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Fort Dodge, Iowa: Stories Etched in Silo, Soil, and Soul

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000

From the moment our tires hit the outskirts of town, we felt the weight of a thousand untold stories of Fort Dodge, Iowa, waiting just beneath the surface. In that spirit, we begin with the curious legend of Floyd of Rosedale, the story of a football rivalry that became a symbol of respect and humor. Back in 1935, after tensions flared in a prior Iowa–Minnesota game, Iowa’s governor wagered a prize-winning hog named Floyd against Minnesota as a peace offering. Today, a 14-foot hog sculpture stands proudly near a roundabout on the north side of town, celebrating both the rivalry’s good humor and its lesson in sportsmanship. That playful pig remains a reminder that even competition can become a story of reconciliation and pride.

We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Walls that Speak – The Guido Van Helten Silos

A structure meant for grain storage rarely transforms into a monument to human stories, yet that’s exactly what the Fort Dodge grain silos have become. Standing more than 100 feet tall, this monumental mural by artist Guido Van Helten wraps around the concrete towers in muted tones. It depicts seven residents holding pottery vessels. Each face and gesture tells part of the city’s story, from its clay and ceramic heritage to its modern spirit of creativity. When we stood before it, the artwork felt less like paint and more like Fort Dodge itself speaking out loud. It’s proud, grounded, and beautifully weathered by time.

Whimsical Woods – The Children’s Forest & Story Walk

We wandered next into a quiet woodland corner north of town, where the Children’s Forest & Story Walk revealed a different kind of art. Damaged elm trees stand not as casualties but as canvases: their trunks carved into whimsical Dr. Seuss–style figures that turn loss into joy. Our host told us how the idea transformed stricken wood into a celebration of imagination, a message that uplifts and inspires. As we followed the Story Walk, pages of a children’s book appeared along the path, inviting families to read and explore together. It was a place where nature, literacy, and laughter mingled, the setting where childhood stories take root.

Curiosity in Motion – River’s Edge Discovery

Just beyond the forest lies River’s Edge, a new hands-on learning center designed to spark curiosity in both kids and adults. Inside, we found interactive exhibits that actively engage visitors, allowing them to explore river flow, test simple machines, and uncover natural wonders. One display modeled the Des Moines River’s currents and allowed visitors to experiment with it, watching eddies swirl as they shift miniature barriers. The staff is on hand to keep learning alive outside of classrooms, a place where curiosity leads the way. River’s Edge is already becoming a hub for local families, blending fun and education under one bright roof.

Through the Looking Glass – Art that Reflects and Inspires

Near downtown, we discovered the Blanden Art Museum, where a dazzling Chihuly glasswork shimmered like sunlight caught in a kaleidoscope. The vivid color and delicate form seemed to float in the air, a symbol of both fragility and fire. Later, at Studio Fusion, Crystal tried her hand at glass crafting, guided by a local artist. As she pieced together her own unique creation, she felt the magic of art flow from her fingers. The experience reminded us that Fort Dodge’s creative streak runs deep, from its museums to its makers.

Joy in Every Spin – Fort Frenzy’s Lucky Beginnings

When we arrived at Fort Frenzy, the city’s family fun center, we could feel the pulse of energy before even stepping inside. Arcade lights flashed, rides spun, and laughter filled the air. It’s hard to imagine that this playful landmark was born from a lottery win, yet that’s the story. The owners, lifelong locals, used their winnings to reinvest in their hometown, building a space for families and friends to gather year-round. We spent the evening trying our hands at miniature golf and arcade games, soaking in the contagious joy of a community that knows how to have fun and how to give back.

Morning Parade – Faces that Feel Like Family

That evening, we settled into the Holiday Inn Express, a comfortable stop that offered a soft bed and a friendly smile at check-in. After our adventurous day, we were ready for a good night’s sleep. The next morning, we found ourselves swept up in the rhythm of the town’s parade, a joyful procession of marching bands, floats, and even some tractors. Locals lined the sidewalks with lawn chairs and laughter. We later learned that Fort Dodge’s parades date back decades, a proud thread of tradition connecting generations. It wasn’t just an event; it was an expression of belonging.

Echoes of the Frontier – Stepping into History

Midday brought us to Frontier Days, where history bursts into life with the crack of muskets and the smell of campfire smoke. Reenactors in period dress welcomed us with friendly smiles and hearty laughter, eager to share stories of early settlers who tamed these rolling plains. We watched blacksmiths at work and children learning old trades, while a strumming cowboy played softly in the distance. A reenactor told us that much of Fort Dodge’s spirit was built on frontier resilience, a community that learned to endure and to celebrate. By the end of the day, we weren’t just spectators; we were participants in the town’s living memory.

The Curious Case of the Cardiff Giant

Every good road trip deserves an unexpected story, and ours came in the form of the Cardiff Giant, or rather, a replica of it. The story goes that in 1869, a New Yorker carved and buried a ten-foot “petrified man” as a prank, only for it to be unearthed and hailed as a scientific wonder. The hoax spread far and wide, capturing imaginations across America. Standing beside the Fort Dodge replica, we couldn’t help but laugh at humanity’s eternal love for a tall tale. Sometimes the best stories aren’t true; they’re irresistible.

Flavors of Fort Dodge – A Taste to Remember

Throughout our visit, Fort Dodge kept our appetites at bay with a variety of local eateries. We feasted on local fare, tempting Korean dishes, hearty pub meals, and massive burgers, to boot. Dessert was ice cream from a local legend that tasted like an Iowa summer afternoon. Every restaurant seemed to have its own story, its own connection to the land. The staff we met spoke with pride about using local ingredients, saying that food in Fort Dodge isn’t just nourishment, it’s part of the town’s storytelling.

Conversations in the Shops – Where Stories Are Shared

We searched out more stories of Fort Dodge, Iowa, by exploring a string of boutique shops tucked along downtown streets. In one, the owner shared how the city’s residents had embraced her venture into retail. At another, we learned that a local orchard’s shop became so popular that it expanded. Each conversation turned into a story about family, heritage, and hope. By the time we left, our hands were full of keepsakes, but our hearts were fuller still. This was the real treasure of travel: connection through conversation.

Every City Has a Story – Finding Ours in Fort Dodge

As dusk settled over the rooftops, we paused to reflect on the layers of this place. Fort Dodge is a mosaic of stories, industrial and artistic, historic and playful, ordinary and extraordinary. Whether it’s a peace-making pig to murals that honor everyday faces, this town proves that the best tales are often found where you least expect them. Every city has a story, but in Fort Dodge, those stories reach out, eager to be heard. And as we packed up to leave, I couldn’t help but think, maybe our own chapter had just begun.

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Fort Dodge Dining Adventures: A Fun & Flavorful Journey in Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000

When we rolled into Fort Dodge, Iowa, the welcoming arms weren’t just in the street signs—they were in the salt, sauce, and sweetness waiting at every table. It felt like being greeted by old friends, each restaurant whispering, “You’re exactly where your stomach wants to be.” And with Fort Dodge dining adventures on our minds (and tongues), we knew this was going to be less of a meal and more of a memory. From the scent of sizzling patties to the hum of hometown chatter, we were hooked. And let me tell you—it just gets better from here…

We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Rides Bar & Grill – Car-Lovers’ Burger Bonanza

Stepping into Rides Bar & Grill is like revving a vintage engine—bold, cheerful, and unapologetically themed. The menu’s nod to car culture meant our burgers came screaming off the grill, a mouth-challenging behemoth we looked to tame. With every bite of that towering patty and melting cheese, we felt like we were behind the wheel of a flavor race. Our Fort Dodge dining adventures proved that nothing says “road trip” like a burger that asks, “Are you ready for this?”

