Fort Dodge has a lot of old town charms. Ghost signs are prevalent in the downtown area and highlight various well known products, many of which are no longer made or used today. The replica of the original military fort is one of the most visited sights, with buildings that are replicas of the originals and showcase historical documents and items dating back to the 1800's.

The Wahkonsa Apartments is one of the downtown's oldest historical structures. It was named after an Indican Chief's son in honor of the friendship between the Chief's son and Major Williams' son. Major Williams was the commander of the fort. Wahkonsa Apartments are centrally located in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of stores, banks, restaurants, movies, library Blanden Art Gallery and major churches.

What makes Fort Dodge unique! It has the world's largest deposit of gypsum and is one of the City's main industries. The Cardiff Giant, considered one of the biggest hoaxes known in this country, is said to have been carved from a large piece of gypsum mined in the area.

Residents can walk to the Fareway Grocery or ride the Dart Bus to the Crossroads Mall which includes many anchor stores such as; Wal Mart, Target, Sears, Penney's and Younkers, plus a variety of restaurants that feature American, Mexican, and Oriental foods.