Corning MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Corning, Missouri.
1. Corning Conservation Area
NATURE AND WILDLIFE HAVEN
Corning Conservation Area is managed cooperatively by the Corps of Engineers and the Missouri Department of Conservation for various game and non-game species of fish and wildlife. The area features rich bottomland soils that produce a variety of wetland vegetation and bottomland timber. Visitors can enjoy activities like bird watching, waterfowl hunting, camping, and various hunting opportunities including deer, turkey, rabbit, dove, and quail.
2. St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, making it a significant cultural landmark in Corning. The church represents an important piece of religious heritage in this small Missouri village. Its historical significance contributes to the cultural identity of Corning, a village that had a population of only 3 residents as of the 2020 census.
3. Missouri Civil War Museum
PRESERVING CIVIL WAR HISTORY
The Missouri Civil War Museum offers visitors a comprehensive look at Missouri's complex role in the American Civil War. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of the divided state during this tumultuous period. Visitors can explore well-curated displays that bring to life the experiences of soldiers and civilians alike during the 1860s.
4. Jacob's Cave
SPECTACULAR UNDERGROUND WONDER
Jacob's Cave is one of Missouri's most accessible show caves, featuring remarkable geological formations that have developed over millions of years. Visitors can explore the cave's reflective pools, massive columns, and unique formations including the 'dinner table' and 'meat room'. The guided tour offers fascinating insights into cave geology and history while accommodating visitors of all mobility levels along its level concrete pathways.
5. Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum
LITTLE HOUSE AUTHOR'S HOME
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum preserves the farmhouse where the beloved author wrote her famous 'Little House' series of books. Visitors can tour the well-preserved home with its original furnishings and personal belongings of Laura and her husband Almanzo. The museum features exhibits on Laura's life and writing career, offering fans a deeper connection to the woman behind the classic American stories.
6. Museum at Prairie Fire
MODERN SCIENCE AND CULTURE
The Museum at Prairie Fire features a stunning architectural design with exhibits that focus on science, natural history, and culture. The museum partners with the American Museum of Natural History to bring world-class traveling exhibitions to the region. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays, educational programming, and the spectacular building itself with its flame-inspired design.
7. Lake Icaria State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Icaria State Park, located near Corning, Iowa, offers visitors a beautiful 700-acre lake surrounded by scenic landscapes for outdoor recreation. The park provides opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and wildlife observation throughout the year. Its proximity to Corning, Missouri makes it a popular destination for residents seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities.
8. Johnny Carson Birthplace Society
LATE NIGHT LEGEND'S ORIGINS
The Johnny Carson Birthplace Society preserves and celebrates the modest home where television icon Johnny Carson was born in 1925. Visitors can tour the restored house that showcases period-appropriate furnishings and memorabilia related to the legendary 'Tonight Show' host. The site offers insight into Carson's early years and the small-town roots that influenced his later career in entertainment.
9. French Icarian Village
UTOPIAN COMMUNITY HISTORY
The French Icarian Village represents one of America's longest-lasting utopian colonies, established in the 1850s by followers of Étienne Cabet. Visitors can explore the historic site which includes original buildings, artifacts, and interpretive displays explaining the communal lifestyle of the French immigrants who settled there. The site provides fascinating insights into this unique socialist experiment and its lasting impact on the region's cultural heritage.
10. Adams County Speedway
HIGH-SPEED RACING ACTION
Adams County Speedway is a popular dirt track racing venue that hosts exciting motorsports events throughout the racing season. Spectators can enjoy the thrills of stock car racing, late models, and other racing divisions in a family-friendly atmosphere. The speedway has been a cornerstone of local entertainment for decades, drawing racing enthusiasts from across the region.
11. R & S Collectibles
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNT
R & S Collectibles offers antique hunters and collectors a diverse selection of vintage items, memorabilia, and unique finds. Visitors can browse through ever-changing inventory that includes everything from antique furniture to nostalgic toys and collectibles. The shop provides a delightful treasure-hunting experience for those interested in history, nostalgia, and one-of-a-kind items.
12. Corning Center for the Fine Arts
COMMUNITY ART HUB
The Corning Center for the Fine Arts serves as a cultural hub showcasing work by local and regional artists in southwestern Iowa. The center hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, and special events that celebrate various artistic mediums and styles. Visitors can enjoy the gallery spaces and participate in educational programs that foster creativity and appreciation for the arts.
13. Squirrel Valley Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Squirrel Valley Park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor recreation and family gatherings in the Corning area. The park features playground equipment, picnic facilities, walking paths, and open green spaces for various activities. Locals and visitors alike enjoy this community space for relaxation and connecting with nature throughout the seasons.
14. Corning Opera House Cultural Center
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Corning Opera House Cultural Center is a beautifully restored historic venue that dates back to the early 1900s and now hosts performances, events, and community gatherings. The architectural gem features original elements alongside modern amenities, creating a unique atmosphere for concerts, theater productions, and special occasions. Visitors can attend various cultural events or schedule tours to learn about the building's storied past and ongoing preservation efforts.
15. Nodaway Valley Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Nodaway Valley Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of southwest Iowa through extensive collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents. Exhibits highlight pioneer life, agricultural development, military service, and prominent figures from the region including big band leader Glenn Miller. Visitors can explore multiple floors of displays that bring local history to life and provide context for understanding the area's cultural heritage.