Harlan is a small city and the county seat of Shelby County, Iowa. It has a charming historic downtown (Historic Courthouse Square district) with 51 buildings built around the end of the 19th Century. We suggest you take a self-guided walking tour; not only you will relax, but also will have the opportunity to take some pretty great photos. Also, there are many specialty shops and excellent restaurants in this part of Harlan. The other main Harlan attractions within a 10-mile radius include Western Skies Scenic Byway (one of the first designated scenic byways in Iowa with a total length close to 142 miles), Shelby County Historical Museum, Nishna Bend Recreation Area (ideal for hunting, fishing, and camping), and Prairie Rose State Park (a well-organized campsite, ideal for fishing, water sports, and picnicking). Regarding budget accommodation, most of the and nearby Harlan offer rooms for less than $80 per night.
