I would like to thank Central City GO for providing the following columns about Central City. Some will be for dates at the time of publishing, however I will leave them as they were for the published date of the paper.
I also would like to thank the support of the businesses that marketed on the pages each week in order to provide the page with great information about Central City.
Here is a list of those business that supported these articles:
American Legion Wapsi Post 421
Amvets Post #37
Beanie’s Coffee and Cakes
Beds&Biscuits
Bit Brewery
Bodak Auto
Buffalo Ridge Orchard
Central City Family Pharmacy
Ohnward Bank & Trust
Heartland Bank and Trust Company
Hennick Tree Service
Iowa Valley Monument Lefty’s Convenience Store
Linn Co-op Oil Company
Meadowview Country Club
Nichole Sieck Photography
Sweetopia Handmade Goodies
Third Pedal
Up A Creek
Central City, Iowa:
Your Nearest Faraway Place
Nestled along the scenic Wapsipinicon River, Central City is a small town with a big story. Founded in 1859, its name reflects its strategic location in the center of early railroad lines—a hub of movement and promise in the heart of Iowa. Today, Central City continues to thrive as a vibrant community steeped in heritage and surrounded by natural beauty.
Central City’s rich history is preserved through its collection of museums, each offering its own unique glimpse into the town’s past – the Sawyer House, the J.C. Clegg Library, the Paris School and Brown Farm. The downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – most of the Victorian-era brick buildings have been beautifully restored, and several have historical markers highlighting their history.
They are now filled with a wide variety of distinctive finds – loom weaving, micro-brewery, brick oven pizzas, a curated gift shop, hand-crafted coffees, hand-dipped ice cream, canoeing & kayaking supplies, custom bakery & catering services, live bait & outdoor outfitting, and bar & grill establishments. Locally-owned Hometown Market features a deli with daily lunch specials and a wide selection of grocery items.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the nearby Pinicon Ridge Park & Wakpicada Natural Area, managed by Linn County Conservation. The newly revamped downtown river access boasts tiered fishing ponds and water steps that allow for the passage of canoes and kayaks, and The Puddle splash pad, along with three city parks, provide plenty of opportunity for picnics and family fun.
The town pulses with pride during events like the Linn County Fair, the annual Fourth of July and Holiday on Main celebrations, and Brown Farm Pioneer Days. Community spirit is also evident in the unwavering town support of Central City School’s Wildcat sports teams.
Whether you’re drawn by its historical treasures, outdoor adventures, or the small-town welcoming atmosphere, Central City is a place where the past and present harmonize beautifully. It’s not just a stop on the map – it’s a destination with soul, a community full of unique treasures, and your nearest faraway place.
Recreation Part 1
We’ve Got Your Bike & Walking Trails
Central City is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Our small community, nestled along the banks of the Wapsipinicon River, offers scenic bike and walking trails that beckon visitors to escape into nature. Novice and experienced cyclists, avid hikers, and casual walkers looking for a peaceful pace can all find something to suit their needs. Here’s a short guide to a couple of our local trails.
Central City - Wapsi Nature Trail
This trail meanders along the banks of the river, providing stunning views of the water and surrounding landscapes. This fully paved trail connects downtown Central City to the nearby Pinicon Ridge County Park, and is ideal for both serious exercise and relaxing exploration.
Highlights: serene river views; ideal for biking, walking, and birdwatching; playgrounds along the trail; access to river fishing pools
Trail Length: approximately 3 miles
Difficulty level: easy, suitable for all ages, abilities and fitness levels
Pinicon Ridge Park Trails
Located just outside of town, Pinicon Ridge County Park offers a network of trails that cater to hikers, walkers, and cyclists. For mountain bike enthusiasts, the new gravity park is open and ready for exploration – developed with rolling berms, drop offs and rugged terrain, it’s sure to give your tires and your adrenaline a workout! The park itself is a hub of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, canoeing, playgrounds and picnic shelters, making it a great destination for a full day of family adventure.
Highlights: shaded trails through picturesque woods; overlooks with breathtaking views of the river and surrounding woodlands; family-friendly playgrounds and open-air shelters; outstanding river and backwater fishing
Trail Length and Difficulty: varies – many trails of differing lengths and levels of difficulty are available in the park
With diverse trails and stunning scenery, Central City is the perfect destination for anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors. And after a day of outdoor fun, our downtown is ready to welcome you with cold beverages and hometown food. So grab your bike or walking shoes, bring your family and friends, and come explore our incredible trails and town today!
Recreation Part 2
You Won’t Believe the Fishing
Fishing on the Wapsipinicon River is just about as good as it gets, and the town of Central City has plenty of amenities and access points to help you have your best day on the river. Whether you’re a weekend hobby fisher, a seasoned pro, or just looking to get away from it all with a few quiet hours of drowning worms, “The Wapsi” has what you need.
Well known for its diverse fish population, the Wapsi has long been a local “best kept secret” and favorite of area fisherman. It’s home to a variety of popular game fish, including smallmouth bass, channel catfish, crappie and – especially during cooler months in fall and spring – walleye and northern pike. Meandering through Central City, the river offers relatively calm waters and a variety of depths, from shallow riffles to deep pools. The removal of the old roller dam has restored fish migration paths, improved the overall health of the river system, and allowed for canoe and kayak passage.
Not a river person? Nearby Pinicon Ridge County Park offers calm backwater fishing jetties, and the Wakpicada Natural Area encompasses oxbow wetlands and several ponds.
Wherever you visit, the area is a sanctuary for both fish and wildlife, and you’re likely to see eagles, herons, and deer, along with the occasional fox or river otter.
