If you’re looking for a midwest weekend getaway that combines adventure and culture, Fort Dodge is the perfect spot! For being a smaller city, Fort Dodge really packs a punch with the amount of fun activities available for the whole family. From hiking, to creating art, to vibing with wine and live music, there are so many fun things to do in Fort Dodge.
Fort Dodge is known for its gypsum mining, and is a commercial hub for biofuels, livestock feed, drywall manufacturing, trucking, and more. In fact, the patent for drywall was even patented by a Fort Dodge resident. However, there is a lot to discover beyond the commercial roots of the area.
I felt so welcome during my visit to Fort Dodge. It’s a community full of friendly people, and a place where it’s easy to feel immediately at home. I didn’t know exactly what to expect on my visit to Fort Dodge, but I didn’t expect to find one of the nicest and most passionate art museum directors I’ve ever met, or to see people of all ages dancing to the live band at Soldier Creek Winery.
While the people really make travel special, I also had some amazing moments in nature. I admired a peaceful sunset framed with wildflowers at Badger Lake, and watched a bald eagle catching its prey at Dolliver State Park. I had such a lovely time, and think that Fort Dodge deserves a spot on your midwest bucket list. Keep reading to discover all of the best things to do on a weekend trip to Fort Dodge.
Full disclaimer – This is a sponsored blog post by Visit Fort Dodge. As always, my opinions are unbiased and my own. I want to thank the Fort Dodge tourism board for their generosity!
The Best Things to do in Fort Dodge, Iowa
Whether you like the outdoors or history, here are some of the best things to do in Fort Dodge!
Hike in Dolliver State Park
If you’re like me, you’re always looking for the nearest hiking trail or state park while you’re traveling. Located just 20 minutes from downtown, Dolliver is the perfect place to go. Plus, it’s free, like all Iowa state parks.
I hiked the Boneyard Trail and the Copperas Trail. You can hike these separately, or combine them for a 4.5 mile route. Several intersecting trails give you some different options. I normally hike using the AllTrails map, but found the map here to be off in some areas, so be aware. While there were some overgrown areas, I still found the trails to be easy to follow overall.
Don’t miss Boneyard Hollow, where you can hike among bluffs next to a creek that leads to the Des Moines River. Just down the road or the trail, the Copperas Trail has even taller bluffs next to a separate creek. Plus, the Copperas loop has a nice amount of elevation gain if you’re looking for a workout.
The park also offers camping, and places to dip your feet in the water. It’s a great place to spend a day hiking, camping or having a picnic.
I even saw a bald eagle hunting in this park! Keep in mind that service is spotty, and I recommend bringing bug spray, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Visit Matt Cosgrove River's Edge Discovery Center
The River’s Edge Discovery Center offers an amazing, hands-on display of the importance of water in Iowa. The center has family friendly exhibits covering topics like water usage, soil, wildlife, and how the Fort Dodge riverfront is being restored to its natural state after decades of manufacturing.
Having opened in 2024, the center is still new, and I was so impressed by how interactive each display was. This isn’t a place where you just read walls of text, it’s a place where adults and children alike can learn by doing. You’ll have a chance to turn on giant light switches, spin wheels, play with sand, see real animals, and more.
And don’t miss the walking path outside. There is a paved path along the river right next to the nature center, and it offers some lovely views of the water. There is also a playground that is made with a lot of natural materials.
Matt Cosgrove River’s Edge Discovery Center is free to visit, and an amazing place for education and play. This is very much worth visiting during your visit to Fort Dodge!
Explore Veterans Memorial Park
Veterans Memorial Park is a beautiful place to take a walk, have a picnic or just enjoy nature. As the name suggests, there is a display honoring men and women who have served. There are granite stones, flags and pavers, and an amphitheater that overlooks the water.
Just across the parking lot, there is also a Children's Forest. Here you’ll find intricate wood carvings of storybook characters, including the Lorax and a giant caterpillar. Along the way, kids can read a story that changes throughout the year. Even as an adult, I thought it was a wonderful walk.
I visited at sunset, and enjoyed a beautifully still reflection on the water. Plus, summer brought lots of wildflowers. You also have the option to hike around the lake, or go fishing.
Camp or Canoe in Kennedy Park
Right across the lake from Veterans Park, you’ll find Kennedy Park. This is a wonderful place for camping, and they even have yurts that you can rent. Both Kennedy Park and the Veterans Memorial Park surround Badger Lake, which is 53 acres and popular for fishing and canoeing. Kennedy Park also has an 18-hole golf course.
Visit the Guido van Helten Silo Mural
This famous silo mural, painted by Guido van Helten, is a must-see during a visit to Fort Dodge! The iconic mural stands 110-feet tall next to the river, and the neutral color palette makes it fit right into its surroundings.
