Ballingall Park: A Historic Oasis in Ottumwa

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Discover a charming blend of history and natural beauty at Ballingall Park in Ottumwa, Iowa – a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

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Ballingall Park

Ballingall Park, nestled beside the Amtrak depot in Ottumwa, Iowa, offers a serene escape with a blend of history and natural beauty. The park features a vintage steam engine, an illuminated fountain, and an informative panel detailing the park's story and its namesake.

A brief summary to Ballingall Park

210 W Main St, Ottumwa, Iowa, 52501, US
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Monday 5 am-10:30 pm
Tuesday 5 am-10:30 pm
Wednesday 5 am-10:30 pm
Thursday 5 am-10:30 pm
Friday 5 am-10:30 pm
Saturday 5 am-10:30 pm
Sunday 5 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

Visit during the evening to see the fountain illuminated, creating a particularly enchanting atmosphere.
Take a moment to read the interpretive panel and learn about the park's namesake and the history of the area.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grass or at one of the benches while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Ottumwa Public Library at 102 W 4th St, walk west on W 4th St for about 0.3 miles to S Court St. Turn left onto S Court St and walk south for approximately 0.2 miles. Turn right onto W Main St, and Ballingall Park will be on your left at 210 W Main St. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

From the Ottumwa Post Office (101 E Main St), take an Ottumwa Transit bus route heading towards downtown. Get off at the stop nearest to the intersection of Main St and Court St. Walk west along W Main St for about 0.2 miles; Ballingall Park will be on your left at 210 W Main St. Single bus fares are typically around $1.00.

Discover more about Ballingall Park

Ballingall Park, located at 210 W Main St in Ottumwa, Iowa, provides a charming blend of history and relaxation. This compact park, a stone's throw from the Amtrak depot, offers a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike.The park's history is intertwined with Colonel Peter G. Ballingall, a prominent figure in Ottumwa's past. Ballingall, who died in 1891, bequeathed the land for the park to the city. The park sits on land that was once a bed of the Des Moines River, later transformed into a slough by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. Ballingall then converted the area into a park. Today, Ballingall Park provides green space in the heart of the city.Key features include a historic steam engine, a beautifully illuminated fountain, and an interpretive panel that recounts the park's history and honors its namesake. These elements combine to create a picturesque and tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding. The park hosts community events, including the Bizarre Bazaar. Its central location also provides easy access to other Ottumwa attractions.