Ready to visit? Lucky’s Bait & Tackle in downtown Central City has everything you need. Live bait, lures, and poles – along with a healthy dose of local advice – are all available. Fishing licenses are sold at Lefty’s Convenience and Station 1, as well as at Lucky’s.
If you’re looking for more than just shore fishing, visit Up A Creek for kayak and canoe supplies. Eric has the equipment and accessories to make your river adventure unforgettable.
Come cast your line, surround yourself with the soothing sounds of nature and the calm babble of the river, in the perfect retreat from the hectic pace of everyday life… your nearest faraway place. Grab your gear and your crew, head to Central City, and let the Wapsi work its magic – you won’t be disappointed!
Honoring Service
Central City may be a small town in the heart of Linn County, but its commitment to honoring and supporting veterans is anything but small. We take great pride in our veterans, and revere their service and sacrifice in securing – and protecting – the freedoms we hold dear.
We are home to American Legion Post 421 and AMVETS Post 37. These organizations are more than just clubs; they are lifelines for those who have served in the military. They provide spaces for veterans to connect, share experiences, find support, and get involved.
American Legion Wapsi Post 421 is well-known for its weekly bingo games, welcoming atmosphere and monthly fish/steak fry dinners. It is also active in the community, organizing the local Memorial Day service, collecting flags for retirement, sponsoring programs like Boys and Girls State and providing awe-inspiring flag displays at the local cemeteries.
AMVETS Post 37 is equally active, organizing the annual 4th of July parade and contributing largely to the townwide celebration that follows, with live music and a food/beer tent. They also coordinate the annual Eastern Iowa Honor Float, with proceeds donated to the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight. There are always meals, events and activities going on at their upstairs bar, and they are present at nearly every town event.
The Central City Community School District hosts an annual Veteran’s Day assembly, involving students K-12 in honoring our local veterans, helping teach younger generations the importance of service.
We are extremely proud of how our community came together to create and dedicate the Veteran’s Memorial at our local park, and we were thrilled when the nearby Linn County Fairgrounds was chosen as the location of the Linn County Freedom Rock®, the 99th and final piece of the statewide Iowa Freedom Rock Tour.
As we reflect on the work that has been done, we are reminded of the importance of honoring our veterans—not just on special occasions and annual holidays, but each and every day, all year long. The sacrifices and selflessness of our country’s service members are the foundation of the freedoms we enjoy today, and should be recognized, remembered, and honored always.
Central City History
Part 1 – General History
Central City, Iowa has a rich history that mirrors the broader story of small-town growth across the American Midwest, a perfect place to visit and witness an example of the history of rural town development. Like many small towns, ours is a story of resilience, adaptation and pride – a testament to the enduring spirit of rural Iowa.
The area that would one day be Central City began attracting settlers in the mid-1850s. The first homesteads were built along the banks of the Wapsipinicon River by pioneers who were attracted by the fertile ground, abundant timber, plentiful game, and the resources provided by the river. The town’s name, Central City, was chosen due to its central location in the region’s geography – it was a hub of area transportation, especially later railroad routes.
By the late 1800s, Central City had developed into a thriving town with mills, restaurants, hotels and shops lining the main street district. The river played a central role in commerce, powering mills and serving as a transportation route for goods, and the arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in 1887 further boosted the reach of the city’s businesses, prompting greater expansion and growth.
In 1889, a fire ravaged the town, burning many of the wooden structures to the ground – very few were saved. The fire prompted the rebuilding of the downtown district with sturdier brick buildings, many of which still stand today. Part of the current downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and features a mix of Late Victorian, Prairie School and Art Deco architecture.
Central City has long been focused on preserving history – the Central City Historical Society, founded in 1978, oversees four museums, including two on the National Register, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to the many photographs, documents, maps, artifacts and oral histories they have amassed. They maintain a large library of historical newspapers and microfilm records, and have published three comprehensive books that span 170 years of history in the Central City and surrounding area. More detailed information about the museums will be our highlight next week!
Central City History
Part 2 – Museums
The Central City Historical Society was originally formed as a non-profit in 1978 and formally incorporated in 1982. It oversees four museums, two of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and works to preserve Central City history not only through museum exhibits, but through tours, lectures, re-enactments and living history events. It has published three comprehensive volumes, spanning 170 years, on the history of Central City and surrounding areas.
The Sawyer House Museum, located at 337 E Main St, is a three-story, Victorian-inspired “wedding cake” style house. Built c. 1878, it has been restored and furnished in 1900-1920 style. It offers guided tours of curated exhibits and historical memorabilia that give a glimpse of life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It also hosts private receptions and teas, providing a unique setting for special events. Tours and events are by appointment at (319) 241-2151.
The J.C. Clegg Library Museum, located at 56 N 4th St, was built in 1916 in the Prairie School style, and is a veritable warehouse of historical information. It features over 8,000 artifacts, including photographs, documents, maps, oral histories, microfilm records, historical newspapers and other memorabilia, all dating back to the 1850s. It has several regular open houses, and is available by appointment by calling (319) 329-3271.
The Rural School House Museum, situated behind the Library Museum, was originally the Paris School, c. 1894. It was moved to Central City and restored, showcasing mementos and artifacts from the one-room schoolhouse era. It is also open regularly at several town events, and by appointment by calling (319) 350-8420.
The Lloyd H. Brown Farm Museum is an 1872 Iowa Century Farm, and features a collection of more than 150 years of farming memorabilia. Every July, the Historical Society hosts Pioneer Days, with demonstrations of threshing, baling, plowing, and blacksmithing, including a steam-driven sawmill, horse-drawn farming techniques, and antique tractor displays. This family-friendly event invites you to step back into history and explore farming through the ages. More information at www.brownfarmpioneerdays.com.
