Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway: History, Culture, and Art Across Iowa

The Jefferson Highway is more than a historic route—it’s a living connection between communities stretching from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. In Iowa, follow the signs for the Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway as you travel from Northwood in the north to Lamoni in the south. Start or end your journey at the Iowa Welcome Centers (Top of Iowa Welcome Center and the Amish Country Store) for maps, information, and local insights.

Background of the Jefferson Highway

Designated in 1915 by businessmen across the eight states it crosses, the Jefferson Highway earned the tagline “Pine to Palm” (or “Palm to Pine,” depending on your direction of travel). The founders envisioned a practical north-south route that would let northern travelers escape harsh winters and southern travelers find cooler summers.

A Travel Visionary: E.T. Meredith

One of the key driving forces behind the route was E.T. Meredith of Meredith Publishing in Des Moines, Iowa. His company became known for Successful Farming, Ladies’ Home Journal, and Better Homes and Gardens. Today its digital, print, and broadcast assets form part of Dotdash Meredith, which includes the popular Travel + Leisure magazine.

Meredith and his contemporaries understood how travel could connect people and strengthen communities along the corridor. The Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway continues that vision through a partnership with Travel Iowa’s Byways Passport program. Many historic and cultural sites along the route are featured in the passport or on the official byway page. Watch for horse-and-buggy signage near both the northern and southern ends of the Iowa segment, a reminder of the Amish communities in the region.

Arts, Culture, and Must-See Stops Along the Byway

The Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway celebrates arts and culture at every turn. Key highlights include:

Mason City — Stay at the Historic Park Inn, the only remaining hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Visit Music Man Square to explore the legacy of Meredith Willson and The Music Man. Don’t miss the town’s public sculptures, including the whimsical Mr. Eggwards.

Iowa Falls — Enjoy the scenic falls and take a ride on the Scenic City Empress Riverboat.

Colo — Stop at the historic Reed-Niland Corner, where the Jefferson Highway intersects the Lincoln Highway. Stay at the classic Colo Motel or enjoy pie and ice cream at Niland’s Café.

Nevada — Read interpretive information about both the Lincoln and Jefferson Highways at the park outside City Hall, and view the mural on the Main Street office on 6th Street that honors both historic routes.

Indianola — If you’re traveling in late July or early August, plan to watch the colorful balloon ascensions during the National Balloon Classic.

Osceola — See the beautifully restored Lyric movie theater, especially striking when its exterior lights up at night.

Lamoni — Explore local murals and visit the Amish Store at the Welcome Center for fresh baked goods and handmade crafts before continuing into Missouri.

Take a Return Trip

After reaching the southern end of the Iowa byway, consider turning around for the “Palm to Pine” journey in reverse. Iowa offers abundant parks, scenic stops, and welcoming communities ready to share their stories with travelers.

Whether you’re drawn by history, small-town culture, art, or simply the open road, the Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway delivers a memorable north-south adventure through the heart of Iowa.  For more information, please go to:  https://nsbfoundation.com/sb/jefferson-highway-heritage-byway/