Fall foliage in Iowa is always amazing (check out our guide to the best times and places to see it). There is no question that Iowa has some amazing fall foliage spots, but some of the most popular can be packed with people who have the same great idea! I love finding a quiet spot to see the colors of the fall, and a great example is the small town of Forest City. The county seat of rural Winnebago County, it has a population of just under 4,300 people and is home to Pilot Knob State Park. This park has some unique sights, but it isn’t one of the state’s busiest – so you should be able to enjoy the season’s peace and quiet. And if hiking through the park gets you hungry, an amazing diner with homemade pie is another positive of autumn in Forest City, Iowa.

Forest City is one of Iowa's most laid-back towns, and that makes it a great spot to enjoy the fall season.
Forest City, Iowa
The heart of the town is Pilot Knob State Park, one of Iowa's most beautiful spots to watch the leaves change.
Nate Kitzinger/Google Local
The park is rarely too crowded, and there are plenty of well-maintained trails for a casual hike.
Amundred/Google Local
However, there are also plenty of spots for more experienced hikers to find and get a view that only a precious few have seen!
Amundred/Google Local
The park is also home to one of Iowa's most famous castle-like structures - a unique observation tower.
Liz/Google Local
Work up an appetite hiking? The best food in Forest City is located in a humble diner marked only by a small sign.
Sally Larson/Google Local
Sally's Home Cooking is a classic hole in the wall, and country classics like this hot beef sandwich will surely hit the spot on a brisk fall day.
Kenneth Concilio/Google Local
Make sure to leave room for pie - it's all homemade, and reviews indicate it's the top reason why Sally's is such a long-standing local gem.
Jeremy Olson/Google Local

Have you spent Autumn in Forest City, Iowa? Tell us your favorite things to do in this charming little town in the comments section. Sally’s Home Cooking has a Facebook page with the latest specials. If you need a place to lay your head after a day of exploring, check out the Cobblestone Inn & Suites – Forest City.

Want to know more about Forest City’s famous castle? Check out our past coverage.

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Forest City, IA 50436, USA