Shelby IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Shelby, Iowa.
1. Carstens 1880 Farmstead
HISTORIC WORKING FARM
Carstens 1880 Farmstead is an 80-acre working farm exhibit featuring the machinery, tools, and primitives of an authentic late 1880s farmstead. The farmstead grounds include the original Carstens family home complete with all the furnishings and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can experience steam engine threshing, antique machinery, parades, crafts, food, and entertainment during Carstens Farm Days, held annually the first weekend after Labor Day.
2. Rock Island Old Stone Arch Nature Trail
HISTORIC RAILROAD VIADUCT
The Rock Island Old Stone Arch Nature Trail features the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad 30' Stone Arch Viaduct located just outside of Shelby. This historic structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers visitors a glimpse into the area's railroad past. The nature trail provides an opportunity to enjoy both historic architecture and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
3. Agri-Symbol Park
WORLD'S LARGEST CORNSTALK
Agri-Symbol Park features a towering 76-foot steel cornstalk sculpture located along Shelby's Interstate 80 exit. The impressive structure symbolizes the importance of agriculture to the region, highlighting the major commodities produced by area farmers including corn, beef, and pork. Created by sculptor Cliff Carlson of Wesley, Iowa, this nearly $14,000 sculpture is officially listed as The World's Largest Corn Stalk.
4. Shelby County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Shelby County Historical Museum is located at the corner of Pine Street and Morse Avenue in Harlan, Iowa. The museum preserves and showcases the rich history and heritage of Shelby County through various exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore the evolution of the county from its early settlement days to the present.
5. Nishna Valley Model Railroad Society
MINIATURE RAIL DISPLAY
The Nishna Valley Model Railroad Society offers an impressive display of model trains and railroad miniatures. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the railroad layouts that showcase both historical and fictional rail scenes. The society provides an educational and entertaining experience for train enthusiasts of all ages.
6. German Villages Tour
HISTORIC CHURCH TRAIL
The German Villages Tour takes visitors through five Shelby County communities settled by German Catholic families: Defiance, Earling, Panama, Portsmouth, and Westphalia. The tour highlights magnificent historic churches that showcase stunning architecture and remarkable interior craftsmanship reflecting the area's strong German heritage. A day touring these impressive structures offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and religious history of the region.
7. St. Boniface Catholic Church
MAGNIFICENT GERMAN ARCHITECTURE
St. Boniface Catholic Church stands as a stunning example of German Catholic architecture in the small town of Westphalia. The church features impressive craftsmanship both in its exterior design and interior decorations that reflect the German heritage of its founders. As part of the German Villages Tour in Shelby County, this historic place of worship attracts visitors interested in religious architecture and cultural history.
8. St. Peter Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. Peter Catholic Church in Defiance is a remarkable historic church that exemplifies the German Catholic influence in Shelby County. The church features beautiful architectural details and craftsmanship that has been preserved throughout the years. Visitors on the German Villages Tour often marvel at the church's impressive interior and exterior design elements.
9. St. Joseph's Catholic Church
GERMAN HERITAGE TREASURE
St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Earling represents an important stop on the German Villages Tour of Shelby County. The church showcases the religious and cultural heritage of the German Catholic settlers who founded the community. Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a must-see for those interested in religious history and cultural preservation.
10. St. Mary's Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
St. Mary's Catholic Church in Panama stands as a testament to the German Catholic heritage that shaped much of Shelby County. The church features impressive architectural elements and detailed craftsmanship that reflect the religious devotion of its founders. As part of the German Villages Tour, it offers visitors an opportunity to appreciate both religious history and architectural beauty.
11. St. Mary's Catholic Church
GERMAN CATHOLIC HERITAGE
St. Mary's Catholic Church in Portsmouth is a significant historical landmark that exemplifies the strong German Catholic influence in Shelby County. The church's architecture and interior designs showcase the craftsmanship and religious devotion of the early German settlers. Visitors on the German Villages Tour appreciate the church's cultural significance and architectural beauty.
12. Prairie Rose State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Prairie Rose State Park offers various outdoor recreational activities centered around a 218-acre lake near Harlan. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and wildlife observation throughout the scenic park. The park's natural beauty and diverse amenities make it a popular destination for both local residents and tourists seeking outdoor experiences in Shelby County.
13. Shelby County Speedway
DIRT TRACK RACING
Shelby County Speedway provides exciting dirt track racing entertainment for motorsport enthusiasts in the region. The track hosts various racing events featuring different classes of vehicles throughout the racing season. Fans enjoy the thrill of competitive racing in a family-friendly atmosphere that has become a beloved tradition in the community.
14. Harlan Golf & Country Club
SCENIC GOLF COURSE
Harlan Golf & Country Club offers a well-maintained golf course for enthusiasts in Shelby County. The course features challenging holes set amid scenic landscapes that provide an enjoyable experience for golfers of various skill levels. In addition to golfing, the country club offers dining facilities and hosts various community events throughout the year.
15. Pioneer Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Pioneer Park serves as a central community gathering place in Harlan with various recreational amenities. The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and open green spaces for public enjoyment. Throughout the year, it hosts community events, festivals, and activities that bring together residents and visitors of Shelby County.