A Day Exploring Iowa Falls, Iowa’s Scenic City

Some Iowa towns feel like they were made for slowing down a little, wandering without a strict plan, and simply discovering what makes a community special. Iowa Falls is one of those places.

Known as the Scenic City, Iowa Falls sits along the Iowa River and blends historic architecture, river views, public art, local shops, and small-town charm into a day trip that feels easy, welcoming, and genuinely Iowa.

What surprised us most was how much there was to see packed into one community. Around nearly every corner, there was another scenic spot, interesting story, or hidden detail that made us want to keep exploring.

One of the first things we learned was that Iowa Falls is the hometown of Bill Riley, whose name many Iowans recognize from the famous Iowa State Fair talent show. It immediately tied the community back to so many classic Iowa traditions and memories.

But one of the most unique things about Iowa Falls is the way the town turned hardship into art.

After the emerald ash borer devastated many of the community’s ash trees, the community  transformed nearly 40  of them into incredible wood carvings scattered throughout town. Many of the carvings were completed with funds raised through the 2022 Iowa Falls State Bank Barlow Challenge. Acclaimed tree sculptor Gary Keenan completed the carvings (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carvingbykeenan/ ). Exploring Iowa Falls almost turns into its own scavenger hunt as you discover each carving tucked into parks, downtown spaces, and along side streets. It adds so much personality and creativity to the community. This website guides you around town and has an interactive map to help you on your hunt!

Of course, part of the fun of any small-town Iowa road trip is wandering through local businesses and stopping wherever catches your attention.

We started the morning with coffee at Coffee Attic & Book Cellar before wandering next door to The Flour Shop for pastries and sweet treats that are hard to pass up once you step inside. Another fun stop is Nimrod Meats, a family-run locker where visitors can stock up on local, farm-to-table meats and Iowa-made products to take home after the trip.

And if you happen to visit on a Wednesday evening during the season, don’t miss the iconic Iowa Falls Popcorn Stand in Estes Park. Operating since 1948, this small-town tradition serves fresh popcorn from 3–8 p.m. and feels like stepping into a simpler era of Iowa summers. Even if you miss it on a Wednesday, bags of their popcorn can still be found in several local shops around town, including Nimrod Meats.

Beyond the food and downtown stops, Iowa Falls is full of scenic outdoor spots worth slowing down for.

The Swinging Bridge is easily one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Stretching across the Iowa River, the suspension bridge offers beautiful river views and just enough movement beneath your feet to make it memorable for both kids and adults. The swinging bridge has recently been refurbished, complete with new lights. Make certain to drive by or walk across at night, as the new lights are currently configured red, white, and blue to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday.

Another favorite stop was Jones Park and the famous “99 Steps.” But the walk down is absolutely worth it for the incredible views of the river, railroad bridge, and rushing water below the old dam. NOTE: The count is now 101 steps, after a refurbishment.

Estes Park, is another must-stop while visiting Iowa Falls. Between the river scenery, walking paths, Bill Riley Band Shell, and nearby ash tree carvings, it’s the perfect place to slow down for a bit and enjoy the atmosphere of the community.

One of Iowa Falls’ most memorable attractions is the Scenic City Empress, a charming excursion boat that offers visitors a unique perspective of the community from the Iowa River. As the boat glides through the heart of the Scenic City, you can relax, enjoy the peaceful scenery, and take in views that few visitors get to experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon on the water, a family-friendly activity, or a unique addition to your Iowa road trip, a cruise aboard the Empress is a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy the beauty of Iowa Falls. Scenic City Empress public cruises are each Saturday and Sunday at 2pm, weather permitting. These cruises last approximately 75 minutes. Reservations are not required for their weekend public cruises, but are encouraged if you are coming in from out of town. Ticket sales begin thirty minutes prior to any cruise. Check their Facebook page and website for special events, including brunch cruises, lunch cruises, and catered concert cruises. 

What stands out most about Iowa Falls isn’t necessarily one single attraction. It’s the overall feeling of the town. It feels cared for. Creative. It may be called “The Scenic City,” but it is scenic without trying too hard. And full of the kinds of small discoveries that make rural Iowa road trips memorable.

Whether you’re building a North Central Iowa itinerary or simply looking for a slower-paced day trip filled with scenery, history, and small-town character, Iowa Falls is worth adding to your list.