St. Anthony IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St. Anthony, Iowa.
1. Watson's Grocery Store Museum
HISTORIC SMALL-TOWN COMMERCE
Watson's Grocery Store Museum preserves the charm and history of rural Iowa commerce. Visitors can explore authentic vintage merchandise displays and original fixtures that showcase how local residents shopped in bygone eras. The museum offers a nostalgic glimpse into the social and economic heart of small-town life in early 20th century Iowa.
2. Hickory Grove Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Hickory Grove Park offers visitors a scenic natural retreat with diverse outdoor recreational opportunities. The park features a beautiful lake ideal for fishing, boating, and swimming during warmer months. Hiking trails, camping facilities, and picnic areas make it a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts throughout the year.
3. The Talent Factory
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Talent Factory is a restored historic theater that now hosts comedy shows, musical performances, and community events. Built in the early 1900s, the venue maintains much of its original charm while offering modern entertainment experiences. Visitors appreciate both the nostalgic atmosphere and the quality performances that make this a cultural cornerstone of the region.
4. Historical Society of Marshall County
PRESERVING LOCAL HERITAGE
The Historical Society of Marshall County maintains multiple historic sites showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. Their collection includes photographs, documents, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the area's development. Visitors can explore both the main museum and several preserved historic buildings throughout the county.
5. Chapel of St. Anthony Padua
WORLD'S SMALLEST CHURCH
The Chapel of St. Anthony Padua is renowned as the world's smallest church, erected in 1885. The tiny historic chapel stands as a testament to the religious devotion of early settlers in the region. Visitors can view the intimate interior and the surrounding cemetery where Johann and many of his family members are buried.
6. Stone City Art Colony
HISTORIC ARTIST COMMUNITY
Stone City Art Colony represents an important chapter in Iowa's artistic heritage. Founded in the 1930s, the colony attracted notable American artists including Grant Wood of American Gothic fame. Today, visitors can explore the historic sites where these influential artists lived and worked while enjoying the same picturesque landscapes that inspired their creations.
7. Hurstville Lime Kilns
INDUSTRIAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Hurstville Lime Kilns showcase an important aspect of Iowa's industrial history dating back to the 19th century. These preserved limestone kilns once produced materials essential for construction and agriculture throughout the region. Visitors can explore the restored structures and learn about the lime-making process that helped build Iowa's early infrastructure.
8. Prairie Putt-Putt Mini Golf
FAMILY FUN OUTDOORS
Prairie Putt-Putt Mini Golf offers family-friendly entertainment with a distinctly Iowa theme. The course features creative obstacles and designs that celebrate the region's agricultural heritage and natural landscapes. Visitors of all ages enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and affordable fun in a picturesque small-town setting.
9. TLC Barn Dormitory
UNIQUE RURAL ACCOMMODATION
TLC Barn Dormitory provides visitors with a distinctive lodging experience in a converted historic barn. The facility retains charming rustic elements while offering comfortable modern amenities for group stays. Guests appreciate the authentic agricultural setting and convenient access to local attractions throughout the region.
10. Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway
HISTORIC TRAVEL ROUTE
The Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway traces one of America's earliest north-south transcontinental routes through the heart of Iowa. Established in 1915, this historic roadway connected New Orleans to Winnipeg, Canada, passing through numerous small towns that developed alongside it. Modern travelers can follow interpretive signage that highlights significant sites and stories along this important transportation corridor.
11. Dakins Lake Park
PEACEFUL OUTDOOR RECREATION
Dakins Lake Park offers visitors a serene recreational area centered around a beautiful 15-acre lake. The park features fishing opportunities, picnic facilities, and scenic walking paths through natural areas. Camping enthusiasts appreciate the well-maintained sites that provide an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
12. Marshall County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Marshall County Courthouse stands as an impressive example of Beaux-Arts architecture in the heart of Marshalltown. Completed in 1886, the historic building features a distinctive clock tower and elaborate stonework that showcases the craftsmanship of its era. Visitors can admire both the exterior details and interior public spaces that continue to serve the community today.
13. Center Grove Orchard
AGRICULTURAL FAMILY FUN
Center Grove Orchard offers seasonal agricultural entertainment with apple picking, pumpkin patches, and farm-themed activities. Families enjoy the corn mazes, hayrides, and farmyard animals that create memorable rural experiences. The on-site country store features fresh produce, baked goods, and local specialty items that showcase Iowa's agricultural bounty.
14. Grammer Grove Wildlife Area
NATURAL HABITAT PRESERVE
Grammer Grove Wildlife Area provides protected habitat for native plants and animals along the Iowa River. Outdoor enthusiasts visit for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation opportunities throughout the diverse ecosystem. The natural area offers quiet trails and river access points perfect for experiencing Iowa's original landscape.
15. Central Iowa Fairgrounds
COMMUNITY CELEBRATION CENTER
The Central Iowa Fairgrounds hosts the annual county fair and numerous community events throughout the year. Visitors experience agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and competitions that celebrate rural traditions. The historic grounds have served as a gathering place for generations of families sharing in regional cultural heritage.