O.B. Nelson Skateboard Park

Thanks to the generous donation of a private donor, OB Nelson Park is the home to a 4,000 square foot modern skateable landscape. The skatepark design was created in collaboration with the local skateboarders of Fairfield who requested a facility that was balanced with both street and transition-style terrain. The final landscape features a multi-level bowl with a waterfall, tombstone extension and multiple hips, as well as a street section with ledges, rails and a curved manual pad.

Hours:

Dawn to 10 pm

Main Location

South 2nd Street
Fairfield , IA 52556 

Outdoor Pool

Kids love to splash around in a pool and there’s no better place for that in Fairfield than the open-air pool at the Roosevelt Recreation Center.

Hours:

Weekdays 1pm – 8pm | Sat & Sun 1pm – 6pm

The outdoor pool has a giant water slide, snack bar, splash pads, shallow end and deep end

Main Location

1000 W Burlington Ave
Fairfield , IA 52556 

Website

Flamingo Lanes

Open bowling hours during the season
Monday 3 lanes available 6:30-9:00 Friday 9:00- cl
Tuesday no open bowling Saturday 5:00- cl
Wednesday 9:00-cl
Thursday no open bowling
Description

OPEN BOWLING HOURS FOR THE SUMMER
Monday closed
Tuesday closed
Wednesday closed
Thursday closed
Friday 6pm to midnight
Saturday 6pm to midnight
Sunday closed

Main Location

301 N. 16th St
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Roosevelt Aquatic Center

Roosevelt Aquatic Center Hours
Monday – Friday 6 AM – 8 PM
Saturdays 8 AM – 4 PM
Sundays 1 PM – 5 PM
Tues & Thurs 4:30-6 deep end closed

1000 W. Burlington Avenue

641-472-7088 

•Sauna
•Hot Tub
•Water Fitness Classes    
•Locker Room & Shower
•Pool

Main Location

1000 W. Burlington Avenue
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website

Carnegie Library Museum

Carnegie Library Museum

This Iowa Century Museum dates back to 1877 and is housed in Fairfield’s former library building, the first of 1,689 endowed by Andrew Carnegie. The Library and its third-floor Museum Opened in 1893 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Click here to take a 3-D tour of the many exhibits!

Native American pottery, the seated monkey & other examples of 19th century taxidermy remain on display.  Most of the taxidermy was donated by the Smithsonian at the request of Senator James F. Wilson, a Fairfield native.

112 South Court, Fairfield, Ia.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday – Friday  12:00pm – 4:00pm

Saturday 11:00am – 3:00pm

Fairfield 1st Fridays Art Walk night 6pm – 9pm

Main Location

112 South Court
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website

Maasdam Barns

Maasdam Barns

Discover the captivating history of early agriculture at Maasdam Barns! This fascinating site in Jefferson County takes you on a journey through the industrial enterprises of the 19th and 20th century. Experience the legacy of the Maasdam draft horse breeding business, marvel at Louden manufacturing and their ingenious agricultural inventions, and explore the rugged farm wagons from Turney Wagon Works, built for durability and horse-friendly efficiency.

Step back in time to 1906, when Jacob Maasdam brought 47 Percheron horses and a Shetland pony to Fairfield, transforming Jefferson County into a renowned horse market, boasting world champions like Louis d’Or, the colossal Belgian horse. At the Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm, the historic Maasdam Barns stand as a remarkable representation of early 20th-century draft-horse breeding. These two barns, designed by the innovative Louden barn design division, showcase modern construction techniques, including poured concrete walls and impressive Louden barn products.

Embrace the allure of the past and immerse yourself in the rich agricultural heritage of Maasdam Barns. With award-winning Percheron draft horses raised and sold here from 1910 to 1938, the barns are a treasure trove of historical significance. Experience the spirit of this bygone era and make unforgettable memories exploring the captivating history of this remarkable location. Plan your visit today and let the stories of Maasdam Barns enchant you!

The Maasdam Barns are open from mid-May  to mid-November
Hours fpr the 2023 season are 10am-1pm on the 2nd Saturdays.
In addition, tours are available by appointment.call 641-919-8061

Located on Hwy 1 south, just past the hospital.
Read more about this historical location

 

Main Location

2224 IA-1
South Hwy 1
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website

Waterworks Park

Waterworks Park – North B Street.

If you’re a family looking for a fun and exciting day out, Waterworks Park is the perfect destination. With its beautiful natural surroundings, there’s plenty to explore and discover. Take a refreshing dip in the lake, or take a leisurely stroll along the Fairfield Loop trail, which winds through the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try your luck at fishing in the park’s well-stocked lake, or challenge yourself to a kayaking excursion in the summer months. And when the colder weather arrives, grab your ice skates and hit the ice for a game of hockey with your friends and loved ones.

Waterworks Park also has a shelter area that’s perfect for hosting family picnics, class reunions, and other group events.

