Ottumwa Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Ottumwa, Iowa, including places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Ottumwa

Ottumwa is a picturesque city located in South Central Iowa. Famous for its natural scenery, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and friendly locals, Ottumwa is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

List of Places to Visit in Ottumwa

Below is a list of places to visit in Ottumwa:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wapello County Historical Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing the history of Ottumwa and Wapello County.
  • The Airpower Museum: A museum dedicated to showcasing the rich aviation history of Ottumwa and Iowa.
  • American Gothic House: A must-visit place for fans of Grant Wood’s iconic painting “American Gothic”.
  • Indian Hills Community College Art Gallery: A free art gallery featuring a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Ottumwa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Wapello State Park: A beautiful park featuring a lake, trails, campsites, and picnic areas.
  • Rathbun Lake: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports.
  • Bunker Mill Bridge: A historic wooden covered bridge, offering stunning views of the Des Moines River.
  • The Pioneer Ridge Nature Area: A nature preserve offering hiking trails, bird watching, and scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ottumwa

Here are some popular hiking and biking routes in Ottumwa:

  • Wapello Trail: A 5.5-mile trail that runs along the Des Moines River, featuring beautiful views and flat terrain.
  • Pioneer Ridge Nature Area Trail: A 2.5-mile trail that winds through the nature preserve, offering stunning views of Ottumwa’s natural beauty.
  • Rathbun Lake Trail: A 5-mile trail that circles Rathbun Lake, offering scenic views and a chance to see local wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Ottumwa: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Ottumwa:

  • Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the beauty of Ottumwa from above with a hot air balloon ride.
  • Go Fishing: Ottumwa is home to some of the best fishing spots in Iowa.
  • Take a Scenic Drive: Ottumwa is surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys, making it the perfect place for a leisurely drives.
  • Explore the Downtown Historical District: Home to a variety of local shops and restaurants, the downtown historical district is a great place to spend an afternoon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ottumwa

If you’re planning to spend a week in Ottumwa, consider this itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the downtown historical district
2 Hike the Wapello Trail and visit the American Gothic House
3 Spend the day at Lake Wapello State Park
4 Take a hot air balloon ride and explore Rathbun Lake
5 Visit the Wapello County Historical Museum and Indian Hills Community College Art Gallery
6 Go fishing or take a scenic drive through the Ottumwa countryside
7 Take a tour of the Airpower Museum and the Bunker Mill Bridge

Food and Drink Scene of Ottumwa

Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Ottumwa:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: A beloved Iowa specialty, the pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try in Ottumwa.
  • Pizza King: A local restaurant famous for its delicious pizza and garlic breadsticks.
  • Beef Brisket: A traditional Midwestern dish, Ottumwa is home to some of the best beef brisket you’ll ever taste.

Local Beverages

  • Maid-Rite: A local fast-food chain famous for its ‘loose-meat’ sandwiches and milkshakes.
  • D&D Brewing Company: A popular craft brewery in Ottumwa, offering a variety of local beers.

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

Here are some recommended places to stay in Ottumwa:

  • Hotel Ottumwa: A historic hotel located in the heart of downtown, offering comfortable rooms and amenities.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites: A modern hotel with an indoor pool and free breakfast.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham: A budget-friendly hotel located near the Wapello County Fairgrounds.

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

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Ottumwa:

  • Grant Wood Memorabilia: Ottumwa is the birthplace of Grant Wood, a famous American painter. Look for memorabilia related to his iconic painting “American Gothic”.
  • Maid-Rite T-Shirts and Hats: Show your love for Maid-Rite by buying a T-Shirt or hat from one of their locations.
  • Locally Made Crafts: Ottumwa is home to a variety of local artisans, look for their handmade crafts and products in downtown shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Ottumwa

Ottumwa is a friendly and welcoming community that values hard work, family, and tradition. The local culture is heavily influenced by agriculture, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in the local economy.

Best Time to Visit Ottumwa

The best time to visit Ottumwa is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot and humid, and winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ottumwa

Do:

  • Try the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: You won’t regret it!
  • Explore the natural beauty of Ottumwa: Take advantage of the variety of outdoor activities.
  • Be friendly and respectful to the locals: Ottumwans are a friendly and welcoming bunch.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Ottumwa has a strong community spirit, and the locals take pride in keeping their city clean.
  • Be loud and disruptive: Ottumwa is a quiet town, and locals appreciate peace and tranquility.
  • Neglect to tip wait staff: In Iowa, it is customary to tip your server between 15-20%.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ottumwa

Ottumwa is a safe and welcoming town, but as with any destination, travelers need to take precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings, lock your car doors, and take care when walking or hiking in more rural areas.

Health in Ottumwa

There are several healthcare facilities in Ottumwa, including the Ottumwa Regional Health Center and the VA Clinic. Travelers should also be aware of common illnesses and take precautions to avoid them, such as using mosquito repellent in the summer months.

Getting to Ottumwa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ottumwa

The Ottumwa Regional Airport is the closest airport, with direct flights to Chicago O’Hare and St. Louis.

Bus Stations Near Ottumwa

Greyhound has a stop in Ottumwa.

Other Options

Rental cars are available in Ottumwa, and travelers can also consider taking a train to nearby cities like Des Moines and Iowa City.

How to Get Around in Ottumwa

The best way to get around Ottumwa is by car. However, walking and biking are also good options, particularly in the downtown area. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Ottumwa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • Des Moines: Iowa’s capital city and home to a variety of museums, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Amish Country: A fascinating destination located about an hour from Ottumwa, featuring Amish communities and cultural attractions.
  • Iowa City: Home to the University of Iowa and a variety of arts and culture attractions.

Conclusion

Ottumwa is a charming and authentic Midwestern town, with a rich history, natural beauty, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or just a relaxing getaway, Ottumwa has something for everyone.