Iowa is full of history, and we’ve been home to some of the most significant figures in America’s past. Maybe the most famous person born in Iowa is the 31st US President, Herbert Hoover. Where did Herbert Hoover grow up? His humble hometown of West Branch has become a tribute to his impact on American history. If you’re looking for a great small town in Iowa to escape to for a few days, West Branch, Iowa is perfect, especially if you love history. It’s a great place to explore the many sites celebrating Hoover’s presidency, his post-presidency work, and his traditional Iowa childhood. But West Branch is much more than history – it’s a wonderful small town with great sights and eats for you to enjoy after you’re done exploring this bit of living history.

The charming downtown of West Branch makes it look like an ordinary small town in Iowa, but it's hiding one big secret.
David Wilson/Wikimedia Commons
This is Herbert Hoover's hometown. The 31st president of the United States was an Iowan through and through.
Library of Congress/Wikipedia
While Hoover only served one term amid the Great Depression, he's considered to have one of the most successful - and longest - post-presidencies.
His birthplace cottage has been preserved at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, so you can witness his humble beginnings.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, 110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
You can even visit a recreation of the blacksmith shop owned by his father, Jesse Hoover.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is also in West Branch, Iowa, and can be visited for a more in-depth look at Hoover's life.
Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, 210 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
Susan D/TripAdvisor

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But that's not the only historic site in the town - you can explore the old-fashioned Gruwell and Crew General Store, which currently operates as the Heritage Museum.
Heritage Museum, 107 W Main St, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
Bill Whittaker/Wikipedia
West Branch has natural beauty, too, so make sure to check out area parks, like the beautiful Cedar Valley County Park.
Cedar Valley County Park, 660 255th St, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
megan13ia/TripAdvisor
Looking for delicious spots to eat? It doesn't get much better than Mexico Lindo Restaurant in West Branch.
GailCheryl/TripAdvisor
There, you'll find heaping portions of authentic Mexican cuisine, like these smoky carnitas.
Mexico Lindo Grill & Cantina, 711 S Downey St, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
NVJudie/TripAdvisor
Before you leave West Branch, make sure to stop by Main Street Sweets to pick up one of the irresistible house-made pies sold here!
Main Street Sweets, 104-1/2 E Main St, West Branch, IA 52358, USA
Main St. Sweets/Facebook

Have you ever  visited West Branch, Iowa? What did you think of its extensive tributes to Herbert Hoover, probably the most famous person born in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section, and if you’re planning a visit, make sure to drop by the West Branch website for more information on the town.

If you’re looking for some great places to stay in the area, check out these West Branch, Iowa vacation rentals available on Vrbo.

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West Branch, IA 52358, USA