De Soto IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near De Soto, Iowa.
1. Westbrook Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Westbrook Park is one of the top attractions in De Soto, offering visitors a peaceful outdoor space to relax and enjoy nature. The park features recreational facilities and green spaces for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, walking paths, and community gatherings in this local favorite spot.
2. Central Community Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Central Community Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of De Soto and surrounding areas. This community-focused museum houses exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the city's development since its founding in 1868. Visitors can learn about De Soto's railroad heritage and the evolution of this small Iowa community.
3. Arts Barbershop
HISTORIC LOCAL BUSINESS
Arts Barbershop is a popular attraction in De Soto that combines traditional barbering services with local culture. The establishment has become a gathering place for locals and visitors interested in experiencing authentic small-town Iowa life. Beyond haircuts, the barbershop offers a glimpse into the community's social fabric and traditions.
4. Homestead Art & Studio
CREATIVE ARTS CENTER
Homestead Art & Studio, LLC is a creative hub in De Soto where art and community come together. The studio offers various artistic experiences, workshops, and exhibits showcasing local talent. Visitors can appreciate handcrafted works and potentially participate in art-making activities in this cultural center.
5. DeWitt Area Veterans Memorial
PATRIOTIC COMMEMORATIVE SITE
The DeWitt Area Veterans Memorial honors the service and sacrifice of local veterans from De Soto and surrounding communities. This thoughtful monument provides a place for reflection and remembrance for visitors and residents alike. The memorial stands as a testament to the community's respect for military service and national pride.
6. Middle Raccoon River Water Trail
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURE
The Middle Raccoon River Water Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore the natural beauty of Iowa's waterways near De Soto. Paddlers can enjoy scenic views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful floating along this designated water trail. The river provides recreational opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing throughout the warmer months.
7. Louw Stables LLC
EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE CENTER
Louw Stables LLC provides equestrian experiences and horseback riding opportunities near De Soto. The facility offers riding lessons, trail rides, and equine activities for visitors of various skill levels. Horse enthusiasts can connect with these majestic animals while enjoying the rural landscape of Dallas County.
8. Wills Family Orchard
FARM-FRESH FRUIT EXPERIENCE
Wills Family Orchard is a charming agricultural attraction located near De Soto in Adel, Iowa. Visitors can enjoy seasonal fruit picking, farm products, and family-friendly activities throughout the growing season. The orchard is especially popular during autumn when apple picking and fall festivities draw crowds from across the region.
9. Big Blue Bed and Breakfast
HISTORIC COUNTRYSIDE LODGING
Big Blue Bed and Breakfast offers a charming lodging experience near De Soto in a historic countryside setting. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations with personalized service and homestyle amenities. The establishment serves as both a destination and a base for exploring the natural and cultural attractions of Dallas County.
10. DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE AND HISTORY HAVEN
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge spans 8,365 acres along the Missouri River, bordering both Iowa and Nebraska. The refuge features DeSoto Lake, an oxbow lake formed from a former bend in the Missouri River, and houses diverse habitats including bottomland forests, tall grass prairie, and wetlands that attract migratory birds. Beyond its natural significance, the refuge is home to the historic Bertrand Steamboat collection, which includes nearly 250,000 artifacts from the 1800s displayed in the Visitor Center.
11. Raccoon River Valley Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL PATHWAY
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a popular recreational path that passes near De Soto, offering miles of paved trail for biking, walking, and running. The trail follows the scenic Raccoon River corridor through Dallas County, connecting several communities with natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy seasonal views, wildlife sightings, and access to small towns along this converted railroad right-of-way.
12. Dallas County Conservation Parks
NATURAL AREA NETWORK
Dallas County Conservation Parks offer multiple natural areas and outdoor recreation opportunities near De Soto. These parks provide hiking trails, fishing spots, camping facilities, and nature education programs throughout the year. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems and engage with Iowa's natural heritage through these preserved public lands.
13. Brenton Arboretum
DIVERSE TREE COLLECTION
Brenton Arboretum is a living museum of trees located in Dallas Center, not far from De Soto. The arboretum spans over 140 acres and features collections of both native and exotic tree species arranged in a beautiful landscape design. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, educational programs, and seasonal beauty throughout this horticultural treasure.
14. Adel Historical Museum
COUNTY HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Adel Historical Museum preserves the heritage of Dallas County and communities like De Soto in a dedicated historical facility. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and documents telling the story of pioneer settlement, agricultural development, and small-town life in central Iowa. Visitors can gain insights into the region's past through carefully curated displays and knowledgeable volunteer guides.
15. Dallas County Courthouse
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Dallas County Courthouse in nearby Adel is an architectural gem featuring Romanesque Revival design and a distinctive clock tower visible for miles. Built in 1902, this historic structure continues to serve as the center of county government while also attracting architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. The courthouse's interior showcases period details including ornate woodwork, a central rotunda, and marble features that reflect its importance in local heritage.