Next week will highlight another annual event, The Linn County Fair!
Central City History
Part 3 – Linn County Fair
The Linn County Fair starts its story in 1855, and was held annually, alternating between Cedar Rapids and Marion. It died off in the 1870s due to lack of interest when the Iowa State Fair was held 1871-1878 in Cedar Rapids.
In 1888, a group in nearby Waubeek suggested holding a small local fair, and 50 acres of land was eventually purchased just south of Central City, with the first fair – then the Wapsie Valley Fair – being held in September of 1889. Since then, the fair has been an annual favorite, growing into a 6-day event with estimated yearly attendances ranging from 28,000 to 46,000 each year.
The Wapsie Valley Fair Association became the Linn County Fair Association in 1937. Throughout its history, the fair has highlighted agriculture, youth education and community engagement, and offers a variety of competitions, contests, educational displays, events and live entertainment.
The Fair consistently prioritizes educational opportunities, encouraging 4-H and FFA youth members to showcase their skills and abilities in photography, woodworking, STEM, cooking, and other competitions, as well as the traditional livestock and small animal contests. Fair royalty – Little Miss, Little Mr., Fair Princess and Fair Queen – is a time-honored tradition that reflects the Fair’s priority of youth leadership and recognition.
The Fair features a large grandstand, which hosts truck and tractor pulls, various races and headliner concerts each year. There are carnival rides, numerous free events at the State Farm Pavillion, a large building housing static educational displays, a petting zoo and more, providing family-friendly activities and entertainment for all.
In 2021, the Linn County Fairgrounds became home to the 99th and final Iowa Freedom Rock©.
Buildings at the fairgrounds are available for rent for weddings, parties and events; more information can be found at:
www.thelinncountyfair.com.
Next week we will have some details about Central City’s annual Holiday on Main event on December 13th from 9 am to 1 pm. It’s an annual holiday tradition, with plenty of small-town charm and family-friendly activities, including horse-drawn carriage rides and visits with Santa and the Grinch. We hope that you will join us!
Holiday on Main
This Saturday, December 13th from 9 am to 1 pm, Central City will hold its annual Holiday on Main event. It’s a local favorite, and we hope you will join us! For a full schedule of events, please visit the Central City GO Facebook Event page. We will post a complete schedule of events there, but here are just a few of things you will find:
Horse drawn carriage rides by Blue Moon Carriage LLC, sponsored by Station 1 Automotive & CCGO
Visits with Santa and goodie bags for the kids, sponsored by the AMVETS family
A local vendor fair for some last-minute holiday shopping
Special events at our downtown businesses, including:
Sandwiches and drink specials, plus goodie bags for the kids at AMVETS
Free 5 oz pour of specialty beer for adults and candy for kids at BIT Brewery
Whoville – including visits with the Grinch – at Foxy’s Bar & Grill
Plushies for kids at Heartland Bank & Trust
A cookie walk & hot potato bar by the CC Historical Society & United Church of Christ
Snacks and goodies at Ohnward Bank & Trust
Crafts and activities for the kids at the Falcon Civic Center, including an indoor snowball fight, sponsored by Riverview Bible Church and a mailbox for letters to Santa, sponsored by CC Parks & Recreation
Most of our amazing and unique downtown businesses open their doors for this event, providing special activities and sales promotions, so come check it out!
Our locally owned businesses truly are the gems of Central City – we couldn’t be prouder of what we have to offer! From wood-fired pizzas to handcrafted confections; exceptional bar & grill fare to barista-level coffees; shops offering everything from local wines to hand-woven loom creations to watercraft; skilled mechanics to outdoor recreation experts; places to get you looking great or restore your physical abilities; the best hand-dipped ice cream to fantastic financial institutions… Central City really does have something to offer everyone. We are a remarkable community, full of small-town friendliness, where neighbors smile and wave, and we really are happy to see you!
Recreation Part 3
Baby It’s Cold Outside!
The weather outside may be frightful, but Central City is full of delightful outdoor recreation opportunities!
Pinicon Ridge Park – 4732 Horseshoe Falls Rd, Central City IA 52214
Ice Fishing - With plentiful Largemouth Bass, Walleye and the occasional Northern Pike, the backwaters of Pinicon Ridge Park offer an excellent location for ice fishing! Don’t know what you’re doing? No problem! There will be an ice fishing clinic for kids on December 26th from 2:30 – 4:30 pm. The program is free, but you need to register at www.mycountyparks.com/County/Linn/Events.
Bird watching – with tree leaves gone, winter is actually an excellent time for viewing some of our local, non-migratory birds. Junco, Chickadees, Cardinals, Nuthatches, Goldfinches, Sparrows, Starlings, Blue Jays, Hawks, and Owls are all prevalent at Pinicon Ridge Park, but the show-stoppers are the nesting pair of Bald Eagles. Their enormous nest, which is 4 to 5 feet wide and up to 2 feet deep, can be seen from the aptly named Eagle View Shelter.
Sledding – Pinicon Ridge Park is home to more than rustic outdoor woodland scenery, breathtaking views and stunning river surroundings, it has a fantastic locally known and loved sledding hill! Located near Woodpecker Lodge, the sledding hill is open any time there is enough snow cover, and is the perfect winter playground for family fun!