The Dariette – Cherry Cone Chaos

There’s something charmingly retro about The Dariette—a drive-in where your order arrives with a side of nostalgia. You can bet that we weren’t about to pass up an opportunity to sample some classic treats. My chocolate-dipped Cherry cone proved that gravity has a wicked sense of humor. Chocolate dribbled, cherry juice dripped—my hands were sticky, my grin wide. In that delightful mess, our Fort Dodge dining adventures found their gooey, joyful essence.

Ardys Mae Coffee & Dessert – Morning Magic

The next morning, we slid into Ardys Mae Coffee & Dessert, where the scent of freshly brewed lattes and warm scones chased away any road-weary yawns. Each sip and bite was practically a hug—rich, creamy, crumbly, and full of comfort. As we savored our second-day revival, we felt cozy and caffeine-laced, precisely the kind of slow start we hoped for.

Sneakers Eatery & Pub – Lunch with Locals

Walking into Sneakers Eatery & Pub was like joining a lunch party you were always invited to. The place buzzed with locals swapping stories over hearty plates—mac and cheese, juicy sandwiches, fries that spoke in crisp crunches. The only thing more winning than the food was the laugh track of friendly chatter around us. Experiencing lunch here was eating like family—no strangers, just new friends with full bellies.

Gaga & Hoo – Korean Cuisine with a Robotic Twist

Dinner brought us to Gaga & Hoo, an unexpected gem, at the golf course, that twinkled upscale and inventive. Plates of Korean dishes glided to our table courtesy of a smiling robot—yes, I said robot. There they were: crispy Mandu (dumplings), homey Don Katsu (pork cutlet), hearty Bulgogi (Korean beef BBQ), and Dak-gang-jeong (fried chicken) that waltzed between savory and sweet. While planning our Fort Dodge dining adventures, I never imagined I’d say robot server, but here we are.

Ja-Mars Drive In – Homestyle Fare & Farewell

Our final meal was at Ja-Mars Drive In—hosted by the delightful Kerrie Kuiper from Visit Fort Dodge. This felt like breakfast with a dear neighbor. Pancakes that practically melted, eggs that sang “morning,” and coffee poured with care—this was homestyle happiness on a plate. And with that warm memory, I close this chapter of our Fort Dodge dining adventures. Now that I’ve shared our favorites, tell us: which stop sounds most tempting to you? Let us hear where your taste buds would take you next!

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Fort Dodge Frontier Days: A Journey Back In Time

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Have you ever wanted to step off the highway and into the 1800s? That’s precisely what Fort Dodge Frontier Days offers. Each year, this lively festival brings Iowa’s past to life, giving visitors a peek into the daily lives, music, and adventures of early settlers. From rustic homes and historic buildings to cowboys strumming guitars and performers juggling firesticks, there’s an energy here that blends education with pure fun. As Crystal and I wandered through the festival grounds, camera in hand, we found ourselves marveling at how much effort goes into recreating a day from over a century ago. Every corner seemed to tell a story—from the collection of historic artifacts to the costumed characters. Photos of the bustling festival capture moments that almost feel timeless.

We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Life in the 1800s

One of the highlights for us was wandering through the reconstructed 1800s homes and shops. Fort Dodge Frontier Days doesn’t just set up a few facades; it recreates interiors filled with period furniture, kitchen tools, and the creature comforts of days gone by. I loved peeking at the kitchen where settlers prepared their meals, imagining the smells of fresh bread and coffee wafting through the air. The carved wooden chairs, iron stoves, and hand-painted signs could easily belong in a history book. Each building felt like a mini time capsule, a tangible connection to the rhythms of everyday life in Iowa long before electricity and cars transformed the landscape.

The Evolution of Transportation

It’s hard not to be charmed by the old carriages that hint at a simpler time. I couldn’t help but think about how settlers relied entirely on horsepower for both work and travel. Travel once meant careful planning, a strong back, and plenty of patience. An old clunker of a car caught my eye—its sagging frame loaded down with crates, sacks, and odds and ends, much like what families might have carried during the Dust Bowl migrations. I snapped a photo, fascinated by the way it told a story of survival and resourcefulness. The contrast was striking: from the slow, steady clip-clop of hooves to the hodgepodge weight of a struggling automobile, it’s clear that even as technology advanced, the challenges of moving families and belongings never quite disappeared. It’s a visual reminder of how times—and burdens—have shifted through the decades.

Entertainment on the Lawn

Fort Dodge Frontier Days isn’t just about looking back—it’s about experiencing history in action. We paused to listen to a Cowboy singer strumming his guitar while belting out cheerful tunes. Nearby, Native American dancers twirled in traditional attire. Inside the General Store, children played checkers in an age-old battle of wits. We loved watching a small group of kids intently strategizing their next moves, seemingly transported into their little historical moment. The performers often mingle with the crowd afterward, sharing stories of their craft, making the entertainment feel intimate rather than staged. It’s this blend of education and whimsy that keeps Fort Dodge Frontier Days a must-visit year after year.

Civil War Battle Reenactment

The highlight of our visit was the minor Civil War skirmish staged on a modest field. Both sides lined up, loading muskets and firing in short bursts, giving us a close-up view of the tactics and tension of the era. As the battle unfolded, it became clear that even a simulated encounter carries a sense of gravity—one by one, the soldiers fell to “enemy fire,” and the drama of each maneuver was palpable. I watched, captivated, as the reenactors moved with careful precision, portraying both bravery and the fragility of life on the battlefield. The smoke and disciplined movements brought history to life before our eyes. The skirmish, though small in scale, offered a strikingly realistic glimpse into the realities of war, reminding us that history is as human as it is dramatic.

Step Inside the Surgeon’s Tent

After the battle, we wandered over to the recreated surgeon’s tent. Inside, tables are lined with instruments, bottles, and artifacts, giving visitors a realistic glimpse into medical care during the Civil War era. I found myself imagining the courage it took to work here, tending to injuries and illnesses with limited resources. The guides explained the procedures in a surprisingly accessible way, often with a dash of humor to keep the experience light for younger visitors. We noticed the intricate tools, some of which look like something out of a pirate story rather than a hospital. This tent, small but full of detail, reminded me that history isn’t just about battles or music—it’s also about the people, their resilience, and the stories waiting to be discovered in every corner.

After the Guns Fall Silent

As the reenactment wound down, the actors mingled with the crowd, trading stories and jokes. I overheard discussions about past events, favorite reenactment moments, and even debates about whose musket fired truest. I snapped some candid photos of soldiers chatting, the air filled with laughter and the faint scent of campfires. Watching this, I realized that Fort Dodge Frontier Days is just as much about the community it fosters as the history it preserves. Whether it’s a young family discovering their first taste of history or lifelong reenactors perfecting their craft, there’s a sense of shared adventure. These human moments—the smiles, the stories, the small connections—make the festival as memorable as the carefully reconstructed buildings and dramatic reenactments.

