Mahanay Bell Tower — Attraction in Jefferson

This was an entirely serendipitous discovery: taking off-interstate roads to get from Minneapolis to Omaha I drove through Jefferson, Iowa and noticed the tall tower in the town center next to the Greene County Courthouse. While I quickly realized that it is a carillon tower I was pleased that it is open to visitors (check the hours!) and that it has an observation deck, elevating visitors high above the Iowa landscape with views stretching far all around, worth the $5 fee. Most remarkable were the very friendly and hospitable volunteers (no fee required, donations welcome) who pointed out various historic and present facts, like the Lincoln Highway and the surrounding rooftop art which can be appreciated only when up on the observation deck. A highly enjoyable and very unexpected encounter with "locals" on what otherwise would have been just another drive from one customer location to another...

The Midwest countryside is a distinctly American romance. Rolling hills and flatlands stretching for miles in impossible shades of green, dotted with historic farmhouses, livestock yards and grain elevators. Coming in to rural towns with brick buildings and a touch of Victorian architecture. A sight to behold. Yet what is to hear? The Mahanay Bell Tower! Wait for a short time downstairs (there are pamphlets on local attractions, a penny press, some items for sale and a guestbook with a push pin map). Pay $3 per Adult and ride the elevator with a Guide to the top for a breathtaking view. Admire the country you’ve driven through from a birds eye view (as well as some rooftop art). Listen to the bells, a beautiful soundtrack for a beautiful...

The Bell Tower is a beautiful place in Jefferson, Iowa! We enjoy The Bell Tower Days Celebration and going up each year into the tower! It's super cool to see how it works and to hear the chimes go off when you're up there and actually watch someone play them! Also there are various roof top paintings that people from all over have come in and...