Gnome Hunt – Take a self-guided tour of Pinicon Ridge Park from Riverview Shelter to the Marion Lundby Bridge, and hunt for winter gnomes hidden along the way! This is self-paced, free, all-ages, family friendly event open from February 3 – 15, 2026. Check the park’s events page and social media for more information.
Matsell Bridge Natural Area – 3742 Matsell Bridge Rd, Central City IA 52214
Cross-country skiing – There are about 5 miles of “rolled” and “groomed” trails available at the Matsell Bridge Natural Area for your cross-country ski enjoyment. As long as the snow cover is adequate, and not too heavy or wet, park staff take care of prepping the trails as often as needed (please note that they may have other priority snow and maintenance duties to attend to prior to attending to trails).
As Seen on TV!
Check out our local businesses that have been in the news!
Sweetopia Emporium has its roots in Central City, the longtime home of the owners. Originally operating a production facility in Central City and a storefront in Marion, they have now moved all operations to Central City, opening a new storefront in the historic Mills Hardware building.
Lucky’s Live Bait & Tackle has been in Central City for more than a decade. In 2023, it moved to a new location in the historic DX Station, and is a premiere destination for live bait; with the addition of Clark’s Outfitters, it now has all things hunting and camping as well.
BIT Brewery opened in 2020, and has rapidly built a loyal fan base. Their craft-brewed beers are top-notch, and they have a superb menu of wood-fired pizzas. BIT offers a wide variety of live music and events, and consistently gives back to the community it calls home.
Parlor on Main opened in summer of 2022, with a phenomenal line-up classic soda-fountain ice cream treats, including malts, shakes and hand-dipped cones. They have a fantastic selection of diner-style food, and their smash-style burgers were voted as a Top 10 Burger in Iowa.
Foxy’s Chill & Grill is known for its laid-back atmosphere, huge tenderloins and white cheddar mac & cheese. Foxy’s offers plenty of entertainment, with live music, weekly BINGO nights, pool tables and more. Open daily, they are always ready to welcome you in.
Beanie’s Coffee & Cakes opened its doors in July of 2023, offering barista-level crafted coffees, teas, lemonades and Beanie Boosts. They have breakfast and lunch menu items, as well as homemade pastries & desserts. Absolute heaven!
Wapsi Weaving began when the owners’ daughter Brianna, living with Down Syndrome, discovered she has a talent and love for weaving with a loom. In November 2024, the business expanded into a charming shop offering that offers weaving classes and has woven goods and other local items for sale.
Restorative Physical Therapy fills a need for closer-to-home physical therapy services in our area. This brand-new business is located in the old Mills Hardware building, and the ribbon cutting ceremony was on December 7th.
Our Local Heroes
The Third District Fire Department provides emergency coverage for approximately 90 square miles, making it the largest district in Linn County! Covering residents and businesses in Central City, Waubeek, Paris and the rural areas of the Maine Township, along with Pinicon Ridge Park, Wakpicada Natural Area and the Linn County Fairgrounds, these brave men and women respond to all types of emergencies, including fires, medical calls, vehicle extractions, ice/water rescues, severe weather and anything else that might arise. They are truly there when we need them!
In December 2022, the former Central City Fire Department moved into its new home on Central City Road, just off Highway 13 and near the Linn County Fairgrounds, and became the Third Fire District. They may be in a new location and have a new name, but many of the same friends and neighbors that watched over us for years in downtown Central City still continue to protect and serve.
District Officers include a Chief, 2 Assistant Chiefs, 2 Captains and 3 Lieutenants. These and other department members participate in continuous training, often partnering with fire departments in nearby towns, ensuring that their skills stay current, relevant and sharp.
In addition to their commitment to emergency response and training, fire department personnel are dedicated to promoting fire safety and preparedness, appearing regularly in the community – most notably at the local school, appearing every year for fire safety education, much to the excitement and delight of the schoolchildren. These outreach programs teach valuable skills, helping to prevent fires and promote safety.
The Third Fire District is always open to individuals who are dedicated, passionate about helping others, and committed to serving their neighbors. Volunteer firefighters receive the training needed to respond to emergencies, provide critical services when needed, and create a safer community for us all. Contact the Third District if you are interested in joining their team and their mission.
– Always Ready to Fight the Fight!
Come and Visit Us!
Over the past 12 weeks, we hope that we have given you some reasons to come, visit us and discover Central City – your nearest faraway place. We are a small town, filled with friends and neighbors, and rich with unique and locally-owned businesses waiting to welcome you!
In case you missed any of it, here are some of the things we have waiting for you:
Four museums, kayak and canoe shop, two hair salons, photography studio, craft brewery, coffee shop, custom bakery, ice cream parlor, two full-service banks, chocolate shop, pharmacy/gift shop, fishing & outdoor equipment, loom weaving, physical therapy, bar & grill, locally owned convenience store, grocery store & deli, two automotive repair shops, two insurance agencies, a 24-hour fitness center, a brand new floral shop… and more!
Three town parks with playground structures, a splash pad, a 9-hole golf course, local shooting range, and a nearby county park and a natural area with a total of 1370 acres of natural area with fishing ponds, river access points, boat ramps, hiking trails, a gravity course for mountain bikes, accessible playground equipment, primitive, RV & group camping areas, canoe & paddleboat rentals, a 72-foot high observation tower, climate-controlled lodges and plenty of outdoor shelter spaces for all of your family gathering and recreation needs.
Active veterans organizations (including Sons and Auxiliary groups) offering connection and support to their members, coordinating events and activities for involvement, and providing substantial contributions through parades, memorial services and community support.
The Linn County Fairgrounds, home of the Linn County Fair and Circle of Ash Haunted Attraction, complete with several venues, both large and small, available to rent for your special celebrations.
