Oakland Acres IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oakland Acres, Iowa.
1. Oakland Acres Golf Club
SCENIC PUBLIC GOLF COURSE
Oakland Acres Golf Club offers a well-maintained public golf course suitable for golfers of all skill levels. The club features picturesque fairways, a welcoming atmosphere, and a pro shop on site. Visitors enjoy both casual rounds and local tournaments amid the rolling landscape of Oakland Acres.
2. Rock Creek State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Rock Creek State Park is a major outdoor destination just minutes from Oakland Acres, featuring fishing, hiking, boating, swimming, and camping opportunities. The park's large reservoir makes it especially popular for water sports and family picnics. Well-maintained trails and natural scenery attract both local visitors and travelers.
3. Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve
TRAILS AND WILDLIFE VIEWING
Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve offers expansive trails through varied habitats including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. The area is well-known for birdwatching, native wildflowers, and peaceful outdoor exploration. Visitors appreciate educational signs that detail the area's ecology and wildlife.
4. Grinnell College
HISTORIC LIBERAL ARTS CAMPUS
Grinnell College is a prestigious liberal arts institution set in a beautiful campus with historic architecture and public art installations. The college often hosts lectures, art exhibitions, and cultural events open to the community. Its leafy grounds provide a tranquil spot for walking and relaxation.
5. Louis Sullivan Jewel Box Bank
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Louis Sullivan Jewel Box Bank, officially the Merchants National Bank, is renowned for its striking Prairie School architecture. Designed by famed architect Louis Sullivan, the building features intricate terra cotta ornamentation and stained glass. It stands as a prominent historical and artistic landmark in downtown Grinnell.
6. Grinnell Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
Grinnell Historical Museum preserves the region's heritage through exhibits on pioneer life, community development, and notable local figures. The museum showcases period rooms, artifacts, and photographs documenting Grinnell's past. Guided tours and special programs engage both residents and visitors.
7. Uncle Bill's Farm
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM PARK
Uncle Bill's Farm is a popular seasonal attraction offering pumpkin picking, hayrides, farm animals, and play areas for children. The farm creates a festive, family-oriented atmosphere, especially during fall harvest events. Its market also features homegrown produce, baked goods, and souvenirs.
8. Wagon Wheels West
RUSTIC EVENT VENUE
Wagon Wheels West is a unique event space with an Old West theme, used for weddings, parties, and community gatherings. The venue features period décor, including wagon wheels, antiques, and memorabilia. Guests enjoy its distinctive setting for memorable celebrations and social events.
9. Kellogg Historical Museum
PIONEER HERITAGE CENTER
Kellogg Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving the pioneer history of the region, with displays of historical artifacts, photos, and early 20th-century memorabilia. The museum brings local history to life through interactive exhibits and themed rooms. Volunteers provide guided tours and share stories about the town's roots.
10. Ahrens Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Ahrens Park provides ample space for sports, playground fun, picnics, and community events in Grinnell. The park features athletic fields, walking paths, and gardens. Its modern facilities and open green areas make it a popular gathering place year-round.
11. Grinnell Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Grinnell Farmers Market is a vibrant open-air market offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisan crafts throughout the warmer months. Local farmers and vendors share seasonal fruits, vegetables, and unique handmade items. The market fosters a lively community atmosphere each week.
12. West Side Family Restaurant
CLASSIC LOCAL DINING
West Side Family Restaurant is a longstanding local eatery known for its comfort food, daily specials, and welcoming service. The restaurant is popular among both residents and visitors for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its home-style meals and inviting atmosphere provide a taste of small-town Iowa hospitality.
13. Lynnville Grist Mill
RESTORED HISTORICAL MILL
Lynnville Grist Mill is a lovingly restored 19th-century water-powered flour mill located a short drive from Oakland Acres. The site offers tours that explain the milling process and the mill's significance to the local agricultural community. Special events and demonstrations provide educational experiences for all ages.
14. Brooklyn Flag Display
PATRIOTIC OUTDOOR DISPLAY
Brooklyn Flag Display is a large collection of flags representing each U.S. state and the nation, proudly displayed in the town of Brooklyn. The display serves as a patriotic landmark and is especially popular during Memorial Day and Fourth of July celebrations. Visitors often stop to take photos and reflect on national heritage.
15. Lil Miss Chic Children's Boutique
BOUTIQUE KIDS' SHOPPING
Lil Miss Chic Children's Boutique offers a stylish selection of kids' clothing, accessories, and gifts in downtown Grinnell. The boutique caters to families looking for unique and fashionable items for babies and children. Personalized service and curated collections make it a favorite among local shoppers.