A Bird's Eye View

Before leaving, we climbed to a small vantage point inside the recreated fort. The sprawling grounds, dotted with period buildings, costumed characters, and joyful visitors, stretched out in the fading light. I took a deep breath, trying to capture it all—the music, laughter, history, and camaraderie—in one lasting impression. I snapped a few final photos, the festival alive in every frame. Fort Dodge Frontier Days isn’t just a museum or an event; it’s a living memory of Iowa’s past, wrapped in storytelling, music, and hands-on fun. If you love history, family adventures, or just a day full of surprises, this is the place to be. Share this story with friends—you might inspire a road trip that brings history to life for someone you care about.

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Exploring Glass Art in Fort Dodge, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 10:22:52 +0000

We’ve found that some of our most memorable road trip stops aren’t grand monuments or sweeping vistas. They’re the quiet corners where art and community intersect. That’s precisely what we discovered while exploring glass art in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Our adventures often take us through history museums and roadside oddities, but we’re equally drawn to spaces where creativity is nurtured and shared. This time around, we dove into the art scene, where we were greeted not just by galleries, but by a community with a deep appreciation for visual storytelling. It was the kind of day that made us pause, connect, and even get a little crafty ourselves. Turns out, when art is both personal and participatory, it leaves a more profound impression—and in our case, a colorful one.

We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

A Cultural Gem

Our first stop was the Blanden Memorial Art Museum, nestled in the historic Oak Hill District. This little treasure sits near downtown Fort Dodge and serves as a welcoming beacon for anyone curious about local art and beyond. The museum’s mission is to enrich lives through art, and judging by the mix of exhibits, they’re doing just that. Inside, we found everything from contemporary glass pieces to traditional works that reflect the region’s creative roots. One of my favorites was a vibrant Chihuly glass exhibit that seemed to shimmer as the light danced across it. The Blanden may be small in size, but its impact is immense.

Art with a Message

Tucked in another gallery was a temporary exhibit that stopped us in our tracks. It explored the experiences of individuals living with neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that often causes tumors to grow along nerves. The exhibit paired portrait paintings with deeply personal stories. It creates a robust emotional dialogue between artist and viewer. What struck us most was how the pieces managed to be both raw and beautiful—like a window into someone else’s inner world. As we stood quietly taking it in, we couldn’t help but reflect on the resilience that art can both portray and inspire. It’s easy to think of museums as places of escape, but this exhibit reminded us that they can also be spaces of empathy. The effect lingered with us, even as we made our way to our next stop.

Getting Creative at Studio Fusion

Just a few blocks away, we arrived at Studio Fusion. This colorful, hands-on art space invites visitors to roll up their sleeves and dive into the creative process. This isn’t your typical look-but-don’t-touch gallery. Here, you can design your fused glass pieces, from ornaments to platters, and the staff is right there to guide you through each step. The studio was buzzing with energy, and we noticed other visitors letting their imaginations run wild in this space. As someone who usually sticks to admiring art rather than making it, I found the place refreshingly inviting. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just testing the waters, Studio Fusion makes creativity feel approachable and fun. It’s another facet of exploring glass art in Fort Dodge that adds layers to the experience.

Crystal’s Heartfelt Creation

Watching Crystal design her glass tray was a highlight of my day. She chose a simple square base and arranged vibrant glass chips into the shape of a heart, framed by a field of pink. The process was part play, part precision, and all heart. As she pieced it together, I could see her eyes light up with that mix of joy and quiet concentration that only comes from doing something meaningful. When she sat back to admire her design, there was a proud smile that said it all. It’s one thing to admire art, but creating it brings a whole new sense of connection. Later, when we returned home and unwrapped her finished piece, now fired and fused into something permanent, it felt like we’d brought back more than a souvenir. She had captured a moment. One that will live on with a bit of sparkle.

Art That Sticks With You

After returning from Fort Dodge, I found myself reflecting on the kind of travel experiences that linger long after the trip ends. Exploring glass art in Fort Dodge turned out to be far more than an afternoon of sightseeing. It was an invitation to connect, reflect, and even try something new. There’s something powerful about being both observer and creator in the same day, and this visit gave us a dose of both. If you’ve ever felt inspired to make something with your own hands, then you know the feeling. So, how about you? Do you enjoy creating art when you travel, or do you prefer to soak it all in from the sidelines? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

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Rides Bar & Grill in Fort Dodge, Iowa: A Gearhead’s Dining Dream

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Some folks plan vacations around landmarks. Us? We’re always on the lookout for that perfectly offbeat place where locals go to unwind and visitors stumble upon by happy accident. During our Iowa road trip, we landed in Fort Dodge just in time for Frontier Days—complete with cowboy hats, root beer floats, and plenty of boot-scootin’. But in between parade floats and prairie history, we found a different kind of horsepower at Rides Bar & Grill. From the moment we rolled into the parking lot, I had a hunch this wasn’t your average burger joint. With its automotive name and roadside flair, it practically shouted “gearhead dining with a side of fries.” This wasn’t just a stop for fuel—it was a pit stop for the soul. Crystal smiled. I grinned. Our appetites? Redlining.

We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Garage Goals and Grilled Goodness

Walking into Rides Bar & Grill felt like stepping into a retro service station where the mechanics swapped wrenches for spatulas. Every inch of wall space was a love letter to the open road—auto parts signs, racing memorabilia, neon signs glowing like taillights at dusk. The menu was cleverly tuned to the theme, with burgers named after muscle cars and appetizers that sounded like they should be served on a hood ornament. We slid into a booth, grinning at the clever puns peppered across the menu like road gravel. For car lovers and casual diners alike, this is an experience—not just a meal. If you’re into gearhead dining, this is the kind of place where your food arrives fast, loud, and fully loaded.

Frontier Days & Fried Things

We were in town for the annual Frontier Days celebration—an event that blends cowboy charm with small-town pride. It’s the kind of festival where everyone knows someone in the parade, and the kettle corn smells better than gold. After cheering on the reenactors and seeing the Cardiff Giant, we needed a break from the sun and a bite to eat. Enter: Rides. The timing was perfect, and so was the starter—O’ Rings. These weren’t your run-of-the-mill onion rings. No, these crispy beauties came piled like a basket full of golden deliciousness, served with a dipping sauce that danced across our taste buds like honky-tonk harmonies. Frontier Days gave us the cowboy stories, but Rides Bar & Grill gave us the fuel to keep exploring. And trust me, we weren’t even to the main course yet.

The Fat Boy: A Burger Built Like a Big Block Engine

I’ve met my fair share of burgers over the years, but the Fat Boy at Rides might be the one that leaves the biggest impression—both on the plate and in the waistband. This towering tribute to indulgence featured two juicy patties buried under melty cheese and smoky bacon. It tastes like nostalgia and high-octane ambition. Alongside it came a heap of “totties”—their version of crispy, golden tater tots that felt like a joyride straight to my carb-loving heart. I paused after the first bite, looked across the table at Crystal, and said, “Well, this may be the burger that broke me.” She laughed and told me to keep chewing. Every bite of the Fat Boy revved my engine a little more—and made me wish I had a bottomless stomach.