The City of Central City and the Central City Growth Organization are both pleased and thankful for the opportunity we have had to tell you all about us and our city, and we sincerely hope that you will come and visit, take in our amenities, slow down, savor life, and see the many reasons we love this town we call home.
It’s Camping Season in Central City!
Pinicon Ridge Park offers a range of accommodations, whether you’re planning a family adventure, a weekend getaway with friends or just want to escape into nature on your own. Scenic woodlands, river views and a host of activities invite you to make summer memories!
Online reservations can be made at www.mycountyparks.com – some facilities are still available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Primitive sites for tent camping have no hookups, but include a fire pad and picnic table. Modern sites are equipped with electricity and water, and are perfect for RV’s or campers. Both have restrooms and shower facilities nearby, and firewood is available to purchase.
Flying Squirrel Campground has 83 campsites with water & electric; First come.
Plains Campground has 18 sites with water & electric, 17 without; First come.
Firefly Campground has 32 campsites with water, electric, & sewer; Online only.
Group Campgrounds has 2 sites with electricity, 5 without; Online only.
If you prefer a bed to a sleeping bag, cabins offer a rustic setting with the comfort of a roof overhead. Amenities vary among cabins, but all have heat & air conditioning, kitchen facilities, fire pits and sleeping accommodations. The cabins in the Plains Campground sleep from 6-8 people; the new cabins in the Firefly Campground sleep 10-12, and have some extra perks. All cabins must be reserved online.
Two climate-controlled lodges and three open-air shelters are available for online reservation as well. While they do not accept overnight stays, they are perfect for gatherings, with seating capacities ranging from 50 to 250.
Camping is about more than where you sleep of course, and Pinicon Ridge has loads of recreational opportunities for you to enjoy: hiking trails for all ability levels, canoe and paddle boat rentals, jetties and shorelines for fishing, an observation tower with a breathtaking view from over 1,000 feet high, mountain bike trails - including a new gravity trail, accessible playgrounds and ample outdoor spaces for exploring.
Tips for visitors: reserve early – spaces can fill fast – and be sure to check current conditions. And don’t forget Central City has businesses offering food & drink, gas & supplies for your adventure!
Central City Farmer’s Market!
The 26th Annual Central City Farmer’s Market is sponsored by the Central City Park & Recreation Department. Market opens next week, and runs every Thursday evening, June through September, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at the Veteran’s Memorial Park, located on South 5th St. near downtown Central City.
Local growers bring in their seasonal fruits and vegetables, from early summer strawberries and peas to late season squash and pears – some picked just hours before market! Not your typical grocery-store produce, many of our vendors offer unusual varieties and color variations of tomatoes, beans, cucumbers and other veggies. Small growers get to experiment more, and that means unique and exciting opportunities to try new things!
We have a variety of vendors with crafts and creations – wood planters, soaps, candles, jewelry, leatherwork, fabric arts, fine art paintings and cut flowers are just some of the items we’ve had in the past – and every season brings new vendors and new variety.
And of course, there will be plenty of baked goods and home canned items on hand – kolaches, brownies, cookies, breads, cakes, jams & jellies, pickles and salsa have all made their appearances. Don’t forget to look for Bailey Apiary’s local honey – they have been a vendor at market every year since we started!
Each week, the market offers a grab-n-go meal option, which you can eat on site at the market, or to take home for an easy, no-fuss summer meal.
The Central City Farmer’s Market is certified to accept Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program vouchers for both WIC and Senior participants – look for the signs that identify FMNP certified vendors to redeem your vouchers.
The Central City Farmer’s Market is more than just a shopping opportunity – it’s a chance to slow down, connect with neighbors and savor some of the freshest produce around.
Plan Your Visit:
When: Thursdays, 4:00–6:00 pm, June–September
Where: Veteran’s Memorial Park, Central City, IA
What to Bring: Cash (a few vendors accept Venmo, but the market is not set up for card payments), a reusable shopping bag, curiosity and an appetite for fresh, local food.
Central City’s Annual
Car Show Tradition!
The small town of Central City (population of about 1,300, give or take a little) is a great spot to find some local car shows, which are growing in size and popularity every year.
First, the Foxy’s Shine & Dine Car Show is held on the first Thursday of each month from May through October (weather permitting, of course), and fills the streets of downtown Central City with an awesome display of vehicles. From 4:30 – 8:00 pm, you can stroll through the streets and enjoy the variety of cars, trucks, hot rods & motorcycles that local enthusiasts bring to display. Many downtown businesses are open for drinks & dining – including event host Foxy’s Chill & Grill (think GIANT tenderloins), BIT Brewery (wood-fired pizza anyone?), Parlor on Main (ice cream & old-fashioned malts) and the soon-to-be-opened The Main Slice. On several of the car show nights last year, Blue Moon Carriage showed up in style, offering horse-drawn carriage rides around town – and we bet they’ll be back again this year! Check Foxy’s Facebook page for all the details and updates – and if you have a vehicle to show off, bring it here and get entered in the gift certificate drawing!
And then, brace yourselves… on September 5th from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm, downtown Central City will once again be filled to the brim as the 4th Annual Wicked Kreations Car Show hits town! This annual car show attracts over 200 vehicles, with proceeds benefitting the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight. There will be live music, a burnout contest, live auction, raffle drawings, a vendor show and SO MUCH more! Rumor has it there will be a special beer brewed for the occasion by BIT Brewery again this year, and we can’t wait! Registration for this event is from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, and there are goody bags for the first 100 registrants. For updated information you can visit (and follow!) @WickedKreationsCC on Facebook. Downtown businesses will also be open that day, so you can visit the businesses you already love and maybe find some new ones to obsess over.
