The Active Life
Welcome to the Active Life! In Pella, recreation isn’t just something to do, it’s part of the community’s identity. From scenic trails and vibrant parks to fitness centers and community sports, Pella makes it easy for residents to stay active year round. Whether families are raising young kids, adults are seeking fitness opportunities, or seniors want to keep moving in their golden years, Pella has activities, wellness, play, and adventure.
LAKE RED ROCK
Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake (more than 15,000 acres of water) is right in our backyard. There’s a multitude of activities available, including boating, waterskiing, jet skiing, fantastic fishing opportunities, and relaxing. At Red Rock Marina, you can conveniently rent a boat for a day on the water. Don’t miss the chance to visit North Overlook or Whitebreast Beach for a relaxing swim and beach experience. For a more tranquil experience, explore the lake’s serene waters by kayaking or paddleboarding.
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CITY PARKS
With 15 City parks across town, community space in Pella is always just a short stroll away! In fact, 75% of residents live within a 10–15 minute walk of a park. From unique playgrounds and open green spaces to ball fields, courts, ponds, and scenic trails, Pella’s park system offers endless ways to get outside, stay active, and enjoy the community.
Take a look at these unique parks:
All inclusive and abilities playground
FEATURES: accessible equipment, wheelchair accessible swings, sensor friendly components, community garden, lighted shelter, restrooms
Molengracht
Molengracht Canal (Mill Canal) was built to replicate an authentic Dutch canal
FEATURES: block-long canal, working draw bridge, surrounded by Dutch-inspired brick buildings
10-acre community Park
FEATURES: skate park, pickleball courts, basketball courts, sand volleyball, playground, GaGa ball pit, fishing pond, open green space, ice skating rink (with chiller)
83-acre native timber and oak savanna park
FEATURES: nature trails, picnic areas, shelter house, grill, diverse plants and wildlife cross-country skiing, maintained by “Friends of Big Rock Park”
Park close to downtown with its main attraction being a sunken pond shaped like a Dutch wooden shoe
FEATURES: windmill, turn of the century benches, trees, formal tulip beds (13,000 tulips planted here annually), pond, ice skating (when frozen)
Located in the heart of Downtown Pella, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and businesses
FEATURES: information windmill, seasonal plant and tulip displays (including the famed “Avenue of Tulips” and interactive educational art), 1900's fountain, Civil War statue, sundial, Tulip Toren, sidewalk system lined with 19th Century lamp posts, hub for summer events (festivals, market, concerts), tables
SWIMMING
Dive into fun all year long in Pella. The City of Pella Aquatic Center offers indoor lap swimming, swim lessons, and water aerobics throughout every season, perfect for staying active no matter the weather. In the summer, the doors open to the outdoor Aquatic Center water park, complete with thrilling water slides, an adventure river, a kids’ splash area, diving boards, and a kiddie pool for the littlest swimmers. Prefer open water? Head to nearby Lake Red Rock, where Whitebreast and North Overlook beaches provide scenic spots to cool off, float, or enjoy a sunny day by the water.
GOLF
Pella presents golf enthusiasts with two distinct courses. Bos Landen Golf Course, an 18-hole championship public course, serves as a venue for tournaments, leagues, and various events. Meanwhile, Pella Golf & Country Club, a private 9-hole course, boasts a restaurant and exclusive member-centric experiences.
TRAILS 
Volksweg Trail
Dubbed “A People’s Path,” this trail offers 17 miles of sturdy terrain that curves alongside Lake Red Rock. Beginning its journey from downtown Pella, the pathway winds through verdant trees, traverses wooden bridges, and unveils stunning views of the lake. Perfectly suited for pedestrians, cyclists, joggers, runners, and even cross-country skiers seeking winter adventures.
FITNESS 
Staying active in Pella is easy with a wide variety of fitness options, classes, and sports leagues for all ages and abilities. From individual workouts to team competition and rec leagues, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and stay healthy. PDC Fitness or Anytime Fitness offer a full range of strength training equipment and classes to keep your workouts varied. Pella Rec Center is under construction and slated to open fall 2027.
You can also try:
CLUBS/LEAGUES
Getting connected in Pella is easy when you jump into one of our many local sports clubs or recreational leagues. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, stay active, or simply enjoy a little friendly competition, Pella offers opportunities for all ages and skill levels. From soccer and softball to pickleball, running clubs, and more, joining a team is one of the best ways to plug into the community and build lasting friendships. Explore local leagues, sign up for a season, and experience firsthand how sports bring people together in Pella.
Check out these local Clubs & Leagues
ARCHERY
Total Outdoorsmen
Hickory Ridge Bowhunters
BASEBALL/SOFTBALL
Little League
Tulip City Storm
Adult Softball
BASKETBALL
Pella Junior Hoops
Pella Hoops Club
Shoot-It Basketball Academy
PICKLEBALL
Pella Pickleball Club
SOCCER
City of Pella
Iowa Rush
RACING 
If you’re someone who loves a little adrenaline, you’ll feel right at home in and around Pella. This part of Iowa is packed with all kinds of racing fun, from the roar of NASCAR at Iowa Speedway to the legendary sprint car action at Knoxville Raceway or drag racing at Eddyville Raceway. You can hop behind the wheel yourself at Slideways go-kart track, or catch drag racing events nearby. And if you prefer your racing powered by pedals, the area’s mountain biking spots offer plenty of fast, twisty fun. No matter your speed, there’s always a way to get your heart racing here.