Worthington IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Worthington, Iowa.
1. Plaza Antique Mall
VINTAGE TREASURES AND COLLECTIBLES
Plaza Antique Mall is a popular shopping destination in Worthington that features a wide variety of antiques and collectibles. Visitors can browse through numerous vendor booths offering everything from furniture and home decor to vintage toys and jewelry. The mall attracts both casual shoppers and serious collectors looking for unique items with historical significance.
2. Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area
NATIVE PRAIRIE RESTORATION
Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area is a natural preserve where the DNR has successfully restored land to its native prairie state. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystem while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and wildlife photography. The area provides a glimpse into Iowa's natural heritage with its indigenous plant species and wildlife habitats.
3. National Farm Toy Museum
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The National Farm Toy Museum houses an impressive collection of farm toys and agricultural miniatures that showcase the evolution of farming equipment. The museum features thousands of meticulously crafted replica farm implements, tractors, and rural scenes that appeal to both children and adults. Visitors can learn about the history of American agriculture through these detailed exhibits and special displays.
4. Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce
LOCAL TOURISM HUB
The Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce serves as an information center for visitors looking to explore the region. The organization provides maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations for local attractions, dining options, and events. Visitors can stop by to get expert advice on planning their stay in the Dyersville and Worthington area.
5. Field of Dreams Movie Site
ICONIC BASEBALL LANDMARK
The Field of Dreams Movie Site is the famous baseball diamond created for the 1989 film starring Kevin Costner. Visitors can walk on the same field where the movie was filmed and experience the magic of this iconic cinematic location. The site includes the original farmhouse and baseball field maintained exactly as they appeared in the beloved film.
6. Basilica of St. Francis Xavier
HISTORIC GOTHIC CHURCH
The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is a magnificent Gothic-style church known for its impressive architecture and religious significance. The church features stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and twin spires that dominate the Dyersville skyline. Visitors can admire the beautiful interior with its ornate altar, pipe organ, and religious artwork during tours or services.
7. Dyer-Botsford House
LOCAL HISTORICAL LANDMARK
The Dyer-Botsford House is a historic residence that offers a glimpse into the region's past through preserved architecture and period furnishings. This landmark building showcases the lifestyle of early prominent settlers in the area with authentic artifacts and informative displays. Visitors can tour the house to learn about local history and the influential families who shaped the community.
8. Textile Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Textile Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery located in a renovated historic building in downtown Dyersville. The brewery offers a rotating selection of handcrafted beers made with locally-sourced ingredients and traditional brewing methods. Visitors can enjoy tasting flights, full pours, and casual dining while learning about the brewing process in the unique industrial-chic setting.
9. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
LUSH FLORAL DISPLAYS
The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens showcase an impressive collection of plants, flowers, and themed gardens spread across 52 acres. Visitors can stroll through various gardens including rose, hosta, English, and Japanese gardens with seasonal displays throughout the year. The arboretum offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
10. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVER LIFE EXPLORATION
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a Smithsonian-affiliated institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the culture and history of America's rivers. The museum complex features aquariums with native river species, historical exhibits about river transportation, and interactive displays about river ecology. Visitors can experience riverboat simulators, touch tanks, and live animal encounters while learning about the Mississippi River's importance.
11. Mines of Spain Recreation Area
SCENIC OUTDOOR WILDERNESS
The Mines of Spain Recreation Area is a 1,380-acre natural park featuring wooded hiking trails, limestone bluffs, and beautiful Mississippi River views. The park contains the historic Julien Dubuque Monument and the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center with educational exhibits about local ecology and history. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities including hiking, bird watching, fishing, and cross-country skiing depending on the season.
12. Heritage Trail
SCENIC RAIL-TO-TRAIL PATH
Heritage Trail is a 26-mile converted railroad corridor that stretches from Dubuque to Dyersville offering a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts. The limestone-surfaced trail winds through woodlands, farmlands, and small towns while providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and natural beauty. Trail users can bike, hike, cross-country ski, or snowmobile along this popular recreational pathway throughout the year.
13. Crystal Lake Cave
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Crystal Lake Cave features spectacular underground formations including stalactites, stalagmites, and rare anthodites that have developed over millions of years. Guided tours take visitors through illuminated passageways while explaining the geological processes that created these natural limestone features. The cave maintains a constant cool temperature year-round, making it a refreshing destination especially during hot summer months.
14. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC INCLINE RAILWAY
The Fenelon Place Elevator is the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway that transports passengers up a 296-foot bluff for panoramic views of the Mississippi River valley. Originally built in 1882 for a wealthy businessman's commute, the funicular now serves as a popular tourist attraction and historic landmark. Visitors can enjoy the brief but thrilling ride in wooden cars powered by the original cable system.
15. Sundown Mountain Resort
MIDWEST WINTER RECREATION
Sundown Mountain Resort is a premier winter sports destination offering 21 ski and snowboard trails across 55 acres of varied terrain. The resort features modern snowmaking equipment, two lodges with dining options, equipment rentals, and professional instruction for all skill levels. During the winter season, visitors can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.