Soldier IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Soldier, Iowa.
1. Loess Hills Hospitality Association and Gift Shop
LOCAL CULTURE AND SOUVENIRS
The Loess Hills Hospitality Association and Gift Shop in Soldier offers visitors a glimpse into the unique heritage and landscape of the Loess Hills region. Guests can browse a selection of local crafts, guides, and souvenirs while learning about area attractions and travel opportunities. The gift shop serves as a welcoming point for tourists exploring the scenic byways of western Iowa.
2. Community Club
HUB FOR LOCAL EVENTS
The Community Club in Soldier is the center for local gatherings, hosting monthly fish fries, craft fairs, and holiday celebrations. It fosters a vibrant sense of community by bringing together residents and visitors for family-friendly activities. The club is an essential part of Soldier's social scene, creating opportunities to meet new people and enjoy small-town hospitality.
3. Preparation Canyon State Park
SCENIC NATURE RETREAT
Preparation Canyon State Park, located near Soldier in Pisgah, offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking hilltop views. The park is popular for its diverse landscapes, including prairies, woodlands, and canyon terrain. Visitors often enjoy camping and exploring the park's serene, natural beauty.
4. Monona County Veteran's Memorial Museum
MILITARY HISTORY TRIBUTE
The Monona County Veteran's Memorial Museum in Onawa honors local veterans through exhibits of military artifacts, uniforms, and photographs. The museum provides educational displays detailing the region's contributions to U.S. military history. It is a notable stop for those interested in patriotism and local heritage.
5. Lewis and Clark State Park
HISTORIC EXPLORATION SITE
Lewis and Clark State Park in Onawa is named after the famed explorers and features exhibits and full-size replicas of their keelboats. The park includes lakeside picnic areas, playgrounds, and opportunities for fishing and boating. It is a favorite for families seeking recreation and historical discovery.
6. Loess Hills State Forest
HIKING AND WILDLIFE SPOTTING
Loess Hills State Forest offers miles of hiking trails, rich wildlife, and unique geological formations found only in the Loess Hills region. The forest is known for its striking ridge lines and diverse plant ecosystems. Visitors can explore scenic overlooks and enjoy peaceful outdoor experiences.
7. Whiting Family Foods Festival
ANNUAL FOOD AND FUN
The Whiting Family Foods Festival is a beloved annual summer event featuring local vendors, food stalls, live entertainment, and family games. Community members and visitors gather for this traditional festival, which celebrates small-town camaraderie. The event highlights Whiting's welcoming spirit and food culture.
8. Old O'Brien Glacial Trail
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL PATHWAY
The Old O'Brien Glacial Trail showcases ancient geological features left behind by glaciers, offering a journey through prairie landscapes and rare wildflowers. Interpretive signs along the trail teach visitors about the region's glacial history. It is a popular route for nature walks and photography.
9. Onawa Blue Lake
FISHING AND RECREATION
Onawa Blue Lake is a local favorite for fishing, boating, and picnicking in a scenic lakeside setting. The lake provides peaceful surroundings for wildlife observation and water activities. Families frequent the park for outdoor fun and relaxation.
10. Tyson Events Center
ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS VENUE
The Tyson Events Center in Sioux City is the region's premier venue for concerts, sports events, and expos. With a spacious arena, it hosts national touring acts, hockey games, and community events. It is a central destination for entertainment near Monona County.
11. Danish Immigrant Museum
CULTURAL HERITAGE DESTINATION
The Danish Immigrant Museum in Elk Horn preserves and celebrates the history of Danish settlers in Iowa. Through interactive exhibits and historic artifacts, the museum showcases the contributions and traditions of Danish-Americans. It attracts visitors interested in genealogy and cultural diversity.
12. Mapleton Community Theatre
LIVE LOCAL PERFORMANCES
Mapleton Community Theatre brings stage productions and musicals to the heart of the Mapleton area. Residents and visitors enjoy quality entertainment presented by local actors and artists. The theatre fosters creative development while enriching the region's cultural offerings.
13. Soldier River
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
The Soldier River winds through the town, offering spots for fishing, canoeing, and riverside picnics. The riverbank is a quiet place for birdwatching and enjoying nature. It is a tranquil attraction for those seeking outdoor relaxation close to town.
14. Dow House Historic Site
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE TOUR
Dow House Historic Site in Dow City is a restored Victorian-era residence that offers guided tours highlighting 19th-century architecture and local history. Visitors learn about the influential Dow family and their legacy in west-central Iowa. The site provides a glimpse into the region's past.
15. Pisgah Loess Hills Scenic Overlook
PANORAMIC HILLTOP VIEWS
The Pisgah Loess Hills Scenic Overlook offers sweeping vistas of the unique Loess Hills formations and the surrounding countryside. It's a popular stop for photographers and sightseers along the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. The overlook features interpretive displays explaining the geological significance of the area.