Ottumwa Stories: Your Family's Summer Vacation In Wapello County

Published August 1, 2022

Summer may be winding down, but there’s still plenty of time to plan an epic family trip to Ottumwa before school starts. Here’s just one of the itineraries you’ll find at meetottumwa.org to make vacation planning effortless:

Events: Visit the Wapello County Farmers Market and Ottumwa Community Market. Check out all the entries at Midwest Ford Fest. Cheer on the teams facing off in the Indian Hills Soccer Classic. Enjoy live music at the American Gothic House's Porchfest.

Attractions: Bring the whole family to the Beach Ottumwa and beat the heat. Hike on 16 miles of Wapello County Trails. Become part of our Video Game Capital of the World history at the Old School Pinball & Arcade. See everything Pioneer Ridge Nature Area & Center has to offer.

Arts & Culture: Take in a nationally renowned show at Bridge View Center. Take a walking tour of Downtown Ottumwa’s street art. Have your own parody picture taken at the American Gothic House & Center. 

Dining: Sample the Mexican street food at Botanitas Isa-Abys. Enjoy award-winning barbecue at Warehouse Barbecue Co. and Bubba-Q’s. Find a seat at the horseshoe counter at Canteen Lunch in the Alley. Experience the fried burrito at Garnacheria y Taqueria Ebenezer.

Sweet Treats: Find out why Graham’s Dairy Freez is a local favorite. Discover the flavor of the week at Rock N Roll Dairy Bar. Visit Ashby’s Bakery & Ice Cream Shop for all kinds of sweet treats. Create your own flavor combinations at Polar Xpress Frozen Yogurt. Order an old-fashioned milk shake at South Side Drug’s Soda Fountain.

Want more? Click HERE to start planning your family trip to Ottumwa and Wapello County. We look forward to seeing you soon!