Have you imagined what it was like in the earliest days of the Midwest, when there were still elk and bison in Iowa, and the rolling prairie stretched for as far as the eye could see? Luckily, there’s still one patch of preserved prairie that feels like a step back in time. Visit this beautiful wildlife refuge to see for yourself.

The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge and Prairie Learning Center is one park in Iowa you've got to visit.
Google Local / Laurie Atwater
This incredible refuge replicates the wild prairie of Iowa, which is a unique ecosystem that's becoming less and less common.
Google Local / Rose Duncan
The Prairie Learning Center itself is an interpretive museum that discusses life out here, wildlife, and conservation efforts in the prairie region.
Google Local / Daniel Carver
The best part about a visit to the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is taking the auto tour!
Google Local / Dave MacKinnon

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You'll get up close and personal with the refuge's herd of bison. Can you imagine the days when millions of these beautiful buffalo roamed Iowa?
Google Local / Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
There's more than just bison to spot! Keep an eye out for owls, birds, rabbits and more.
Facebook / Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
The 5 mile auto tour will also bring you close to the refuge's elk herd. Listen for their hilarious bugle sounds.
Facebook / Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
A visit to the Prairie Learning Center and a drive through the Neal smith National Wildlife Refuge should certainly be on your bucket list this year.
Google Local / Jason Sturges

To plan your visit to the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, check their website for hours and admission. The auto tour, roads and trails are open every day from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center is open from March 1 to November 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From December 1 to February 28, hours are Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and they are closed on Sunday.

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