Attractions
Page 25 • The Source 2023
Regionally
KNOXVILLE RACEWAY
PELLA HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUMS
County : Marion
Pella Historical Society and Museums was started in 1935 by a group of dedicated Pella citizens with a passion and vision to preserve the history of Pella . The organization is a cornerstone in the community , preserving and telling the story of Pella ’ s past through museums , events and educational programs . Pella Historical also serves a pivotal role in the community and surrounding area as the sponsor of the annual Tulip Time Festival , held the first Thursday , Friday and Saturday in May . For more information , visit pellahistorical . org .
County : Marion
The Knoxville Raceway is the Sprint Car Capital of the World and home of the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals . Known as a legacy and leader in dirt track racing , races are held on Saturday nights from April through September each year . The 62nd Knoxville Nationals will be held Aug . 9-12 , 2023 .
AMERICAN GOTHIC HOUSE CENTER
County : Wapello
Based on the 1930 painting “ American Gothic ” by Iowa-raised Grant Wood , the house has become a major tourist attraction in the area . The house has changed ownership and is currently owned by the State of Iowa . The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The center has an exhibition gallery , including the Wood painting , activities for children , a gift shop and an outdoor area . The AGHC is currently looking to add to its building to welcome larger crowds .
PIONEER RIDGE NATURE AREA
County : Wapello
The nature area is the home of the county conservation department . It currently offers nine campsites but is aiming to triple that number in the coming years . The area has over 12 miles of multi-use trails and offers environmental education programming , picnicking , hiking , biking , horseback riding and fishing . Also , the nature area offers shelter rentals for special events , such as weddings .
EDMUNDSON PARK
County : Mahaska
Edmundson Park , built between 1936-1938 and listed on the National Register of Historic places , is Oskaloosa ’ s largest city park . Located in the southwest quadrant of Oskaloosa , the park is made up of 60 acres of landscape that includes a 10-foot wide , concrete recreation trail , a 1.5 acre fishing pond , an 18-hole disc golf course , three ball diamonds and an outdoor swimming pool . The park ’ s amenities are rounded out with several benches perfect for enjoying a beautiful day spent in Oskaloosa , and seven shelter houses . The park is also home to the 18-hole Edmundson Golf Course . Construction of a new , wheelchair accessible playground in the park is set to begin in the spring of 2023 .