Albia Travel Guide

Explore the Midwest town of Albia with our guide, featuring the best things to do, places to stay, and local culture.


Introduction to Albia

Albia is a charming town located in South Central Iowa, surrounded by rolling countryside, picturesque lakes, and lush forests. Despite being a small town, Albia has a lot to offer to visitors who love history, nature, and outdoor adventures. The town has a population of around 3500 and is located at the junction of State Highways 5 and 34, making it easily accessible from surrounding cities like Des Moines and Ottumwa.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Albia, as well as the best things to do and see in the town.

List of Places to Visit in Albia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Monroe County Historical Society Museum

The Monroe County Historical Society Museum is the top attraction in Albia for history buffs, as it provides a wealth of information about the town’s past and its development over the years. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the town’s rich history.

Albia Union Depot Railroad Museum

Located in the former Albia US Railroad Station, the Albia Union Depot Railroad Museum is another must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts. The museum has a collection of artifacts, including photographs and documents that showcase the role of the railroads in shaping the town’s past and present.

Natural Attractions of Albia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rathbun Lake

Rathbun Lake is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in the area. This 11,000-acre lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers a range of recreational activities, such as fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and camping.

Pioneer Ridge Nature Area

The Pioneer Ridge Nature Area is a pristine wilderness area that covers 650 acres of rolling hills, forests, and meadows. The nature area has several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities to see local wildlife like deer, turkey, and foxes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Albia

Rathbun Dam Trail

The Rathbun Dam Trail is a 4.6-mile trail that takes visitors across the Rathbun Dam and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The trail is open year-round and is suitable for both hiking and biking.

Pioneer Ridge Nature Area Trail

The Pioneer Ridge Nature Area Trail is a 2.9-mile trail that meanders through the woods and meadows of the Pioneer Ridge Nature Area. The trail offers a peaceful and refreshing escape into nature and is ideal for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Best Things to Do in Albia: Activities and Tours

Albia Paddle & Pedal

Albia Paddle & Pedal offers a range of rental equipment for visitors who want to explore the town and surrounding area on foot, bike, or boat. The rental shop has a wide selection of bikes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards that are ideal for exploring the trails and waterways of the town.

Iowa River Adventures

Iowa River Adventures offers guided fishing trips on the Iowa River, which snakes its way through the surrounding countryside. The company provides all necessary equipment, such as rods, reels, and bait, as well as knowledgeable guides who know the best spots for catching fish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Albia

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Monroe County Historical Society Museum and the Albia Union Depot Railroad Museum
Day 2 Explore the Rathbun Dam Trail and spend the afternoon swimming and picnicking at Rathbun Lake
Day 3 Rent a bike or kayak from Albia Paddle & Pedal and explore the town’s bike trails or waterways
Day 4 Take a guided fishing trip with Iowa River Adventures
Day 5 Hike the Pioneer Ridge Nature Area Trail, followed by a picnic lunch in one of the park’s meadows
Day 6 Visit the nearby towns of Moravia and Centerville for a taste of small-town Midwestern life
Day 7 Enjoy a relaxed day in Albia, exploring the town’s restaurants, cafes, and shops

Food and Drink Scene of Albia

Must-Try Dishes

Albia Maid-Rite

A Maid-Rite is a loose meat sandwich that is a hallmark of Midwestern cuisine, and Albia has its own version of this classic dish. The Albia Maid-Rite is made with seasoned ground beef, served on a steam bun and topped with mustard, pickles, and onions.

Steakhouse Supper Club

The Steakhouse Supper Club is a popular restaurant that serves up all the Midwestern classics, such as steaks, burgers, and fried chicken, in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Local Beverages

Iowa Wine

Iowa has a burgeoning wine scene, and several vineyards and wineries in the state produce a range of high-quality wines. Visitors to Albia can sample some of these wines at local wineries such as Eagles Landing Winery.

Madhouse Brewing Company

Madhouse Brewing Company is a small craft brewery located in Newton, Iowa, that produces a range of innovative and flavorful beers. The brewery offers tasting tours and taproom hours for visitors who want to taste some of their unique and tasty beers.

Where to Stay in Albia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Lights Motel

The Northern Lights Motel is a quaint and comfortable motel located in the center of Albia. The motel offers clean and spacious rooms, as well as easy access to the town’s restaurants and shops.

Lakeside Hotel and Casino

The Lakeside Hotel and Casino is a full-service hotel and casino located near Rathbun Lake. The hotel offers a range of amenities such as an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Albia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Honey Creek Iowa Pottery

Honey Creek Iowa Pottery is a local pottery studio that produces a range of handcrafted pottery, including mugs, vases, and bowls. Visitors to Albia can purchase some of their unique and original pottery as souvenirs of their trip.

Iowa Smokehouse

Iowa Smokehouse is a local food store that specializes in smoked meats such as ham, bacon, and sausages. The shop also offers a range of locally-produced cheeses and bread, making it the perfect place to purchase some local treats to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Albia

Albia is a small town with a friendly and welcoming community. The town has a rich and varied cultural heritage, with influences from Irish, Dutch, and German immigrants.

Best Time to Visit Albia

The best time to visit Albia is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny and the outdoor attractions like Rathbun Lake can be fully enjoyed. However, visitors who prefer cooler temperatures and fall foliage might prefer to visit in the fall months from September to November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Albia

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs of the town.
  • Take advantage of the town’s outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
  • Sample some of the local cuisine, such as the Albia Maid-Rite and Iowa wine.
  • Bring home some unique souvenirs from the town, such as Honey Creek Iowa Pottery or locally-produced smoked meats and cheese.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property or engage in illegal activities.
  • Disrespect wildlife or the natural surroundings of the town.
  • Damage or destroy historical or cultural artifacts.

Safety and Health

Safety in Albia

Albia is a relatively safe town, with low crime rates and a friendly and welcoming community. However, visitors should exercise caution when hiking or exploring the town’s outdoor areas and should be aware of potentially hazardous wildlife such as snakes or ticks.

Health in Albia

There are several medical facilities located in Albia, including the Monroe County Hospital & Clinics, which provides a range of medical services to visitors and residents alike.

Getting to Albia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Albia

The nearest airports to Albia are Des Moines International Airport, which is approximately 75 miles away, and the Southeast Iowa Regional Airport, which is approximately 58 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Albia

The closest bus station to Albia is located in Ottumwa, approximately 30 miles away. Greyhound and Jefferson Lines offer regular bus service to Ottumwa from surrounding cities.

Other Options

Visitors who prefer to drive to Albia can easily access the town via State Highways 5 and 34, which connect to major cities in the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Albia

Albia is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike, with several dedicated bike trails in the area. Visitors who prefer a more comfortable mode of transportation can opt to rent a car from one of the several car rental agencies located in nearby cities such as Des Moines or Ottumwa.

Where to Go Next from Albia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Moravia

Moravia is a nearby town located approximately 20 miles from Albia, known for its beautiful scenery and quaint small-town charm. Visitors to Moravia can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites, or take a hike on one of the local trails.

Pella

Pella is a charming Dutch town located approximately 60 miles from Albia, known for its picturesque windmills, tulip fields, and traditional Dutch architecture. Visitors to Pella can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, such as the Vermeer Mill or the Pella Historical Village.

Conclusion

Albia is a hidden gem in the heart of Iowa, with a rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and friendly community. This comprehensive guide provides visitors with all the information they need to plan a memorable and exciting trip to this charming Midwestern town.