Newton

Newton is a welcoming Iowa community that blends small-town charm with unique attractions and outdoor spaces. Located just off I-80 and about 35 miles east of Des Moines, Newton makes an easy day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy motorsports, public art, historic places, local dining, and beautiful parks and gardens, all in a walkable and friendly setting.

Things to Do
Newton offers a wide range of experiences for visitors of all ages. Iowa Speedway is one of the community’s biggest draws, hosting major racing events and fan experiences that attract visitors from across the Midwest. Downtown Newton features locally owned shops, restaurants, and galleries, along with historic architecture and seasonal community events. The new Gray Moon Public Market combines small town retailers, food, beverages, and events inside a community gathering space at historic Montgomery Ward building. The Capitol II Theatre, a historic downtown theater, offers movies and community programming year-round. For a classic experience, visitors can catch a movie at the Valle Drive-In Theatre, one of Iowa’s long-standing drive-in theaters. History lovers can explore local heritage at the Jasper County Historical Museum, which highlights the area’s past, including Newton’s manufacturing roots.

Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Fun
Newton is home to some of central Iowa’s most scenic outdoor spaces. The Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens features well-maintained gardens, walking paths, and peaceful settings that are enjoyable in every season. Maytag Park offers trails, playgrounds, a swimming pool, disc golf, and space for concerts and community gatherings. Additional trails and green spaces throughout the city make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Golfers can visit Westwood Golf Course, an 18-hole public course known for its scenic layout and welcoming atmosphere. The new clubhouse includes a bar, restaurant and two indoor golf simulators.

Arts and Culture
Art is woven throughout the community. Newton’s public art collection includes murals, sculptures, and installations placed throughout parks, downtown, and neighborhoods, creating a self-guided art experience for visitors. The Centre for Arts & Artists, performances at the Newton Community Theatre, and special events throughout the year reflect the community’s strong arts and civic spirit.

Dining and Shopping Local
Visitors will find a variety of locally owned restaurants, cafés, and bars offering everything from casual meals to sweet treats. Once you have worked up an appetite, grab a casual bite to eat at PJ’s Delis or Giovanni's Pizzeria, experiment with cultural flavors at Los Amigos or Viet-Thai Taste, then indulge in dessert at Stacy's Sweet Stuff or Cardinal Corner. Shop the latest fashion at Daughters Boutique, find the perfect book at Mattingly Music and Books, or sit down and try out a game at The Kraken’s Crate before buying.

Plan Your Visit
Newton’s location along Interstate 80 makes it easy to reach, and visitors will find a variety of lodging options nearby. Seasonal events, racing weekends, and outdoor activities provide reasons to visit year-round. With so much to offer, if you’re considering a place to visit, we’d love to have you visit and get to know Newton!