Eat, Rev, Repeat at Rides Bar & Grill

By the end of the meal, I felt like I’d just completed an eating challenge on one of those food competition shows. Except there was no camera crew, just two hungry travelers and a whole lot of satisfaction. Rides isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but they sure know how to grease it, grill it, and plate it with a wink. From its quirky decor to its frontier-friendly charm, this Fort Dodge hotspot checked all the boxes for a memorable stop on our Iowa road trip. The Fat Boy was more than a burger—it was a rite of passage, a delicious dare dressed in bacon and bravado. As we walked out, full and happy, I couldn’t help but ask myself—and now I ask you: Do you think you could tackle this monster?

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Exploring Curiosity At Rivers Edge Discovery Center

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000

It’s a universal truth—kids are full of questions. “Why is the sky blue?” “Where does rain come from?” “Do birds get thirsty?” As parents, we do our best to keep up, but sometimes, we need reinforcements. That’s where places like the Rivers Edge Discovery Center come in. During a recent trip to Fort Dodge, Iowa, we stumbled upon this hidden gem nestled near the banks of the Des Moines River. It turned out to be the perfect place to blend answers with adventure. From the moment we walked through the doors, our visit became a springboard for conversations about science, nature, and the wonders of the world around us. It’s refreshing to find a destination that speaks directly to young minds while still engaging grownups. In short, this stop provided us with a break from screen time and an opportunity to explore the kind of learning that sticks—the hands-on kind.

Fueling Young Minds

The Rivers Edge Discovery Center is a new facility designed to help families connect with nature in interactive, meaningful ways. Housed in a sleek, modern building, it features bright spaces and clever exhibits that encourage visitors to touch, explore, and ask questions. The designers merged indoor and outdoor spaces to create a seamless natural experience. What stood out most was how the exhibits scaled in complexity, offering something for preschoolers, elementary school kids, and even adults. The crews were hard at work putting the finishing touches on a river walk that will have water access points. Everything inside seems designed to turn curiosity into conversation—and spark that little moment when a child says, “Oh! I get it now.” That alone makes this center worth the visit.

The Science of Rain

Rain was a popular topic at the center—and for good reason. One colorful station guided us through the basics of the water cycle, explaining how clouds form. In simple terms, the exhibit demonstrated how the sun heats water on Earth, causing it to evaporate and rise into the atmosphere. As the vapor cools, it condenses into clouds, eventually falling back to Earth as precipitation. It was the kind of display that made it easy for young visitors to follow along, but still offered enough detail to hold the attention of older kids (and curious adults). The exhibit went into detail about why rain droplets fall and why they can sometimes fall as snow instead. I’ve read books and watched videos about how rain forms, but seeing it visualized like this made a noticeable difference. Suddenly, those rainy days at home don’t feel so mysterious.

Water and the Wild

Of course, it’s not just people who need rain—prairie animals depend on it for survival, too. One exhibit showcased the delicate relationship between water and life on the plains. Seeing the exhibit about native plant roots reminded me of our visit to the Flint Hills Discovery Center. A mounted prairie chicken display showed how even birds depend on moisture levels to determine nesting patterns. We spent some time learning about various wetland species, including those found near the Des Moines River. It was eye-opening to realize how small changes in rainfall can ripple through an entire ecosystem. This part of the center helped connect the dots between science and stewardship. We left that room with a better appreciation of how fragile—and interconnected—prairie life is.

Beneath the Surface

Another of our favorite stops was the exhibit on underground water. It tackled a big idea—water tables—and somehow made it kid-friendly. Using clear tubes filled with gravel, sand, and soil, we observed how rainwater filters down through the different layers of the earth. With the press of a button, simulated rainfall demonstrated the journey from puddle to aquifer. This part of the Rivers Edge Discovery Center was enjoyable because it combined sensory learning with visible results. I loved watching the “ground” fill up with water and overflow like a mini spring. I appreciated how the staff had thought through the science messaging without making it too dry (pun intended). The takeaway? Even water that disappears from view is still part of the big cycle. As grandparents, we found this an excellent springboard for future road trip conversations anytime we pass a river or stream.

A View to Remember

By the end of our visit, we were both a little more intelligent—and a lot more connected to the world around us. The Rivers Edge Discovery Center proved to be an attraction for all ages, offering just the right balance of education and entertainment. Before we left, we stopped at the birdwatching station, which offers sweeping views of the Des Moines River. The center provides binoculars to help spot wildlife. It was the perfect moment to wind down after a day of learning. Whether you’re traveling with little ones or just looking to reignite your curiosity, this center delivers. So here’s a question for you: What kind of interactive exhibits does your family love most when you travel? We’re always on the lookout for our next discovery.

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Guido Van Helten Mural Fort Dodge: Stories in Stone and Sky

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000

There’s something magical about rounding a corner in small-town America and having the breath catch in your throat. That’s precisely what happened when we stumbled into Fort Dodge, Iowa, chasing whispers of a mural that had transformed an old grain silo into a storybook on cement. It stood like a lighthouse in a sea of prairie wind—100 feet of towering tribute to real faces, real stories. We’ve seen our share of street art, but there’s something about pieces like this that feels personal. It reminded us of our stop in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where murals danced across brick buildings and back alleys, each one a tribute to the city’s soul. This Guido Van Helten mural felt like a whole chapter in the book of America’s heartland. And we were here to read every word of it.

The Man Behind the Brush

Guido Van Helten doesn’t just paint murals—he captures the spirit of a place. This Australian artist has transformed silos, walls, and abandoned structures into soulful portraits that have gained worldwide recognition. Whether he’s working in Ukraine, Iceland, or Iowa, his approach remains deeply human. Van Helten spends time with the people in the communities he paints, photographing their lives and listening to their stories. The Guido Van Helten mural in Fort Dodge is no exception. Inspired by interviews with residents, he created a visual narrative that feels deeply rooted in the soil on which it was painted. He doesn’t shy away from complexity, and his monochromatic style somehow manages to be both haunting and warm. Standing before his work, you don’t just see a painting—you feel a conversation unfolding across time. It’s this sensitivity to place and person that makes his murals linger in the mind long after you’ve moved on down the road.

A Walk Around Wonder

You don’t just look at the Guido Van Helten mural in Fort Dodge—you experience it. As we walked around the base of the towering grain silo, each step revealed a new layer of detail. From a distance, the mural appears like a black-and-white photograph. But up close, the brushwork reveals texture and nuance—wrinkles in the clothing, quiet expressions in the eyes, a depth that only deepens as the shadows shift throughout the day. The scale of it is almost disorienting. One moment you’re staring up in awe, the next you’re catching your breath, realizing you’re standing beneath the everyday made monumental. The mural doesn’t demand your attention—it earns it, quietly and with grace. Much like the people it depicts, it stands with quiet dignity, inviting you to slow down and take a look. That sense of reverence hung with us long after we turned the corner.

