Luther IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Luther, Iowa.
1. Iowa Arboretum & Gardens
NATURE'S BOTANICAL SHOWCASE
Iowa Arboretum & Gardens offers visitors a magnificent display of native plants and trees across its expansive grounds. The arboretum features seasonal gardens, walking trails, and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can explore diverse plant collections while enjoying the peaceful natural setting.
2. Ledges State Park
STUNNING SANDSTONE FORMATIONS
Ledges State Park features dramatic sandstone cliffs and scenic overlooks along the Des Moines River. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore the unique canyon formations that give the park its name.
3. Honey Creek Golf Club
PREMIUM GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Honey Creek Golf Club provides golfers with a well-maintained course in a picturesque rural setting. The club offers challenging holes suitable for various skill levels and a welcoming atmosphere for both casual and serious golfers. Visitors can enjoy the clubhouse amenities after a round on the greens.
4. Iowa's Treehouse Village
ELEVATED FOREST GETAWAY
Iowa's Treehouse Village offers unique accommodations nestled in the treetops for an unforgettable stay. Each treehouse features rustic charm combined with modern amenities surrounded by nature. Visitors can experience the magic of sleeping among the trees while enjoying the peaceful countryside.
5. Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
HISTORIC RAILWAY JOURNEY
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad takes passengers on a nostalgic journey through the Des Moines River Valley. The railroad offers various themed excursions including dinner trains and seasonal events throughout the year. Visitors can experience the golden age of rail travel while enjoying scenic views of the Iowa countryside.
6. Boone Speedway
HIGH-OCTANE RACING ENTERTAINMENT
Boone Speedway thrills racing enthusiasts with weekly dirt track events featuring various vehicle classes. The track hosts the famous IMCA Super Nationals, one of the largest dirt track racing events in the country. Visitors can experience the excitement of high-speed competition and the roar of engines in this popular motorsports venue.
7. Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace
FIRST LADY'S HISTORIC HOME
The Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace preserves the childhood home of the former First Lady who was born in Boone in 1896. The Victorian-era house has been restored with period furnishings and memorabilia from Mamie's life and her time in the White House. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Mamie's Iowa roots and her influential role as President Eisenhower's wife.
8. Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN LANDMARK
The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge stands as a picturesque example of 19th-century engineering now located in Winterset City Park. Originally built in 1870, this 79-foot bridge features a town lattice truss design and was moved to its current location in 1970. Visitors can walk through this historic structure and photograph its distinctive red exterior.
9. Winterset City Park
HISTORIC PARK EXPERIENCE
Winterset City Park spans 76 acres filled with historical landmarks and recreational amenities for all ages. The park features a hedge maze, Clark Tower, and the relocated Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge among its attractions. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, walking paths, and a variety of seasonal events throughout the year.
10. Effigy Mounds National Monument
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Effigy Mounds National Monument preserves more than 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native American cultures along the Mississippi River. Some of these sacred earthworks are shaped like animals, dating back to around 550 CE and representing an important cultural heritage site. Visitors can hike trails through the monument to view these ancient earthen structures while enjoying spectacular river valley vistas.
11. Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum
PIONEER AUTHOR'S LEGACY
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum preserves the former Masters Hotel where the famous author's family lived in the 1870s. Guided tours offer insights into prairie life during the period between her books 'On the Banks of Plum Creek' and 'By the Shores of Silver Lake.' Visitors can experience a tangible connection to the beloved Little House series and gain understanding of 19th-century frontier living.
12. Tunes in the Trees
OUTDOOR MUSIC SERIES
Tunes in the Trees brings live musical performances to the natural setting of Luther, Iowa throughout the summer season. This outdoor concert series features various musical genres performed in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Visitors can bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy quality entertainment while surrounded by the beauty of nature.
13. Classic Car Day
VINTAGE AUTOMOBILE SHOWCASE
Classic Car Day invites automobile enthusiasts to admire meticulously restored vehicles from various eras displayed throughout Luther. The event features rare and vintage cars alongside opportunities to meet collectors and learn about automotive history. Visitors can enjoy this celebration of America's love affair with automobiles in a charming small-town atmosphere.
14. Yellow River State Forest
WILDERNESS HIKING PARADISE
Yellow River State Forest encompasses over 8,500 acres of diverse terrain including hardwood forests, pine plantations, and scenic bluffs. The forest offers extensive hiking trails, trout streams, and primitive camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can observe abundant wildlife while exploring one of Iowa's largest contiguous forest areas.
15. Wine in the Trees
VINEYARD TASTING EXPERIENCE
Wine in the Trees offers a unique outdoor tasting experience featuring selections from local and regional wineries. The event combines fine wines with the natural beauty of Luther's wooded surroundings for a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can sample various vintages while enjoying light refreshments and occasional live music in this distinctive setting.