Red Oak Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the southwestern part of Iowa, Red Oak is a charming city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town hospitality. Nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque countryside, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and authentic Midwestern experience.

One of the highlights of Red Oak is its rich history, which is reflected in its well-preserved downtown area. Take a stroll along the historic Main Street, lined with beautifully restored buildings dating back to the late 19th century. Explore the local shops, boutiques, and antique stores, where you can find one-of-a-kind treasures and unique souvenirs.

For nature enthusiasts, Red Oak is a gateway to outdoor adventures. The nearby Viking Lake State Park offers a tranquil retreat amidst wooded hills and a pristine lake. Spend a day hiking the scenic trails, fishing in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach. The park also provides camping facilities, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway with family or friends.

To delve deeper into the area's history, pay a visit to the Montgomery County History Center. Housed in a former Carnegie library, this museum showcases exhibits that chronicle the region's past, from its Native American heritage to its role in the Underground Railroad. Learn about the pioneers who shaped the community and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture.

Red Oak is also home to a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Wilson Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of live performances, including theater productions, concerts, and dance recitals. Immerse yourself in the local talent and appreciate the creativity that thrives in this close-knit community.

When it comes to dining, Red Oak offers a range of options to satisfy every palate. From cozy cafes serving homemade comfort food to family-owned restaurants specializing in farm-to-table cuisine, you'll find plenty of delicious choices. Don't forget to try the local favorite, the famous Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich, for a true taste of the Midwest.

Alternative names: Population: 5.5 thous.Area: 4 mi²Elevation: 1033 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°0'38"N, 95°13'51"W

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IowaUnited States

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Red Oak Top Attractions

Red Oak Attractions - What to See and Explore

Red Oak offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Chautauqua Park, Montgomery County Courthouse, Red Oak Public Library, Thos. D. Murphy Co. Factory and Power Plant. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Park
Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park is a historic pavilion located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. The first Chautauqua in Iowa was established at Clear Lake, Iowa in 1876, and by the 1920s there were as many as 500 Chautauqua assemblies in the state.
Tower • Romanesque architecture
Montgomery County Courthouse
The Montgomery County Courthouse is located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. It was individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. In 2016 it was included as a contributing property in the Red Oak Downtown Historic District.
Library • Tudor Revival architecture
Red Oak Public Library
The Red Oak Public Library is located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. Andrew Carnegie accepted the city's application for a grant for $12,500 on November 27, 1906. The Chicago architectural firm of Patton & Miller designed the Tudor Revival structure. It was dedicated on October 8, 1909.

41°0'17"N • 95°13'48"W
Thos. D. Murphy Co. Factory and Power Plant
The Thos. D. Murphy Co. Factory and Power Plant, also known as the Thos. D. Murphy Calendar Company, is located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. Thomas D.
41°0'38"N • 95°13'22"W
Alfred Hebard House
The Alfred Hebard House is a historic residence located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. Hebard settled in Iowa five years after he graduated from Yale in 1832. He farmed outside of Burlington during which time he served in the territorial legislature.
41°0'31"N • 95°13'55"W
Montgomery County Jail
The Montgomery County Jail, also known as the Joint Law Enforcement Center, is located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. Built in 2012, the facility houses administrative offices for the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department, the Red Oak Police Department, the Joint Communications Center and a 24-bed jail.
41°0'38"N • 95°13'22"W
Edmund B. Osborne House
The Edmund B. Osborne House, also known as the Heritage Hill Bed and Breakfast, is a historic residence located in Red Oak, Iowa, United States. Osborne is the inventor and co-developer of the art calendar industry. He had William A.

Day trips

Red Oak – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Red Oak, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (Omaha), Fun-Plex (Omaha), Baxter Arena (Omaha).

39 milesW
Animal exhibits plus a giant desert dome
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha
The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, stands as an impressive testament to the wonders of the natural world. This sprawling zoo, recognized as one of the best in the United States, offers visitors an extraordinary array of exhibits and experiences, from...
43 milesW
Theme park, Amusement park
Fun-Plex, Omaha
Nestled in the heart of Omaha, Nebraska, Fun-Plex stands as a beacon of entertainment for thrill-seekers and families alike. This vibrant amusement park offers a wide array of attractions designed to provide a day full of excitement and joy.
44 milesW
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Baxter Arena, Omaha
Baxter Arena stands as a beacon of sports and entertainment in Omaha, Nebraska. This modern facility, which opened its doors in October 2015, is a hub for athletic events, concerts, and community gatherings. With a seating capacity of over 7,500, it offers an intimate...
41 milesNW
Museum
Omaha Children's Museum, Omaha
The Omaha Children's Museum is a nonprofit learning and exploration space for young people located at 500 South 20th Street in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. The museum has received a national award from the Association of Science and Technology Museums.
41 milesNW
Diverse collection and rotating exhibits
Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha
The Joslyn Art Museum is the principal fine arts museum in the state of Nebraska, United States of America. Located in Omaha, it was opened in 1931 at the initiative of Sarah H. Joslyn in memory of her husband, businessman George A. Joslyn.