Bobtown's Painted Revival

Locals still call this pocket of Fort Dodge “Bobtown,” a name rooted in the city’s early industrial days when the Northwest River District bustled with mills, factories, and railroad tracks. Time, as it does, wore the shine off this corner of town. But even weathered bricks can bloom again. The arrival of the mural brought more than paint—it inspired people. Folks began making their way back into Bobtown again, some to snap a photo, while others came to see the community through the eyes of an artist. The Guido Van Helten mural serves as both a mirror and a beacon, reflecting the working-class pride of Fort Dodge while illuminating a path forward. We’re always fascinated by how public art can evoke a sense of place. We see how it reawakens a neighborhood’s sense of self. Bobtown isn’t what it once was; it’s becoming something new.

Finding Stories in Unexpected Places

It’s moments like these that remind us why we love the open road. You’re cruising along, expecting a quiet day of roadside diners and maybe a scenic overlook, and instead you find a 100-foot-tall piece of art that stops you cold. The Fort Dodge Guido Van Helten mural isn’t just a painting; it’s a story etched into the heart of a town. It’s meant to be seen, felt, and remembered. Like the murals in Fort Smith, it honors the human spirit in everyday people, making the ordinary feel extraordinary. And that’s what keeps us rolling, searching out the unexpected, letting small-town America surprise us again and again. Have you ever found a mural or public art piece that moved you in ways you didn’t expect? Let us know what fantastic art finds you’ve stumbled upon in your travels? Maybe we’ll find ourselves on the road to it next.

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The Cardiff Giant Hoax: Fort Dodge’s Colossal Curiosity

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:32:59 +0000

Now and then, we stumble upon a story that’s too bizarre to be made up. Imagine digging a well and uncovering a 10-foot-tall petrified man buried beneath your fields. That’s precisely what happened-or seemed to happen—in the fall of 1869. On a recent trip through Iowa, Crystal and I found ourselves face-to-face with one of the most jaw-dropping relics of American showmanship: a stone man with a backstory as large as his feet. But before I tell you the truth (or what passes for it), let me rewind to the humble city where we met him—Fort Dodge.

We want to thank Visit Fort Dodge for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

The Fort Museum and a Tall Tale Waiting to Be Told

We didn’t just stumble across this stone oddity—we sought it out. The Fort Museum in Fort Dodge had been on our radar for months, ever since I first read whispers about a giant hiding in plain sight. This living history complex is part frontier outpost, part time capsule, and all heart. With its log buildings, vintage artifacts, and wandering reenactors, it’s the kind of place where the past feels just close enough to touch. We were excited to explore the pioneer village, knowing we would come face-to-face with the Cardiff Giant. The backstory reminded me of another eccentric destination we’d visited—the Garden of Eden in Lucas, Kansas—where art and oddity collide in the most unexpected ways. We couldn’t wait to meet the Fort Museum’s whopper of a hoax.

The Birth of a Giant Lie

The story begins in the small town of Cardiff, New York, where in 1869, a pair of well diggers hit something solid beneath the soil. What emerged was a human-shaped colossus, chiseled from gypsum and complete with weathered skin and a mournful expression. It was a marvel—or so people thought. Behind this miracle was George Hull, a cigar-puffing atheist who’d hatched the idea after a heated argument about biblical giants. With the help of a sculptor and a secret shipment of gypsum from none other than Fort Dodge itself, Hull had the statue carved, buried, and forgotten—until the day it was “discovered.”

The Cardiff Giant Hoax

The public went wild. Ministers hailed it as proof of Genesis, scientists scratched their heads, and entrepreneurs rubbed their hands in anticipation. Hull began charging 50 cents a peek (a tidy sum back then), and the crowds rolled in like a circus train. Enter P.T. Barnum, the king of humbug, who offered $50,000 for the statue. When turned down, he made his own fake fake giant and claimed it was the real one. The public was left to pick sides in a battle of bogus behemoths. Eventually, the ruse unraveled—Hull came clean, and the scientific community sighed in relief. But the legend? It stuck around.

What many don’t realize is that the stone used for Hull’s colossal prank was quarried right here in Fort Dodge. That makes this city not just a footnote but a foundational chapter in the Cardiff Giant hoax. It seems fitting, then, that a replica would find a home here, tucked away like a forgotten chapter in a well-worn history book. Standing before this drowsy-eyed titan, Crystal and I felt that familiar tingle of roadside wonder. There’s something about seeing a piece of the past—no matter how fabricated—that tugs at your sense of reality. Was he real? No. But he was real enough to fool the masses. And maybe that’s what matters most in a good story.

Why We Love a Good Hoax

It’s easy to laugh at the folks who fell for the Cardiff Giant hoax, but deep down, I think we all want to believe in something strange. Something that shakes loose the dust of the everyday. Stories like these feed our imaginations, spark dinner-table debates, and give small towns like Fort Dodge a little extra magic. As we stood under the watchful gaze of a gypsum goliath, I couldn’t help but be amazed. What’s the most unexpected historical oddity you’ve discovered on your travels? Drop it in the comments—we’re always looking for the next great tall tale.

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Grotto Of The Redemption – Iowa’s Precious Gem

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 09:30:09 +0000

While the interstate highways work well for transporting people in the quickest fashion, they leave a lot to be desired for sight-seeing. For decades, we have made the journey to Minnesota to visit Crystal’s relatives. Most of the time, we just want a quick route, but when time allows we venture off the beaten path. A good alternative, from our home in Kansas City, is US Highway 169, which runs from Oklahoma northward. As it stagger-steps its way through Iowa, it brings us surprisingly close to the town of West Bend. It is there that we discovered the Grotto of the Redemption, which is one of Iowa’s precious gems.

Wet Weather

The old saying that into everyone’s life a little rain must fall was certainly true the day we visited. In fact, they were having a real gully washer. Pulling into West Bend, we made our way to the site of the largest man-made Grotto in the world. We were not to be dismayed from checking it out, so we grabbed umbrellas and ventured out. The overcast skies brightened the colors of the landscape, which was in late summer bloom. Being inclement weather, we were the only visitors at the time. While we had made short stops in the past, this visit we would dedicate to learning more about this unique attraction.

Father Dobberstein

The backstory begins with a young man working his way through seminary school. His name was Father Paul Matthias Dobberstein and he was born in Rosenfeld, Germany. At the age of 20, he immigrated to the United States and landed near Milwaukee. During his studies, he came down with a severe case of pneumonia. As he lay on his deathbed, he prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary for a return of his health. In return for this, he would build a shrine in her honor. His illness would pass and after completing his studies, he eventually landed in the middle of northern Iowa. It was here that he began stocking up on rocks of all types for the construction.

Iowa’s Precious Gem

Traveling through Iowa, one would not expect to find a structure constructed from gems and minerals throughout the world. The rain began pouring harder, so we found ourselves seeking refuge in the various caverns that are part of the Grotto of the Redemption. Here we could get a better look at some of the details involved in the construction. Some of the materials are easily recognized, like the crystallized interiors of geodes. A good variety of quartz was used, but then we spotted some lesser known types of mineral. Barite Rose from Oklahoma is visible in a rainbow of shades and so is fluorite. We even spotted pieces of petrified wood that are incorporated in the designs.

