Top Small-Town Things to Do in Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but nestled amidst the rolling hills and sprawling fields are hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re passing through or seeking a unique adventure off the beaten path, these top ten small-town attractions are sure to make your trip memorable.

  1. Whiterock Conservancy (Guthrie, Carroll, and Greene Counties)

Escape into one of Iowa’s most scenic and historic landscapes at Whiterock Conservancy in Coon Rapids. Spanning more than 5,000 acres along the Middle Raccoon River, this hidden gem offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with breathtaking prairie views and peaceful woodland paths. Whether you’re seeking adventure, a slow, relaxing stroll, or a weekend away, Whiterock Conservancy delivers the perfect blend of nature, history, and small-town charm.

  1. Guthrie County Historical Village & Museum (Guthrie County)

Dive into the rich history of Guthrie County at its historical village and museum. From pioneer life to modern-day developments, explore exhibits that showcase the heritage and culture of this charming town. Be sure to check out our Off the Beaten Path video for other must-see activities in Guthrie County.

  1. Loess Hills State Forest (Harrison & Monona County)

Nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore the Loess Hills State Forest. Traverse the winding trails that meander through this unique landscape, home to diverse flora and fauna. Whether you’re into camping, hiking, hunting, or simply seeking information at the visitor center, the forest’s expansive 11,000 acres ensure there’s ample space and outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy!

  1. Villisca Axe Murder House (Montgomery County)

Delve into a chilling chapter of Iowa’s history with a tour of the Villisca Axe Murder House. Hear the eerie tales surrounding the infamous 1912 murder mystery and perhaps encounter a ghostly presence. You can get a guided tour or even book a stay in the Villisca house!  Afterward, be sure to check out the more charming areas in Villisca.

  1. Wabash Trace Nature Trail (Pottawattamie, Mills, Fremont, and Page Counties)

Lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bike to experience the beauty of the Wabash Trace Nature Trail. Stretching over 60 miles, with 72 bridges, four counties, and nine towns, this scenic trail offers a picturesque journey through the heart of Iowa. Be sure to check out the variety of unique places to stay along your journey!

  1. Danish Museum & Windmill (Shelby County)

Immerse yourself in Danish culture at the Danish Museum & Windmill in Elk Horn. Admire the craftsmanship of the authentic windmill and explore exhibits showcasing the traditions and history of Denmark. Check out Travel Iowa’s list of must-do activities in Elk Horn for more great family fun!

  1. Albert the Bull (Audubon County)

Make a pit stop in Audubon to pay homage to Albert the Bull, Iowa’s beloved bovine landmark. Snap a photo with this larger-than-life statue, a testament to the state’s agricultural roots. Be sure to watch this video and learn about all the great opportunities Audubon County has for your family!

  1. German Hausbarn (Carroll County)

Step back in time at the German Hausbarn in Manning. Marvel at the intricately restored structure, which offers a glimpse into the lives of German immigrants who settled in the area. Stay and play in Manning and use this short video to help you find the best places to stop!

  1. Templeton Distillery (Carroll County)

Indulge in a taste of Iowa’s spirits at the Templeton Distillery in Templeton. Take a tour of the facility to learn about the distillation process and sample their award-winning whiskey, crafted with care and tradition. Be sure to stop by The Stillfor some small-town cooking and atmosphere.

  1. Mahanay Belltower (Greene County)

Conclude your journey with a visit to the Mahanay Belltower in Jefferson. Ascend to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and perhaps catch a melodious chime from the historic bells. Watch this short Off the Beaten Path video and learn about all the great places to stop in Jefferson!

 

From historical landmarks to natural wonders, southwest Iowa offers a diverse array of attractions waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique adventure, venture off the beaten path and explore the hidden treasures of this charming region.

Innovation in Agriculture Showcased in Coon Rapids

The Evolution of the Heartland event brought a unique agritourism experience to Coon Rapids, Iowa, offering attendees an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at the future of agriculture. With nearly 75 people involved – including attendees, Coon Rapids and Carroll-area FFA members, event staff, sponsors, tour hosts, and special guests including Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority, and Matt Russell, State Executive Director USDA-Iowa Farm Service Agency – this day was filled with education, innovation, and discovery.

The event began with two immersive morning tours, ‘Fueling the Future Tour’ and ‘Behind the Bushel.’ Participants visited POET Bioprocessing to explore biofuel innovations, learning how corn is transformed into clean-burning energy and the importance of utilizing the energy cultivated right here in Iowa cornfields. Attendees also toured Roger Clayburg’s Beck’s Hybrids test plot and as well as the Beck’s packaging facility, witnessing cutting-edge seed selection, cleaning, treating, and packaging techniques that are helping to shape the future of farming.

After the morning tours, attendees gathered for lunch at the Raccoon River Social Club, catered by Cabbage Rose, enjoying a traditional Iowa meal featuring pan-fried chicken, roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, dinner rolls, fruit crisp, and ice cream.

Debi Durham, the Director of Iowa Economic Development Authority, spoke about the vast opportunities in rural Iowa. “It’s an exciting time for rural Iowa as we harness the strength of our agricultural innovation and expand economic development opportunities,” Durham remarked. Attendees also had the chance to explore local downtown businesses, connecting with the Coon Rapids community entrepreneurs.

During the afternoon, participants enjoyed two more immersive tours including ‘Sustainable Agriculture’ and ‘Beyond the Barnyard.’ A visit to Whiterock Conservancy showcased how this historical family farm transformed into an eco-friendly tourism destination, demonstrating how sustainability drives modern farming and provides connections to the past.

Participants also experienced firsthand the entrepreneurial spirit and superior genetics in the livestock industry, visiting a co-owned swine operation run by Roger and Jeanna Clayburg and Kyler and Emily Oswald, as well as the high-quality Tarentaise beef operation at HatRanch with the Honold family. Emily Oswald, a swine farmer who grew up in Chicago, was excited to meet attendees and shared, “Growing up, I never really thought about where my food came from. Now, I not only know where most of my food comes from, but I also understand the many uses for a pig and all that goes into raising it.”

To wrap up the day, attendees toured the Coon Rapids-Bayard FFA Hydroponic Greenhouse, where they saw how the next generation is embracing high-tech farming methods. Matt Russell, State Executive Director of USDA-Iowa Farm Service Agency, delivered a short closing speech on Iowa’s leadership in sustainable agriculture. Russell stated, “It’s inspiring to see how innovative farming techniques are shaping the future of agriculture in rural Iowa, ensuring sustainability for generations to come.”

Looking Ahead for Evolution of the Heartland
“We believe that Evolution of the Heartland will continue to serve as a platform for showcasing rural Iowa’s message of innovation and sustainability in agriculture,” said Shelly Greving, owner of Emerge Marketing Solutions and creator of Evolution of the Heartland. “It’s an opportunity to spotlight not only the production of wholesome, nutritious food but also the dedication of Iowa’s farm families to their land.”

For more information on Evolution of the Heartland, visit www.evolutionoftheheartland.com.

Opportunities for 2025 sponsors and community hosts are now being pursued. For more information, please contact Annie Greve at info@evolutionoftheheartland.com. Stay updated by following Evolution of the Heartland on Facebook and Instagram @evolutionoftheheartland.