Welcome to AlTA
Founded because of the expansion of the Chicago-Illinois Railroad, Alta is the highest point on the railroad in Iowa. Railroad engineer, John I. Blair, named the railroad depot "Alta" in 1870 in honor of his daughter, Altai Blair. The incorporation papers were filed for "Incorporated Town of Alta, Buena Vista County, Iowa" on November 11, 1878 at the State Land Office at the Capitol in Des Moines. Proximity to rail transportation helped Alta develop into a solid farming community.
Settlers began to take residence in Alta in 1869. One of the first commercial structures in the town was the railroad depot, followed by a post office. In 1872, a land company laid out the town of Alta. The original plat consisted of four blocks. Hearing of this new settlement, P.G. Peterson of Chicago moved to Alta to start a hotel and help establish a good town. Soon after, a group of tradesmen and businessmen followed from the Chicago area bringing several businesses to the rapidly growing community. These new businesses included an elevator, a blacksmith shop, a hardware store, a general mercantile, a medical practice, and a law firm.
Agribusiness is still the mainstay of our community, but new industries - like the production of electricity by sleek wind turbines dotting our countryside - have drawn a rich mix of new residents from diverse backgrounds to Alta.
More than 2000 people call Alta home today, and many others who live in the surrounding rural areas enjoy our shops, parks, and schools. We welcome you to come and explore Alta. Catch our energy!
Upcoming Events
Latest News & Announcements
Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the Council of the City of Alta will meet in regular session on October 19, 2026, beginning at 4:30 pm at the Alta City Hall at 223 Main St. Please see the attached agenda. October 19 Agenda
Buena Vista County Public Health and Home Care is hosting a Drug Disposal and Flu Vaccine event TONIGHT, Tuesday, October 13, from 5- 8 p.m. at the Alta Fire Station. You can drop off unused and unneeded prescription drugs for FREE, safe disposal. Flu vaccines are also available. For more information, contact Buena…
Public Notice Members of the City Council of the City of Alta will meet on Wednesday, October 7, at 10:00 am at Alta Community Center to work on cleaning and organizing the facility. There is a possibility of a quorum, but there will be no city business conducted and no action taken.
Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the Council of the City of Alta will meet in regular session on October 5, 2026, beginning at 6:00 pm at the Alta City Hall at 223 Main St. Please see the attached agenda. October 5 Agenda
Alta Hometown Pride is proud to present the 2nd Annual Alta Hometown Days! This year is even bigger and better! Saturday, October 3 and Sunday, October 4 Click here to see more: Alta Hometown Days Information
ALTA COMMUNITY CENTER BAR MANAGER The City of Alta is seeking a Bar Manager for the Alta Community Center. The Bar Manager will oversee bar operations for events. Responsibilities include stocking the bar to the renter’s request, scheduling bartenders, coordinating the ordering and delivery of bar supplies with the City Clerk, managing cash and bar…