Long History

When we first arrived, we had sought shelter in the brick building that serves as a welcome center and museum. While we waited for the first round of heavy rain to let up, we examined the historical exhibits. The Grotto of the Redemption has been around for a long time, so it’s no surprise to see artifacts from different decades. There were a few pieces that we wouldn’t have expected to find. In the center of the room is a long case that holds samples of the various materials used to build the structure. While a portion of the stones were purchased, many were donated by visitors who wished to help see the wonder become a reality.

Grotto of the Redemption Complex

While Father Dobberstein had the vision, a second person would assist in building the Grotto of the Redemption. The humble priest began construction in 1912, after a decade of stockpiling materials. With the aid of a young parishioner, named Matt Szerensce, they set to work constructing the structure over the next 47 years. Nearly one-hundred carloads of stones and minerals went into the project. It would become the largest collection of precious gems and stones in one location. Climbing to the top, by way of one of the staircases, we gained a better perspective of the grand scale of this project.

Various Views

With the rain slowing to a mist, we could spend some time exploring the complex. It is a little overwhelming to attempt seeing it all in one visit. The hues and shades of the stones create intricate patterns. In some places we discovered repeating patterns, but much of the construction seems to be a little more random. A variety of marble statues adorn various nooks and crannies. There are others that are set high to be easily visible from multiple angles. We even found some stained glass inserts that are incorporated into the architecture.

Break From the Road

Before we left the Grotto of the Redemption, we made a stop in the gift shop. Here we could pick from a variety of religious items, as well as souvenirs that commemorated our visit. The rain was rolling back in, so we decided it was time to get back out on the road. We still had many miles to travel and we hoped to see some more unique attractions that are found off of the beaten path.

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24 Hours In Mason City

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 04:00:48 +0000

Whenever we visit a new destination, we keep our eyes open for a theme. Some cities are all about history, while others can focus on family fun. As we made our way through Mason City, we quickly realized this Iowa city is overflowing with artistic subjects. While it has plenty of history to discover, it was the promise of art that caught our attention. With just about 24 hours in Mason City, we were going to have to make the most of every minute. After a quick stop at the local tourism bureau, we dove into our artful explorations.

We want to thank Visit Mason City and all of the local businesses for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Familiar Characters

We parked our car at Central Park, which is located in the heart of downtown. Our research had shown us that this is a very walkable town, which would allow for some up-close views. A visit to Mason City would be incomplete without a stop at the home of a local celebrity. Meredith Willson is a name that is synonymous with The Music Man. The first attraction on our list was the composer’s boyhood home. After our informative tour, we made our way into Music Man Square. This recreation of a 1912 street feels like walking onto the set of the musical. It also includes a museum featuring artifacts from the classic movie.

American Art

Our appetite for art was now primed, so we made our way to stop number two. The Charles MacNider Art Museum is FREE to the public, which is an added bonus for art lovers. Inside, we found plenty of local art from around the Midwest. There were pieces from familiar artists, like Thomas Hart Benton, as well as plenty from people new to us. We enjoyed learning about new-to-us artists who we will watch for in future excursions.

Grassroots Art

Our next point of interest took us down the road to grassroots art. Rancho Deluxe is a collection of miscellaneous artifacts. This stop would end up reminding us of our time in Lucas, Kansas, which is referred to as the Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas. This place is easy to spot with the shiny hubcaps and bicycle arch marking the entrance. The inside brought more eye candy into view. Large concrete blocks were decorated with interesting artwork. Weaving through the maze of rocks, we found some recognizable images that brought smiles to our faces.

Fueling Our Exploring

Not all art has to be for viewing. We found plenty of artistic images in the meals we devoured around Mason City. Whether we were just grabbing a quick sandwich for lunch, a light breakfast, or a chef-inspired dinner, there were plenty of reasons to celebrate. The town has quite the collection of dining options and our only regret was only having 24 hours in Mason City. We even squeezed in time for a visit to an iconic local ice cream shop, which has been serving guests since 1931.

Architectural Excellence

We made our way back to Central Park to grab our bags from the car. Our lodging for the night was right across the street, which was quite convenient. The Historic Park Inn has the distinction of being the last remaining hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This Midwest architect is widely considered the greatest ever to design structures in America. His “Prairie School” style is easily recognized by the familiar geometric shapes and patterns. The Park Inn is a 27-room boutique lodging option that is a delight to experience.

Walking Art

During our 24 hours in Mason City, we learned that it has the nickname of River City. With the Winnebago River cutting a path through the heart of the town, this made perfect sense. The town’s residents have embraced the moniker and we found it repeated in the name of various businesses. They even have an abundance of outdoor artwork that is viewable as the River City Sculptures on Parade. With nearly six dozen unique statues, we had a blast checking as many as possible off of our map. The entire collection encompasses a 1.7-mile walk, so it was quite reasonable to add it to our day’s walk.

24 Hours in Mason City

As you can tell, we spent a very busy 24 hours in Mason City, Iowa. This Midwest town is filled to the brim with artistic endeavors and we only wish we would have had more time to explore. While our time ran out far too soon, you can plan your own escape to the city and be sure to allow even more time for discovery. We are sure that you will fall in love with the small-town charm that is found throughout the city. Make sure you allow opportunities to interact with the locals, who are friendly and welcoming. It’s another great destination for a weekend getaway that’s easy to reach from all over the Midwest.

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MacNider Art Museum – All About Art

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 10:00:32 +0000

It seems that more and more cities we visit are learning to embrace art. Some have distinct districts that focus on showcasing artists. Others are finding a flourish of new art forms, such as murals, being introduced to their urban areas. When we arrived in Mason City, it didn’t take us long to find that this Iowa city is all about art. The apex of this city’s art can be found in and around the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum. Since the mid-60s, this art center has become a mecca for locals and visitors alike to explore this FREE museum that showcases some familiar artists.

We want to thank Visit Mason City and MacNider Art Museum for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Getting Started

The MacNider Art Museum goes beyond just showing off its art collection. They use various pieces to help educate visitors about the art and various styles that are commonly found in art galleries around the world. In 1966, the museum opened with only a handful of permanent pieces. This small beginning didn’t prevent thousands of people from showing up to help celebrate. Ongoing special events would find the museum struggling with space constraints. In the late 70s, an expansion nearly doubled the area for guests, as well as providing additional gallery space.

American Artists

As we made our way through the galleries, a familiar theme came clear. The MacNider Art Museum has built an amazing inventory around American artists. While some of the pieces had a familiar look, we found them to be pieces from less familiar names. A George Washington portrait screamed of the work of Gilbert Stuart. He is well known for creating the definitive image of our first American president. The piece hanging in Mason City is actually the work of Jane Stuart, Gilbert’s daughter, and studio assistant. Hanging nearby is a landscape piece from John Martin Tracy. This obscure American artist created many of his pieces from memory and his attention to detail is uncanny.

Familiar Faces

We always like spotting artwork from familiar artists that hail from the Midwest. It never ceases to surprise us to see works from Thomas Hart Benton, which are easily distinguishable. His Missouri upbringing clearly influenced the subjects of his paintings. The MacNider Art Museum has another recognizable piece, which has a sister piece in our hometown Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Milwaukee artist Marc Sijan has risen to stardom with his Hyper-Realistic art. His Security Guard piece at the KC museum has confused visitors for years. Many times we have seen people stop to ask it directions, only to discover it was part of the exhibit. One of the museum’s newest pieces is from local Mason City artist, Charles Fritz. We love how he embraces the West with rich colors and subjects.