Central City LIVE
Presents
Music in the Park
Central City Parks & Recreation is pleased to host live music entertainment on the 3rd Friday of June, July & August at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Central City, Iowa. Each night features a local band – concerts are free admission, start at 6:30 pm, end at 9:00 pm, and there will be food truck concessions available for purchase each night.
June 19th the featured music artist is the Palomino Band, a 3-piece band out of Cedar Rapids, featuring country music from the 70’s-90’s, with “a little soft rock mixed in”. They play at public & private events all over eastern Iowa, including this year’s Linn County Fair and opening for the Bellamy Bothers in Iowa City. They were inducted into the Midwest All-Music Association Hall of Fame in 2023. Concessions by More Flavors and Two Scoops Ice Cream.
July 17th will see the return of Dogs on Skis to Central City! The band has been playing music together since the 1980’s, and continue to be popular crowd favorites! They are well-known for their ability to play a HUGE variety of songs and tailoring their sets to the crowds. They were inducted into the Iowa Rock & Roll Music Association Hall of Fame in 2013. Concessions by Born to Fry and Kona Ice.
August 21st will bring the Bigfoot Park Band out to rock our town! This local band is known for its rock and roll sound, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! They appear regularly at many local establishments, including PrairieMoon on Main, Millstream Brewing and Boondocks. Concessions by Wescott Barbecue and Kona Ice.
Bring your own seating, don’t forget the bug spray, and come hang out with us this summer and enjoy some awesome music from these talented local bands!
While you’re in town, you can check out our many local businesses and amenities, and plan your next visit to Central City, Iowa … your nearest faraway place.
The Linn County Fair
June 24 – 28, 2026 – Central City, Iowa
The Linn County Fair’s roots go all the way back to 1855, when the Linn County Fair was held alternately in Cedar Rapids and Marion. In 1889, 50 acres of land along the Wapsipinicon River was purchased in Central City, and the Wapsie Valley Fair and Fair Association were born. In 1937, the Wapsie Valley Fair Association became the Linn County Fair Association, and the fair has been held annually at the fairgrounds.
The Linn County Fair’s primary purpose is to serve the needs of local youth through the opportunity to showcase their accomplishments. The fair welcomes 4H and FFA youth to participate in a diverse array of events, including livestock shows, small animal competitions and a variety of exhibits ranging from photography to flower arrangements to baking and preserves.
This year’s Youth Day is June 25th, featuring FREE gate admission from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, and many FREE activities! Train rides, face painting, magic show, circus, Tae Kwan Do demonstrations, free book giveaways, sea lion splash, balloon artist, corn pit, duck pond, cookie stacking contest and MORE.
Military Appreciation Day is June 28th. All past & present military members can check in at the Military Appreciation table for their complimentary wristband, giving FREE admission to the fair and the Tough Trucks event at the grandstand. There will be a Voice of Valor presentation at the Linn County Freedom Rock at 9:00 am, Quilt of Valor presentations at 10:30 am, and a free performance by the 34th Army Band “Scrap Metal” from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.
This year’s featured grandstand events are the Bulls & Barrels Rodeo, East Central Iowa Pulling Association Truck & Tractor Pull, rock tribute band Arch Allies, Chase Matthews with Terri Clark and Tough Trucks. In addition to grandstand events, the fair is full of family entertainment, including activities for kids, livestock exhibits and shows, hands on agricultural experience in the Ag-ucation Zone, carnival rides, fair food, a free entertainment pavilion and more.
You can visit
www.thelinncountyfair.com
for a full fair schedule.
4th of July Celebration
Come celbebrate America's 250 in a big way in our small town at the annual Fourth of July celebration in Central City.
The event kicks off at 7:00 am with the Dad’s Belgian Waffle Breakfast at the Falcon Civic Center, sponsored by the United Church of Christ. All you can eat - cooked to order - Belgian waffles and sausages, with a variety of syrup options and choice of drinks.
The St Stephen’s Catholic Church Ladies Guild pie sale starts bright and early too – and if you want pies, you’d better not be late! The pie sale frequently sells out in just an hour or so.
The parade - complete with full color guard - starts at 9:00 am, stretching across the bridge and all the way through the downtown, ending at the school. There are plenty of places along the route to stand and cheer on the parade entries – we are very proud of the amazing parade that the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary organizes every year! It’s absolutely fantastic!
After the parade, plan to stay in town for all of the festivities. Nearly every business in our downtown opens its doors and offers a special activity or sale – mini photo shoots, ice cream specials, weaving demonstrations, wine tasting, drink specials, face painting, cotton candy and more – there’s plenty to do and see!
• Stop in to BIT Brewery for the annual Homebrew Competition – vote for your favorite!
• AMVETS will have their beer garden, with awesome live music and great food.
• All three downtown museums will be open – Sawyer House, JC Clegg Library Museum and the Old Schoolhouse will all be available for tours.
• Blue Moon Carriage will be in town, offering horse drawn carriage rides around town.
• Shop our downtown vendor fair for that unique item you can’t live without.
• Spend some time in the Kiddieland area or The Puddle splashpad, making memories with your littles.
And be sure to take in the stunning fireworks display that starts at dusk at the Linn County Fairgrounds, sponsored by the City of Central City.
THE EASTERN IOWA HONOR FLOAT
The 8th Annual Eastern Iowa Honor Float is just around the corner on July 11th, and this annual event is one you won’t want to miss! All proceeds are donated to support the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight, a non-profit organization and official hub of the Honor Flight Network™ - they work to provide air travel from Cedar Rapids to Washington DC, allowing our wartime veterans to tour the National Memorials that were built to honor them and the many others that were lost defending our freedom.
