Check Out These Essential Sites

Your itinerary is wholly yours to plan — but in case you need some suggestions, we’re more than happy to help. Whether you’re passing through, planned a trip to MIU, or just want to check out what our city’s all about, a few sites around Fairfield are musts on your to-do list. Check out these must-do activities around Fairfield and plan your trip today.

1. Maasdam Barns — Immerse yourself in the history of agriculture and innovation. This historic site and museum on the south end of Fairfield offers a snapshot of J.G. Maasdam’s draft horse breeding business that operated from 1910-1938.
2. Fairfield First Fridays — Celebrate the arts and culture of Fairfield during the First Fridays celebration, held on the first Friday of every month — rain or shine. This free event offers entertainment for all age groups.
3. Fairfield Farmer’s Market — Looking for the freshest produce in town? You won’t want to miss the Fairfield Farmer’s Market, running every Saturday from May through October in Howard Park. Pick up locally grown fruits and vegetables and browse a vast selection of handmade crafts and baked goods.
4. Greater Jefferson County Fair — One of the largest 4-H fairs in the state of Iowa, the Greater Jefferson County Fair features a myriad of activities for the whole family, including rides, games, agricultural shows, and live entertainment.
5. Maharishi Vedic Observatory — A truly one-of-a-kind installation reminiscent of ancient observatories such as Maachu Picchu and Stonehenge, the Maharishi Vedic Observatory, located just north of Fairfield, is a 1.5-acre, open-air observatory consisting of gorgeously sculpted concrete and marble astronomical instruments and sundials to show in one compact form the movement of the sun, planets, and stars.
6. Bonnifield Cabin — Located adjacent to Waterworks Park, Bonnifield Cabin stands as the oldest two-story log house in the state of Iowa, a testament to the hard work of the settlers who first arrived in Fairfield in the 1830s. This historic site offers a snapshot of early pioneer life and is believed to be the site where the city of Fairfield was officially named.
7. Jefferson County Water Trails — Paddle your way through Jefferson County on the beautiful water trails in the eastern and southern parts of the county. The Skunk River Trail includes a 10.5-mile stretch through eastern Jefferson County, while the Cedar Creek Water Trail includes a scenic, 6-mile section in southern Jefferson County, a perfect opportunity for canoers and kayakers.
8. Carnegie Museum — Explore the rich, eclectic history of Fairfield in the original Carnegie Library building downtown. Discover fascinating curios from around the world and learn more about the local history through exhibits honoring local heroes such as Maj. Mehitable E. Woods.
9. Waterworks Park — Come on in — the water’s fine! Available for family gatherings and a quick dip in the hot summer sun. Bring your fishing pole or kayak and enjoy a day on the lake.
10. Johnny Clock Museum — Located in nearby Lockridge, the Johnny Clock Museum features a spectacular collection of hand-crafted, wood clocks designed and hand-carved by curator John McClain.
11. Kiwanis Kids’ Day — Celebrating the future of Fairfield, the annual Kiwanis Kids’ Day is packed with kid-friendly activities, kicking off with a pancake breakfast and including a parade, barrel train rides, bouncy houses, and much more!
12. Bird Watching — Fairfield is a birder’s paradise with many outdoor spots around town serving as perfect opportunities to spot the many species that call Fairfield home — or the ones that make Fairfield a stopping point on their long migration. Check out the many parks and conservation areas around Fairfield and be sure to bring a pair of binoculars.
13. Vintage Power Wagon Annual Rally — Rev up your engines — you gearheads won’t want to miss the Vintage Power Wagon Annual Rally every June in downtown Fairfield. See these gorgeous, vintage Dodge trucks in action during the Grand Power Wagon Parade and get an up-close look during the open-air truck show on the square.
14. Jefferson County Park — Located on the southwest edge of town, this 227-acre park features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as plenty of opportunities for fishing, camping, birdwatching, and more. Be sure to check out the park’s 75-foot swing bridge while you’re there!