Modale IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Modale, Iowa.
1. Town and Country Arts
HISTORIC ARTS CENTER
Town and Country Arts is a nonprofit organization housed in the historic Modale School and Masonic Lodge, a building originally constructed in 1880 that has been restored into a beautiful theater. The organization promotes art education and events for the community to enjoy. This historic building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Sour Mash Bar & Grill
LOCAL DINING SPOT
Sour Mash Bar & Grill is a popular local establishment serving food to visitors and residents of Modale. The restaurant offers a taste of local cuisine for travelers exploring the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. It serves as a gathering spot for the community of around 300 people.
3. Vaile Wetland Nature Area
WILDLIFE AND BIRDWATCHING
Vaile Wetland Nature Area features over 280 acres of pheasant and quail territory located within the Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area. The wetland provides a habitat for various bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It is one of three wetland areas located within a 5-mile radius of Modale.
4. DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
NATURE AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area located about 5.5 miles from Modale. The refuge provides essential habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife species along the Missouri River floodplain. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, and learning about the area's natural history.
5. Loess Hills Lavender Farm
FRAGRANT AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Loess Hills Lavender Farm is a picturesque agricultural attraction offering visitors a chance to experience lavender fields in the unique Loess Hills landscape. Visitors can enjoy the fragrant plants, purchase lavender products, and participate in seasonal harvesting events. The farm showcases sustainable agriculture practices while highlighting the beauty of this distinctive Iowa region.
6. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
SPECTACULAR LANDSCAPE DRIVE
The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway is a breathtaking drive through the unique landforms of western Iowa near Modale. The byway traverses the Loess Hills, rare geological formations of wind-deposited silt that create a distinctive landscape found in only a few places worldwide. Scenic overlooks along the route offer spectacular views of the Missouri River valley and surrounding countryside.
7. Watson Station & Steamtrain
HISTORIC RAILROAD EXPERIENCE
Watson Station & Steamtrain offers visitors a glimpse into the railroad history of the region near Modale. The attraction features preserved railroad equipment and historical displays about the importance of rail transportation to the development of western Iowa. Visitors can learn about how the railroad connected small communities like Modale to larger markets and contributed to regional growth.
8. Harrison County Historical Village
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
Harrison County Historical Village preserves and showcases the history of the county that includes Modale. The museum features exhibits of pioneer life, agricultural development, and the cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore historical buildings, artifacts, and documents that tell the story of Harrison County's past.
9. Calhoun Customs
ARTISAN CRAFTS SHOP
Calhoun Customs is a unique artisan shop showcasing locally-made crafts and custom items near the Modale area. The shop features handcrafted products that reflect the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the region. Visitors can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts while supporting local craftspeople and artists.
10. Buster Keaton Birthplace Memorial
SILENT FILM STAR TRIBUTE
The Buster Keaton Birthplace Memorial honors the connection between Modale and the famous silent film actor, whose mother Myra Keaton was born in the town. This site commemorates the legacy of Buster Keaton, who became an Honorary Academy Award-winning actor and director. Visitors can learn about the town's unique connection to early American cinema history.
11. Iowa 80 Trucking Museum
TRANSPORTATION HISTORY COLLECTION
Iowa 80 Trucking Museum houses a remarkable collection of antique trucks and transportation memorabilia not far from Modale. The museum displays the evolution of trucking from the early 1900s to the present day through vintage vehicles and industry artifacts. Visitors can explore how transportation shaped the development of communities like Modale and the broader Iowa landscape.
12. Terrace Hill
GOVERNOR'S HISTORIC MANSION
Terrace Hill is an opulent Victorian mansion built in 1869 by Iowa's first millionaire, Benjamin F. Allen, and now serves as the Iowa governor's residence. The magnificent building overlooks downtown Des Moines and is situated on eight acres with a Victorian formal garden. As one of Iowa's 27 National Historic Landmarks, it represents an important piece of Iowa's architectural and political heritage.
13. Toolesboro Mounds
ANCIENT CULTURAL SITE
Toolesboro Mounds preserves some of the best-preserved remnants of the ancient Hopewellian culture that flourished from around 200 B.C. to 300 A.D. The five-acre National Historic Landmark includes several large surviving burial mounds that offer insights into prehistoric Native American societies. Visitors can explore the education center and a prairie demonstration plot to learn about both the archaeological significance and natural history of the area.
14. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
URBAN PLANT PARADISE
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a vibrant urban garden featuring diverse plant collections from around the world. The facility includes both indoor conservatories and outdoor gardens showcasing a variety of ecosystems and horticultural displays. Visitors from Modale and beyond can enjoy the beauty of plants year-round while participating in educational programs and special events.
15. Outlets & Marketplace Williamsburg
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Outlets & Marketplace Williamsburg offers a comprehensive shopping experience for visitors from Modale and surrounding areas. The shopping center features a variety of national brand outlet stores providing discounted merchandise. Shoppers can find everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and specialty items all in one convenient location.