The Honor Float starts with a kayak trip from the Veteran’s Memorial Park in Central City, winds down the Wapsipinicon River, and ends at F.B. & Company Bar in Waubeek. Following the float, the fun continues back at Veteran’s Memorial Park, and the celebration is open to everyone. Bring some lawn chairs and enjoy live music by Full Circle! Meaders Meats BBQ will be on site, along with plenty of beverages and other treats available for purchase. Raffle tickets will be available, and there will be lots of door prizes to win.
Pre-registration information can be found online at https://www.facebook.com/HonorFloat or you can register in person at the AMVETS Post 37 in Central City. Pre-registration ends on July 1st, and includes a swag-bag with snacks, free-drink wristbands, door prize entries and more!
If you miss out on pre-registration, no worries! You can register starting at 9:00 AM on the day of the event. Swag-bags are not guaranteed for onsite registrations.
The Central City AMVETS Post 37 was established in 1946 and has been operating as a non-profit since 1963, and boy do they know how to give back! In addition to hosting this annual Honor Float and being a huge part of the annual 4th of July and Holiday on Main town-wide celebrations, they help with numerous other benefit events, deliver free Thanksgiving & Christmas meals, are partners in the Central City Salutes flag program, send care packages to the military… the list of what this amazing organization does for our community is extensive!!
IOWA'S DOWNHILL PLAYGROUND
The Pinicon Ridge Gravity Park, located within Pinicon Ridge Park near Central City, opened in September of 2025, and demand for the site has exploded, bringing visitors from across the state looking to experience Iowa’s first purpose-built gravity trails.
Built with a $400,000 investment by Linn County Conservation, the park was inspired by the success of several out-of-state bike parks and was designed to bring a taste of downhill excitement to Iowa. The 1.1-mile gravity park features multiple downhill flow trails of varying difficulty levels, appealing to riders just learning to handle speed and features as well as the experienced adrenaline-seekers. Trails range from blue (intermediate) to true black-rated trails that are challenging even for advanced riders. Technical gravity trails, a roller coaster trail, true gravity trails and “slower” technical trails, all featuring tabletop jumps, berms, and drops, are designed for skill building and progression. Some of the integrated wooden features include a 30-foot over/under bridge, a 75-foot skinny boardwalk, and a large, custom-built wallride. The park’s return climbing trail leads back up to a central hub where all the descending trails begin, and is modeled after the successful Castle Hub in Bentonville, AR. The new gravity park integrates with the park’s existing 5+-mile cross country route, offering a seamless transition from a warm-up XC ride to the more challenging gravity trails.
Since opening, the park has experienced exploding popularity and sometimes challenging growth. Starting with just a small 5-stall parking space, Linn County Conservation has added additional parking places several times to accommodate the massive influx of visitors, and is renovating a nearby campsite to include features that will cater to the gravity park.
The Pinicon Ridge Gravity Park, along with some 25 miles of other local mountain bike trails, is maintained by the Linn Area Mountain Bike Association (LAMBA), a group of dedicated volunteers who have been a driving force in mountain biking growth in eastern Iowa for decades. They work tirelessly to expand and maintain quality, sustainable trails that welcome riders of all skill levels, advocate for cycling access, and host skill clinics, group rides, competitions, and other events.
Brown Farm Pioneer Days
In just a couple of weeks, the Central City Historical Society will be hosting the 18th annual Brown Farm Pioneer Days event at the Brown Farm just east of Central City. The historic 84-acre farm was donated to the Historical Society by Lloyd H. Brown, along with a large collection of antiques and vintage machinery, and is now maintained as an educational resource and living history farm.
The annual Pioneer Days celebrates and remembers the rich agricultural heritage of Iowa’s past, and attracts visitors from all over the U.S. The event features acres of displays of vintage harvest equipment, vintage tractors, farm equipment & implements, and many other pieces of farming history. This year’s featured tractor is International Harvester – the Brown Farm Pioneer Days is actually the host site for the 2026 International Harvester Collectors Club of Iowa Chapter 5 Summer Show this year!
Unlike traditional museums where nothing is touched, Pioneer Days features hands-on, period-accurate demonstrations depicting how farming tasks were once accomplished. During this two-day event, you can see actual use of horse-drawn plows, steam threshing machines, a steam-powered sawmill, blacksmithing, and many other agricultural activities of the past.
There is a Parade of Power at noon each day, featuring both vintage and more modern machinery, antique cars and trucks, horse-drawn equipment, and even the occasional lawn mower. The parade often includes rarely seen (especially in working order!) items - some are lovingly restored to like-new appearance, others are left in their original vintage condition.
You’ll also find a flea market, the Buffalo Fork Settlers camp (with many of their own demonstrations and unique shops), horse-drawn shuttle rides around the grounds, food concessions and much more, including a petting zoo, candy cannon and corn pit for the kids. There is even a non-denominational cowboy church service on Sunday at 9 AM.
Brown Farm Days is open on July 25 & 26, 2026 from 10 AM to 5 PM each day. Daily admission and parking are free - donations to the Central City Historical Society are accepted of course.
CENTRAL CITY HISTORY ABOUNDS
Take a stroll through downtown Central City, and you’re sure to notice the beautiful historical markers that have been installed on some of our buildings. These beautiful brass plaques identify a few of the buildings that were important to Central City’s early history:
The State Bank of Central City, constructed in 1908, is the only building in the downtown that is influenced by the Prairie school architectural style – it has several noteworthy unique features, including the original metal alarm box.
