Centerville Travel Guide

Explore Centerville, Iowa with this comprehensive travel guide that includes top attractions, food, lodging, local culture, safety, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Centerville

Located in South Central Iowa, Centerville is a quaint and peaceful city that has plenty to offer for visitors looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. The city boasts of historic museums, outdoor recreation opportunities, delicious local cuisine, and warm hospitality. Centerville is the perfect place for travelers who want to experience small-town America while being surrounded by natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Centerville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Centerville has a rich history that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical places. These are the top attractions that you should definitely visit during your trip:

  • Appanoose County Historical & Coal Mining Museum: This museum showcases the history of coal mining along with the local history of the region.
  • Appanoose County Freedom Rock: This rock has been painted by Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II, known for his patriotic “Freedom Rocks” installations throughout Iowa.
  • The Continental Divide Monument: Marks the spot where the water drainage system splits, with one half going to the Gulf of Mexico and the other to the Great Lakes.
  • The Square: A historic downtown area with a central location surrounded by shops and restaurants.

Natural Attractions of Centerville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Centerville is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities for travelers. Here are some places you should visit:

  • Rathbun Lake: A popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.
  • Lelah Bradley Park: A small park with picnic tables, grills, and a playground for kids.
  • Honey Creek Resort State Park: A beautiful state park that offers plenty of outdoor activities and amenities such as golf, water sports, hiking trails, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Centerville

Centerville is home to several scenic hiking and biking trails that offer great views of the area’s natural beauty, including:

  • Rathbun Lake Trail: A 3-mile trail that offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding area.
  • Dale Monson Wildlife and Prairie Area Trail: A 1.5-mile hiking trail that takes visitors through a restored prairie and a wetland area.

Best Things to Do in Centerville: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy during your time in Centerville, such as:

  • Balloon tours: Experience the beauty of Centerville from the skies with Hot Air Balloon Rides Over Iowa.
  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak for a leisurely paddle in Rathbun Lake, or explore Fox River with Fox Ridge Nature Park.
  • Fishing: Explore the area’s numerous waterways and try your hand at catching some fish—from crappie, bluegill, bass, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Centerville

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Centerville, which includes a mix of indoor and outdoor activities:

  • Day 1: Visit the Appanoose County Historical & Coal Mining Museum and the Appanoose County Freedom Rock.
  • Day 2: Take a hot air balloon tour and enjoy scenic views of the area.
  • Day 3: Hike at Dale Monson Wildlife and Prairie Area Trail and spend the afternoon by the lake.
  • Day 4: Explore the boutique shops and restaurants in The Square.
  • Day 5: Experience the Honey Creek Resort State Park with golfing or other outdoor activities.
  • Day 6: Kayak in Fox Ridge Nature Park.
  • Day 7: Go fishing in Rathbun Lake and enjoy your catch of the day.

Food and Drink Scene of Centerville

Centerville offers a unique food and drink scene that reflects its history and culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maid-Rites: This loose meat sandwich on a bun is a Midwest classic. Try them at Maid-Rite_Diner or the Penn Station Grill.
  • Sweet Treats: Enjoy a sweet treat like ice cream or a shake at The Soda Fountain, a classic 1920s drugstore turned ice cream parlor.

Local Beverages

  • Country Cabaret: A country music-themed bar that offers a variety of drinks and live music.
  • Appanoose Rapids Brewing Company: A local brewery that offers a rotating menu of craft beers.

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

Centerville has a variety of lodging options to fit any budget, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the top accommodations in the area:

  • Honey Creek Resort State Park: A beautiful and luxurious resort with lake view rooms.
  • The Continental Hotel: A historic hotel located downtown wrapped in modern amenities for a comfortable stay.
  • Aunt B’s Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast within walking distance from Rathbun Lake.

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

Centerville offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for loved ones or mementos of your trip, including:

  • Centerville T-Shirts: Pick up a t-shirt at From the Ground Up boutique printed with one-of-a-kind designs.
  • Local honey: Check out Maple Valley Farm for some of the best honey in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Centerville

Centerville is a small-town city that values community, Midwest values, and a close connection to the area’s beautiful natural surroundings.

## Best Time to Visit Centerville

The best time to visit Centerville is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant for most outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Centerville

Do:

  • Take time to explore the local museums and historical areas.
  • Enjoy the great outdoors and natural beauty of Centerville.
  • Taste the local fare and shop local.

Don’t:

  • Litter. Keep Centerville clean by disposing of your waste properly.
  • Speed limits - the speed limit laws, are strictly enforced on area streets and outdoor recreation areas.

Safety and Health

Centerville is a safe and healthy destination for travelers.

Safety in Centerville

While Centerville is a relatively safe destination, here are a few tips to keep in mind to stay safe during your visit:

  • Take precautions against ticks and mosquitoes if you spend time outdoors.
  • Wear life jackets when boating to stay safe on the water.

Health in Centerville

It’s a good idea to bring any necessary prescription medications with you on your trip, as medical facilities may be limited.

Getting to Centerville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Centerville is located in South Central Iowa, easily accessible by car or bus.

Airports Near Centerville

The Des Moines International Airport is the closest airport, located about 90 miles north of Centerville.

Bus Stations Near Centerville

Greyhound has a bus station located in Ottumwa, about 30 miles from Centerville.

Other Options

Renting a car or taking a taxi, would provide the most efficient and flexible transport means in the area.

How to Get Around in Centerville

Travelers can get around Centerville by car, bike, or on foot.

Where to Go Next from Centerville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Centerville is the perfect home base for exploring other destinations in Iowa, such as:

  • Des Moines: The capital of Iowa, located about 90 miles north of Centerville. Known for its rich history, cultural events, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Centerville is a charming destination with plenty of things to see and do, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a relaxing vacation with plenty of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. Start planning your trip to this beautiful Iowa city today!