Tennant IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tennant, Iowa.
1. Western Skies Scenic Byway
HISTORIC IOWA HIGHWAY ROUTE
Western Skies Scenic Byway passes through Tennant, offering a picturesque drive through Iowa's rural landscape. The byway features river crossings and historical markers that tell stories of perseverance and community. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of western Iowa while traveling this scenic route.
2. Willow Creek
NATURAL WATERWAY RETREAT
Willow Creek provides a peaceful natural setting near Tennant for outdoor enthusiasts. The creek offers opportunities for fishing, nature observation, and quiet contemplation. Its tree-lined banks create a serene environment for visitors seeking connection with Iowa's natural landscapes.
3. Nishna Bend Recreation Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION DESTINATION
Nishna Bend Recreation Area serves as a popular outdoor destination for residents and visitors in Shelby County. The recreation area offers multiple activities including fishing, hiking, and picnicking along the Nishnabotna River. Its natural setting provides a welcome escape from everyday life for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Harlan Golf and Country Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Harlan Golf and Country Club offers a well-maintained course for golf enthusiasts near Tennant. The club provides both challenging play for experienced golfers and a welcoming environment for beginners. Its scenic grounds and facilities make it a recreational highlight of the area.
5. Shelby County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
Shelby County Historical Museum preserves and displays the rich history of the region including Tennant. Located at the corner of Pine Street and Morse Avenue in Harlan, the museum showcases artifacts and exhibits chronicling the development of local communities. Visitors can explore the cultural heritage and historical significance of Shelby County through its extensive collections.
6. Nishna Valley Model Railroad Society
MINIATURE RAILROAD DISPLAYS
Nishna Valley Model Railroad Society maintains elaborate miniature railroad displays showcasing the region's railroad history. The society's detailed models recreate the important role railroads played in developing communities like Tennant. Visitors can appreciate both the artistic craftsmanship and historical significance of these intricate displays.
7. National Historic Register Sites
PRESERVED HISTORICAL LANDMARKS
Shelby County features several locations listed on the National Historic Register that preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. These designated sites include historic buildings, landmarks, and districts that represent significant aspects of local history. Visitors can tour these preserved properties to gain insight into the development and character of communities in Shelby County.
8. Portsmouth Western Skies Scenic Byway
PICTURESQUE RURAL DRIVE
The Portsmouth segment of the Western Skies Scenic Byway offers travelers spectacular views of Iowa's countryside near Tennant. This stretch of the byway features rolling hills, farmland vistas, and charming small towns. Drivers and passengers alike can appreciate the natural beauty and rural character of western Iowa along this designated scenic route.
9. Tennant Railroad Heritage Site
EARLY TRANSPORTATION HISTORY
Tennant Railroad Heritage Site commemorates the community's connection to early 20th-century railroad development. The site preserves elements of the town's railroad infrastructure that was vital to local economic growth. Visitors can learn about how the railroad shaped the development and character of Tennant and similar small Iowa communities.
10. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL FORMATION
The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway provides access to one of the world's most significant loess formations near Tennant. This unique landscape was formed from wind-deposited silt during the last ice age, creating distinctive hills and ridges. Travelers can experience dramatic vistas, native prairie remnants, and diverse wildlife while exploring this natural wonder.
11. Prairie Rose State Park
RECREATIONAL LAKE DESTINATION
Prairie Rose State Park centers around a 218-acre lake offering multiple recreational opportunities for visitors near Tennant. The park features camping facilities, fishing spots, hiking trails, and picnic areas in a scenic natural setting. Its well-maintained grounds provide an ideal destination for outdoor activities throughout the year.
12. Danish Villages
CULTURAL HERITAGE AREA
The Danish Villages of Elk Horn and Kimballton showcase the area's strong Danish heritage not far from Tennant. Visitors can explore the Museum of Danish America, a windmill imported from Denmark, and other cultural attractions. These charming communities celebrate their immigrant history through architecture, cuisine, and annual festivals.
13. Shelby County Fair
ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Shelby County Fair brings together communities including Tennant for a celebration of local agriculture, entertainment, and crafts. The fair features livestock exhibitions, carnival rides, music performances, and competitive events for all ages. This annual tradition highlights the rural heritage and community spirit of Shelby County.
14. Old Stone Arch Nature Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY BRIDGE PATH
Old Stone Arch Nature Trail follows a former railway line featuring a historic stone arch bridge near Tennant. The trail offers hikers and cyclists a peaceful route through woodland and prairie landscapes with interpretive signage about local history and ecology. Its accessible path provides recreational opportunities while preserving an important piece of transportation heritage.
15. Manteno Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Manteno Park provides recreational facilities for families and groups seeking outdoor activities near Tennant. The park includes shelters, playgrounds, sports fields, and natural areas for diverse recreational pursuits. Its well-maintained grounds serve as a gathering place for community events and personal enjoyment throughout the warmer months.