Pacific Junction IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pacific Junction, Iowa.
1. I-29 Speedway
THRILLING RACING ACTION
I-29 Speedway offers exciting racing events during the April-October season in Pacific Junction. Visitors can enjoy high-speed entertainment and witness skilled drivers competing on the track. The venue provides a thrilling atmosphere for motorsports enthusiasts of all ages.
2. I-29 Dragway
WEEKEND DRAG RACING
I-29 Dragway is open to the public on Friday and Saturday nights for exciting drag racing action. Spectators can watch as drivers test their vehicles' speed and performance on the quarter-mile track. The dragway provides a popular entertainment option for residents and visitors to Pacific Junction.
3. Pony Creek Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Pony Creek Park is the largest park managed by Mills County Conservation, spanning 53 acres of natural beauty. The park offers cabin rentals, campgrounds, fishing, hiking trails, and bird watching opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a full range of recreational activities while experiencing the natural beauty of Iowa's countryside.
4. Pony Creek Nature Center
EDUCATIONAL WILDLIFE EXHIBITS
The Pony Creek Nature Center is open to visitors year-round within Pony Creek Park. The center provides educational exhibits about local wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts in Mills County. Visitors can learn about the natural history of the area through interactive displays and knowledgeable staff.
5. Mile Hill Lake
FISHING AND HUNTING DESTINATION
Mile Hill Lake features a 10-acre body of water with a boat dock and ramp for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is surrounded by 39 acres of hardwood forest that's available for public hunting. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic overlook with interpretive panels sharing information about the region's history and the Loess Hills Scenic Byway.
6. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
EXTRAORDINARY NATURAL LANDSCAPE
The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway showcases a most extraordinary landscape of prairie and forest-covered steep bluffs, narrow ridges, and rolling hills. This scenic route allows travelers to experience the unique geological formations that distinguish western Iowa's landscape. The byway provides numerous opportunities for photography, hiking, and appreciating the natural beauty of this rare landform.
7. Keg Creek Brewing Co.
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Keg Creek Brewing Co. is a local microbrewery located near Pacific Junction in the neighboring town of Glenwood. Visitors can sample a variety of craft beers brewed on-site using quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods. The brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to relax and enjoy locally-produced beverages.
8. Late Evening Lilies
BEAUTIFUL FLOWER FARM
Late Evening Lilies is a charming flower farm in Mills County showcasing a stunning variety of lilies. Visitors can stroll through colorful fields of blossoms and learn about lily cultivation from knowledgeable staff. The farm hosts the popular Lily Fest event that attracts flower enthusiasts from across the region.
9. The Farmer's Daughters
LOCAL FARM GOODS
The Farmer's Daughters offers locally-grown produce and farm products in Mills County near Pacific Junction. Visitors can purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and handcrafted items directly from local farmers. The establishment provides a genuine farm-to-table experience that supports the regional agricultural community.
10. Effigy Mounds National Monument
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Effigy Mounds National Monument extends 3 miles along the bluffs of the Mississippi River, preserving more than 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans. These sacred earthworks include many shaped like bears and birds, representing a remarkable cultural and spiritual tradition. Visitors can explore interpretive trails that provide insight into the indigenous peoples who created these mysterious structures centuries ago.
11. Jester Park
DIVERSE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Jester Park offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities within driving distance of Pacific Junction. The park features golf, camping, hiking trails, and a natural playscape for visitors of all ages. Guests can also visit the Jester Park Nature Center with its interactive exhibits and educational programs about Iowa's natural environment.
12. Winterset City Park
HISTORIC COVERED BRIDGES
Winterset City Park is home to the historic Cutler-Donahoe covered bridge, relocated to the park for preservation. The 18-acre park features limestone walls, a stone lodge, and beautiful gardens that create a picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and exploring the park's natural beauty while experiencing a piece of Iowa's architectural history.
13. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
DIVERSE PLANT COLLECTIONS
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden showcases thousands of exotic plants from around the world in stunning indoor and outdoor gardens. Visitors can explore specialized collections including tropical plants, succulents, and seasonal displays that change throughout the year. The garden serves as both a beautiful destination for plant enthusiasts and an important educational resource about plant conservation and biodiversity.
14. Ewing Park
RECREATION AND GARDENS
Ewing Park features beautiful lilac and environmental gardens alongside recreational facilities including disc golf and sports fields. The park's trail system connects to the larger Des Moines trail network, offering extensive opportunities for hiking, biking, and jogging. Nature lovers can appreciate the park's diverse plant life and peaceful atmosphere while enjoying outdoor activities.
15. Cultivate Community
LOCAL COMMUNITY GATHERINGS
Cultivate Community organizes events that bring together residents and visitors in Mills County for shared experiences and connection. These gatherings feature local food, music, art, and activities that celebrate the region's culture and heritage. Participants can connect with others while supporting local businesses and community initiatives in the Pacific Junction area.