Explore the heart of Pottawattamie County through its vibrant collection of historic landmarks, museums, and heritage sites that bring local stories to life. From pioneer trails and railroad depots to one-room schoolhouses and elegant courthouses, each stop offers a unique window into the region’s past. Whether you're uncovering the origins of small towns, stepping into preserved farmsteads, or marveling at rare collections and architectural gems, these destinations invite you to experience the people, events, and innovations that shaped western Iowa. Plan your journey and discover the remarkable history waiting to be explored in every corner of the county.
Carson Railroad Depot
Carson
The Carson Railroad Depot stands as a reminder of the town’s beginnings, when the Burlington and Rock Island Railroad opened transportation access to the area in 1880. Before the depot was built, passengers and freight were unloaded in a nearby field—yet the promise of progress quickly turned open land into a budding settlement. By 1881, the City of Carson was officially incorporated with just 240 residents. Today, the depot helps tell the story of how the railroad sparked growth and connected this corner of Pottawattamie County to the rest of the region.
Carstens 1880 Farmstead
Shelby
Carstens 1880 Farmstead brings Iowa’s rich agricultural past to life with its immersive, hands-on look at how farming has evolved—from manual labor to horse-drawn equipment to modern tractors. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this living history site showcases the tools and traditions that shaped rural life. With seasonal events, demonstrations, and the motto “preserving and celebrating Iowa’s farm history,” Carstens Farm invites visitors to step back in time and experience the enduring spirit of the family farm. Tours are available by appointment.
East Pottawattamie County Courthouse
Avoca
Built in 1885, the East Pottawattamie County Courthouse is known for its architectural beauty and is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Often referred to as having “the most beautiful courtroom in the state,” it features a stunning 200-year-old bench and canopy originally from an English castle. Visitors can experience its charm and craftsmanship through tours available by appointment.
Loess Hills Lodge Interpretive Facility
Honey Creek
Take a break from the great outdoors at Hitchcock Nature Center and explore the Loess Hills Lodge Interpretive Facility, where hands-on activities await visitors of all ages. Kids can dive into Curiosity Cove to make animal prints, build habitats, read nature stories, and complete a scavenger hunt.
Monroe One-Room Country Schoolhouse
Walnut
Step back in time at the Monroe One-Room Country Schoolhouse, a charming glimpse into rural education between 1931 and 1949. Once the learning hub for children in Monroe Township, the schoolhouse now serves as a museum curated by the Walnut Creek Historical Society. Inside, visitors will find original photographs, books, desks, supplies, and other preserved artifacts from its school days. Tours are available by appointment; call (402) 960-5771 to schedule your visit.
Nishna Heritage Museum
Oakland
Experience a glimpse of simpler times at the charming Nishna Heritage Museum, where curated displays showcase everything from Victorian-era clothing and antique tools to household items and doll collections. One standout piece is the hand-stitched quilted map of Iowa, crafted in 1900—a true highlight for history lovers.
Octagon House
Avoca
Located within Graceland Cemetery, the Octagon House was constructed circa 1875 to provide shelter for mourners during bad weather. It is recognized for its historical significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Original Mormon Trail Settlement Site
Macedonia
This massive 10,000-pound red granite boulder named the Original Mormon Trail Settlement Site marks the site of Old Macedonia, where the Mormon pioneers crossed the West Nishnabotna River on June 12, 1846.
Pioneer Trail Museum
Macedonia
Discover the rich history of Macedonia, Iowa, at the Pioneer Trail Museum, which showcases a variety of artifacts including historic photographs, clothing, fossils, and unique memorabilia. One of the museum’s oldest treasures is a loom that journeyed across the ocean by sailing ship and then traveled west in a covered wagon. Whether or not you have personal ties to Macedonia, this museum offers a fascinating look into life in a small western Iowa town over the years. Visits are available by appointment—call (712)-486-2568 or (712)-486-2580 to schedule your tour.
Rolling Hills Bank
Walnut
Constructed in 1880, the Rolling Hills Bank showcases a blend of Mission/Spanish Revival and Classical Revival architectural styles and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Shelby Rock Island Depot
Shelby
The renovated Shelby Rock Island Depot offers visitors a chance to explore railroad artifacts, memorabilia, and a historic caboose on display.
Stempel Bird Museum
Macedonia
The Stempel Bird Museum houses over 300 mounted birds, featuring many rare species—some more than 100 years old. Recognized as one of the state’s finest collections, it reflects the legacy of Dr. Stempel, a self-taught expert in ornithology who aimed to preserve the memory of species facing endangerment or extinction. Tours can be scheduled by appointment.
Sweet Vale of Avoca Museum
Avoca
Experience what life was like during Avoca’s early days through a variety of exhibits showcasing historical events. Sweet Vale of Avoca Museum features over 75 mounted animal heads from around the world, including standout displays like the musk ox and arctic wolf. Open weekends from 1 to 4 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, and on the third Sunday of each month during the off-season. Appointments can be scheduled off-season—visit the museum’s website for details.
Walnut Creek Historical Museum
Walnut
Walnut Creek Historical Museum is located in the former Masonic Lodge, preserves artifacts from Walnut’s heyday in the 1870s and 1880s when it was a bustling prairie town of 1,000 residents. Exhibits include period furniture, clothing, and recreated kitchen and parlor rooms. The museum is open weekends from 1 to 4 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, or by appointment—call (402) 960-5771 to schedule your visit.