Waterworks Park is not only a great place for outdoor fun and adventure, but it is also home to the Bonnifield cabin, the oldest two-story cabin in Iowa. This historic structure offers a glimpse into the past and is a great opportunity to learn more about the area’s rich history. While you can’t tour the inside of the cabin, the exterior is still worth a visit, as it provides a close-up view of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its construction.

So whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, or get your adrenaline pumping with some outdoor activities, add Waterworks Park to your Fairfield itinerary.

To book the park for an event, call 641-472-6159 or visit the Roosevelt Recreation Complex during open hours.
Amenities

Bonnifield Lake

Bonnifield Lake is the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and hiking with friends and family! The tranquil slopes of the Jefferson County Loop Trail lead right to the peaceful waves of Bonnifield Lake and will leave you thinking you could spend the day enjoying the great outdoors. Not only can you swim in the lake, we highly recommend bringing a canoe or kayak for further exploration.

Pleasant Lake

Visit Pleasant Lake to reel in a fish while enjoying the picturesque scenery. Want to enjoy some sunshine? Venture over to the gazebo and bring along a picnic lunch with friends. If walking is more of your style, then the trails around Pleasant Lake are perfect for a breathtaking walk. This retired reservoir is now being developed for water recreation – so come on down and have blast! Pleasant Lake is located conveniently off of Pleasant Plain Road just north of Fairfield.

“I love this swimming spot! Sandy bottom! Great Park!”

“Good swimming hole”

“It’s a very nice place to swim and or have a family picnic”

Main Location

North B Street
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website

O.B. Nelson Park

Welcome to O.B. Nelson Park

Nestled along the picturesque West Fillmore Avenue and South 2nd Street in Fairfield, Iowa, O.B. Nelson Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by both residents and visitors alike. As you step into this oasis of nature and recreation, you’ll find yourself transported to a world where fun, relaxation, and adventure come together seamlessly.

Discover the Playground of Your Dreams
For families with little explorers, O.B. Nelson Park boasts a state-of-the-art castle structure playground that will ignite your child’s imagination. It’s not just a playground; it’s a magical kingdom where knights and princesses embark on epic quests.

Skateboarder’s Paradise
Calling all thrill-seekers! O.B. Nelson Park is home to a 4,000 square foot modern skateable landscape that was born from the dreams of local skateboarders in Fairfield. Picture this: a multi-level bowl with a cascading waterfall, a tombstone extension, and thrilling hips that’ll challenge even the most seasoned skaters. But that’s not all – our street section features ledges, rails, and a curved manual pad, ensuring that every skater finds their perfect spot to shred.

Softball Fields and Sand Volleyball Courts
Sports enthusiasts, you’re in for a treat. We offer three well-maintained softball fields where you can enjoy friendly matches and tournaments. And for those who prefer the feel of sand between their toes, our sand volleyball courts are perfect for a game under the sun.

Off-Leash Dog Park
Your furry friends deserve a day out too! Our enclosed off-leash dog park provides a safe and spacious area for your four-legged companions to run, play, and socialize with other pups.

Shelter Reservations
Planning a picnic or a special event? You can reserve our shelter for gatherings, ensuring a comfortable and shaded spot for your festivities.

Come and experience the magic of O.B. Nelson Park for yourself. We can’t wait to welcome you to our slice of paradise in Fairfield, Iowa. Your adventure awaits!

Main Location

South 2nd Street.
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Jefferson County Park

Jefferson County Park is the largest multi-purposed outdoor recreational facility in Jefferson County. Established in 1977, the park currently encompasses 190 acres and includes a nature center, bike & hiking trails, campsites, cabins & picnic areas.

The 75-foot Swinging Bridge is a local favorite along with the quiet 24 site campground and the Picnic Area which has three reservable shelters. The campground is open from May through the end of October. The Jefferson County Conservation Office and Nature Center are also located in this park.

The park is connected to the Fairfield Loop Trail through the Cedar View Trail allowing campers to ride the 16-mile loop trail without driving to an access point.

If you are looking for a natural experience in a rustic environment, then consider renting one of the park’s 2 cabins. Each cabin holds 6 people and has all the amenities of home. If one wants to get even closer to nature and sleep underneath the beautiful Iowa starlit skies, the park offers 24 campsites. Each site comes with electricity, restrooms, and hot showers.

The park can accommodate large groups at each of their 3 picnic shelters. They are open every year from May 1 – October 31 and include electricity, flush type toilets, and drinking water. Close by the shelters are horseshoes, softball, and volleyball facilities. All are handicapped accessible.

Jefferson County Park has about 8-miles of trails, which connect to the Cedar View Trail (which makes a direct connection to the Fairfield Loop Trail), the Erma Hartman Trail, and the Prairie & Pond Trail.

Camping Site Season: Normally May 1 through October 31.

Main Location

2003 Libertyville Rd.
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website