Spencer IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Spencer, Iowa.
1. Arts On Grand
LOCAL ART AND CULTURE
Arts On Grand is a prominent art gallery and cultural center in Spencer that features rotating exhibits from local and regional artists. The space serves as a creative hub for the community, offering art classes and cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy diverse artistic expressions, including the works of featured artists like David Strom from Windom, Minnesota.
2. Clay County Heritage Center
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Clay County Heritage Center preserves and showcases the rich history of Spencer and Clay County through engaging exhibits and artifacts. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the area's past, from early settlement to modern times. It serves as an educational resource for both locals and tourists interested in understanding the cultural heritage of the region.
3. Century Farms Distillery
LOCAL SPIRITS PRODUCTION
Century Farms Distillery is a craft distillery in Spencer that produces handcrafted spirits using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the distillation process and the history of spirits in the region. The distillery offers tastings of their unique products, providing an authentic taste of Iowa's agricultural bounty.
4. Parker Museum
HISTORICAL COLLECTION DISPLAY
The Parker Museum houses a collection of historical artifacts and memorabilia significant to Spencer's development. Exhibits showcase the evolution of the town from its founding through various eras of growth and change. The museum provides valuable insights into local heritage through carefully preserved items and informative displays.
5. West Leach Field & Green Belt
RIVERSIDE NATURE TRAIL
West Leach Field & Green Belt along the Little Sioux River offers scenic outdoor recreation opportunities in the heart of Spencer. The area features walking trails that wind through natural landscapes, providing habitats for local wildlife and birds. Visitors can enjoy peaceful riverside views while engaging in activities such as hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing in nature.
6. Spencer Aquatic Center
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
The Spencer Aquatic Center is a popular summer destination featuring pools, water slides, and splash features for all ages. The facility provides a refreshing escape during hot Iowa summers with various swimming areas designed for different skill levels. Families appreciate the clean, well-maintained environment and lifeguard supervision that ensures safe aquatic fun.
7. Spencer Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Spencer Golf Course offers golfers a well-maintained course with challenging holes and beautiful landscaping. The facility welcomes players of all skill levels to enjoy the sport in a picturesque setting. Amenities include a clubhouse, pro shop, and options for lessons to improve one's game.
8. Spencer Public Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
Spencer Public Library serves as an intellectual hub for the community with its extensive collection of books, digital resources, and educational programs. The library hosts regular events for all ages, from children's storytimes to adult book clubs and workshops. Its welcoming atmosphere encourages lifelong learning and provides a quiet space for study, research, and community connection.
9. Clay County Fair & Events Center
REGIONAL FAIR GROUNDS
The Clay County Fair & Events Center is home to one of the largest county fairs in the United States, attracting visitors from across the Midwest each September. Throughout the year, the venue hosts various events including concerts, trade shows, and community gatherings. The fairgrounds showcase agricultural heritage while providing modern entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
10. Spencer Historic Grand Avenue Commercial District
DOWNTOWN HERITAGE TOUR
Spencer's Historic Grand Avenue Commercial District invites visitors to explore the architectural and cultural history of the town through a self-guided walking tour. The district features well-preserved buildings that showcase various architectural styles from different eras of the city's development. Tour booklets available at the Spencer Main Street Office help visitors understand the significance of each structure in the district's rich tapestry.
11. Christian Kirchner Home
HISTORIC PIONEER DWELLING
The Christian Kirchner home, built in 1867, stands as the first frame dwelling in Peterson and Clay County. The historic structure remains on its original site with only minor structural changes made throughout its long history. Visitors can arrange appointments to tour this important piece of early settler history that offers insight into 19th-century frontier life.
12. Arnolds Park
LAKESIDE AMUSEMENT PARK
Arnolds Park is a historic amusement park located on the shores of West Okoboji Lake, just a short drive from Spencer. The park features classic rides including the legendary wooden roller coaster, modern attractions, and regular entertainment events throughout the summer season. Visitors enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere combined with beautiful lake views that have made this a beloved regional destination for generations.
13. Sauk Rail Trail
SCENIC RECREATION PATH
The Sauk Rail Trail is a 33-mile recreational pathway connecting several communities in western Iowa, offering an accessible outdoor experience not far from Spencer. The trail accommodates a variety of activities including cycling, walking, jogging, and inline skating through diverse landscapes. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to observe local wildlife while traversing through woodlands, prairies, and alongside picturesque lakes.
14. Albert The Bull
ICONIC ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
Albert The Bull stands as the world's largest bull statue, towering at 30 feet tall in Audubon, within driving distance of Spencer. This concrete bovine was constructed in 1964 to honor the area's cattle industry and has since become an iconic roadside attraction. Visitors often stop to take photos with this massive monument that represents Iowa's agricultural heritage.
15. King's Pointe
WATERPARK RESORT DESTINATION
King's Pointe is a popular waterpark resort located near Storm Lake, providing a complete family vacation destination within the region around Spencer. The resort features indoor and outdoor waterparks with slides, pools, and water play areas suitable for guests of all ages. Additional amenities include comfortable accommodations, dining options, and access to Storm Lake's recreational opportunities.