Things to Do in Hardin County

Hardin County, Iowa’s Greenbelt is a beautiful destination that offers visitors a range of activities and experiences. You can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, learn about its history, and indulge in some local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure or a relaxing weekend getaway, or considering making Hardin County your home, we have something to offer everyone.

Lodging

Stay in Hardin County’s cozy Tower Rock Cabins along the Iowa River or camp out at Pine Lake State Park.

Make Albright’s Bluff or Swinging Bridge Cottage your home away from home. These unique properties in Iowa Falls offer stunning views of the Iowa River.

Eats

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Sunshine Cafe in Eldora. Or grab a coffee and delicious breakfast sandwich at the Coffee Attic.

Satisfy your appetite with a delicious burger and refreshing beer at Firehouse Saloon & Grill.

Refuel at River Tap in Iowa Falls for a sandwich, flatbread, or pizza paired with a cold beverage.

Stop by The Good Olde Days in Iowa Falls for a sweet treat.

Relax and treat yourself to a glass of wine or cocktail, and Italian/Greek Pizzaria cuisine at Eldora’s  Social Club.

Indulge in a unique culinary experience at Red’s Smokehouse in Iowa Falls where BBQ meets fine dining

Grab a nightcap at The Pines in Eldora.

Happenings Bar in Steamboat Rock offers a golf simulator, so you can practice your swing while sipping on a refreshing drink.

Visit Timbukbru, where you can grab a locally brewed beer, join a trivia night, or groove to live music.

Outdoor Recreation

Explore Pine Lake State Park where you can fish, hike scenic trails, or catch a round of golf at the Pine Lake Golf Course.

Embark on a water trail adventure with Rock-n-Row on the Iowa River. Soak up sun and tube or kayak the waterway featuring breathtaking river bluff views.

Bike or hike the Iowa River’s Edge Trail and take in the beauty the Greenbelt has to offer.

At Calkins Nature Center you’ll find a butterfly house, walking trails, bird observatory, playscape, and animal exhibit. 

Site-Seeing and Attractions

Take in breathtaking golden hour views at the Sac & Fox Overlook in Steamboat Rock.  

Catch a movie at Eldora’s Grande Theatre.

Learn about local history at the Hardin County Farm Museum and Eldora Welcome Center & Railroad Museum. 

The Native American and Natural History Museum at Calkins Nature Center is an indoor experience that tells the story of the county’s ecological and cultural history. The museum is home to one Central Iowa’s largest collections of Native American Artifacts.

Embark on a scenic cruise on the Scenic City Empress Boat to learn about the history of Iowa Falls while taking in the beauty of the Iowa River.

Take a walk on the Historic Swinging Bridge, which extends over the Iowa River from Assembly Park to the end of Rockslvania Avenue and provides one-of-a-kind views of the Iowa  River.

View a collection of international artwork at the Pat Clark Cart Collection which offers a rotating exhibition housed in the historic Carnegie-Ellsworth Building. 

Shopping 

Explore Opalane Boutique and Backwoods Gallery in Eldora or Antiques by Mona in Steamboat Rock. 

Enjoy local Iowa Falls shops and boutiques, including Nimrod Meats, Small Town Girl Boutique, Ugly Peanut Boutique, and The Antique Gallery. 

For more information recreation and activities in Hardin County, call (641) 939-8272.