West Bend Recreation
Grotto of the Redemption
Visit Website
Location: North end of Broadway Ave
Phone: (515) 887-2371
West Bend is home of the Grotto of the Redemption, a vision of Father Paul Dobberstein of Rosenfeld, Germany. The largest man-made Grotto in the world, the Grotto is frequently called "the Eighth Wonder of the World". The Grotto stands as a testimony in stone, a treasured work of art. Each of the nine grottos contains a scene in the life of Christ hand-carved from Italian Carrara Marble. Covering a city block, the Grotto represents the largest collection of precious and semi-precious rocks, minerals, fossils and petrifactions concentrated in any one spot in the world.
Don't miss the Christmas Chapel, located in Sts. Peter and Paul Church next to the Grotto. Built in 1929, the Christmas Chapel contains rocks from every country and major river in the world and is famous for its 300 pound Amethyst adorning the manger of baby Jesus.
By working side by side with Father Dobberstein, Matt Szerensce and Father Louis Greving were able to continue Father Dobberstein's work after his death in 1954. This Geological wonder, started in 1912, is also listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The beauty of the Grotto attracts rock enthusiasts and people of all faiths every year.
Also located on the Grotto grounds are the Museum, with an exhibit of precious stones and minerals from around the world and early articles and photos of the building of the Grotto; a Gift Shop, open year-round; camping facilities, with 55 RV sites and 20 tent sites.
The Grotto is open year round with guided tours given seasonally. Please call or check our website for specific dates, times, and tour information. Groups are welcome; please ask us about our menu and catering options. Customized itineraries are available as well.
Come witness a "Miracle in Stone" and be inspired by this beautiful work of art!
Ice Skating on the Grotto
The Grotto Ice Rink provides the perfect setting for “children of all ages” to enjoy an afternoon or evening of ice skating during winter. Enjoy pick-up hockey with appropriate protective equipment. There is a snack bar inside the warming house.
| Ice Rink Schedule All hours are tentative. Please call (515) 887-RINK to verify skating hours. | |
|---|---|
| December – Mid-March | |
| Saturday | 1:00pm-4:00pm |
| 7:00pm-9:00pm | |
| Sunday | 2:00pm-5:00pm |
| Wednesday | Hours vary, call for details. |
| Ice Rink Admission Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Individual | Family | |
| Ages 4 and under | Free | N/A |
| Session Rate | $3.00 | $10.00 |
| Season Pass | $45.00 | $80.00 |
| Classes | $2.00 | N/A |
Public Outdoor Pool
Location: 317 4th St. SW.
Cool off on a hot summer day at the swimming pool located on the Public Schoolgrounds.
| Swimming Pool Admission Prices | |
|---|---|
| Daily Pass | $5.00 (all ages) |
| Weekly Pass | $25.00 |
| Family Season Ticket | $115.00 |
| Individual Season Ticket | $75.00 |
| Swimming Pool Schedule | |
|---|---|
| June & August | |
| Monday-Saturday | 1:00pm-6:00pm |
| Sunday | 1:00pm-6:00pm |
| July | |
| Monday-Saturday | 1:00pm-7:00pm |
| Sunday | 1:00pm-6:00pm |
| The Pool Schedule may change because of weather conditions. The public will be made aware of the pool schedule changes by postings at the pool and/or on Pool Facebook. | |
West Bend Golf & Country Club
The West Bend Golf & Country Club is located just south of West Bend on Highway 15. The Golf Club offers a 9-hole course with a beautiful view. Sit on the deck and enjoy a cold one after a round of golf. The West Bend Golf & Country Club is open for dining Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
To reserve a tee time or for more information call: (515) 887-6217.