Fun Fact: This is the tallest mural in Iowa!
The mural features seven figures that represent archetypes of the different types of people living in Fort Dodge. Guido van Helten spent time meeting, interviewing and photographing local residents to represent these seven characters. To name a few of the figures, there is a farmer, a teacher, an African-American community leader, and a mine worker.
The mural was painted in 2018, and Guido van Helten impressed the community by painting in bitter cold winter months. The colors were chosen to look natural as they fade over time.
During your visit here, you’ll find a paved path that goes all the way around the mural and a parking lot. There is some signage about the mural as well. This is a quick stop, but so worth seeing up close. The mural is also cool to see illuminated at night.
Check out the Paddling Trails
Fort Dodge has some scenic paddling trails for kayakers. Depending on the path you choose, you can encounter rapids and other challenges. I was planning to paddling through the Lizard Creek Water Trail, but had to cancel due to weather. I’d love to do this in the future!
Webster County Conservation offers kayak and canoe rentals, but as far as I know, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation of the kayaks, and need two cars or to arrange transportation, since you’ll be entering and exiting the river at different places. As it stands right now, the paddling here makes the most sense for experienced paddlers who have their own boats and gear, and have multiple vehicles.
Along the Lizard Creek Water Trail, you can also paddle along the Des Moines River Water Trail. Part of the river goes through Dolliver State Park, and you’ll be able to float past beautiful limestone cliffs.
Go Off Roading at the Gypsum City OHV Park
If you have an ATV or other off-road vehicle, the Gypsum City OHV Park is the perfect place to get your adrenaline rush. The park is 800 acres and has 60 miles of trails for all levels. There is a mix of open prairie, muddy river crossings, and even motocross tracks. The park also offers picnic areas, grills, campsites, and more.
This is a place where you’ll need to bring your own vehicle. Personally, I’d love to see rentals or tours available in the future!
Enjoy Live Music at Soldier Creek Winery
If you enjoy wine and live music, visiting Soldier Creek Winery on a Friday is a must! The winery has live music every Friday night, year round.
This is a family owned winery with 10 acres of vineyards. Along with a variety of wines, they serve cider, wine slushies, and some beer. They also have decadent charcuterie boards.
The best part is the laid back and welcoming atmosphere, especially when they have live music. You can sit inside or outside, and you’ll see folks of all ages dancing, meeting up with friends and family, and enjoying the Iowa countryside with a great glass of wine. If you’re arriving in Fort Dodge on a Friday, an evening here is the perfect way to kick off your trip!
See the Freedom Rock
If you enjoy art, it’s worth a quick stop to the Webster County Freedom Rock. There are actually 99 freedom rocks across the state, one for every county. Each rock honors veterans and those who have served our country.
This rock in particular focuses on mental health, depicting a scene that shows the effects of PTSD and the daily struggles of soldiers after returning from war. The rock depicts local servicemen and was painted by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorenson II.
Get Creative at Studio Fusion
If you’re looking for a creative activity during your trip to Fort Dodge, a stop at Studio Fusion is a must! The studio offers both fused glass and pottery.
I opted to make a scene out of fused glass, and it was my first time creating anything like this. It involved choosing colors from a wide variety of cut glass pieces, and cutting them to be what I wanted. When you have your glass laid out how you’d like, they fuse the piece together. This typically takes two to three weeks.
Creating with glass was harder than I thought it would be, but also so much fun. I quickly learned that something simple was much easier than trying to cut small pieces for specific details. I created an abstract scene (which wasn’t my original plan), while my husband tried to make our house.
If you’re traveling like I was, the team at Studio Fusion can mail your creation to you after it’s fired. However, they warn that sometimes things get damaged in the mail. If you’ll need to get your project mailed, it’s best to pick a shape that won’t be as breakable.
I had such a great time doing this and recommend it to anyone! Plus, I felt that the prices were very reasonable. There is no studio fee, you simply pay for your materials.
Visit The Fort Museum and Frontier Village
The Fort Museum and Frontier Village is one of the most popular activities in Fort Dodge for good reason. They have something to offer for all ages, and it's the best place in town to learn about the history of the area.
The property has a few different areas. It feels similar to a museum, but more hands on, and spread out across many buildings. You’ll find a large western village that has everything from a general store to a blacksmith to a printing press. Each building houses different artifacts that relate to the history of Fort Dodge.
There is also a replica of Fort Williams stockade. Behind the fort, you can also find something very unique: the Cardiff Giant.
