Thompson IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Thompson, Iowa.
1. Winnebago Industries Factory Tour
RV MANUFACTURING EXPERIENCE
The Winnebago Industries Factory Tour offers visitors an inside look at how the famous recreational vehicles are manufactured. Visitors can observe the production process and learn about the history of this iconic American brand. The tour provides insights into the craftsmanship and technology that goes into creating these mobile homes.
2. Pilot Knob State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Pilot Knob State Park offers beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities near Thompson. The park features hiking trails, camping facilities, and a historic stone tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, picnicking, and wildlife observation throughout the year.
3. Eagle Lake State Park
WILDLIFE AND WETLANDS
Eagle Lake State Park provides a serene natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park centers around a lake that attracts various bird species and wildlife, making it ideal for birdwatching and photography. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking through the diverse wetland ecosystem.
4. National Hobo Museum
UNIQUE AMERICAN HISTORY
The National Hobo Museum preserves the unique cultural history of American hobos and their traveling lifestyle. Exhibits feature authentic artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from hobos who rode the rails during the early 20th century. The museum hosts the annual Hobo Convention, continuing a tradition that began in 1900.
5. Thompson Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Thompson Museum showcases the rich history of this small Iowa community established in the 1890s. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town's development and its people. The museum provides insight into rural Iowa life and the railroad's influence on Thompson's growth.
6. Mr. K's Bar and Grill
LOCAL FOOD FAVORITE
Mr. K's Bar and Grill offers hearty Midwestern cuisine in a friendly, casual atmosphere. The establishment serves as both a dining destination and a social hub for locals and visitors alike. Their menu features classic American fare including burgers, steaks, and traditional Iowa specialties.
7. The Branding Iron
RUSTIC DINING EXPERIENCE
The Branding Iron provides a rustic dining experience with a focus on quality steaks and traditional American cuisine. The restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the agricultural heritage of the region. Visitors can enjoy hand-cut steaks, homestyle sides, and local hospitality.
8. Three Fingers Cabin
COZY RURAL RETREAT
Three Fingers Cabin offers a peaceful getaway in the Iowa countryside near Thompson. The cabin provides comfortable accommodations surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for those seeking relaxation away from city life. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and stargazing during their stay.
9. Three Fingers RV Campground
SCENIC OUTDOOR ACCOMMODATIONS
Three Fingers RV Campground provides well-maintained camping facilities for recreational vehicle enthusiasts. The campground offers essential amenities in a natural setting, making it an ideal base for exploring Thompson and the surrounding attractions. Visitors can connect with nature while still enjoying the comforts of their RVs.
10. Winnebago River Water Trail
SCENIC PADDLING ADVENTURE
The Winnebago River Water Trail offers paddlers a scenic route through the natural landscapes around Thompson. Kayakers and canoeists can explore the gentle river, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and glimpses of local wildlife. The trail provides access points for varying trip lengths, accommodating both beginners and experienced paddlers.
11. Thompson Golf Course
RELAXING 9-HOLE COURSE
Thompson Golf Course features a 9-hole layout with a driving range and clubhouse facilities. The course offers an enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels in a relaxed rural setting. Golfers can appreciate the well-maintained greens and fairways while taking in views of the Iowa countryside.
12. Stone City Art Colony
HISTORIC ARTS CENTER
The Stone City Art Colony represents an important chapter in Iowa's cultural history as a gathering place for Midwest artists during the Great Depression. Visitors can explore the site where renowned artists like Grant Wood once taught and created their works. The colony's legacy continues to influence regional art appreciation and education.
13. Hurstville Lime Kilns
INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SITE
The Hurstville Lime Kilns preserve an important piece of Iowa's industrial heritage dating back to the 19th century. These historic structures once produced lime for construction and agricultural purposes, showcasing early manufacturing techniques. Visitors can learn about the lime-making process and the workers who operated these massive stone kilns.
14. Top of Iowa Welcome Center
REGIONAL TOURISM HUB
The Top of Iowa Welcome Center serves as a gateway to the region's attractions and amenities. Visitors can gather information about local points of interest, accommodation options, and seasonal events throughout northern Iowa. The center showcases regional products, crafts, and educational displays about the area's history and culture.
15. Grant Gleaners 4-H Club
YOUTH AGRICULTURAL PROGRAM
The Grant Gleaners 4-H Club provides educational opportunities for local youth focused on agriculture, leadership, and community service. Members participate in hands-on projects ranging from animal husbandry to crop science, developing practical skills and knowledge. The club hosts demonstrations and competitions that showcase the agricultural heritage of the Thompson area.