Speed Up
Ready to set your pace?
Marion County, Iowa isn't your average weekend getaway. It's where adrenaline meets open water, world-class racing meets small-town hospitality, and every trail, track, and towering staircase dares you to push a little harder. Whether you're here for a few hours or a few days, there's no shortage of ways to leave it all on the field.
Pack light. Move fast. Marion County keeps up.
All things to do in Marion County.
Knoxville Nationals at the Sprint Car Capital of the World
There's nowhere quite like Knoxville Raceway on race night. As the Sprint Car Capital of the World, Knoxville hosts the legendary Knoxville Nationals every August – a five-night event that draws the world's best drivers and over 20,000 roaring fans per night to the third-largest outdoor stadium in Iowa.
The noise, the dirt, the speed – it hits differently in person. Whether you're a lifelong racing fan or a first-timer looking for an unforgettable night out, the Nationals deliver the kind of experience you'll be talking about for years.
Races run throughout the season, so there's always a reason to visit. But if you can make it for the Nationals, don't think twice.
Lake Red Rock
Iowa's largest lake sits right in Marion County's backyard – and it's anything but boring. Lake Red Rock spans over 15,000 acres of open water, making it the go-to destination for high-speed water sports, sailing, kayaking, and everything in between. Spend a morning ripping across the lake on a jet ski, an afternoon exploring the shoreline by kayak, and an evening watching the sun drop behind the bluffs. With multiple marinas, boat ramps, and public beaches, Red Rock is easy to access and hard to leave.
Choose your thrill.
When you live in Marion County, you don’t have to pack up the car and drive hours to escape. Adventure is right out your back door.
Knoxville Raceway (The Sprint Car Capital of the World)
This third-largest outdoor stadium in the state of Iowa brings in more than 200,000 sprint car racing fans every single year.
Pools & Aquatic Centers
Zoom down 200-foot tube slides and ride the waves while conquering high-speed tube drops and rushing rivers at our local aquatic centers.
High-Speed Water Sports
Cruise over Iowa's largest lake, featuring over 15,000 acres of water. From tubing to water-skiing, make lake life move as fast as you like.
Biking & Trail Riding (Volksweg Trail)
Take your ride up a gear on Volksweg Trail, a 17-mile paved asphalt path winds through mature timber, restored prairies, and right along-side the Des Moines River and Lake Red Rock.
Mountain Biking (Off-Road)
Thrilling off-road dirt trails challenge you to tackle roots, rocks, and steep climbs on Marion County's dedicated single-track routes.
Slideways GoCart Racing
Get behind the wheel and challenge your friends to a white-knuckle, high-speed slick track race to the finish line.
Cordova Park Climb
Get your heart pumping as you conquer the 170 steps of the world's longest continuous fiberglass staircase in a public park in the Midwest.
Skydiving
Experience breathtaking freefalls and unparalleled aerial views of Marion County in the ultimate adrenaline rush!
Hiking Trails
Lace up your boots and elevate your heart rate in over 35,000 acres of public land and conquer diverse, rugged terrain.
Fuel the adventure.
Even adrenaline junkies need to eat and sleep.
The Coffee Connection
Kick off race day or trail day the right way. The Coffee Connection serves up fuel for the fast-paced: strong coffee, quick bites, and a local vibe that gets you out the door and moving.
One Eleven Public House
After a full day on the water or the track, One Eleven Public House is where Marion County slows down just enough to eat well. Craft burgers, local drafts, and a menu built for people who've earned a serious meal.
Knox Nutrition
High-energy nutrition shakes and teas made to order – perfect for a quick pre-adventure boost or a post-ride recovery. Fast, local, and built around keeping you in the game.
Slow Down
Vacation at your pace
Marion County, Iowa isn't your average weekend getaway. It's where adrenaline meets open water, world-class racing meets small-town hospitality, and every trail, track, and towering staircase dares you to push a little harder. Whether you're here for a few hours or a few days, there's no shortage of ways to leave it all on the field.
Pack light. Move fast. Marion County keeps up.
All things to do in Marion County.
A European Escape
(No Passport Required)
Wander a world away as you step into a true European village experience without ever leaving the country. Stroll past the largest working windmill in North America, explore locally-owned boutiques, and taste authentic Dutch pastries.
Nature's Sanctuary
Trade traffic for wide-open space by unplugging and recharging on the quiet shores of Iowa's largest lake. With over 35,000 acres of land and a dedicated bald eagle sanctuary, the only notifications you'll get out here come from nature.
Authentic Connections
Marion County's towns each have their own personality, but they share the same soul. Explore what's waiting for you across Pella, Knoxville, and Pleasantville.