Riceville can be explored through a range of interests: local culture, nearby trails and nature, and golf. The Brown Opera Curtains and a city park are near the Public Library; the Wapsi Great Western Nature/Bike Trail begins in the town center. For nature by the lake, nearby Lake Hendricks Park is another option. You can weigh different priorities for your trip without combining them into a single outing.
Culture and Local History
The Brown Opera Curtains are original stage backdrops. They have been carefully restored and are located in the community room of the Riceville Public Library. Their history connects the performing arts with a specific place in Riceville. The historic James C. Fellows House offers a different perspective: it is a local architectural landmark in the Riceville area and is associated with the town’s early settlement. Together, these two subjects offer insight into different aspects of the local heritage—theater history and architecture.
There is also a local place to get active: a city park near the Riceville Public Library has tennis courts. This puts culture and a sporting opportunity in a similar area around the library, without implying a shared itinerary.
Trails and Getting Around Riceville
The Wapsi Great Western Nature/Bike Trail begins in the center of Riceville. The Wapsi-Great Western Line (WGWL) Trailhead is also in Riceville: the WGWL Welcome Center and trailhead are at 110 E Main St. The WGWL Trail is 23.5 miles long and is a paved rural trail. These details offer different planning perspectives: a starting point in the town center and the length of a longer trail.
If you’d like to consider a shorter, self-guided nature trail, there is one at Lake Hendricks Park. Comparing it with the 23.5-mile WGWL Trail highlights the difference in trail lengths without presenting them as one continuous route. Which option is right for you depends on whether you prefer a starting point in the town center or a nature experience in a nearby park.
Lake Hendricks Park and Golf
Lake Hendricks Park is one mile north of Riceville. Its man-made lake covers 54 acres; there is also a 0.4-mile self-guided nature trail. The lake and trail offer two specific points of reference for a stay nearby: the size of the body of water and a clearly measured short route. The park is open for camping from May to October. Since seasonal dates can change, it’s a good idea to check them before your trip.
Another option in Riceville is the Riceville Golf Course. The course has 9 holes and a par of 35. These details help distinguish the golf course as a separate activity from the trails and cultural sites. You can decide what to focus on based on your interests—a trail, a nature path, tennis, or golf; the options differ in location, length, and activity.
Discover more destinations: Cresco.
View the broader travel guide: Howard County.
