Wiota IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wiota, Iowa.
1. Rock Island Depot
HISTORIC RAILWAY SITE
Rock Island Depot is a historic site in Wiota that preserves the area's railway heritage. Visitors can explore this well-preserved depot that once served as a vital transportation hub for the community. The depot offers a glimpse into Iowa's transportation history and the role railways played in developing small Midwestern towns.
2. Fireside Lounge
LOCAL GATHERING SPOT
Fireside Lounge is a popular local bar and club in Wiota that offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The establishment is known for its friendly service and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy drinks, socialize, and experience authentic small-town Iowa hospitality.
3. Shooters Tavern
CLASSIC IOWA BAR
Shooters Tavern is a highly-rated bar in the Wiota area where visitors can experience local culture. The establishment offers drinks, casual dining options, and a chance to mingle with residents. Its 4.3 rating suggests it's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking for authentic small-town charm.
4. Historic U.S. Route 6 - Wiota Trailhead
HISTORIC HIGHWAY TRAIL
The Historic U.S. Route 6 - Wiota Trailhead marks a significant portion of one of America's original transcontinental highways. This trailhead serves as both a historical marker and a starting point for exploring the historic route. Visitors can learn about the importance of Route 6 in connecting the Midwest to both coasts while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
5. Lake Anita State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Lake Anita State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination near Wiota offering camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities. The park features a 171-acre lake stocked with various fish species and surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy water recreation, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in nature just a short drive from Wiota.
6. Cold Springs State Park
NATURAL RETREAT AREA
Cold Springs State Park is a hidden gem located just outside of Lewis, Iowa, near Wiota. The park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking in a serene natural setting. Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes that make this park worth discovering.
7. George B. Hitchcock House
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD SITE
The George B. Hitchcock House is a significant historical site where the Underground Railroad and Mormon Pioneer Trail intersect. This preserved house includes a museum, gift shop, and extensive nature trails that visitors can explore after touring the historic building. The well-maintained grounds offer both historical education and outdoor recreation opportunities near Wiota.
8. Baxter Cycle
RARE MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION
Baxter Cycle houses one of the most impressive collections of rare motorcycles in the world, surprising visitors with its extensive showrooms. The facility features multiple display areas including a special backroom containing some of the rarest bikes in existence alongside thousands of meticulously organized parts. This unexpected treasure in Cass County showcases motorcycles that many enthusiasts may not have known existed, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in motorcycle history.
9. That's So ATEies
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
That's So ATEies is a local dining establishment located in Atlantic, just a short drive from Wiota. The restaurant offers visitors a taste of authentic Iowa cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy homestyle cooking while experiencing the hospitality that small-town Iowa is known for.
10. Nishna Hills Golf Club
SCENIC GOLFING DESTINATION
Nishna Hills Golf Club is a well-maintained golf course located in Atlantic, approximately 5 miles from Wiota. The club offers challenging play for golfers of all skill levels against a backdrop of beautiful Iowa landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf followed by refreshments at the clubhouse while taking in views of the rolling terrain.
11. Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel
ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, and Hotel is a premier entertainment destination within driving distance of Wiota. The complex offers gaming thrills with slot machines and table games alongside exciting live horse racing during season. Visitors can also enjoy dining options, live entertainment, and overnight accommodations for a complete entertainment experience.
12. Jordan Creek Town Center
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Jordan Creek Town Center is Iowa's largest shopping center and a popular day trip destination for Wiota residents. The mall features over 150 stores, numerous restaurants, and entertainment options including a movie theater. Visitors can enjoy a full day of shopping, dining, and entertainment in this expansive retail complex.
13. Merle Hay Mall
HISTORIC SHOPPING CENTER
Merle Hay Mall is one of Iowa's oldest and most established shopping centers, offering a variety of retail options for visitors from Wiota. The mall houses department stores, specialty shops, and dining options under one roof for convenient shopping. Its central location makes it an accessible destination for those looking to combine shopping with other Des Moines attractions.
14. Iowa State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Iowa State Capitol is an architectural masterpiece featuring a 23-karat gold dome visible from miles away. Inside, visitors can explore ornate chambers, marvel at the law library's spiral staircases, and view historical artifacts and artwork throughout the building. Tours provide insights into Iowa's governmental history and the building's impressive construction, making it worth the drive from Wiota.
15. Mormon Pioneer Trail
HISTORIC MIGRATION ROUTE
The Mormon Pioneer Trail passes through Cass County near Wiota, marking the historic route taken by Mormon settlers heading west in the 1840s. Visitors can explore portions of the trail and learn about the challenges faced by these early pioneers. Historical markers and sites along the route, including the George B. Hitchcock House, provide educational opportunities about this significant chapter in American westward expansion.