Pella IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pella, Iowa.
1. Vermeer Windmill & Historical Village
ICONIC DUTCH LANDMARK
The Vermeer Windmill & Historical Village showcases Pella's rich Dutch heritage, featuring America's tallest working grain windmill and a recreated Dutch village. Visitors can tour the windmill, explore period buildings, and learn about the town's early settlers. This attraction serves as a centerpiece of Pella's cultural identity and hosts special events throughout the year.
2. Scholte House Museum & Gardens
HISTORIC FOUNDER'S HOME
The Scholte House Museum & Gardens is the former home of Pella's founder, Dominie Hendrik Scholte, built in 1847. The beautifully preserved mansion showcases period furnishings and Dutch artifacts, while the surrounding gardens offer a tranquil retreat in the heart of town. Guided tours provide insight into both Pella's history and Dutch traditions.
3. Pella Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Pella Opera House is a beautifully restored 1900s performance venue, offering a mix of live theater, concerts, and cultural events. Its elegant architecture and rich history make it a cornerstone for the arts in the community. The opera house regularly hosts touring acts as well as local productions, making it a favorite gathering spot for residents and visitors.
4. Lake Red Rock
IOWA'S LARGEST LAKE
Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest lake, situated just outside of Pella and offering a wealth of outdoor recreation options. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and wildlife watching along its scenic shores and miles of trails. The lake is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts year-round.
5. Tulip Time Festival
ANNUAL DUTCH CELEBRATION
The Tulip Time Festival is Pella's signature event, drawing thousands every May to celebrate Dutch heritage with parades, costumes, and tulip gardens. Visitors enjoy traditional dancing, street markets, and authentic Dutch treats during the festival. It's a vibrant and colorful experience that transforms Pella into a lively homage to the Netherlands for three days.
6. Pella Public Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING HUB
The Pella Public Library is a welcoming space for both locals and travelers, offering free WiFi, a curated collection of books, and community programs. Its aviary and reading nooks provide a relaxing atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The library also serves as a resource for local information and cultural happenings.
7. Bos Landen Golf Club
CHALLENGING GOLF EXPERIENCE
Bos Landen Golf Club is a championship-level golf course known for its beautiful scenery and challenging layout. The course attracts players of all skill levels and offers amenities including a practice range, pro shop, and on-site dining. It consistently ranks as one of Iowa's top public golf courses.
8. Big Rock Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Big Rock Park offers wooded trails, picnic areas, and picturesque views, making it a favorite outdoor destination in Pella. The park's namesake boulder is a local landmark, and visitors enjoy birdwatching and family-friendly activities year-round. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a group picnic.
9. Sunken Gardens Park
UNIQUE DUTCH GARDENS
Sunken Gardens Park is a horticultural gem featuring a charming windmill, tulip beds, and a pond shaped like a wooden shoe. The park is especially beautiful in spring, when the tulips bloom in vibrant colors. It's a picturesque location perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
10. Pella Historical Dutch Mural
PUBLIC ART TRIBUTE
The Pella Historical Dutch Mural is a vibrant outdoor artwork celebrating the town's Dutch roots and culture. Painted in downtown Pella, the mural depicts key moments from the city's founding and showcases traditional Dutch symbols. Tourists often stop for photos and to learn more about the history behind the art.
11. Brinkhoff Park
NEIGHBORHOOD GREEN SPACE
Brinkhoff Park is a local community park that offers open green space, playground equipment, and sports facilities. It's a popular gathering spot for families and groups seeking outdoor recreation. The park provides a safe and inviting environment for relaxation and play.
12. Central College Campus
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL HUB
Central College is a liberal arts college whose beautiful campus features walking paths, gardens, and public art. The college hosts sporting events, concerts, and lectures that are open to the community. Its picturesque setting attracts visitors interested in education and campus architecture.
13. Cordova Park Observation Tower
PANORAMIC LAKE VIEWS
The Cordova Park Observation Tower, located near Lake Red Rock in Otley, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Climbing the 106-foot tower rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas of the lake and forests. The park also has trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities for a day of adventure.
14. Red Rock Visitor Center
INTERACTIVE LAKE EXHIBITS
The Red Rock Visitor Center in Knoxville, near Lake Red Rock, provides educational exhibits about the region's wildlife, dam, and recreational opportunities. Staffed by knowledgeable rangers, the center is a great starting point for exploring the lake area. Interactive displays and hiking trails make it popular with families and school groups.
15. Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
The Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum in Oskaloosa transports visitors back to Iowa's early settlement days with authentically restored buildings and living history demonstrations. Special events feature costumed interpreters, agricultural exhibits, and antique machinery. The museum offers an educational glimpse into rural life in the 19th century.