Thursday, April 28, 2011

Vacation in Southeast Iowa!

Thinking about what to do once school lets out and summer beckons? Interested in arts, culture and history? Below are links to some attractions in Southeast Iowa and events happening in the area in the coming months.

Eldon

5 Reasons to Visit the American Gothic House this Summer

•Admission is free! Bring your family, grab one of our pitchforks, dress up and get your photo taken in front of the iconic American Gothic House!

•Check out the new Nan Wood Graham exhibit, featuring an original painting by the female model in American Gothic—who was also Grant Wood’s sister!

•See what Iowa landscapes used to look like with our native prairie flower garden, and take a walk or bike ride down the paved trail that begins in our back yard.

•Eat a delicious slice of apple pie baked inside the American Gothic House! Author and baker Beth Howard runs the Pitchfork Pie Stand during summer months. Find out more about Beth at her website,www.theworldneedsmorepie.com

Shop for one-of-a-kind American Gothic House items in our gift shop.

Carnegie Library Eldon’s Carnegie Library holds books and unique artwork. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rock Island Railroad Depot Visit the restored depot to learn about Eldon’s rich history as a railroad town.

Gothic Days June 10-12. Join us on the forty first annual Gothic Days weekend for a bike ride, 5K, art contest, bake sale, craft and book sale, supper and music in the park, games, and more!

Other Eldon Attractions Eldon is sure to captivate you with its small town charm as you visit its many historic sites.

Ottumwa: The Bridge City

Interested in seeing more art on your trip to the American Gothic House Center? Visit Ottumwa!

Indian Hills Community College Art Gallery

M&J Art and Frame Gallery

Ottumwa Area Arts Council: Sculpture Trail

See a show at Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center

Wapello County Historical Museum

Ottumwa events: O-Town BBQ, lunch and movies in the park, pro balloon races, golf tournament, Friday evening concert series, and more!

There is lots to see and do in Wapello County!

Get outside and enjoy the warmth!

Pioneer Ridge Nature Center Visit this two story nature center for camping and fun family events like night time hikes, a ropes course, and kite flying.

Walk, run, or bike the trails in

Wapello County

Jefferson County

Fairfield: If you’re passing through Jefferson County on your way to the American Gothic House Center, check out Fairfield's art galleries, farmer’s markets and art walks on the first Friday of each month, and the shows at the Sondheim Center

While winding your way through Southeast Iowa, don’t miss the Villages of Van Buren! Van Buren County is just a short drive from Eldon and is full of unique shops, parks and outdoor recreation, and historic sites for those looking for a trip with historical emphasis.

More tourism resources:

Central Iowa Tourism Region

Travel Iowa

So you see, there are plenty of attractions and events to keep you busy on your trip to Southeast Iowa this summer. We look forward to seeing you!

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