Newell IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Newell, Iowa.
1. Allee Mansion
HISTORIC VICTORIAN ESTATE
The Allee Mansion is a historical Victorian home located 1 mile south of Newell. Visitors can arrange tours by contacting local coordinators Judy Bodholdt or Marilyn Monson. The mansion offers a glimpse into the elegant architecture and lifestyle of Victorian-era Iowa.
2. Newell Municipal Golf Course
LOCAL GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Newell Municipal Golf Course offers a pleasant golfing experience for locals and visitors alike. The course features well-maintained greens and fairways suitable for golfers of various skill levels. It serves as a recreational centerpiece for the Newell community.
3. Santa's Castle
HOLIDAY ANIMATION COLLECTION
Santa's Castle is a beloved Storm Lake tradition housed in a 1905 former Carnegie Library that operates from Thanksgiving through December. It features one of the largest collections of antique holiday animation in the country where children can meet Santa and receive a free signed book. Tour groups may schedule special visits during the off-season.
4. The Harker House
PRESERVED FAMILY HERITAGE
The Harker House contains 95% of the original family contents of the influential Harker family that built this landmark. It is strategically located at the corner of Lake Avenue and 3rd Street in Storm Lake. Visitors can experience an authentic glimpse into the life of one of the area's most prominent historical families.
5. Heritage Tree Museum
ARBOREAL HISTORICAL TOUR
The Storm Lake Heritage Tree Museum offers a unique tour of history as told by the descendants of trees that witnessed world history. Visitors can enhance their experience by downloading the audio tour before their visit. This outdoor museum provides an educational afternoon connecting nature with historical events.
6. Discovery Center
MARSH WILDLIFE OBSERVATION
The Discovery Center is carved out of woodland at Little Storm Lake near Frank Starr Park. It features a winding walking trail with informative kiosks leading to a three-story observation tower with a scope for viewing local wildlife. A boardwalk extends into the marsh, providing free access for exploration any time of year.
7. Witter Gallery
PUBLIC ART EXHIBITS
Witter Gallery is a public art gallery located in the Storm Lake Public Library building that features a new themed exhibit each month. The gallery offers youth and adult art classes, programs, and special events throughout the year. Admission is free, ensuring there's always something new and accessible to see for art enthusiasts.
8. Fonda Golf Course
RURAL GOLFING RETREAT
Fonda Golf Course provides a relaxing golfing experience in the rural setting near Newell. The course offers challenging holes while maintaining accessibility for players of various skill levels. Its proximity to Newell makes it a convenient recreational option for residents and visitors to the area.
9. Fonda Arts Center
COMMUNITY CREATIVE HUB
The Fonda Arts Center serves as a cultural hub for the creative community in the area near Newell. It hosts various exhibitions, performances, and workshops throughout the year. The center promotes local artistic talent and provides enriching cultural experiences for visitors from surrounding communities.
10. Storm Lake Trail
SCENIC LAKESIDE PATH
The Storm Lake Trail offers visitors a scenic pathway to explore the beautiful lakefront and surrounding areas. The trail is suitable for walking, jogging, and biking, providing recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. It connects various attractions around Storm Lake, making it both a destination and a convenient transit option.
11. Straight Park Campgrounds
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Straight Park Campgrounds offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region with comfortable camping facilities. The grounds provide access to outdoor recreational activities and serve as a base for exploring nearby attractions. Campers can experience the serene environment while still being close to the amenities of Storm Lake and surrounding areas.
12. Arnolds Park Amusement Park
HISTORIC LAKESIDE ENTERTAINMENT
Arnolds Park Amusement Park is a historic entertainment venue located in Iowa's Lakes & Land region not far from Newell. The park features classic rides including its famous wooden roller coaster, along with modern attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. This iconic destination has been entertaining families for generations with its nostalgic charm and lakeside setting.
13. Sioux City Public Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Sioux City Public Museum showcases the rich history of northwest Iowa through engaging exhibits and preserved artifacts. Visitors can explore interactive displays that bring the region's past to life, from indigenous cultures to early settlement and industrial development. The museum serves as an educational resource for understanding the cultural heritage of the greater area surrounding Newell.
14. Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption
RELIGIOUS STONE MASTERPIECE
The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is a massive religious monument composed of nine grottos depicting scenes from the life of Christ. It contains the largest collection of precious stones and gems in one location, valued at over $4.3 million. This impressive structure, built by Father Paul Dobberstein over a 42-year period, attracts visitors from across the country to this part of Iowa not far from Newell.
15. Surf Ballroom and Museum
ICONIC MUSIC VENUE
The Surf Ballroom and Museum is a historic music venue famous as the site of Buddy Holly's final performance before his tragic plane crash in 1959. The beautifully preserved ballroom continues to host live music events while also functioning as a museum dedicated to rock and roll history. Visitors from the Newell area can experience this iconic piece of American music heritage that has been designated as a historic landmark.