Winter brings a whole new way to explore Pottawattamie County. From snowy outdoor adventures and wildlife watching to local shopping, art, and dining, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the season. Here are a few ideas to add to your winter list!
1. Hit the Slopes at Crescent Hill at Hitchcock!
For those who enjoy winter sports, go check out Crescent Hill! Whether you prefer skiing, sledding, or snowboarding, there’s a slope here for you. They provide visitors with various slopes to intrigue newcomers and challenge those who are more experienced.
2. Visit the Elk and Bison at Botna Bend
Looking for something to do on a cold winter afternoon? Pack the kids in the car and drive out to Botna Bend Park in Hancock, Iowa! Did you know that there are live bison and elk herds that call this Pottawattamie Conservation Park their home?
3. Snowshoe at Hitchcock Nature Center
Explore the Loess Hills in a completely new way this winter! Rent snowshoes at the Loess Hills Lodge and embark on a snowshoe adventure. You will be amazed at how peaceful Hitchcock Nature Center is when it is covered in a blanket of snow.
4. Visit a Restaurant You've Never Tried Before
There are so many delicious restaurant options in Pottawattamie County, and you’ve probably not had a chance to try them all. Browse our list of local restaurants and let someone else do the cooking!
5. Take Winter Photos at the Pottawattamie Conservation Parks
Pottawattamie County is home to several beautiful conservation areas that can only be described as “picture-perfect.” Bundle up, grab your camera, and go take photos of the beautiful Loess Hills and the wildlife that call southwest Iowa their home. Here are some of the parks we suggest you check out:
- Arrowhead Park
- Crescent Wildlife Area
- Farm Creek Public Wildlife Area
- Honey Creek Conservation Area
- Olde Town Park
- Wheeler Grove Conservation Area
6. Visit an Art Gallery
Explore the works of local artists at one of Pottawattamie County's art galleries! There are several options, including Penny's Vision Gallery in Neola, A Bit of Iowa Gallery in Walnut, or The Painted Camel Gallery in Macedonia.
7. Shop Local
Whether you're shopping for a special someone, treating yourself, or looking for something to fill a Saturday afternoon, you'll find that there are great shopping options in Pottawattamie County! Be sure to check out the small town of Walnut, better known as Iowa's Antique City. The town is booming with antique stores and specialty shops. Check out favorites, including B Restored, Barn Mall, and the Antique Furniture Emporium!
Keep Exploring This Winter
Bundle up and make a day of exploring Pottawattamie County! Discover a new trail, browse a local shop, visit a gallery, or try a restaurant you haven’t been to before. There’s plenty to see, do, and taste all season long. Check out our full list of attractions and local restaurants to plan your next winter adventure.