Master Puppeteer

We moved upstairs, to explore more artwork, and found ourselves in the Bil Baird gallery. This Midwesterner grew up In Mason City, before moving on to celebrity status. In the 1930s, he created his familiar puppet style, which would become his signature. His art form transcended borders and he would become an international star. He created pieces that are recognizable to people around the world. While much of his groundwork occurred before our childhood, there were some that we could relate to.

Growing Popularity

Bil, along with his wife Cora, kept building their repertoire, and the opportunities kept coming. In 1965, the couple performed the puppet scene in the movie The Sound of Music. The images from “The Lonely Goatherd” are some of the most familiar puppet forms ever created. The MacNider Art Museum has a wonderful collection of puppets that bring back feelings of childhood.

Outdoor Art

On our way into and out of the museum, we were treated to many outdoor sculptures that dot the city landscape. While these pieces are not associated directly with the museum, it is certain that Mason City, and its residents, embrace all types of art. During our exploration, we found murals, statues, and grassroots art scattered around the city. It was apparent that this Iowa city is all about art and we love that.

Visit MacNider Art Museum

Visiting sites like MacNider Art Museum offer us a chance to expand our knowledge of American art. With two rotating galleries dedicated to temporary exhibits, there is always something new to see. The museum has come far from the early days with few pieces. These days, they have a significant inventory, which means that there are lots to see in the galleries. We did a self-guided tour, which allowed us to spend as much time as we wanted with the pieces. The museum has an intimate feeling and a size that doesn’t overwhelm. We invite you to visit MacNider and see if it doesn’t inspire you to seek out more local art museums to explore.

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Beach Party Vibe – Clear Lake

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 10:00:18 +0000

Each new city and town we visit has its own particular feel. Some are historic sites with ages of artifacts. Others are artistic centers that entertain the eyes with rich and unique visions. It only took a few minutes for us to realize that Clear Lake, Iowa has a beach party vibe. Our arrival was timed for the morning of July 3rd, so there was a little extra electricity in the air. With a lakeside carnival in full swing, it was promising to be an entertaining visit.

We want to thank Clear Lake, Iowa, and the local businesses for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Lake Centric

Clear Lake has a lot to offer vacationers. Many are drawn to the huge freshwater lake that boasts fun adventures for the whole family. The cloudless day had brought out sport fishers who enjoy the challenge found at this spring-fed body of water. Lying just west of I-35, this watery destination is easily accessible. We parked in the downtown area and worked our way to the shoreline. With holiday activities on the agenda, we needed to stay focused, if we were to complete our itinerary. Our schedule didn’t include time on the water, but it didn’t stop us from checking out the scene. Walking along the seawall, we spotted the Lady of the Lake. This sternwheeler offers visitors easy access to the lake with scenic tours.

Rock ‘N Roll History Lesson

While the beach party vibe is strong in Clear Lake, it’s not the only thing that happens in this city. In days gone by, one would have found ballrooms in most cities and towns across America. While these have mostly disappeared, the Surf Ballroom stands as a reminder of those times. Still in use today, it has hosted a myriad of musical artists from various genres. If the name of this place seems familiar, it’s because it was home to the last concert of Buddy Holly. Shortly after the concert, a plane crash took the lives of Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. You can read more about it in this article that features the Surf Ballroom and nearby 3 Stars Plaza.

Community Pride

With the taste of history in our bloodstream, we moved forward to the Kinney Pioneer Museum. This local attraction does extra duty by covering Clear Lake and nearby Mason City. Like many local historical sites, it is chocked full of historic artifacts. Community pride often leads to exuberant donations from the locals. With so many pieces to display, it took us quite a while to make it through this museum. Our visit was enhanced by time spent with the museum curator. She was able to provide background on many of the unique pieces that are housed in the museum.

Downtown Break

Now that we had a good grasp on the past, it was time to return to the present. Back downtown, we made our way to K&B Emporium for lunch. This combination eatery and retail shop provided plenty of eye candy. We ordered up a couple of the Independence weekend specials and did a little shopping while we waited for our meals to be prepared. Crystal chose the Turkey Ranch Wrap, which ended up being a ton of food. I sampled the BBQ Chicken Sandwich that comes served up on Ciabatta bread. It was all so delicious that we ended up eating a few more bites than we would normally consume. Oh well, looks like some more walking in our future.

Beach Party Vibe

With our lunch consumed, we decided to check out the local retail scene. While Clear Lake only holds about 8,000 residents, the beach party vibe helps bolster the economy to support plenty of locally-owned shops. With the midday heat building, it was perfect timing for some in-and-out exploring. The holiday events had brought in plenty of out-of-towners, so we had lots of company. We checked out various stores for a couple of hours and even spotted an ice cream shop. Unfortunately, our large lunch was preventing us from diving into a sweet treat.

Chilling with the Locals

As we made our way back down to the lake edge of downtown, we found a local vendor sale taking place. The assorted tents and booths were brimming with local art, crafts, and assorted merchandise. With a little time left before dinner, we made a pass through this space and picked out a couple of reminders from our visit. Once that was completed, we headed around a curve in the lake to PM Park. This lakeside resort has over 100 years of history in Clear Lake. We found a full-blown beach party vibe in full swing and couldn’t wait to join in the party atmosphere. As we sat and enjoyed some local musicians, we dined on some of their handhelds. There is something fascinating about relaxing in full view of all of the lake activities.

One Last Stop

After dinner, we decided to take a stroll along the shoreline. Here we could watch the sun swing low into the evening sky. The number of water skiers had died down and many of the boats were returning to the docks. Now was time for the sport fishers to reclaim their stake of the lake. As the waves slowly receded in size, it was time for us to think about moving on. Our schedule required us to be in Fairmont, Minnesota by bedtime, but there was one last stop to make. On our way to PM Park, we had noticed an old-fashioned ice cream shop shaped like a cone. While we weren’t extremely hungry, we knew better than to pass up a second chance for a sweet treat.

Lake Lovers

Our time in Clear Lake had drawn to an end, but we departed filled with their beach party vibe. While the Fourth of July is certainly plenty of reason to celebrate, it’s not the only event to draw crowds to this Iowa town. When talking with the staff at Clear Lake, we found out that they almost always have something going on in or around town. There are plenty of reasons for us to make a return visit and some very unique activities. You’ll want to check out their calendar of events and find the perfect ones to squeeze into your vacation plans. We are betting you’ll enjoy the fun atmosphere that you find there. When was your last lake trip?

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Epic Road Trip – Lewis And Clark Interpretive Center

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 10:00:44 +0000

Traveling can be extremely exciting, but being too long on the road can become uncomfortable. Even having all of the luxuries, won’t remove the desire for the comforts of home. Can you imagine embarking on a perilous two-year-long trip across unchartered lands? That is precisely what Meriwether Lewis and William Clark faced during their famous expedition. On a smaller level, all of us can feel the same explorer spirit when we set out on our own adventures. We were at the start of an epic road trip and we pulled off in Sioux City, Iowa for our first stop.

