Charles City Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Charles City is a hidden gem that offers visitors a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its picturesque landscapes, charming downtown area, and warm hospitality, this small city is a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and authentic Midwestern experience.

One of the highlights of Charles City is its rich history, which is evident in its well-preserved architecture and historical sites. Take a stroll through the downtown area and admire the beautifully restored buildings, some of which date back to the late 19th century. The Floyd County Historical Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, featuring exhibits that showcase the region's past, including its Native American heritage and the impact of the railroad on the city's development.

For nature lovers, Charles City offers a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is situated along the Cedar River, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The nearby Charles City Whitewater Park is a popular spot for adventurous visitors, offering thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking experiences. If you prefer a more leisurely outdoor activity, the city's parks and trails are perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery.

Art and culture also thrive in Charles City. The Charles City Arts Center showcases the works of local and regional artists, while the Charles Theatre hosts film screenings and live performances. The city's vibrant arts scene is further celebrated during the annual Charles City Art-a-Fest, a lively event that features art exhibits, live music, and food vendors.

Food enthusiasts will find a variety of dining options in Charles City, ranging from charming cafes to family-owned restaurants. Indulge in classic Midwestern comfort food or try some of the city's unique culinary offerings, such as locally sourced farm-to-table dishes.

Alternative names: Population: 7.5 thous.Area: 6.3 mi²Elevation: 994 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°3'58"N, 92°40'38"W

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IowaUnited States

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Charles City Top Attractions

Charles City Attractions - What to See and Explore

Charles City offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Main Street Bridge, Floyd County Court House, Dr. Salsbury's Laboratories, A. B. C. Dodd House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Bridge
Main Street Bridge
The Main Street Bridge is a historic structure located in Charles City, Iowa, United States. It spans the Cedar River for 248 feet. Before a bridge was built at this location local citizens would cross the river by way of a ferry, at a ford in summer, and across the ice in winter.
43°3'55"N • 92°40'53"W
Floyd County Court House
The Floyd County Court House in Charles City, Iowa, United States was built in 1940. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 as a part of the PWA-Era County Courthouses of IA Multiple Properties Submission.
Museum
Dr. Salsbury's Laboratories
Dr. Salsbury's Laboratories, Main Office and Production Laboratory Building, also known as the Floyd County Museum, is a historic building located in Charles City, Iowa, United States.

43°3'55"N • 92°40'6"W
A. B. C. Dodd House
The A. B. C. Dodd House is a historic house located at 310 3rd Avenue in Charles City, Iowa.
43°4'1"N • 92°41'2"W
Alvin Miller House
The Alvin Miller House is a Usonian home beside the Cedar River in Charles City, Iowa. It was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and constructed over a five-year period completed in 1951.
43°3'55"N • 92°39'38"W
Charles Walter Hart House
The Charles Walter Hart House is a historic building located in Charles City, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Vernacular architecture
Charles Henry Parr House
The Charles Henry Parr House is a historic building located in Charles City, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The 2½-story, vernacular frame structure was completed in 1902.

Day trips

Charles City – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Charles City, it's worth seeing attractions such as: McLeod Center (Cedar Falls), Burr Oak House/Masters Hotel (Decorah), Young Arena (Waterloo).

40 milesS
Arenas and stadiums, Basketball, Sport venue
McLeod Center, Cedar Falls
The McLeod Center is a 7,018-seat multi-purpose arena on the campus of the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa, USA, currently housing the university's teams in men's and women's basketball, and women's volleyball.
49 milesNE
Museum
Burr Oak House/Masters Hotel, Decorah
The Burr Oak House/Masters Hotel, also known as the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum and Park, is a historic building located in Burr Oak, Iowa, United States. The 1½-story frame structure was built in 1856, and features a full width front porch and a raised basement. Its significance is derived from three elements of its history.
43 milesSE
Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue, Hockey
Young Arena, Waterloo
Young Arena is a 3,000-seat multi-purpose arena in Waterloo, Iowa, United States, and was built in 1994.
48 milesE
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, Decorah
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa is the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, with over 33,000 artifacts, 12 historic buildings, and a library and archives.
48 milesE
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Porter House Museum, Decorah
The Porter House Museum is a house and museum in Decorah, Iowa. It was the home of Adelbert Field Porter and his wife, Grace Young Porter, as well as Grace's mother and father, until their deaths. On August 6, 1975, the house was added to the National Register of Historic Places.