Plan your trip around the annual Southern Iowa Junk Journey, which offers two events each year; one during the second weekend of June, and the other on the third weekend of October. The event features almost 30 vendors throughout Appanoose and neighboring counties, all of which boast exciting deals throughout the weekend.
 

If you miss the event – don’t worry! There’s plenty of opportunities to explore antique shops at your own leisure. Stop by Centerville, which is home to Iowa’s largest historic town square and 119 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Step inside Mystique Vintage & Unique to peruse its collection of antiques, refurbished furniture, home décor, gifts and baked goods, or visit Forbush ARTiques to admire their stunning inventory of antique home good and handcrafted artwork that includes stained glass creations, paintings, carving, pottery and more.
 

Venture out to Generations Vintage & Collectibles in Moravia or Main Street Mercantile in Moulton to discover even more vintage furniture, kitchenware, photos, books, clothing, kids toys and more.

Dive into the area’s intriguing industrial history with a visit to the Appanoose County Historical & Coal Mining Museum in Centerville. Located inside the community’s 1903 Georgian-style post office, the museum’s three levels are packed with replica coal mines and mining exhibits alongside displays about local military heroes, the textile industry and fine arts.
 

For more historical fun, stroll through a historic depot, school and church at Moravia’s Wabash Depot Museum Complex or book a private tour of Centerville’s Drake Hall at Bradley Gardens, a stunning mansion built by a local banker in 1909.

Achieve your daily step goals while admiring Appanoose County’s natural landscape. Spend an afternoon exploring Honey Creek State Park’s 838 acres of rolling hills and timber that surround Rathbun Lake, the second largest lake in Iowa. Hike along five miles of trails or explore the Woodland Interpretive Trail to see 17 Native American mounds.
 

The nearby and lesser-known Sharon Bluffs State Park is located along the Chariton River and boasts beautiful views of its bluffs. Stop by the nature center to learn about Iowa’s wildlife or set off on three miles of hiking trails for scenic views of the river and surrounding meadows.
 

For a more low-key outdoor adventure, stop by Centerville’s Lelah Bradley Park, which offers three miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the woods and around the lower reservoir. Or enjoy paddling sports and nature watching on the upper and lower reservoirs.

Savor an award-winning brick oven pizzas at George & Nick’s, which has has been a Centerville Square staple for over 50 years. Staffed by friendly locals, every plate is served with a smile. While the pizzas are always a hit, the massive menu also includes perfectly cooked steaks, pastas, burgers, sandwiches, seafood and more.
 

Or enjoy any meal of the day at Prairie Rose Restaurant, located inside Honey Creek Resort. The breakfast menu includes pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy and any egg combination, while the lunch and dinner menus include all your favorites, such as wings, fish and chips, salads, wraps, pasta, burgers and sandwiches. Each menu item features locally sourced ingredients.
 

The Continental Hotel blends historic charm with elegance to offer a relaxing boutique lodging experience. It’s located right on the Centerville Square and features a variety of rooms so you can pick what fits your needs. Couples can peacefully retreat to a king or queen suite while families can enjoy more space in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite. Each room is equipped with coffee and tea makers, refrigerators, microwaves, flat screen TVs and plush robes. During your stay, enjoy the continental breakfast service and a night cap or snack at the onsite restaurant, plus convenient proximity to Centerville’s shops and attractions.
 

Reach out to Promoting Appanoose & Centerville Together (PACT) for help in planning your perfect trip.