Discover outdoorsy and historical things to do in Pella

Established in 1847 by Dutch settlers, Pella is one of Iowa's top destinations for history buffs. Rest in your hotel room at the Country Inn & Suites, and then spend an afternoon exploring landmarks like the canal at the Molengracht Plaza and the impressive Vermeer Windmill. You can also stroll past Dutch architecture at Central College and Pella Historical Village. If you're looking for things to do outdoors, Lake Red Rock is only five miles away and Bos Landen Golf Club offers an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all skill levels. Race fans can hop between Iowa Speedway and Knoxville Raceway as well as visit the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum.

Select what to see in a map

  • Culture
  • Family
  • Landmark
  • Nature

Scholte House Museum

1.26 mi / 2.03 km from the hotel
Built in 1847, the Scholte House has since expanded to 30 rooms. Learn more about the home’s original owner, Hendrik Peter Scholte, the founder of Pella.

Pella Historical Village

1.09 mi / 1.75 km from the hotel
Travel back in time with a visit to Pella Historical Village, where you can view a recreated blacksmith shop and grist mill. For a glimpse of Gouda pottery and a traditional Belgian organ built in 1884, explore the exhibits at Heritage Hall.

Bos Landen Golf Club

1.84 mi / 2.97 km from the hotel
Visit this affordable, 18-hole course designed by Dick Phelps. Players of any skill level can attempt this course thanks to the five sets of tees at each hole.

Central College

0.82 mi / 1.33 km from the hotel
Founded in 1853 with a class of 37, Central College now offers more than 70 academic programs. Athletes at The Dutch represent their college in 19 varsity sports in the NCAA Division III's Iowa Conference.

Cordova Park Observation Tower

9.49 mi / 15.27 km from the hotel
The staggering view of the Des Moines River Valley is worth the 170-step climb to the top of this 106-foot converted water tower.

Iowa Speedway

20.31 mi / 32.68 km from the hotel
Designed by NASCAR legend Rusty Wallace, Iowa Speedway delivers big entertainment for race fans who come to see cars speed around "The Fastest Short Track on the Planet."

Knoxville Raceway

11.23 mi / 18.07 km from the hotel
Once a track used for horse racing, Knoxville Raceway has evolved into a popular Saturday night venue for sprint car races.

Lake Red Rock

4.94 mi / 7.96 km from the hotel
Whether you are a hiker, a fisher, or a boater, you can spend a peaceful afternoon surrounded by scenic views at Lake Red Rock.

Molengracht Plaza

1.06 mi / 1.7 km from the hotel
Stroll through the Molengracht Plaza with its Dutch-style canal and colorful flower beds in downtown Pella’s business district.

National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum

11.24 mi / 18.08 km from the hotel
Get a glimpse of the fascinating history behind sprint car racing at this hall of fame and museum. You can learn about the daredevils who founded the sport and then see it in action at nearby Knoxville Raceway.

Pella Aquatic Center

1.19 mi / 1.91 km from the hotel
Kids can have a blast exploring the 494-foot Adventure River or splashing around in the expansive pool at this aquatic center.

Vermeer Windmill

1.1 mi / 1.77 km from the hotel
Partially built in the Netherlands and then assembled in Pella, the Vermeer Windmill is America’s tallest functioning windmill. Stop by to see the mill grind wheat into flour using wind power.