, and community events. Its accessible setting and well-kept grounds make it a pleasant destination for all ages.
5. DOGGS RV
CAMPING AND RV FACILITIES
DOGGS RV offers spacious sites for RV travelers and campers in a tranquil rural setting near Moravia. The facility features full hookups, clean amenities, and easy access to nearby lakes and parks. It is an ideal base for exploring southern Iowa's natural attractions.
6. Rathbun Lake
IOWA'S OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
Rathbun Lake is a major recreation destination known for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports activities. The expansive reservoir attracts visitors who appreciate its marinas, beaches, trails, and scenic beauty. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are also popular around the lake's wooded shorelines.
7. Historic Hills Scenic Byway
SCENIC DRIVING ROUTE
Historic Hills Scenic Byway offers travelers a picturesque journey through rolling hills, prairies, and charming small towns of southern Iowa. The route is dotted with historic sites, local eateries, and points of interest. It's ideal for leisurely drives, photography, and experiencing Iowa's rural landscapes.
8. Sundown Lake
PRIVATE LAKE GETAWAY
Sundown Lake is a serene, private lake community near Moravia, known for its peaceful waters and residential retreats. Residents and visitors enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in a less-crowded environment. The area is also popular for its natural beauty and wildlife.
9. Moravia Railroad Depot
HISTORIC RAIL LANDMARK
The Moravia Railroad Depot stands as a preserved reminder of the city's early transportation history. The depot invites history enthusiasts to learn about the vital role railways played in the development of the region. Occasionally, it hosts local events and historical displays for visitors.
10. Appanoose County Historical & Coal Mining Museum
MINING AND LOCAL HISTORY
The Appanoose County Historical & Coal Mining Museum showcases exhibits detailing the rich coal mining heritage and local history of the region. Visitors can explore artifacts, mining equipment, and photographs that tell the story of area pioneers. The museum is a short drive from Moravia in Centerville.
11. Sharon Bluffs State Park
NATURE TRAILS AND WILDLIFE
Sharon Bluffs State Park offers visitors several miles of scenic hiking trails through wooded bluffs and prairie landscapes. The park is home to abundant wildlife, making it excellent for birdwatching and nature study. Picnic shelters and peaceful vistas draw visitors from all over Appanoose County.
12. Centerville Square Historic District
ARCHITECTURE AND LOCAL SHOPS
Centerville Square Historic District features beautifully preserved architecture, unique shops, restaurants, and annual festivals. Visitors enjoy exploring the historic charm and central park of one of Iowa's largest town squares. It's a hub of activity and community events throughout the year.
13. Mormon Trail Historical Site
PIONEER HISTORY LANDMARK
The Mormon Trail Historical Site at Garden Grove preserves an important way station from the 1846 Mormon migration across Iowa. Interpretive signs and a monument tell the story of the pioneer travelers who established temporary settlements here. The site is a moving tribute to endurance and faith, attracting history buffs and genealogists.
14. Exline Old Country Store
VINTAGE GENERAL STORE EXPERIENCE
The Exline Old Country Store is a step back in time, offering visitors a nostalgic shopping experience in a restored general store. Guests find antiques, gifts, and classic candies while soaking in local history. It's located in the small town of Exline, a short drive from Moravia.
15. Lelah Bradley Park
CITY PARK AND TRAILS
Lelah Bradley Park is known for its extensive walking and biking trails, fishing ponds, and wooded areas within Centerville. The park is popular for outdoor recreation, nature watching, and family gatherings. Its well-maintained facilities are a favorite for locals and visitors alike.