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Places

All Natural Beauty

  • Lime Creek Nature Center

    A 440-acre public conservation facility, the Lime Creek Nature Center and Conservation Area is nestled atop the limestone bluffs of the Winnebago River. The Lime Creek Nature Center is a premier conservation education facility in Iowa, and a “must-see” destination for travelers and nature enthusiasts. The center features a variety Read more [...]

  • Arthur J. Gerk Arboretum

    Located within Georgia Hanford Park on the southeastern side of Mason City, the Arthur J. Gerk Arboretum has 39 acres and more than 400 trees and shrubs, including 70 different species of trees – most of which are identified with both common and scientific names. Entrances to the park are Read more [...]

  • Asbury Park

    Nestled along the eastern edge of town, Asbury Park spans 2.66 acres of serene parkland that gracefully hugs the banks of the Winnebago River. A tranquil haven awaits, inviting you to settle into a cozy chair or find solace by one of the inviting picnic tables, where you can immerse Read more [...]

  • Central Park

    Located in the heart of downtown Mason City, this 2.6-acre park was commonly referenced as “Public Square”. Surrounded by shopping, dining, and historic architecture the park is home to several monuments including the magnificent 1884 Civil War statue, the Statue of Liberty, and Mason City Veteran’s Monument. Several sculptures from Read more [...]

  • Claybanks Forest State Preserve

    A locally rare stand of maple/basswood timber, this 56-acre forest has an outstanding variety of native wildflowers and an impressive view of the Winnebago River Valley. A concentration of fossils from the Devonian Period can be found on this unique site. Due to these unique features, Claybanks Forest has been Read more [...]

  • East Park

    Located on the east side of Mason City, East Park spans 57.6 acres of developed parkland. Two rivers – Winnebago River and Willow Creek – flow through the park and are great spots for fishing. The park is also home to a 2-mile hard surface trail system featuring two scenic Read more [...]

  • Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery

    The Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery is a scenic and serene setting for visitors looking to capture a glimpse of the past, celebrate life, and learn more about the community’s history. This park-like cemetery is home to 70 acres of beautiful grounds that now serve as the final resting place for thousands Read more [...]

  • MacNider Woods

    Located along the north bank of Willow Creek, MacNider Woods is a 28-acre wooded park. The lime-chipped multipurpose trail runs beside Willow Creek, connects to Parker’s Woods and continues to the Downtown District.

  • The Music Man Footbridge

    Named in honor of Meredith Willson, Mason City native and internationally renowned composer of “The Music Man,” this footbridge spans across Willow Creek and is featured on the Prairie School Architectural Tour / Historical Walking Tour. The Music Man Footbridge is located at 2nd Street SE, connecting River Heights Drive Read more [...]

  • White Wildlife Area

    Located along the Shellrock River, this 34-acre park provides diverse wildlife habitat. Boardwalk trail loops through open marsh, wooded swamp, restored prairie, and streamside timber. Located just north of Rock Falls on blacktop S-62.