The American Gothic Barn is one of Mount Vernon's most iconic landmarks. Located off U.S. Highway-30, this unassuming little barn is home to a stunning rendition of Grant Wood's famous painting "American Gothic." Created in 2008 by Mark Benesh, this unique piece of life-size art is sure to make passers-by stop and take a second look. Covering the barn's entire façade, the art makes for a wonderful photo-ops stop. So, when in town, stop by to admire the colorful art, capture its uniqueness in the lens and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993, Ash Park Historic District is a designated historic district in Mount Vernon, Iowa. Originally an orchard estate owned by Reuben Ash and family in 1839, today, it features late 19th and 20th Century Revival and Victorian architecture. Consisting of 42 buildings, amongst which over 36 historic buildings were constructed between 1895 and 1919. Most of these buildings are private residences.
Located in Iowa's Linn County, Mount Vernon forms part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area. Platted as a town in 1847, Mount Vernon is a stunning blend of fine restaurants and eateries, lodging options, local shops, boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks. The Palisades-Kepler State Park, which makes for one of the popular attractions, provides a variety of recreational activities for the entire family to enjoy. Another famous attraction is the American Gothic Barn, which makes for a great photo-ops stop.
Hidden within the scenic beauty of Wapsipinicon State Park, Horse Thief Cave stands as a geological wonder and a testament to the area's rich history. The cave is steeped in folklore, with tales of bandits and horse thieves seeking refuge within its rocky chambers during the 19th century. Even before that, the cave served as a shelter for the Native Americans who once lived here. As you navigate through the cool, dimly lit passages, you can almost sense the echoes of the past, making the cave a remarkable attraction here.
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch is a government site in honor of Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States. The site comprises of a small cottage which was his birthplace, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, the Quaker meetinghouse of the Hoover family as well as the gravestones of Mr. And Mrs. Hoover. The site also has two picnic shelters to be used by visitors. A guided tour through this site will give much insight into the life of the only president from Iowa till date.
Established in 1858, the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History promises you a walk through 500 million years of history. Visitors are fascinated by the State of Iowa's surprisingly rich collection of ecological, geological and cultural treasures. Birds and mammals fossils have been meticulously preserved over the centuries, while the rock collection is as stunning. This museum often organizes educational and recreational programs for families and children such as nature walks, pottery workshops etc. On your way out, pick up some minerals, rocks, plastic animals and other interesting souvenirs.
Established in 1858, the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History promises you a walk through 500 million years of history. Visitors are fascinated by the State of Iowa's surprisingly rich collection of ecological, geological and cultural treasures. Birds and mammals fossils have been meticulously preserved over the centuries, while the rock collection is as stunning. This museum often organizes educational and recreational programs for families and children such as nature walks, pottery workshops etc. On your way out, pick up some minerals, rocks, plastic animals and other interesting souvenirs.
The Old Capitol Museum of University of Iowa is housed on the ground floor of the historic Old Capitol building. With emphasis on importance of humanities, the museum plays host to several exhibits, shows, lectures, and programs depicting the history of the building, and the state. Check out their traveling exhibits, the rotating art shows in the Hanson Humanities Gallery and Keyes Gallery for Arts, Humanities & Sciences, lectures and workshops in the Senate Chamber, the beautiful architecture of the first and second floor of Rotunda, and the iconic Supreme Court Chamber.
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch is a government site in honor of Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States. The site comprises of a small cottage which was his birthplace, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, the Quaker meetinghouse of the Hoover family as well as the gravestones of Mr. And Mrs. Hoover. The site also has two picnic shelters to be used by visitors. A guided tour through this site will give much insight into the life of the only president from Iowa till date.
Johnson County Fairgrounds was inaugurated in 2004. The venue hosts the annual agricultural fair, The Johnson County Fair and is available for other events as well. The fairgrounds have regular markets set up and are also available for music performances as well. They have two buildings with multi-purpose venues which are equipped with state of the art facilities.
Opened in 1969, the the University of Iowa Museum of Art or UIMA as it is shortly known, is in the forefront of educational programs and research, frequently organizing lectures and field trips for students. Housing in it close to 12,400 exhibits spanning across jewelry, paintings, lithographs, photographs, textiles, prints, ceramics etc, you will need some time on your hands to fully explore every corner. Pre-Columbian, Roman, Afro and Native American exhibits are well-represented too. Check website for details on upcoming exhibitions and events.
The American Gothic Barn is one of Mount Vernon's most iconic landmarks. Located off U.S. Highway-30, this unassuming little barn is home to a stunning rendition of Grant Wood's famous painting "American Gothic." Created in 2008 by Mark Benesh, this unique piece of life-size art is sure to make passers-by stop and take a second look. Covering the barn's entire façade, the art makes for a wonderful photo-ops stop. So, when in town, stop by to admire the colorful art, capture its uniqueness in the lens and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.