Riverside, Iowa

Most Trekkies know that Captain James T. Kirk hails from Riverside, Iowa; but few folks realize that there’s already a commemorative plaque marking his future birth in this sleepy little Midwestern town. And I say “future”, because as we all know, Star Trek is set in the future, and the popular Enterprise Captain won’t make his blessed appearance until March 22, 2228 (according to The Making of Star Trek, by Gene Roddenberry).

A plaque commemorating the Future Birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk is located to the left of City Hall on Greene Street. It was relocated from nearby First Street in 2021. There’s accessible parking in front of City Hall, with a paved pathway over to the plaque,

Trekkies should also visit the Voyage Home Riverside History Center (www.voyagehomemuseum.org), which features a mixture of displays about Star Trek and Riverside. You can’t miss it as there’s a model of the Constitution-class USS Riverside on a trailer in the parking lot. There’s level access to this combination museum and gift shop, and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair inside. And while you’re in the area, check out Railroad Park, which is across the street from the museum. Not only does this green space boast a bronze statue of Captain Kirk, but it’s also a nice spot to enjoy a picnic lunch.