New London IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near New London, Iowa.
1. Dover Museum
HISTORICAL ARTIFACTS AND HERITAGE
Dover Museum is a history museum located in New London that preserves the local heritage and history of the area. The museum features historical artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of New London and its surrounding communities. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the cultural and social development of the region throughout different time periods.
2. Deerwood Golf Club
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Deerwood Golf Club offers golfers a picturesque course surrounded by Iowa's natural landscape. The course provides challenges for players of all skill levels with well-maintained fairways and greens. Visitors can enjoy amenities including a clubhouse and pro shop during their golfing experience.
3. Anne Frank Connection
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION CENTER
The Anne Frank Connection in New London provides educational resources about Anne Frank and the Holocaust. This unique attraction offers exhibits and programs that connect the universal lessons of the Holocaust to contemporary issues. Visitors can learn about tolerance, respect, and human rights through the lens of Anne Frank's story.
4. Danville Station
HISTORIC RAILROAD LANDMARK
Danville Station is a preserved historic railroad depot that once served as a vital transportation hub for the region. The station has been restored to showcase the importance of the railroad in the development of southeastern Iowa communities. Visitors can explore exhibits about railroad history and the impact of rail transportation on local commerce and settlement.
5. Geode State Park
NATURAL BEAUTY AND RECREATION
Geode State Park spans over 1,600 acres and features a beautiful 187-acre lake ideal for fishing, swimming, and boating activities. The park is named after the geode rocks that can be found in the area, making it a popular destination for rock enthusiasts and collectors. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking trails, picnicking, and observing diverse wildlife throughout the scenic park grounds.
6. Greater Iowa Swap Meet & Flea Market
TREASURE HUNTING PARADISE
The Greater Iowa Swap Meet & Flea Market brings together vendors and shoppers from across the region to buy, sell, and trade a wide variety of items. Visitors can browse through antiques, collectibles, handcrafted goods, and unique treasures in a lively market atmosphere. The event provides a fun opportunity for bargain hunting and discovering one-of-a-kind items while connecting with local merchants.
7. Railroad Depot & Chapel
HISTORICAL TRANSPORTATION LANDMARK
The Railroad Depot & Chapel preserves New London's railroad history within a beautifully maintained historic building. This dual-purpose attraction showcases railroad artifacts alongside a charming chapel space that reflects the community's religious heritage. Visitors can step back in time to experience the era when railroads were the lifeline of small Midwestern towns.
8. John and Lavina Bangs House
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The John and Lavina Bangs House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and represents an important piece of New London's architectural heritage. This historic home showcases the residential building styles and craftsmanship of its era with well-preserved details and features. Visitors can appreciate the historical significance of this structure within the context of New London's development.
9. McClellan's General Store
VINTAGE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
McClellan's General Store is a historic commercial building listed on the National Register of Historic Places that offers visitors a glimpse into early retail operations. The preserved structure maintains many original architectural elements that showcase the importance of general stores in rural Iowa communities. Visitors can appreciate the historical significance of this once-vital community hub that served as both a commercial center and social gathering place.
10. Peterson Manufacturing Building
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE
The Peterson Manufacturing Building is a historically significant industrial structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This building represents New London's manufacturing heritage and the economic development of the region. Visitors can observe the architectural features that characterize early industrial design and construction methods in small-town Iowa.
11. Smith and Weller Building
HISTORIC COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE
The Smith and Weller Building is a notable historic structure in New London that has been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This commercial building exemplifies the architectural styles and construction techniques used in Iowa's small-town business districts during its period of significance. The preserved building offers insights into the economic and commercial development of New London and similar communities in the region.
12. Sweet N Fit Skin
WELLNESS AND RELAXATION
Sweet N Fit Skin is a popular spa and wellness center in New London that offers visitors a range of relaxation and skincare services. The facility provides professional treatments designed to promote wellness and self-care in a comfortable environment. Visitors can enjoy personalized services that cater to their individual needs while taking a break from everyday stresses.
13. Iowa Wesleyan University
HISTORIC HIGHER EDUCATION
Iowa Wesleyan University, located near New London in Mount Pleasant, is one of the oldest educational institutions in Iowa with a campus featuring historic architecture and beautiful grounds. The university's P.E.O. Founders Memorial is of particular interest to visitors as it commemorates the founding of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, an international women's organization. Visitors can explore the campus to appreciate its historical significance and educational contributions to the region.
14. Old Threshers Heritage Museums
AGRICULTURAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Old Threshers Heritage Museums in nearby Mount Pleasant showcase an impressive collection of vintage agricultural equipment and rural Americana. This expansive attraction includes multiple museum buildings, a working steam railroad, and demonstrations of historical farming techniques. Visitors can experience Iowa's agricultural heritage through interactive exhibits, historic structures, and the annual Old Threshers Reunion festival.
15. Oakland Mills Nature Center
OUTDOOR RECREATION HUB
Oakland Mills Nature Center provides outdoor enthusiasts with access to the beautiful Skunk River and surrounding natural areas just a short drive from New London. The center offers fishing, canoeing, hiking trails, and wildlife observation opportunities in a serene natural setting. Visitors can enjoy educational programs about local ecology and conservation while experiencing the diverse plant and animal species native to southeastern Iowa.