On the Prowl

As a traditional railroad town, Allerton, Iowa is composed of friendly citizens, small town values and a unique country atmosphere that makes it a refreshing getaway. Come stay at the true railroad inn and see why so many people return to stay with us every year.

Allerton’s charming main street typifies Midwest small town life. Here you can stroll by buildings constructed a century ago by area craftsmen, some of whose descendants still live nearby. On the west side of the street is the old American Legion. Also located on the west side is the U.S. Post Office, Log Chain Apiary, Allerton Lumber, Allerton City Hall and Olde Time Soda Fountain (open Saturday nights during summer and fall) and, of course, the Inn of the Six-Toed Cat.

Be sure to check out the many murals painted on Allerton’s buildings by the “Wall Dogs” several years ago. Allerton’s public library is open daily from 2 to 5 p.m., located in the Centennial Building which also houses a large multi-purpose facility for banquets, dances, and shows. Be sure to check out the Audubon Society and enjoy some nice bird watching as well.

Every September, Allerton hosts the Allerton World Fair. It’s great fun and includes a parade, street games, great food and music, as well as fireworks. It’s a special time when many former residents return home for family and class reunions.

Chautauqua Park is located just south of town. It is the site of the popular Chautauqua meetings of the early 20th Century all across the Midwest. Allerton was one of the first Chautauqua sites in Iowa, hosting such dignitaries and William Jennings Bryon, Billy Sunday, Carry Nation, Booker T. Washington, and Helen Keller.

There are murals all over town painted in the early 1990s by the “Wall Dog” artists who spent several weeks in Allerton.

The front porch of the Inn of the Six-Toed Cat is a great starting point for any of your walking tours or day trips around the area. It’s also a comfortable resting site at the end of the day or in between trips.

During your stay in Southern Iowa, be sure to make time to visit Bob White State Park, The Round Barn Historic Site with historical buildings and the Prairie Trails Museum in Corydon. All these are worth the time so be sure to add them to your itinerary.