Located in the historic town square of Pella, Vermeer Windmill is often described as the tallest operating windmill in the country. Built by Lucas Verbij, this beautiful Dutch smock mill stands on a four-story base. Along with being an iconic landmark, the windmill is also fully operational. This lofty tower is open to tours, with wheelchair-friendly access points. Visitors can explore five floors: where the second and third floor has interesting exhibits and displays.
The Pella Historical Village is one of the city's most unique and fascinating attractions. This historic village, which is managed by the Pella Historical Society and Museums, consists of 22-buildings dated back to the 1800s. The historic village, featuring the heritage of early settlers from the Netherlands, is an intriguing museum that exhibits heritage buildings such as a miniature Holland village, Sod house, a model of pioneer settlers' house, and Wyatt Earp's home town. Visitors are encouraged to take the guided tour or simply walk on the grounds of this fascinating attraction.
The Scholte House and the Garden is one of the charming attractions in the city. This beautiful mansion is one of the oldest structures built by the pioneer families of Pella. Built in 1847-48 by Hendrik Peter Scholte for his wife Maria, the self-guided tour takes you on an interesting story of the family, and visitors can see the original artifacts of the family. Walking through the wonderful Tulip garden is truly a delight.
Surrounded by charming Dutch architecture, Molengracht Plaza is a beautiful attraction located in downtown Pella. This business district expanded over 100,000 square feet (9,290 Square meters), representing an authentic Dutch square. Opened in 2001-the complex is home to some of the most delightful boutiques, stores, bakeries, retail/office space, still retaining the old world charm. The highlight of Molengracht plaza is the beautifully designed Dutch canal with a working drawbridge. Visitors are often seen to spend a day relaxing in the dutch style.
Klokkenspel is one of the most charming attractions one can come across. It is a musical performance that features eight mechanical figures dancing historical moments of Pella. This free attraction can be viewed from the courtyard side of Franklin Street in the historic downtown of Pella. Performed at regular intervals-the entire program lasts about 10 minutes where visitors can enjoy the performance from the courtyard that is decorated with flowerbeds, stone benches, and Dutch tiles.
Discover a piece of Holland in the heart of Iowa at Pella. Founded by Dutch immigrants in the late-19th Century, this small town to this day retains its unique architecture and cultural heritage. From the Vermeer Mill to the Pella Opera House and the Tulip Time Festival held each year, there is plenty to see and do during your visit. Visitors flock to the town during festive seasons of Tulip Time, the Sinterklaas Christmas Parade, and the Kermis Summer Festival to experience Dutch cuisine, music, crafts and more. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake, where they can boat, hike, bike or fish, while history buffs can check out Pella Historical Village and the Scholte House Museum.
National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum is a home to several vintage cars. A spot where you can increase your knowledge about cars and are taken back in time where the first home made machine was made to the modern racers. The museum provides information on the evolution of cars, helmets and other accessories. There are several photos, articles and artwork that talk about some legendary racers. From nationally famous racers to local drivers, you'll find them all this this fantastic museum.
Located in the historic town square of Pella, Vermeer Windmill is often described as the tallest operating windmill in the country. Built by Lucas Verbij, this beautiful Dutch smock mill stands on a four-story base. Along with being an iconic landmark, the windmill is also fully operational. This lofty tower is open to tours, with wheelchair-friendly access points. Visitors can explore five floors: where the second and third floor has interesting exhibits and displays.
The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is a federal wildlife refuge in Prairie City, Iowa. Named after Neal Edward Smith and established in 1990, the refuge aims to restore and preserve the diverse terrain of oak savanna and tallgrass prairie ecosystems that are characteristic to Iowa. Stretching over 8,654 acres (3,502 hectares), it is home to herds of bison and elk. The refuge is primarily known for providing excellent hunting, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The visitors center is also a great place to acquaint yourself with the ecology and landscape of the region.
Established in 1952, Rock Creek State Park is set on Rock Creek Lake. Encompassing an area of 1,697 acres (687 hectares), this state park is nestled in Jasper County in the state of Iowa. A number of recreational activities like hiking, camping, picnicking, horse riding, and snowmobiling are offered here. Anglers can find a variety of fishes like freshwater drum, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and green sunfish. Whether you're interested in water-based activities, hiking, or simply enjoying a quiet day outdoors, this park has something for everyone. It's a popular spot for both local residents and tourists looking to experience the beauty of central Iowa.
The stone structure of the Marion County Courthouse is designed in the Romanesque Revival architectural style. The edifice was erected in 1896 and was included in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1981. This historical structure is still intact and operational.
The Jasper County Courthouse at Iowa, is a structure that is spread over less than one acre of land. With a limestone structure, the doors and windows are made up of wood. The dome with the clock on the top added to the beauty of this structure. Best used for the annual meetings, this courthouse is said to be the most beautiful county capitol in Iowa.