A Day in Mason City for Music Lovers

Mason City has rhythm running through its streets. From Broadway roots to vibrant local performances, this Iowa gem is a must-visit for music lovers. Here’s how to spend one unforgettable day celebrating the sounds of Mason City.

Morning: Coffee & Melodic Walk

Start your day with breakfast or coffee at Jitters Coffee Bar. Trust us, you will want to be fueled up for your musical filled day. A short walk from Jitters, will lead you to the River City River Walk.

The Riverwalk District strikes a perfect chord between nature, musical arts, and architecture. Curving walkways flow like musical measures. Its centerpiece, "Harmony in Light" by HYBYCOZO Studios, echoes the melodies that define River City.

Continue exploring downtown on a self-guided walking tour of the River City Sculptures on Parade. Indulge in the sights and sounds of downtown Mason City while experiencing the unique sculpture works of artists from all over the country. Interactive pieces along the route encourage everyone to try out their Music Man abilities. Pieces with a name like 76 Trombones by Douglas Walker are sure to catch your eye. Yes, it’s made of trombones!

Lunch: State Street Deli & Musical History

Stop in at State Street Deli, a local favorite known for fresh sandwiches, soups, and comfort food in a laid-back setting. It’s a quick and tasty way to recharge.

Then head to The Music Man Square, a celebration of Meredith Willson, Mason City’s own Broadway legend and composer of The Music Man. Explore the museum exhibits, snap photos with relics of the period, and stroll down the replica 1912 streetscape that brings Seventy-Six Trombones to life. We can’t let you leave without your sweet treat from The Candy Kitchen!

Discover more Hollywood history at the MacNider Art Museum, home to an impressive permanent collection and rotating exhibits. Among its treasures are the marionettes from the beloved musical The Sound of Music, a must-see for Broadway and film fans alike.

Evening: Dinner & Live Music

Enjoy a stylish downtown meal from The Corner Pizza and Alehouse. Wrap up the night at Fat Hill Brewing or Brix Wine and Whiskey, where live local music often fills the space alongside craft brews.

If your timing is right, catch a performance by the Mason City Municipal Band during the summer or check the calendar of events for the line-up of live music and performances at the Mason City Community Theatre, Stebens Childrens, and NIACC Performing Arts & Leadership Series.  

Worth the Drive: Clear Lake, Iowa

Three Stars Memorial Site - This site commemorates the tragic plane crash that took the lives of music legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson in 1959

Surf Ballroom & Museum - This beautifully restored, National Historic Landmark holds a place in history as the final concert site of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and one of the last remaining ballrooms in the Midwest.

Surf Music Experience Center - Not Fade Away: The Surf Ballroom Immersive Experience. A transformative, layered adventure through the birth of rock ‘n’ roll and the timeless sound that changed American music forever. Through immersive digital storytelling, historic artifacts, restored audio, and original archival materials, you will walk in the footsteps of legends.

Music Lover’s Tip:

Subscribe to our What’s New Spotlight that highlights details and schedules for the local venues that host live performances. There’s a good chance you’ll catch live music that makes your day even more memorable.