Valeria IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Valeria, Iowa.
1. Chichaqua Valley Trail - Valeria Trailhead
SCENIC RECREATIONAL TRAIL
Chichaqua Valley Trail - Valeria Trailhead offers visitors a beautiful starting point to explore the popular trail system in central Iowa. The trailhead provides amenities for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can embark on adventures along the trail while experiencing the peaceful countryside surroundings.
2. Iowa Adventure Co. (Quarry Springs Outfitters)
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EXCURSIONS
Iowa Adventure Co. provides exciting outdoor experiences for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty around Valeria. The outfitter offers equipment rentals and guided tours for activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and other water sports. Adventure seekers can enjoy professionally led excursions that showcase the region's scenic waterways and landscapes.
3. The Colfax Historical Society and Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Colfax Historical Society and Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the Colfax area, including nearby Valeria. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region's development and cultural heritage. The museum offers an educational experience that connects guests with the area's past while highlighting significant historical events and figures.
4. Big Creek State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Big Creek State Park offers 3,550 acres of natural beauty with a 866-acre lake as its centerpiece near Valeria. The park features swimming beaches, boat ramps, fishing opportunities, and miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and wildlife observation in this expansive recreational area.
5. Devonian Fossil Gorge
ANCIENT MARINE ECOSYSTEM
Devonian Fossil Gorge reveals an ancient seabed from 375 million years ago, exposing fossils and geological formations for visitors to explore. The unique site was uncovered during flood events at the Coralville Lake reservoir, creating an outdoor classroom showcasing Iowa's prehistoric past. Visitors can walk directly on the ancient sea floor while observing fossils of marine creatures that once inhabited the area.
6. Jordan Creek Town Center
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Jordan Creek Town Center is the largest shopping center in Iowa, offering an extensive selection of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The mall features a two-level shopping experience with over 150 stores, including major department stores and specialty retailers. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor Village area with its restaurants, lake, walking paths, and entertainment venues.
7. Outlets of Des Moines
BARGAIN SHOPPING HUB
Outlets of Des Moines offers premium outlet shopping with significant discounts on designer and name-brand merchandise. The open-air shopping center features dozens of stores ranging from fashion and accessories to home goods and specialty items. Shoppers can enjoy a pedestrian-friendly layout while hunting for deals at popular national retail brands.
8. Iowa Gold Star Military Museum
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum preserves and honors Iowa's military history through extensive exhibits and collections. Visitors can explore displays featuring artifacts, equipment, and personal stories from conflicts ranging from the Civil War to modern deployments. The museum, located at Camp Dodge, offers an educational and respectful tribute to the service and sacrifice of Iowa's veterans.
9. Saylorville Lake
RECREATIONAL RESERVOIR GETAWAY
Saylorville Lake spans 26,000 acres with 6,000 acres of water, offering extensive recreational activities near Valeria. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping along its scenic shoreline and surrounding woodland areas. The reservoir provides wildlife habitat and bird watching opportunities along with beaches, marinas, and picnic facilities for day-use recreation.
10. Bob Shetler Picnic Area
SCENIC RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Bob Shetler Picnic Area offers a peaceful setting along the Des Moines River below the Saylorville Dam. The area features numerous picnic tables, shelters, grills, and restroom facilities in a beautiful natural environment. Visitors can enjoy fishing access, wildlife viewing, and hiking trails while relaxing in this well-maintained recreation space.
11. Terra Lake
COMMUNITY PARK OASIS
Terra Lake provides a picturesque community park centered around a scenic lake with walking trails and recreational amenities. The park features a fishing pier, playground equipment, shelters, and natural areas for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. This family-friendly destination offers year-round enjoyment with seasonal activities including fishing, nature observation, and winter ice skating.
12. NorthPoint Church
MODERN WORSHIP SPACE
NorthPoint Church offers visitors a contemporary worship experience in a welcoming, modern facility. The church features state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, comfortable seating, and architectural design that enhances the spiritual atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the church's community involvement, music programs, and special events that make it a cultural landmark in the Johnston area.
13. AMC Classic Johnston 16
CINEMA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
AMC Classic Johnston 16 offers moviegoers a complete cinema entertainment experience with multiple screens showing the latest films. The theater features comfortable seating, state-of-the-art projection and sound systems, and a concession area with traditional movie snacks. Visitors can enjoy new releases, special screenings, and promotional events in this popular entertainment venue.
14. Johnston Parks & Recreation
COMMUNITY ACTIVITY HUB
Johnston Parks & Recreation manages numerous parks, trails, and facilities offering diverse recreational opportunities for visitors and residents. The department maintains playgrounds, sports fields, courts, and natural areas throughout the community for public enjoyment. Year-round programming includes sports leagues, fitness classes, educational workshops, and special events for all ages and interests.
15. Mingo Trailhead
GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE
The Mingo Trailhead serves as an important access point for the Chichaqua Valley Trail system, connecting to the same trail network accessible from Valeria. Visitors can begin their cycling, walking, or running journeys from this well-maintained staging area with parking and basic amenities. The trailhead offers access to miles of converted railroad corridor trails that showcase the natural beauty and rural landscapes of central Iowa.