Southwest Iowa Travel Guide

Discover the must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, safety tips, and logistics of Southwest Iowa with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is a region known for its lush landscapes and outdoor adventures that attract travelers from across the United States. Nicknamed as the “Hills of Southwest Iowa,” the region offers a unique slice of Iowa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors can relive the Midwest’s rich history while enjoying the warm hospitality of the region’s charming small towns.

List of Places to Visit in Southwest Iowa

If you’re planning a trip to Southwest Iowa, here’s a list of must-see attractions and destinations.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Council Bluffs Historic Sites
  • Union Pacific Railroad Museum
  • Kanesville Tabernacle
  • Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center

Natural Attractions of Southwest Iowa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hitchcock Nature Center
  • Waubonsie State Park
  • Lake Manawa State Park
  • Loess Hills State Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is blessed with some of the best hiking and biking trails.

  • Wabash Trace Nature Trail
  • Fontenelle Forest Nature Center
  • Great Western Trail

Best Things to Do in Southwest Iowa: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tours
  • John Wayne Birthplace and Museum
  • Steamboat Museum
  • Glenwood Lake Park

Week-Long Itinerary for Southwest Iowa

Day 1: Visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and the Kanesville Tabernacle in Council Bluffs.

Day 2: Go on a wine tasting tour of the region’s best vineyards.

Day 3: Explore the natural beauty of the Waubonsie State Park and Hitchcock Nature Center.

Day 4: Visit the John Wayne Birthplace and Museum in Winterset and the Glenn Miller Birthplace Museum.

Day 5: Spend a day at Lake Manawa State Park and enjoy water sports and fishing.

Day 6: Hike the Loess Hills State Forest and Fontenelle Forest Nature Center.

Day 7: Visit the Sergeant Floyd River Museum and sail on the Spirit of Brownville Riverboat.

Food and Drink Scene of Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and wineries. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
  • Iowa Sweet Corn
  • Maid-Rites
  • Scalloped Potatoes

Local Beverages

  • Cedar Valley Winery
  • Blue Heron Vineyards
  • Vine Street Cellars
  • Bella Terre Vineyard and Winery

Where to Stay in Southwest Iowa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southwest Iowa offers diverse accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some popular choices:

  • Ameristar Casino Hotel, Council Bluffs
  • Oak Tree Inn, Missouri Valley
  • Super 8 by Wyndham, Atlantic
  • Cobblestone Hotel and Suites, Harlan

What to Buy in Southwest Iowa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southwest Iowa’s unique culture and rich history offer various shopping options.

  • Danish Windmill in Elk Horn for unique Danish souvenirs and gifts.
  • Antique and Vintage Malls in Council Bluffs for unique and antique items.
  • Bridges Bay Resort Gift Shop in Arnolds Park for classic souvenirs, swimming gear, and apparel.

Local Culture and Customs of Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is known for its warm and welcoming hospitality. It’s customary to greet people and ask about their day before starting a conversation. Iowans also value punctuality and tend to follow strict schedules.

Best Time to Visit Southwest Iowa

The best time to visit Southwest Iowa is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southwest Iowa

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially the pork tenderloin sandwich.
  • Explore the scenic beauty of the Loess Hills and Waubonsie State Park.
  • Visit the historic sites and museums to learn about the region’s rich history.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave the natural surroundings dirty.
  • Smoke or litter in public places.
  • Behave rudely or discourteously towards locals or visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should exercise caution and common sense, especially when exploring the natural landscapes and hiking trails.

Health in Southwest Iowa

Health facilities in Southwest Iowa are generally good, and visitors are advised to have travel insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to Southwest Iowa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southwest Iowa

  • Eppley Airfield, Omaha, Nebraska
  • Des Moines International Airport, Des Moines, Iowa
  • Sioux Gateway Airport, Sioux City, Iowa

Bus Stations Near Southwest Iowa

  • Greyhound Station, Omaha, Nebraska
  • Jefferson Bus Lines, Council Bluffs, Iowa
  • Burlington Trailways-Interstate Bus Terminal, Des Moines

Other Options

  • Car Rental Services
  • Taxi Services

How to Get Around in Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is well-connected through roads, and visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from Southwest Iowa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Des Moines, Iowa
  • Omaha, Nebraska
  • Sioux City, Iowa
  • Kansas City, Missouri
  • Minneapolis, Minnesota

Conclusion

Southwest Iowa is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historic sites, unique cuisines, or charming small towns, Southwest Iowa has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this unique destination and experience the welcoming hospitality and natural beauty of Southwest Iowa.



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