Modale, Iowa

One of only two incorporated Iowa towns located west of Interstate 29, Modale is home to roughly 300 people, all of whom invite visitors to discover their unique history and ties to the arts.  Notably, Modale is the birthplace of Myra Keaton, a vaudeville performer and mother of silent film actor, director, and Honorary Academy Award-winner Buster Keaton.

For the outdoorsman in your family, be sure to visit one of the three wetland areas located within a 5-mile radius of Modale.

• The Horseshoe Lake Wetland Area is ideal for hunting waterfowl and upland game.
• With over 280 acres of pheasant and quail territory, the Vaile Wetland Nature Area is located within the Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area and is a mere 3 miles northeast of the city center.
• The Nolan Wetland Area is home to seasonal migrating waterfowl who take over this 155-acre park located within the Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area and is 5-mile drive from Modale.

Back in town, the nonprofit Town and Country Arts organization promotes art education and events.  The organization is housed in the historic Modale School and Masonic Lodge.  Originally built in 1880, the building has been restored into a beautiful theater for the community to enjoy and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

After your visit to the Town and Country Arts and your exploration of the nearby wetland areas, be sure to stop in at the town’s Sour Mash Bar & Grill for some local food.  As you travel along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, be sure to visit Modale and explore its offerings.