The International Organization of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Hall was built shortly after the devastating historic fire of 1889 that destroyed many of the original downtown buildings. It was built in stages between 1890 – 1910, originally as two separate one-story buildings that were eventually connected and a second story added on.
The three buildings that make up what came to be known as the “Phoenix Block” were constructed circa 1889 by Paul Sigmund, who designed the individual storefronts as one cohesive unit. They are constructed in the Late Victorian style with locally manufactured brick.
The Central City Savings Bank, circa 1914, was originally constructed as a one-room commercial bank building, and was occupied by the bank until it closed in 1925 due to the recession.
The S.B. Starks Block was originally built as a one-room store in 1869 and was one of the few buildings to survive the downtown fire of 1889. After the fire, the building was expanded into a two-story commercial block.
Ray Brown’s Grocery, which opened in 1915, was established in a circa 1895 building constructed in the Victorian commercial style.
The Old Pump House, built in 1912, is not located in the downtown historic district, but the building is architecturally significant, as is the history of the building as a pump house, city hall, sheriff’s office and jail.
The historic markers were commissioned and placed in two phases, and were funded in part by grants from the Linn County Historic Preservation Commission, with the remaining funds provided by
the Central City Growth Organization. The CCGO Board is grateful to Donna Falcon, whose diligent research and grant writing skills made the project possible.
THE CCGO ANNUAL BENEFIT GOLF TOURNAMENT
On August 8th, locally owned and operated Meadowview Golf & Country Club will once again host the Annual CCGO Benefit Golf Tournament.
Now in its 19th year, the Golf Tournament is a major fundraiser for the Central City Growth Organization, and helps fund its mission to nurture community, empower businesses and safeguard the rich heritage of Central City, Iowa.
This four-person, best-shot tournament is a whole lot of fun every year, with three flights of cash prizes paid out, a 50/50 raffle and drawings for plenty of prizes. There is a $1000 hole-in-one contest, a few entertaining on-course games and – of course! – mulligans are available. Entry fees include greens fees, a goodie bag and dinner after the golfing concludes.
This event is a local favorite, and many golfers and golf teams return year after year to participate. In fact, we are thrilled to announce that this year’s tournament is already full, though golf teams can still call to be added to the waitlist.
We want to take this opportunity to thank the following businesses and individuals who have donated to the CCGO golf tournament, as tee box sponsors, event sponsors, raffle item donors or goodie bag givers! On our thank you list (so far):
Ability Physical Therapy/Elite Fitness, A to Z Massage Therapy, Beanie’s Coffee & Cakes, BIT Brewery, Bodak Auto, Bold Off-Road, Capital City Coins, Central City Family Pharmacy, David Robinson, Dr Ted Noring, FIT Box, Foxy’s Chill & Grill, FUEL, Gettin’ Lippy, Growthland, Heartland Bank, Holub Insurance Agency, Jacqui Schlotterbeck/Scentsy, Lexi Hennick, Nagel Grain, North Linn Fish & Game, Ohnward Bank, Purely Crafted by Alycia, Restorative Physical Therapy, Sweetopia Emporium & Grandma Sue’s Bakery, USA Communications, Wapsi Current Electrical Service and Wapsi Weaving.
And a big thank you to CCGO Board Members Jennifer and Annadee Betzer, along with Brittney McKenna from Heartland Bank, who work so tirelessly to make this event successful every year!
There is still plenty of time to get involved as a sponsor or to contribute to the golfer goodie bags – with a full tournament, it’s a great way to get your business name out there! Contact the CCGO office for more information!
STOP OUT & SEE US
Over the past 12 weeks, we hope that we have given you some reasons to come, visit and discover Central City – your nearest faraway place. We are a small town, filled with friends and neighbors, and rich with unique and locally-owned businesses waiting to welcome you!
In case you missed any of our articles, here are some of what we have to offer:
Nearby Pinicon Ridge County Park and Wakpicada Natural Area, with a total of 1370 acres of fishing ponds, river access points, boat ramps, hiking trails, a mountain bike gravity course, accessible playground equipment, primitive, RV & group camping areas, canoe & paddleboat rentals, a 72-foot-high observation tower, climate-controlled cabins and lodges and plenty of outdoor shelter spaces for all of your family gathering and recreation needs.
Outdoor summer fun at our city parks & splash pad, with weekly farmer’s markets, monthly car shows, live music in the park every 3rd Friday through August, and more!
History to explore, with three in-town museums – the Sawyer House, which hosts teas and receptions and is available for tours; the Library Museum, featuring a vast collection of memorabilia and documents for historical and genealogical research; and the Paris School, a representation of the one-room schoolhouse era – and historical plaques with information about several buildings that played key roles in Central City history.
SAVE THE DATE… for these upcoming events that you won’t want to miss:
September 5 – Wicked Kreations 4th Annual Car Show – 11 am to 4 pm (registration starts at 9 am) – Benefitting the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight. There will be live music, live auction, raffles, burnout contest and more! Last year had over 200 entries.
September 19 – Moonlight Market – 5 to 9 pm – Our inaugural community event featuring a vendor fair, local crafts and artisans, live music, kids’ activities and more. Email [email protected] for more information.
October – Circle of Ash Haunted Attraction – Hours vary by evening – www.circleofash.com for more information.
December 12 – Holiday on Main – Our annual town-wide holiday celebration featuring Santa and The Grinch, along with horse-drawn carriage rides, vendor fair, and plenty of activities and special events at town businesses.