The story behind the Cardiff Giant is a little bit confusing, but let me explain. The Cardiff Giant is one of the most famous hoaxes in American history. In 1869, workers in New York came across a giant, petrified man while digging a well. Many believed that it was a real petrified man who had once roamed the earth. However, it was actually commissioned and planted by George Hull using gypsum that came from Fort Dodge. Hull made a lot of money charging people to see the “petrified man” for themselves.
Exactly 100 years after this happened, in 1968, another giant was “discovered” at this very spot in Fort Dodge. The sign reads that this is in fact the “real” giant, and that it had been encased in a protective layer of gypsum. Is this a real petrified man? See for yourself and let me know what you think!
A visit to the Fort Museum and Frontier Village costs $10 per adult and $5 per child. I actually visited during their Frontier Days festival, and got to see live cannon demonstrations, reenactments of battles, and more. There were food vendors, live music, silent auctions, and other activities. Plus, there was a parade downtown. This is a great time to visit if you enjoy a family-friendly festival! It typically occurs in early June.
Visit the Blanden Memorial Art Museum
If you like art at all, be sure to stop by the Blanden Memorial Art Museum during your visit to Fort Dodge. The museum is free to visit and has a beautiful collection of artwork that showcases local artists, along with rotating exhibits that cover different topics.
During my visit, one gallery showcased the work of all local artists. It was pulled from a group that meets monthly, and it was their first showcase. I loved the variety in this gallery. There were paintings, sculptures, and art in all kinds of mediums. It was clear that each piece brought a different perspective, but it still felt cohesive.
Another gallery showcased an exhibit titled “Know Thyself,” and it reminds the viewer to slow down and reflect on who they are without algorithms and addicting digital systems.
The art here is beautiful and well curated, but the biggest highlight was talking to Eric, the director. It was clear that he has so much passion for what he does, and wants visitors to feel at home and enjoy their visit. Make sure to stop by and say hello during your trip to Fort Dodge!
Where to Eat in Fort Dodge
Bloomers on Central
Bloomers on Central is a homey coffee shop in the center of town. With vintage rugs, colorful couches, plants and warm lighting, the cozy decor will make you want to stay awhile. Along with a variety of coffee and non coffee drinks, they serve pastries, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and more. This is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch during your visit to Fort Dodge.
Ninja Sushi Steak House
Ninja Sushi Steak House has a large menu with Japanese items such as sushi, udon noodles, hibachi, and more. The atmosphere feels a little strange, as the space is in a former Long John Silver’s restaurant, and it doesn’t seem like they’ve remodeled. However, the service was fast, and the food was decent.
Shiny Top Brewing
Shiny Top is a great place to go for a casual dinner with beer, pizza and a lively atmosphere. There is often trivia, live music or sports on TV. When I visited on a Friday night, it was busy, but not too busy that we had to wait for a table. We enjoyed their pizza, beer and a sandwich.
If you’re looking for something unique, they even have axe throwing!
Where to Stay in Fort Dodge
There are several hotels in Fort Dodge to fit your needs. I stayed in the Holiday Inn Express and had a nice stay. It had the amenities I expect from a Holiday Inn Express, such as free breakfast and a pool, and the room was clean and comfortable. Plus, it was just minutes away from downtown Fort Dodge.
If you’re interested in camping in Fort Dodge, check out Kennedy Park or Dolliver State Park. Kennedy Park even has yurts that you can sleep in!
How to get to Fort Dodge
Fort Dodge is located in central Iowa, about 90 miles of a 1.5 hour drive from Des Moines. It’s also 2 and a half hours away from Cedar Rapids, IA, and just under 3 hours from Omaha.
If you’re flying, United Airlines flies into the Fort Dodge Regional Airport. But more flight options, look at Des Moines, Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids, or Omaha.
When to Visit Fort Dodge
Fort Dodge has chilly winters and the cold lingers into the spring, so the best time to visit tends to be from June to October. Summers can get hot and humid, but it usually isn’t unbearable.
I visited in early June, and there was a bit of rain, but the temperatures were great. Summer is a great time to hike in Dolliver State Park and enjoy the outdoors in Fort Dodge.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide helps you plan an awesome trip to Fort Dodge. Whether you’re traveling with your family, partner, or solo, I think that Fort Dodge has something for everyone. From quirky historic sites, to a lively winery, to peaceful nature, this makes for a perfect summer getaway.
For more Midwest travel guides, check out these blog posts:
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- The Best MN North Shore Hiking Trails
- The Best Outdoor Adventures in St Cloud
- How to Spend 3 Days in Madison, Wisconsin
- The Best Hikes in Indiana
- The Best Things To Do in Hocking Hills, OH
- The Best Things To Do in Cuyahoga Valley, OH
- How to Spend One Day in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
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