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Posted May 14, 2025
Posted by Conservation and Public Relations
Pottawattamie County, IA — Pottawattamie Conservation’s Hitchcock Nature Center has earned a prestigious new honor from the Iowa Travel Industry Partners (iTIP). The beloved Loess Hills destination is the 2025 recipient of iTIP’s “Only in Iowa” Statewide Tourism and Hospitality Award.
This annual award highlights one-of-a-kind Iowa attractions that create unforgettable experiences and demonstrate exceptional commitment to the state’s tourism and hospitality industry. Previous winners include iconic locations such as the Bridges of Madison County and the Field of Dreams movie site, putting Hitchcock Nature Center in truly extraordinary company.
“Few Iowa attractions fit the definition of 'Only in Iowa' like Hitchcock Nature Center,” said Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Mark Eckman. “Being in the heart of a landform that can only be found in one place in the world in its natural form, kind of takes the cake all by itself. When you add in all the amenities and activities for visitors, how can Hitchcock not be deserving of this award?”
The announcement was made by iTIP as part of its 2025 Iowa Tourism and Hospitality Awards. Hitchcock and the other award winners will be formally recognized during the association’s annual meeting on Tuesday, June 10, in Winterset, Iowa.
“We are thrilled to see Hitchcock Nature Center recognized at the state level,” said Jeff Franco, Pottawattamie Conservation Executive Director. “This award celebrates what locals and visitors have known for years: there’s no place quite like Hitchcock.”
Nestled in the heart of the Loess Hills, Hitchcock Nature Center is known for its rare geological features, sweeping views, and year-round programming that connects people to the outdoors. From hiking and birdwatching to environmental education, Hitchcock has long been a cornerstone of nature-based tourism in western Iowa. You can find the full calendar of upcoming Pottawattamie Conservation events here.
Learn more about Hitchcock Nature Center at www.pottconservation.com, or read about all of this year’s iTIP award winners here.
