If you’re planning a northeast Iowa adventure, you won’t want to miss a stop in Strawberry Point. Not only does this Clayton County community have charming local shops and rich history but you’ll also find quirky roadside attractions here.
While Strawberry Point may be a small town, there’s plenty to see here! Experience the whimsy of the World’s Largest Strawberry then dive into the incredible collections housed at the Wilder Memorial Museum. And don’t forget a visit to Iowa’s first state park, Backbone State Park.
Keep reading to discover offbeat things to do in Strawberry Point, Iowa, including unique places to eat and where to spend the night in the area.
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the Clayton County Development Group. However, all opinions are my own.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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Offbeat Things to Do in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Snap a Selfie with the World’s Largest Strawberry
There are lots of world’s largest things in Iowa, but one of my absolute favorites is the World’s Largest Strawberry. This 15-foot tall strawberry sculpture was designed and built by Harold Lange of East Dubuque, Illinois while he was working for the ad agency Frank Hardie in Dubuque in the 1960s.
Since it’s creation, it’s been a quirky symbol of community for the town, and you’ll find lots of strawberry-themed souvenirs around town. Today, you can find it on display in front of the Strawberry Point City Hall.
Want to discover even more big things around Iowa? Grab your own World’s Largest Passport to plan a big adventure of your own!
World’s Largest Strawberry, 111 Commercial Street in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Explore Backbone State Park
Experience the beautiful landscape of northeast Iowa with a visit to Backbone State Park. Dedicated in 1920, this unique geographical area was Iowa’s first official state park. The winding Maquoketa River carved the rocky bedrock into local landmarks like “The Devil’s Backbone,” which is the highest point in northeast Iowa.
Not only does Backbone State Park offer wooded hiking trails and popular spots for rock climbing, but the park is also popular with anglers searching for trout. Kayakers and paddlers will also find a serene spot to get on the water at Backbone Lake.
You’ll also find 21 miles of rugged hiking trails within Backbone State Park. If you’re looking for a hike that gives you a unique glimpse at the local terrain as well as some beautiful views of the river valley below, I recommend the Backbone Trail loop. This 0.8-mile trail is considered moderate difficulty because of its uneven, rocky path, but it’s a beautiful way to experience the park.
Backbone State Park, 1347 129th Street in Dundee, Iowa
Learn About Local History at the Wilder Memorial Museum
Discover the unique local history of Strawberry Point at the Wilder Memorial Museum. While the museum showcases a wide variety of artifacts from the area’s past, possibly its most impressive collection is its dolls.
The majority of the dolls at the Wilder Memorial Museum were donated by two local sisters, Blanche Baldridge and Gladys Kenneally. The sisters were avid collectors and during their lifetimes amassed hundreds of dolls from around the world. Today, their collection lives on at the Wilder Memorial Museum and it truly is a sight to see.
Another of the collections that I loved experiencing at the Wilder Memorial Museum was that of Marcey Alderson. Alderson was a local piano teacher for more than 50 years and, in addition to his musical talents, collected all sorts of beautiful antique pieces. Today, the museum houses his impressive collection of “the best of the best” in art glass lamps, furniture and glass pieces. As a vintage decor lover, I could have spent hours just looking at the beautiful lamps and glassware in this part of the museum.
Wilder Memorial Museum, 123 W. Mission Street in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Shop Small Around Downtown
Revivals Furniture Co.
Not only does Revivals Furniture Co. create one-of-a-kind furniture pieces but this local shop also sells adorable home decor. During my visit to Strawberry Point, I had the pleasure of meeting the shop’s owner, Morgan Adams, and learning about her passion for restoring vintage furniture pieces. But Morgan isn’t only restoring these pieces, she’s giving them vibrant new life with incredible custom paintings, modern detailing and so much more.
Revivals Furniture Co. is currently open on an occasional basis. Be sure to check their social media accounts for hours and what pieces they currently have available!
Revivals Furniture Co., 601 Commercial Street in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Rivals Inc.
If you’re looking for a Strawberry Point souvenir, look no further than Rivals Inc. While this local screen printing shop creates custom designs, they also sell all sorts of merch for local attractions like Backbone State Park and the World’s Largest Strawberry. Pop in to browse their adorable T-shirt designs and snag a wearable souvenir.
Rivals Inc., 109 Commercial Street in Strawberry Point, Iowa
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!
Unique Places to Eat & Drink in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Embers Coffee
Every small town needs a coffee shop to serve as a community gathering place, and in Strawberry Point, that spot is Embers Coffee. If you’re in need of a caffeine fix, you’ll find all your favorite coffee drinks and more at this locally-owned coffeehouse.
If you’re not in the mood for a coffee, grab a smoothie or tea. Plus, Embers also offers satisfying bites to eat like muffins, biscuits and parfaits as well as rotating lunch specials.
Embers Coffee, 102 W. Mission Street in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Rod & Cal’s Pub & Grub
While you’re visiting Strawberry Point, Rod & Cal’s Pub & Grub is a great spot to grab a bite to eat! This local spot serves all manner of bar food alongside seriously crowd-pleasing pizzas.
I happened to visit on Rod & Cal’s Wednesday evening Taco Night, and enjoyed the Idaho Nachos (essentially nacho ingredients on top of tatter tots) outdoors on the pub’s patio.
Rod & Cal’s Pub & Grub, 109 W. Mission Street in Strawberry Point, Iowa
Where to Stay in Clayton County, Iowa
Whether you’re looking for a quaint bed and breakfast, a cozy lodge, or a vacation rental with lots of space, you’re sure to find an option for you in Clayton County. This part of Iowa is not only home to beautiful landscapes but also plenty of unique spots to spend the night.
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Share Your Thoughts
I would love to hear from you! What are your favorite offbeat things to do in Strawberry Point, Iowa?
