Ah, college days. One of the best parts of attending college is exploring the town around the school, and I definitely have fond memories of exploring mine! When it comes to looking for fun towns and cities to visit, a college being in the area is definitely a point in a town’s favor – and that led me to Oskaloosa, Iowa. Home to William Penn University, a private Quaker university, this is a town of about 11,000 people with a rich history and cultural footprint. There are so many great things to do in Oskaloosa, Iowa, that you’ll want to spend a whole day or more exploring it. You’ll find an underrated steakhouse, a massive antique shop, a vintage movie theater, and one of the most unique parks in the entire Hawkeye State. Read on to discover why this small town in Iowa’s heartland should be your next day trip!

Home to William Penn University, this mid-sized town is an amazing place to spend a day exploring.
Boscophotos/Wikipedia
The town's square is likely its most famous location - home to a bandstand with roots dating back all the way back to 1864. The current bandstand, where live concerts are held, was built and dedicated in 1912.
Oskaloosa City Band/Facebook
The town is home to Edmundson Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Iowa. The stone architecture and heavily wooded area is especially beautiful in fall.
Kirk Oler/Google Local
The playground has a unique outer-space theme - this is cold war-era playground design aimed at getting kids invested in the space race.
Edmundson Park, 1304 Edmundson Dr, Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA
Tim Hewitt/Google Local

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Antiquers will love to look around Timeless Treasures Corner, a sprawling antique and thrift store. You never know what you'll find here!
Timeless Treasures Corner, 121 High Ave W, Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA
Timeless Treasures Corner/Facebook
For a good meal, you won't beat Tasos' Steakhouse - a local institution for over twenty years.
John Stark/Google Local
While steaks are in the name, this place also has a lot of affordable options including sandwiches, pizza, and the famous potato casseroles.
Tasos' Oskaloosa, 109 High Ave W, Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA
Sydney Kennedy/Google Local
Finally, head over to see a movie at Penn Centre Theatre, one of the best independently-owned movie theaters in Iowa. You can feel the old-school difference here.
Penn Centre Theatre, 216 2nd Ave W, Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA
Andy McGuire/Google Local

Have you visited this charming college town? Tell us your favorite things to do in Oskaloosa, Iowa in the comments section! You can visit the official website of Tasos’ Oskaloosa for the full menu, and make sure to return in December for Oskaloosa’s famous Christmas lights display. While you’re in the area, consider a stay at the local Fairfield Inn & Suites.

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Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA