Things to do in Keokuk County

Discover the Charm of Keokuk County

Keokuk County offers a blend of historical treasures, enriching museums, and exciting recreational activities. Here’s why you should plan a visit and experience the many highlights this vibrant region has to offer:

Explore Our Historical Buildings, Recreation sites, Monuments, and more

Step back in time and admire the architectural and historical significance of Keokuk County’s landmarks. 

With so much to see and do, Keokuk County is a destination that offers both historical depth and recreational fun. We look forward to welcoming you to explore all that we have to offer!

See our Historical Buildings & Landmarks

Keokuk County, Iowa, boasts several historical buildings and attractions that offer a glimpse into its rich past. Here are some notable ones:

Located in Sigourney, the county seat, this historic courthouse is an architectural gem. Built in 1911, it features a classical revival style with impressive columns and intricate detailing.

Keokuk County Court House

Built in 1893, this historic opera house is a cultural landmark in What Cheer. It hosts various events and performances, preserving its legacy as an entertainment and community gathering hub.

What Cheer Opera House

Constructed in 1904, the Carnegie Library in Sigourney is an iconic structure. It served as a vital educational resource and community center for generations and stands as a testament to the importance of literacy and learning.

Sigourney Carnegie Library - now a Private Resident

Housed in the former Sigourney City Hall, this museum preserves and showcases the history of Keokuk County through exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and documents. It offers insights into the county's early settlers, industries, and cultural heritage.

Keokuk County Historical Society Museum

Lake Belva Deer Park

This is a popular spot for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. The park has well-maintained trails, picnic areas, and a scenic lake.

Skunk River Trail

Ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, offering a peaceful natural setting for water enthusiasts.

Jacquelyn J Singmaster Murphy Aquatic Center

Sigourney Municipal Pool

Festivals and Events

Keokuk County Fair Logo

Held annually in What Cheer, this fair features livestock shows, carnival rides, live entertainment, and various competitions, making it a fun event for families and individuals.

Seasonal farmers’ markets in our towns offer fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts, fostering a sense of community and support for local farmers.

What Cheer Flea Market

One of the largest flea markets in the Midwest, held three times a year at the Keokuk County Fairgrounds. It attracts vendors and visitors from all over with its vast array of antiques, collectibles, and crafts.

Sigourney Public Library, Sigourney, Iowa, Christmas

Local libraries often host community events, book clubs, and educational programs suitable for all ages.

Keokuk County Expo, Sigourney, Iowa

Attend events such as county fairs, festivals, and livestock shows held at these fairgrounds in Sigourney.

Recreation in Keokuk county

Sigourney Golf and Country Club

Sigourney Golf and Country Club, Iowa, Keokuk County

Sigourney Golf and Country Club:

1103 200th Avenue PO Box 323 Sigourney, IA 52591
Phone: 641-622-3400

This fairly hilly course has thick tree-lined fairways. The greens are small and undulating, and the fairways are narrow. Features 2,602 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 35.

  • Yardage Markers: 200, 150,100
  • No water hazards and no Sand Bunkers

Legion Park

Legion Park, T33 "Shooting Star", Sigourney, Iowa, Korean War, Vietnam War Veterans Memorial

Legion Park:

Legion Park. West Spring Street. Sigourney, IA 52591.
Phone: 641-622-3080

Located on the west side of Sigourney, Legion Park has five picnic shelters, grills, a playground, a basketball court, a tennis court, horseshoe pits, and the Municipal Swimming Pool. It is also the final resting ground for the Lockheed T-33A Shooting Star #58-0579

Wooden Wheel Vineyards

Wooden Wheel Vineyards:

1179 IA-92 Keota, IA 52248
Phone: 641-636-2180

Established on the family owned Iowa Heritage farm, Wooden Wheel Vineyards draws upon a rich family history in crafting their locally produced Iowa wines.  Named for family ancestors – pairings that add character – Wooden Wheel will surely have a wine that matches your personality!  Our well appointed spaces and beautiful rural surroundings offer an excellent setting for any celebration.  Look at our website for information on our products and services.

Keokuk County Bowl

Keokuk County Bowl, Sigourney, Iowa

Keokuk County Bowl:

21619 Highway 92 Sigourney, IA 52591
Phone: 641-622-2223

With 8 lanes of bowling fun, Keokuk County Bowl in Sigourney is ready to take “Family Fun Night” to a whole new level. We offer regular winter and summer league play, host tournaments, and actively support our school bowling teams.  While you are with us enjoy sandwiches, sides and drinks from our grill.  Parties and celebrations are always welcome, so give us a call to schedule your event.  Everyone is invited to come out for the lights, sounds, and fun at the  Keokuk County Bowl.