Stanhope IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stanhope, Iowa.
1. Watermelon Day
ANNUAL SUMMER FESTIVAL
Watermelon Day is a popular annual event held every third Saturday in July in Stanhope. Visitors can enjoy various festivities centered around watermelons while mingling with locals. This celebration has become a community tradition that showcases the small-town charm of Stanhope.
2. Wednesday Nights in the Park
MAIN STREET BLOCK PARTY
Wednesday Nights in the Park features regular block parties along Stanhope's Main Street. Visitors can enjoy outdoor entertainment while connecting with the local community. These weekly gatherings exemplify the friendly atmosphere that makes Stanhope special.
3. Stanhope Locker & Market
AWARD-WINNING BEEF JERKY
Stanhope Locker & Market is famous for its award-winning beef jerky that draws visitors from surrounding areas. The market also houses the Stanhope University Bookstore, making it more than just a food destination. Visitors can experience authentic local flavors while supporting this community fixture.
4. Stanhope Water Tower
FRESHLY PAINTED LANDMARK
The newly painted Stanhope Water Tower stands as a distinctive local landmark worth visiting. Its fresh paint job represents community pride and renewal efforts in the small town. Visitors often stop to admire and photograph this iconic structure that defines Stanhope's skyline.
5. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area offers extensive outdoor recreational opportunities near Stanhope. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, camping, and horseback riding across its expansive grounds. The area's natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts looking to escape city life.
6. Hamilton County Speedway
HISTORIC DIRT TRACK RACING
Hamilton County Speedway thrills visitors with exciting dirt track racing events throughout the season. The historic track has been hosting races for generations, creating a legacy in the local motorsports scene. Racing enthusiasts appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and competitive action at this beloved venue.
7. Story City Antique Carousel
HISTORIC HAND-CARVED ATTRACTION
The Story City Antique Carousel features beautifully preserved hand-carved wooden figures dating back to 1913. Visitors can ride this functioning piece of history for a nostalgic experience that delights all ages. The carousel represents one of the few remaining examples of this classic American amusement from the early 20th century.
8. Kate Shelley High Bridge
HISTORIC RAILROAD MONUMENT
The Kate Shelley High Bridge stands as an impressive engineering marvel and historical landmark named after a local heroine. The bridge commemorates Kate Shelley's brave actions in 1881 when she crawled across a damaged bridge during a storm to warn an approaching passenger train of danger. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural significance and the inspiring story behind this remarkable structure.
9. Effigy Mounds National Monument
ANCIENT NATIVE EARTHWORKS
Effigy Mounds National Monument preserves more than 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native American cultures. Visitors can explore these sacred earthworks shaped like bears, birds, and other animals while hiking through beautiful forest landscapes. The monument offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual practices and artistic expressions of indigenous peoples who inhabited the region over a thousand years ago.
10. The Freedom Rock
PATRIOTIC MILITARY TRIBUTE
The Freedom Rock features changing military tribute murals painted annually on a 12-foot boulder by artist Ray Sorensen II. A permanent green helicopter image on the rock contains the ashes of Vietnam Veterans, making it a deeply meaningful memorial. Visitors can view current and past artwork through photos and sign a guest book while paying respects to those who served.
11. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum
IOWA'S PRESIDENTIAL HERITAGE
The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum showcases the life and legacy of the only U.S. president from Iowa. Visitors can explore artifacts from Hoover's childhood including a valentine and toy train that provide insight into his early years. The museum is part of a National Historic Site that includes Hoover's boyhood home, a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and meetinghouse.
12. Vermeer Windmill
AMERICA'S TALLEST WORKING WINDMILL
The Vermeer Windmill stands as the tallest working windmill in the United States, demonstrating traditional Dutch flour-making techniques. Visitors can watch as its 82-foot-long blades turn the millstones that grind wheat into flour, which can be purchased as a souvenir. The windmill anchors the Vermeer Historical Village featuring 22 restored buildings, including Wyatt Earp's boyhood home.
13. Stanhope City Parks
FAMILY RECREATION AREAS
Stanhope City Parks provide relaxing outdoor spaces for families and visitors to enjoy recreational activities. These parks host various community events throughout the year including outdoor concerts and seasonal festivals. Visitors can spend an afternoon enjoying the natural beauty while participating in sports or simply unwinding in these well-maintained public spaces.
14. Stanhope Outdoor Concerts
LIVE MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT
Stanhope Outdoor Concerts bring live music performances to this charming small town throughout the warmer months. These musical events showcase local and regional talent while providing entertainment for residents and visitors alike. The concerts create a festive atmosphere that highlights Stanhope's commitment to arts and community gathering.
15. Stanhope Seasonal Festivals
YEAR-ROUND COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS
Stanhope Seasonal Festivals mark the changing seasons with themed community celebrations throughout the year. These events typically feature food, games, and activities that bring together locals and visitors for shared experiences. Each festival showcases the town's hospitality and creates memorable opportunities to experience small-town Iowa culture.