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Tourism in Hopkinton, Iowa

Discover the charm of small-town Iowa and explore the natural beauty and rich history of Delaware County. Founded in 1851, Hopkinton offers authentic Iowa hospitality, historical treasures, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Learn more about our community or explore local businesses.

Featured Attractions

Historical Museum Photo

Delaware County Historical Museum

Explore the former Lenox College campus, which houses historical exhibits in four original campus buildings. The centerpiece is the Civil War Monument, dedicated in 1865.

  • • Civil War Museum
  • • One Room School
  • • Original campus buildings
  • • Train depot & agricultural exhibits

101 College St NE, Hopkinton

Open: June-November (Tours by appointment)

Phone: 563-926-2639

Scenic Byway Photo

Delaware Crossing Scenic Byway

This 36-mile loop route offers spectacular views of farmland, rolling hills, and limestone bluffs. Drive through thriving Amish communities and explore the Maquoketa River valley.

  • • Scenic rural landscapes
  • • Amish community areas
  • • Historic towns
  • • Access to outdoor recreation

Passes through Hopkinton, Manchester, Delaware, and Delhi

Year-round access

Lake Delhi Photo

Maquoketa River & Lake Delhi

Enjoy outdoor recreation on the beautiful Maquoketa River and Lake Delhi. Perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, and other water activities.

  • • Fishing opportunities
  • • Boating and water sports
  • • Scenic shorelines
  • • Summer events on the lake

Near Hopkinton and Delhi

Best enjoyed May through September

Comprehensive Tourism Guides

Outdoor Recreation

Parks & Recreation Areas

  • Pool Side Park & Swimming Pool - Public swimming pool and park facilities perfect for family outings
  • Memorial Park - Peaceful park space with picnic facilities
  • Dunlap Park - Local recreation area
  • Bailey's Ford Park (near Manchester) - Popular for fishing and outdoor activities
  • Pin Oak Wildlife Area - Launch a canoe on the Maquoketa River and enjoy wildlife viewing

Water Activities

  • Lake Delhi Recreation - Boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports on the reconstructed lake
  • Maquoketa River - Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities
  • Manchester Whitewater Park - Unique whitewater features for kayaking enthusiasts (nearby in Manchester)
  • Manchester Trout Hatchery - Historic fish hatchery that supplies trout for streams throughout Northeast Iowa
  • Turtle Creek Park - Excellent bird watching opportunities

Annual Events

June

Civil War Days

Experience history through reenactments, displays, and educational programs at the Delaware County Historical Museum. Features the special "Letters from Home" event.

June

Jams in June

Float in to listen to free live music on Saturday afternoons along the shores of Lake Delhi. Features different artists each weekend at various Lake Delhi locations.

July

Delaware County Fair

County fair featuring agricultural exhibits, entertainment, carnival rides, and more. Located in Manchester, a short drive from Hopkinton.

July

Delhi Daze

Community celebration in nearby Delhi with games, food, and entertainment for the whole family.

August

Christmas on the Lake

A unique summer Christmas celebration where residents decorate their lakefront properties with Christmas lights and decorations. Prizes awarded for best displays.

August

Lake Delhi Fireworks

Spectacular fireworks display over Lake Delhi. Watch from your boat as the show is synchronized to music broadcast on local radio.

Where to Stay

Browse all lodging options in our accommodations directory.

Nearby Accommodations

While Hopkinton itself has limited lodging options, there are several quality accommodations available within a short 15-minute drive in Manchesterand surrounding Delaware County:

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Manchester

  • • Complimentary hot breakfast served daily
  • • High-speed WiFi throughout property
  • • 24-hour front desk and business center
  • • Pet-friendly rooms available
  • • Truck and RV parking

Cobblestone Inn & Suites Manchester

  • • Complimentary hot breakfast and 24-hour coffee
  • • Easy access to US Route 20 and Highway 13
  • • Within 40 miles of Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Dubuque
  • • Modern amenities and comfortable rooms
  • • Popular with business and leisure travelers

Days Inn by Wyndham Manchester

  • • 43 rooms with high-speed internet and television
  • • Continental breakfast available each morning
  • • Tea/coffee making equipment in rooms
  • • 10-minute drive to Delaware County Courthouse
  • • 25-minute walk to Manchester Whitewater Park

Additional Options

  • • Bed and breakfasts in the surrounding area offering charming Iowa hospitality and home-cooked meals
  • • Campgrounds at nearby Backbone State Park (30 miles) with 125 campsites, modern facilities, and 4-season cabins
  • • RV parks with full hookups for extended stays throughout Delaware County
  • • Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Dubuque (within 40 miles) offer additional hotel chains and accommodations

Lake Delhi Rentals

For a unique stay, consider renting a lakehouse or cottage on Lake Delhi for direct water access and beautiful sunsets:

  • • Vacation rentals on Lake Delhi with private docks and boat access
  • • Rent Lake Delhi service offering a variety of lakeside accommodations
  • • Private cabins with lake access perfect for fishing and water sports
  • • Ideal for family getaways, reunions, and water activity enthusiasts

Dining Options

In Hopkinton

Explore local dining establishments offering home-style cooking and friendly service. Browse our complete dining directory.

Nearby in Delhi

Visit Delhi Landing and other restaurants serving casual dining options near Lake Delhi. Perfect for post-swimming or post-boating meals with waterfront views.

Manchester Restaurants

Find more dining variety in Manchester (15 minutes away) including April's Downtown Diner, Aunt Emmy's, Chuong Garden, and Olive that Deli. Check our complete restaurant guide.

Plan Your Visit

For more information on attractions, events, and accommodations in Hopkinton and Delaware County, contact:

Delaware County Tourism

223 W Main Street
Manchester, IA 52057
Phone: 563-927-3325
Email: msommers@delawarecountyia.com

Request a free travel guide for comprehensive information about the area.

City of Hopkinton

115 First St SE
Hopkinton, IA 52237
Phone: 563-926-2181

Contact the city office for specific information about Hopkinton attractions and events.