University Park IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near University Park, Iowa.
1. Rock Creek State Park
NATURE AND RECREATION
Rock Creek State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural escape with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating. The park features a 602-acre lake surrounded by woodlands and prairie areas that are home to diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities, picnic areas, and miles of scenic trails throughout the year.
2. NoCoast Beer Co.
LOCAL CRAFT BREWERY
NoCoast Beer Co. is a popular craft brewery offering a variety of locally-made beers in a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours, tastings, and learn about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff. The taproom features regular events and a warm community atmosphere for beer enthusiasts.
3. Elmhurst Grille
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Elmhurst Grille serves as a popular dining establishment for locals and visitors near University Park. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of American comfort food in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Guests appreciate the friendly service and homestyle cooking that has made it a community staple.
4. Oskaloosa Golf
SCENIC GOLF COURSE
Oskaloosa Golf provides a well-maintained course for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. The course features rolling terrain, strategically placed hazards, and beautiful landscaping throughout its holes. Visitors can enjoy the clubhouse facilities, equipment rentals, and professional instruction options.
5. Mahaska Bowl
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Mahaska Bowl offers bowling entertainment for all ages in a lively, family-friendly environment. The facility features modern lanes, automatic scoring, and cosmic bowling experiences during special hours. Visitors can also enjoy the arcade games, snack bar, and regular bowling leagues or special events.
6. Mini Putt Golf
FUN FAMILY ACTIVITY
Mini Putt Golf provides a delightful miniature golf experience for families and friends near University Park. The course features creative obstacles, themed holes, and challenging layouts suitable for players of all ages. Visitors can enjoy affordable family fun in a well-maintained outdoor setting.
7. Riverside Family Restaurant II
HOME-STYLE COMFORT FOOD
Riverside Family Restaurant II serves hearty, home-style meals in a comfortable, unpretentious setting. The restaurant specializes in classic American comfort foods with generous portions at reasonable prices. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and consistent quality that has made it a local favorite.
8. Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
CULTURAL GARDEN EXPERIENCE
The Robert D. Ray Asian Garden offers a serene cultural experience with beautiful Asian-inspired landscaping and design elements. The garden features traditional architecture, including a Chinese pavilion, stone bridges, and carefully placed sculptures throughout the grounds. Visitors can enjoy peaceful reflection while learning about Asian cultural contributions to Iowa.
9. The Iowa Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING CENTER
The Iowa Children's Museum provides hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to spark children's creativity and curiosity. The museum features multiple themed areas where kids can explore science, art, culture, and play through engaging activities. Families can enjoy regular educational programs, special events, and birthday party options in this stimulating environment.
10. American Gothic House
ICONIC ART LANDMARK
The American Gothic House is the iconic backdrop featured in Grant Wood's famous 1930 painting "American Gothic." Visitors can tour the visitor center to learn about the painting's history, cultural impact, and see exhibits about Grant Wood and rural American life. The site offers opportunities to take photos with prop pitchforks and costumes, recreating the famous image in front of the authentic house.
11. Iowa State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Iowa State Capitol stands as an impressive example of 19th-century architecture with its distinctive golden dome visible from miles around. The building features magnificent interior spaces including a law library, elaborate murals, and intricate marble and woodwork throughout. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the legislative chambers, historical exhibits, and learn about Iowa's government history.
12. Iowa State Fairgrounds
HISTORIC EVENT VENUE
The Iowa State Fairgrounds hosts the famous annual Iowa State Fair and numerous other events throughout the year. The expansive grounds feature historic buildings, agricultural pavilions, and entertainment venues across its 450-acre campus. Visitors can experience concerts, exhibitions, competitions, and the famous butter cow sculpture during the August fair.
13. High Trestle Trail Bridge
SPECTACULAR BICYCLE BRIDGE
The High Trestle Trail Bridge stands as an architectural marvel rising 130 feet above the Des Moines River valley. The half-mile bridge features artistic blue steel frames that create a stunning tunnel effect, especially when illuminated at night. Cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy panoramic views while traversing this unique segment of the 25-mile High Trestle Trail.
14. Oskaloosa Public Golf
PUBLIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Oskaloosa Public Golf offers an accessible golfing experience for players of all skill levels in a welcoming environment. The course features well-maintained fairways, challenging greens, and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy affordable rates, cart rentals, and a friendly clubhouse atmosphere.
15. Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum preserves Iowa's agricultural heritage through historic buildings, artifacts, and living history demonstrations. The site features a collection of 19th-century structures including a farmhouse, barn, schoolhouse, and various outbuildings furnished with period items. Visitors can experience seasonal events, educational programs, and hands-on activities that bring pioneer life to vivid reality.