Ottumwa Stories: One County, Seven Great Communities

Published August 1, 2023

Wapello County may cover only 436 square miles, but the seven communities in this area are packed with things to do, places to visit, and restaurants to enjoy. Each city has its own personality and history, so visiting all of them is a must. 

Nowhere else in the world will you find world-renowned art and history attractions, live music every weekend, international cuisine, a wide variety of outdoor activities, and a huge helping of Iowa Nice. Come explore Wapello County and create a one-of-a-kind itinerary for your next visit.

Ottumwa - Spend a day in the sun at the Beach Ottumwa. Take in a show at Bridge View Center. Learn about the county's fascinating backstory at the Iowa Heartland History Connection. Explore the trails and nature center at Pioneer Ridge Nature Area. Choose a loop of the 16-mile Wapello County Trail System. Shop the local stores along the Main Street District.

Agency - Visit the grave and park of the county's namesake Chief Wapello. Try a new drink combination at Empowered Nutrition. Spend time at the city's Civil War Monument.

Blakesburg - Experience the Antique Airplane Association's 1930s airfield at the Air Power Museum, Check out the Blakesburg Community Museum. Learn the story of the Swedish-American Immigrant Memorial.

Eddyville - See the exhibits in the Eddyville Historical Museum, Look for cactus blooming in the Eddyville Sand Dunes Prairie. Find the Soldier in the Park. 

Eldon - Have your parody picture taken at the American Gothic House. See the restoration on the McHaffey Opera House. Sample the tenderloins at Chommy’s Bar & Grill. Make all nine stops on the American Gothic History Trail. 

Chillicothe - Slow down and enjoy nature at City Park.

Kirkville - Explore the Kirkville Wildlife Area. Stop at the Veterans Memorial.

Across Wapello County:

Make all nine stops on the Wapello County Civil War Trail.

Play all nine of Wapello County's Disc Golf Courses.