REGIONAL
26 • THE SOURCE 2024
REGIONAL
Area Attractions
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 .
NELSON PIONEER FARM AND MUSEUM
County : Mahaska Take a step back in time to Mahaska County pioneer and mining history at the Nelson Pioneer farm and Museum . The form itself belonged to the Daniel and Margaret Carden Nelson family , who settled at the site in the early 1840s . The Nelson family is buried in Oskaloosa ’ s own Forest Cemetery , and the farm – now a museum and historical “ pioneer village ” – is operated by the Mahaska County Historical Society . The museum houses two floors of traditional museum exhibits as well as a genealogy library on the top floor . Buildings include the Nelson House , constructed for Daniel Nelson ’ s family in 1852 , as well as various historic buildings important to Mahaska County ’ s history .
KNOXVILLE RACEWAY
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 . 6-9
LAKE KEOMAH STATE PARK
County : Mahaska Named for the counties of Keokuk and Mahaska , Lake Keomah State Park is a pristine example of Iowa ’ s natural beauty , located in Mahaska County . Made up of 366 acres of forest situated along an 84-acre lake , the combination of forest and marsh environment makes the park a perfect habitat for Iowa ’ s wildlife , including bullfrogs and blue heron . The lake was drained in 2024 to improve the water quality , with much of the lake being closed until it can be refilled by rainfall .
PIONEER RIDGE NATURE AREA
County : Wapello The nature area is the home of the county conservation department . 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 .