What Cheer IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near What Cheer, Iowa.
1. What Cheer Opera House
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The What Cheer Opera House was built in 1893 by the Masons for their lodge. The historic building hosts live music with artists from across the United States, community events, school events, dance, and movies. The Opera House features 516 seats with 278 on the first floor and 238 in the balcony.
2. Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum
HISTORICAL FARM EXPERIENCE
Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum offers visitors a glimpse into Iowa's agricultural heritage. The museum features historic farm buildings, equipment, and artifacts that showcase rural life in earlier times. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about farming practices and daily life from Iowa's past.
3. Mahaska Bowl
FAMILY BOWLING FUN
Mahaska Bowl is a popular entertainment center offering bowling for visitors of all ages. The facility provides a fun, family-friendly atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. With a 4.7 rating, it's one of the most highly-rated attractions in the area.
4. Diamond Lake Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Diamond Lake Park offers outdoor recreational opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a serene lake perfect for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, walking paths, and the natural beauty of Iowa's landscape.
5. Rose Hill Access/Rose Hill Marsh
NATURE AND WILDLIFE
Rose Hill Access/Rose Hill Marsh is a natural area offering opportunities to observe Iowa's wetland ecosystems. The marsh serves as an important habitat for various bird species and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, photography, and connecting with nature in this serene environment.
6. Barnes City Longhorn Saloon
HISTORIC WESTERN BAR
The Barnes City Longhorn Saloon offers visitors a taste of the Old West in rural Iowa. The establishment features authentic western decor and a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy drinks, socialize, and experience a piece of Americana culture.
7. Lake Belva Deer Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Lake Belva Deer Park is a beautiful outdoor recreation area near What Cheer featuring a 260-acre lake. The park offers fishing, boating, camping, hiking trails, and picnic facilities for visitors to enjoy. Nature enthusiasts can observe wildlife and take in the scenic views of Iowa's countryside.
8. Lake Keomah State Park
TRANQUIL STATE PARK
Lake Keomah State Park is a picturesque state park featuring a beautiful lake surrounded by wooded hills. The park offers swimming, fishing, boating, hiking trails, and camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, observe wildlife, and experience the natural beauty of Iowa.
9. Niland Nook
UNIQUE LOCAL ATTRACTION
Niland Nook is a charming local attraction offering visitors a unique experience in What Cheer. The venue showcases local culture and provides a cozy spot for relaxation and exploration. Visitors appreciate the authentic small-town Iowa atmosphere that Niland Nook provides.
10. Glendale Access
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Glendale Access provides visitors with opportunities to enjoy Iowa's natural landscapes and waterways. The area offers access points for fishing, boating, and nature observation. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the peaceful environment and recreational opportunities available at this location.
11. Baxter's Grill
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
Baxter's Grill is a popular local restaurant serving hearty Midwestern cuisine to residents and visitors of What Cheer. The establishment offers a comfortable atmosphere where diners can enjoy classic American dishes and local specialties. It serves as a gathering spot for the community and provides travelers with an authentic taste of small-town Iowa.
12. What Cheer Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The What Cheer Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts related to the town's coal mining heritage and early development. The museum features exhibits that tell the story of What Cheer's population boom in the late 19th century when it was a major coal-producing center of Iowa. Visitors can learn about local history, view historical photographs, and examine artifacts from the town's past.
13. What Cheer Flea Market
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES
The What Cheer Flea Market is a popular event drawing visitors from across the region to hunt for antiques, collectibles, and unique items. The market features numerous vendors selling everything from vintage furniture to handcrafted goods. Visitors enjoy browsing the diverse offerings and experiencing the community atmosphere of this local tradition.
14. English River Wildlife Area
NATURE AND WILDLIFE
English River Wildlife Area offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore natural habitats along the English River. The area provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation in a preserved natural setting. Visitors can spot various bird species, deer, and other wildlife while enjoying the peaceful environment of rural Iowa.
15. Keswick Marsh
WETLAND BIRD SANCTUARY
Keswick Marsh is a natural wetland area offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature photography. The marsh serves as an important habitat for migratory birds and other wetland species throughout the year. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the diversity of wildlife and the serene environment found at this nearby natural attraction.