Peru offers the peaceful pace of rural life with an outsized claim to fame: the “Hawkeye” apple first discovered here later became the Red Delicious. Everyday needs and cultural touchstones are close at hand in nearby Winterset, home to the celebrated John Wayne Birthplace & Museum and a walkable town square with shops and cafes. Set within rolling hills of Madison County, Peru rewards residents with big skies, quiet roads, and a strong sense of place.
Outdoor lovers gravitate to Pammel Park for hiking, river access, and picnics under old-growth trees, or they cruise the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway for postcard views of the area’s famous spans. Each fall, the community comes together for the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival, a weekend of parades, artisan booths, and live music that turns the region into one big gathering. For a laid-back afternoon, savor a tasting at Madison County Winery near St. Charles, or catch up with neighbors in nearby East Peru.
Families appreciate strong local schools. Much of the area feeds into the Interstate 35 Community School District, with campuses in and around Truro, while some rural addresses look to the Winterset Community School District. Housing options run from classic farmhouses and acreages to updated ranches on quiet lanes. Whether you’re buying or selling, Agent Pronto can connect you with a top local real estate professional to make your move in Peru seamless.