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The Smiley Face Water Tower: Adair's Cheerful Icon

A whimsical landmark in Adair, Iowa, the Smiley Face Water Tower has been bringing smiles to travelers' faces for decades.

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The Smiley Face Water Tower in Adair, Iowa, is more than just a water tower; it's a symbol of joy and community spirit. This whimsical structure, painted bright yellow with a large black smiley face, has been a beloved landmark for locals and travelers alike since the late 1970s.

A brief summary to Smiley Face Water Tower

  • Hillcrest St, Adair, Iowa, 50002, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to see the tower's vibrant colors in the sunlight.
  • Consider stopping by during sunset for a picturesque view of the tower illuminated by golden light.
  • Explore the town of Adair, including the Adair Viaduct and the Jesse James Historical Park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Smiley Face Water Tower is easily visible from Interstate 80. Take Exit 76 (Adair) and head north. The tower is located on Hillcrest Street. Parking is available on the street near the tower.

  • Walking

    From Adair City Park, walk south on 4th Street, then turn left onto Hillcrest Street. The Smiley Face Water Tower will be on your right. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles.

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Discover more about Smiley Face Water Tower

The Smiley Face Water Tower has greeted motorists along I-80 in western Iowa for decades. The 250,000-gallon yellow water tower was erected in 1979 and quickly became an iconic symbol of the town. Former mayor Odella Roof believed the smiley face was first painted in either 1977 or 1978. Beyond its practical function, the tower has become a cultural icon, featured in travel blogs and social media posts. Families and individuals often stop to take photos, capturing memories with this cheerful landmark. The tower is especially striking during sunset when the golden light illuminates its iconic grin. Adair itself is a small town with a rich history. Founded in 1872, it was the site of the first robbery of a moving train in the American West, when Jesse James and his gang staged a heist in 1873. Today, Adair hosts Jesse James Days each July, complete with a reenactment of the train robbery. Other attractions in the area include the Adair Viaduct, Adair City Park, and the Jesse James Historical Park.

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