World's Largest Strawberry: A Sweet Stop in Strawberry Point, Iowa

In the heart of Strawberry Point, Iowa, stands the World's Largest Strawberry, a quirky and beloved roadside attraction. This fifteen-foot-tall fiberglass sculpture has been a fixture in front of the City Hall since its dedication in the late 1960s. Designed by a local ad agency, the giant strawberry was created to put Strawberry Point on the map, and it continues to draw visitors to this small Iowa town. The name "Strawberry Point" dates back to 1841 when Iowa was still a territory. Surveyors marking the Old Mission Road, running from Dubuque to Fort Atkinson, found an abundance of wild strawberries at a point of timber, hence the name. Although the town was initially named Franklin, it reverted to Strawberry Point after discovering another Franklin already existed. Today, the World's Largest Strawberry serves as a reminder of the area's past, when strawberry farming played a significant role in the local economy. The vibrant red sculpture offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to experience the friendly atmosphere of Strawberry Point. While in town, visitors can also explore other attractions, such as the Franklin Hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Backbone State Park, Iowa's oldest state park, located a short drive away.