Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

Things To Do Near Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the early life of Herbert Hoover. Step back in time at the historic buildings, and enjoy a stroll through the well-preserved Tallgrass Prairie area. West Branch and the surrounding areas offer plenty in the way of food, entertainment, and shopping. Most spots are located within a short walk of the visitor center, so you don't need to worry about parking.

Hiking Trails

• Herbert Hoover National Historic Site Walking Route

  The best way to see the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is on the main walking route. The path starts at the visitor center, travels south on Downey Street and west on Penn Street. Along this short block, you can see the schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and the Birthplace Cottage. If you're interested in the Quaker lifestyle, return to Downey Street and walk down to the Friends Meetinghouse and the Statue of Isis. A bit farther down is the House of the Maples site, where the Hoover family moved after they left the Birthplace Cottage. 

  Location

  110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358

  Length

  1 mile

  Intensity

  Easy

• Tallgrass Prairie Trails

  See what Iowa looked like in the 1800s at the Tallgrass Prairie Trails. Here, 2.2 miles of well-maintained paths run through the rolling hills, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area. Enjoy the peaceful landscape, or head to the Isaac Miles Farmstead site. In the winter, these trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

  Location

  Tallgrass Prairie observation deck

  Length

  2.2 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Birthplace Cottage

  A short walk from the visitor center, you can check out the Birthplace Cottage. This two-room house was home to the Hoover family until 1878; today, it's been restored to look as it did during those years. Inside the house, you can see the family's bedroom and the other room, which served as a living, cooking, and dining space. Historic furniture gives you an idea of what life was like for a Quaker family at the time.

  Location

  110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358

• Blacksmith Shop

  The blacksmith shop at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is not original; it was built to look like a traditional shop at the time. Hoover's father was a blacksmith, and a family member's sketches of his shop were used in the design. During your visit, you can see how wagons and horses accessed the building and examine the tools of the trade.

  Location

  110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358

• Schoolhouse

  Step back in time at the schoolhouse at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. It consists of a single room that accommodated all of the local children. The local Quaker congregation helped fund and build the structure; they also used it as a meetinghouse.

  Location

  110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358

Museums

• Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum

  Learn more about the life and career of Herbert Hoover at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. Located just down the street from the Birthplace Cottage, this spot features exhibits about Hoover's Goodwill Tour through Latin America, a timeline of his life, and notable events such as the Great Depression.

  Location

  210 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358

• The Iowa Children's Museum

  Take a break from history and head to the Iowa Children's Museum, which is located about 15 miles west of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. With its fun, interactive exhibits, this hands-on museum is a great place to get out of the Iowa summer heat and humidity. The museum is set next to the Coral Ridge Mall, so you'll find plenty of shopping and dining activities after your visit.

  Location

  1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Cotton Creek Mill

  If you're interested in quilting or sewing, don't miss Cotton Creek Mill. Stocked with fabrics and supplies, it has everything you need to complete your next craft project.

  Location

  113 W Main St, West Branch, IA 52358

• 223 Vintage Co

  Find a unique gift for yourself or a loved one at 223 Vintage Co. Adorable and thoughtfully curated, this spot is a great place to find wall art, onesies, candles, and more.

  Location

  314 E Main St, West Branch, IA 52358

• A Beautiful Purpose

  With its stunning collection of antiques and vintage pieces, A Beautiful Purpose offers the chance to pick up a unique item for your home. The stock of items is varied and changes frequently, so there's always something new.

  Location

  108 W Main St, West Branch, IA 52358

• Main Street Sweets

  Pick up a burger or a sandwich at Main Street Sweets, which is located a quick walk from the visitor center. After your meal, enjoy a sweet treat at the ice cream counter.

  Location

  104-1/2 E Main St, West Branch, IA 52358

• The Downunder

  If you're camping near the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, head to The Downunder for a beer and a laid-back meal. The menu is simple, offering classic pub fare such as French dip sandwiches, fries, and burgers.

  Location

  102 W Main St, West Branch, Iowa 52358

• Brick Arch Winery

  Discover the Iowa wine scene at the lovely Brick Arch Winery, which serves a variety of locally made drinks. Enjoy a selection of small-plate snacks as you sip your wine — spinach and artichoke dip, charcuterie, and pretzels with cheese are all popular options. If you're visiting during the week, keep an eye out for the regular brick-oven pizza nights.

  Location

  116 W Main St, West Branch, IA 52358

How To Get To Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is located just a few minutes north of I-80 in eastern Iowa. To get there, take I-180 to Exit 254 and head north on S Downey Street. After approximately 0.4 miles, the site will be on your left.

Address

110 Parkside Drive, West Branch, IA 52358

Fee: Entry fee $0

Located in the beautiful rolling hills of eastern Iowa, the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is a fantastic place to learn more about the 31st president. After a day exploring historic buildings and hiking through the sun-soaked prairie, RV camping is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the Iowa landscape.