Scroll Top

World’s Largest Wooden Nickel in Iowa City, Iowa

World's Largest Wooden Nickel in a field in Iowa City, Iowa

If I had a nickel for every roadside attraction I’d made a detour for I’d have quite the collection at this point. But none of them would be as big as the World’s Largest Wooden Nickel in Iowa City, Iowa.

This offbeat attraction is just one of the many “world’s largest” things in Iowa. But its unique design and backstory make it well worth a visit. The 18-foot diameter wooden nickel is located in Iowa City along NE Dubuque Street, just north of the Iowa River.

According to a local news report, the wooden nickel was erected in 2006 as a protest against county officials’ decision to raise speed limits in the area. Iowa resident Jim Glasgow spent more than six months creating the giant wooden nickel, which weighs in around 4,000 pounds.

Book cover of Secret Iowa: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful & Obscure

Find More Secret Iowa Places

Want to explore even more offbeat places around Iowa? Even at some of the state’s most well-known places, you’ll discover hidden histories and unique stories that are not often shared. Order your copy of the book, Secret Iowa: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure today!

Fast Facts: World’s Largest Wooden Nickel

Location
Iowa City, Iowa
Built
2006
Diameter
18 feet
Weight
4,000 pounds

Visit the World’s Largest Wooden Nickel

If you’re passing through Iowa City, a visit to the World’s Largest Wooden Nickel is a great detour. While this roadside attraction is a great photo opp, it can be difficult to access safely. The nickel is on a fairly busy road so you’ll need to be mindful of traffic.

If you’re wanting to take a photo with the wooden nickel, I recommend parking just south at Waterworks Prairie Park. Then you can safely walk along the trail to take photos of this larger-than-life chunk of change.

3246-3248 Iowa River Corridor Trail in Iowa City, Iowa

Let's Be Social

Want even more offbeat adventures, roadside attractions and world's largest things? Follow Olio in Iowa on your favorite social media platforms, and tag #OlioOnTheRoad when you have quirky adventures of your own.

Share Your Thoughts

I would love to hear from you! Have you visited the World’s Largest Wooden Nickel? What are your favorite offbeat attractions in Iowa City?

The next time you're near Iowa City, Iowa, swing by the World's Largest Wooden Nickel! This offbeat attraction is the perfect photo opp for any Midwest road trip. #Iowa #RoadsideAttraction

Related Posts

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.