101 Old Ruins to Explore in Iowa

Nestled in the heart of Albia, Iowa, the Albia Square and Central Commercial Historic District stands as a cherished reminder of the town's rich history, architectural heritage, and vibrant community spirit. This charming district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, invites visitors to step back in time and experience the nostalgia and beauty of bygone eras.

Alvin Bushnell Bell House stands as a distinguished testament to the architectural heritage and historical significance of the region. Constructed in 1880, this meticulously preserved residence is a fine example of [architectural style], serving as both a captivating landmark and a portal to the past.

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, the Amana Colonies‎ stand as a living testament to a unique communal experiment and a vibrant cultural heritage. Steeped in history, these seven idyllic villages are a captivating blend of German traditions, American resilience, and small-town charm, creating a destination that is both timeless and distinctive.

The Anamosa State Penitentiary Cemetery, located in Anamosa, Iowa, is a historic burial ground associated with the Anamosa State Penitentiary. The cemetery holds historical significance as it serves as the final resting place for individuals who were incarcerated at the Anamosa State Penitentiary. Many of those interred at the cemetery lived during a time when the penitentiary played a central role in the state's corrections system.

The Ash Park Historic District is a nationally recognized historic district located in Mount Vernon, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993. At the time of its nomination it consisted of 42 resources, which included 32 contributing buildings and 10 non-contributing buildings.

Nestled in the heart of Fort Madison, Iowa, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Passenger and Freight Complex Historic District stands as a living testament to the bygone era of rail travel and commerce. This carefully preserved district showcases the architectural and historical legacy of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, offering a captivating glimpse into the region's transportation and economic history.

The Audubon County Home Historic District, also known as the Nathaniel Hamlin Park & Museum, is a nationally recognized historic district located south of Audubon, Iowa, United States. During their journey to the West, Mormons camped here in the 1840s. The place became known as Blue Grass Grove because of a legend that they spilled bluegrass seed from their wagons.

The B Avenue NE Historic District is a nationally recognized historic district located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. At the time of its nomination it consisted of 210 resources, which included 167 contributing buildings, and 43 non-contributing buildings

The Bastian site is an archaeological site associated with a village of the Oneota culture near Cherokee, Iowa, United States. The time period for this village appears to be from an intermediate era between village sites from the earlier Correctionville–Blue Earth phase and the later Orr phase. The later phase is from the late prehistoric and early historic periods, and include villages of the Siouan-speaking groups. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Beit Shalom Jewish Community is a significant religious and cultural institution located in Davenport, Iowa. Established in the early 20th century, Beit Shalom serves as a center for Jewish worship, education, and community engagement in the Quad Cities region.

The Blood Run Site, located in Lyon County, Iowa, is a significant archaeological and cultural landmark that offers a window into the history of indigenous peoples in the Midwest. This ancient site, situated along the Big Sioux River, was once a thriving hub of activity and trade for native communities dating back over 1,000 years.

The Broad View Ranch Historic District, located in Lyon County, Iowa, is a significant cultural and architectural landmark that offers a glimpse into the history of rural life in the Midwest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Situated amidst the rolling prairies and fertile farmland of northwest Iowa, this historic district encompasses a collection of well-preserved buildings and structures that tell the story of a bygone era.

The Brown Street Historic District in Johnson County, Iowa, is a charming residential neighborhood that captures the essence of local history and architectural heritage. Nestled in the heart of Iowa City, this district is characterized by a collection of well-preserved homes that reflect the evolution of architectural styles from the mid-19th to the early 20th century.

The Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead, located in Scott County, Iowa, is a historic site that preserves the birthplace and early life of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the legendary American frontiersman and showman. The homestead consists of the original farmhouse where Buffalo Bill was born in 1846, along with several outbuildings and a visitor center.

The Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railroad-Rock Rapids Station, Railroad Track, and Bridge, located in Lyon County, Iowa, stand as historic landmarks that played a significant role in the transportation and development of the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These structures, which are part of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railway (BCR&N), served as vital hubs for commerce, trade, and travel in northwest Iowa.

Nestled in the rural countryside of Monroe County, Iowa, the Buxton Historic Townsite stands as a testament to the resilience, diversity, and ingenuity of a once-thriving African American coal mining community. Founded in the late 19th century, Buxton was a beacon of hope and opportunity for African American miners seeking better wages and improved living conditions during a time of racial segregation and discrimination.

The Camp Harlan-Camp McKean Historic District, also known as the Hugh B. and Mary H. Swan Farmstead and the Springdale Stock Farm, is a nationally recognized historic district located northwest of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. At the time of its nomination it consisted of eight resources, which includes two contributing buildings, one contributing site, one contributing object and four non-contributing buildings.

The Cedar Rapids 2nd Avenue SE. Automobile Row Historic District is a nationally recognized historic district located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. At the time of its nomination it consisted of 24 resources, which included 17 contributing buildings, two contributing sites, four non-contributing buildings, and one non-contributing structure.

The Cedar Rapids Central Business District Commercial Historic District is a nationally recognized historic district located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. At the time of its nomination it consisted of 60 resources, which included 46 contributing buildings, one contributing structure, 12 non-contributing buildings, and one non-contributing structure.

The Central City Commercial Historic District in Iowa is a designated historic area that holds significance for its architectural, cultural, and economic heritage. Located in Central City, Iowa, this district encompasses a collection of buildings and structures that reflect the town's commercial development and history.