Missouri Valley Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try, and where to stay in Missouri Valley, Iowa, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Missouri Valley

Located in Southwest Iowa, Missouri Valley is a small city that provides an array of exciting attractions, scenery, and outdoor activities. This charming town offers an ideal getaway for those who wish to experience a mix of culture, history, and nature. Whether you are a history buff, an art aficionado, or an adventure seeker, you will find something to enjoy in Missouri Valley.

List of Places to Visit in Missouri Valley

Here are some of the best places to visit in and around Missouri Valley.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • General Dodge House Museum – Step back in time and explore this historic mansion. The museum offers a guided tour of the house, which features a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the life of General Grenville M. Dodge, a prominent Civil War veteran and one of the builders of the transcontinental railroad.
  • Loess Hills Lavender Farm – Take a tour of this family-owned lavender farm, which offers a variety of products like soaps, essential oils, and tea. Along with exploring the farm, you can also attend workshops and classes on essential oils and soap making.
  • Floyd Monument State Historical Site – Erected in 1901, the Floyd Monument commemorates Sergeant Charles Floyd who was a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition team containing the first person to die during the expedition. This beautiful site stands testimony to the bravery and adventurous spirit of the early American explorers.

Natural Attractions of Missouri Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Loess Hills State Forest – Known for its magnificent rolling hills and miles of hiking trails, the Loess Hills State Forest is a natural wonder. It is home to diverse wildlife and is a perfect place for bird watching, hiking, and picnicking.
  • DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge – This refuge offers an extraordinary scenic view of nature. It is home to more than 260 species of birds and other animals. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, hiking trails, fishing, and boating.
  • Tobaccoville Trail – A unique trail that is an integral part of the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Tobaccoville Trail offers outstanding views of the Missouri River and surrounding landscapes. You can enjoy hiking, biking or nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Missouri Valley

Missouri Valley offers several trails and routes for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Wabash Trace Nature Trail – This 63-miles trail runs through beautiful countryside, offering a wide range of landscapes. It can be used for biking, hiking or horseback riding.
  • River’s Edge Trail – It stretches 1.5 miles alongside the Missouri River, and it’s an excellent choice for a leisurely walk.

Best Things to Do in Missouri Valley: Activities and Tours

  • Cruise the Missouri River – Take a cruise along the Missouri River and enjoy beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes. You can learn about the history of Missouri Valley through narration provided by experienced tour guides.
  • Loess Hills Wine Trail – Take a tour of three wineries near Missouri Valley: Prairie Crossing Vineyard and Winery, Breezy Hills Vineyard, and Sugar Clay Winery & Vineyards. You can try some of the best local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
  • Golf at the Little Sioux Golf and Country Club – This well-maintained golf course offers a challenging game and breathtaking views of the Missouri Valley.

Week-Long Itinerary for Missouri Valley

Day 1: Arrive in Missouri Valley and visit the General Dodge House Museum

Day 2: Visit the Floyd Monument State Historical Site and Tobaccoville Trail

Day 3: Explore the Loess Hills Lavender Farm and go hiking at the Loess Hills State Forest

Day 4: DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge Tour

Day 5: Biking on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail

Day 6: Little Sioux Golf and Country Club in the morning, followed by a Missouri River Cruise in the evening

Day 7: Loess Hills Wine Trail Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Missouri Valley

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich – A signature dish in the Midwest, pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try when in Missouri Valley. It is a fried pork sandwich served with toppings like pickles, lettuce, and mayo.
  • Corn on the Cob – Missouri Valley is known for its sweet and delicious corn, especially during summer.

Local Beverages

  • Keg Creek Brewing Company – Visit Keg Creek Brewing Company and try their specialty craft beers. They use local ingredients, giving their beer a unique taste that you wouldn’t want to miss.
  • Kona Ice – A shaved ice truck that offers some refreshing flavored drinks perfect when under the sun.

Where to Stay in Missouri Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Super 8 by Wyndham Missouri Valley – A hotel in the heart of Missouri Valley, with comfortable rooms and amenities like free breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi.
  • Missouri Valley Inn – Another affordable option to stay in Missouri Valley, Missouri Valley Inn offers a complimentary breakfast and a mini-fridge in each room.
  • Boyer River Guest House – A cozy guest house located within walking distance to local attractions. Offers private entrance, complimentary coffee, and Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Missouri Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Loess Hills Lavender Farm Products – Get some of the best lavender-based products like candles, lotion, and shampoo.
  • Keg Creek Brewing Company Souvenir Glasses – Take home a souvenir glass from the Keg Creek Brewing Company, along with some of their craft beers.

Local Culture and Customs of Missouri Valley

Missouri Valley has a rich history and culture, which is reflected through its various attractions and events, including the Dodge House Museum and Floyd Monument State Historical Site. The locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists, making it an ideal place to experience mid-western hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Missouri Valley

The best time to visit Missouri Valley is from late spring to late fall when the temperatures are mild and conducive for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Missouri Valley

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and culture.
  • Try local delicacies and drinks.
  • Enjoy the natural views while hiking and biking.

Don’t:

  • Litter the countryside.
  • Be rude or disrespectful towards the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Missouri Valley

Missouri Valley is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, like all cities, travelers should take care of their personal belongings, especially in crowded places.

Health in Missouri Valley

No major health concerns are reported, but it is always wise to carry necessary medication and practice good hygiene.

Getting to Missouri Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Missouri Valley

The nearest airport to Missouri Valley is the Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Nebraska, which is approximately 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Missouri Valley

Greyhound bus services have a station in Omaha, Nebraska.

Other Options

Renting a car or taking a taxi is the best option for traveling to Missouri Valley from Omaha.

How to Get Around in Missouri Valley

Missouri Valley is a small town and easily walkable. Alternatively, biking and driving are also convenient ways to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Missouri Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Omaha, Nebraska – Just 30 miles away from Missouri Valley is the metropolitan city of Omaha, Nebraska. It offers some fantastic attractions like the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Joslyn Art Museum.
  • Lewis and Clark State Park – Located around 10 miles away from Missouri Valley, Lewis and Clark State Park is named after the famous explorers Lewis and Clark. It offers diverse recreational activities, including camping, swimming, and boating.
  • Nebraska City – A picturesque town located around 60 miles from Missouri Valley, Nebraska City is known for its stunning apple orchards, charming shops and museums like the Arbor Lodge State Historic Park.

Conclusion

Missouri Valley offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is unique to the Midwest. With a range of attractions, activities, and events, it provides an ideal location for a family vacation or a weekend getaway. So, visit Missouri Valley and experience mid-western hospitality for yourself.