We welcome Iowa Byways' visitors to enjoy this month's spotlight:
(SBA) - White Pole Road Scenic Byway and the annual Bonnie & Clyde walk/run/bike event.
As spring arrives with vibrant colors and a sense of renewal, there’s no better time to hit the road and explore the beauty of the White Pole Road Scenic Byway in Central Iowa. Spanning 26 miles parallel to Interstate 80, this scenic route offers exciting activities and attractions, making it the perfect destination for your springtime get a way.
Step off the beaten path of I-80 and allow the White Pole Road to guide you through the five small communities of Adair, Casey, Menlo, Stuart, and Dexter, each offering its own unique charm and allure.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region by exploring historical landmarks along the byway. From the site of the world’s first robbery of a moving train by the notorious Jesse James Gang to the remnants of Bonnie and Clyde's infamous exploits, there are countless tales waiting to be discovered.
History buffs will want to view the Bonnie and Clyde artifacts, learn more about President Truman’s visit, and see remnants of the 1948 National Plowing Matches at the Dexter Museum.
Wander through towns adorned with smiling yellow water towers, brick-lined streets, and welcoming locals. Explore Casey's charming main street and admire the patriotic murals at Veteran’s Memorial Park. Wave to the friendly Gas Station Man at the iconic Kalbach Oil Company sign in Menlo. Stop at the Former Rock Island Railroad Depot in Stuart where Jack Kerouac became stranded with a friend on his road trip across the US and wrote about it in the best-selling novel “On the Road”.
Delve into the area's cultural heritage at venues like the Saints Center for Culture and the Arts in Stuart, housed in a beautifully restored historic church that was destroyed by an arsonist, The Clocktower Building in Stuart, or the Roundhouse Community Center in Dexter.
Treat yourself to the delectable flavors of spring at local eateries along the byway. Indulge in homemade chocolates at Drew’s Chocolates in Dexter, savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Los Altos in Stuart, try a meal at the Pioneer Pub & Grub in Casey, or a burger at the Chuckwagon Restaurant in Adair.
Join us for the annual Bonnie & Clyde 5-mile walk/run event, now featuring an exhilarating 10-mile bike ride. Set off from Stuart on April 20th at 9:15 AM, and pedal your way down White Pole Road to the Dexter museum before looping back to Stuart. Don't miss the opportunity to honor the victims of Bonnie & Clyde and explore the stunning countryside along the way.
Spring is the perfect time to embark on an adventure along the White Pole Road Scenic Byway, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Central Iowa's scenic landscapes and charming communities.