Presidential Directive

America was still a youngster with less than three decades under its belt. The country had elected Thomas Jefferson, in 1800, as the third president. In 1803, Jefferson offered Napoleon $10 million for New Orleans and the territories surrounding this strategic port city. Napoleon countered with an offer to sell nearly 1 million square miles for $15 million. U.S. negotiators seized on this deal and the Louisiana Purchase was realized. Seeing the value of westward expansion, it was decided that someone was needed to chart the territory. In May 1804, the Corps of Discovery embarked on their search for the rumored Northwest Passage.

Epic Road Trip Requirements

While Lewis and Clark faced unchartered lands, we had all of the latest gadgets to guide our travels. Defining an epic road trip is difficult since it means something different to each travel group. This expedition was in honor of our 40th wedding anniversary, so it had to be memorable. We had 11 days to see as much as possible. Our planned route took many weeks to develop since I am all about overdone research. In less than two weeks, we would pass through 11 states and travel over 4500 miles. It was difficult to contain our excitement as we pulled out of Kansas City. Our first stop was planned four 4 hours up the highway in Sioux City, Iowa.

Daily Duties

Much like Lewis and Clark, we had a schedule that needed to be kept in mind. I made sure to allow for some flex time, in the event of surprises. As the pilot on this journey, I kept engaged in traffic control. Crystal would be the navigator, assistant, and social media savant. Here’s where I will tell on myself just a little bit. When compiling our itineraries, I include the estimated length of each visit and stop along our way. Reading some of the information about the expedition’s stay in the area told me that their timeline was a little less rigid. The Corps of Discovery actually spent over a month in this area. That would be plenty of time to fall into a regular daily routine.

Curious Travelers

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center uses animatronics to bring the story to life. The most amusing exhibit involved Seaman, the Newfoundland dog that the team brought on the expedition. An animatronic prairie dog “barks” at the beast of a dog, who is clearly puzzled by this creature. In reality, their dog played an important role in the adventure. His large size and excellent swimming skills made him a valuable asset to the 41-man crew.

Unexpected Tragedy

You would expect to hear about many tragic events with such a perilous journey. In fact, only one member of the Corps would perish during the trip. The youngest man in the group, Sergeant Charles Floyd. There would certainly have been a thousand ways to die on this expedition. In reality, Floyd passed from what are considered natural causes. It is suspected that he perished from a ruptured appendix. It happened in the area that would become modern-day Sioux City. The animatronic replica tells a little about him and the duties he performed.

Early Epic Road Trip Success

You see above a picture of a happy couple filled with vigor. The excitement of the open road burns in their hearts and kindles their desire for more exploring. This first small taste was enough to whet our appetites. Now we were facing more seat time as we wheeled our way toward our next stop. Rest assured that each notable event will be journaled on our blog. While our stories are meant to stir the passion for travel in you, they also serve as reminders for ourselves. It’s the miles of time spent viewing the open landscape that helps us remember just how big our world really can be. Onward to our nest stop.

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60 Years Of Magic – Historic Park Inn Hotel

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 10:00:21 +0000

If you asked us to name a famous architect, we would probably come up with the same answer as most Americans. The reality is that while we love looking at all of the amazing architecture, we are oblivious to the masters behind the work. One name that we recognize, is Frank Lloyd Wright. This American designer created over 500 structures that carry recognizable features. It’s easy to say that he impacted American architecture as much as anyone. With 60 years of magic under his belt, it’s easy to say he was an inspiration for others.

We want to thank Visit Mason City and the Park Inn for hosting our stay. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Clean Lines

It’s hard to imagine that all of these geometric masterpieces started with a man born in 1867. To say that his ideas were ahead of his time would be an understatement. Being raised in the Midwest gave him a solid base for his views of how homes on the prairie should look. Wright’s first attempt at adding geometric design into his structures came in his own home. Building in a quiet suburb of Chicago, he added his new design style to his in-home studio and the kid’s playroom. This would be the beginning of his ‘Prairie School” architectural movement.

60 Years of Magic

Our visit to Mason City, Iowa allowed us a chance to stay in the only remaining Wright-designed hotel in the world. The Historic Park Inn Hotel is truly awe-inspiring. From our first sighting, we knew that it would be special. After checking in at the front desk, we decided to wander around the historic lodge. Each floor holds recognizable geometrically-designed, leaded-glass windows. The simple lines are carried through in so many of the accents that it becomes a huge tapestry of repeated shapes.

Familiar Sights

We are kind of late-comers to the group of Wright appreciators. In fact, it wasn’t until a trip to Springfield, Illinois that we toured our first structure designed by this architecture genius. The Dana-Thomas house introduced us to his unique simplistic, yet soothing style. Wandering through the Historic Park Inn reminded us of this previous visit. The design of the furniture and light fixtures echoed the patterns we found throughout the hotel. It was the fact that he repeated his theme throughout a design that speaks the most about Wright’s 60 years of magic.

Carrying It Through

It was time to check out our room, which we were sure would also include the same attention to detail. Sure enough, we found the design in the furniture and windows, just as we had in the main rooms. With so many layers of repeating design, it’s easy to overlook some of the finer details. One that became more apparent in our room was the arch-shaped pattern to the wall treatment. Discovering this renewed our effort to capture more of the finer points.

Taking it Outside

Mason City has embraced its relationship with the famous architect and his 60 years of magic. As we wandered the city, we found a variety of murals that mimicked the geometric patterns that are synonymous with Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs. Each one cements the marriage of art and architecture.

More To See

While most of our travel blogging adventures don’t allow for an extended time in our lodging, we had to make adjustments for our stay at the Historic Park Inn Hotel. Having an opportunity to experience such a notable destination, we wanted to soak it in. Each mural that we found, which reminded us of Wright’s work, made us long for more time at the hotel. We weren’t about to forego our other stops, but we knew in the backs of our minds that we had a fantastic rest awaiting us. Have you ever visited any of Frank Lloyd Wright’s properties?

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Kinney Pioneer Museum – Look For The Stories

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 10:00:22 +0000

First impressions can say a lot, but sometimes you need to look deeper. When we visit a new museum, it gives us an opportunity to learn about the destination we are exploring. Since the majority of the artifacts are usually donated by residents, it also gives a personal peek into the lives of those who founded the area. It becomes more about the stories behind the pieces, which is what history is really meant to tell. When we stepped through the door at the Kinney Pioneer Museum, we knew instantly that we would be diving into the lives of those that made Clear Lake, Iowa what it is today.

We want to thank Clear Lake Chamber and Kinney Pioneer Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

First Impressions

The first thing we spotted, as we came through the door, was the bright yellow 1911 Colby. Hailed as the last remaining vehicle produced by a nearby automaker, it has top priority in the museum’s displays. When you think about it, the automobile stands out as an engineering marvel in the middle of the Midwest. Hailed as an early “sports car”, the Colby Roadster was powered by a hefty 40hp engine. The Colby Motor Company had a lifespan of about four years and sold about a thousand vehicles during that time. A new Roadster would have set you back about $1600, way back in the days before the Great Depression.

Days Gone By

It always catches us by surprise when we spot the various apparel displays at a new museum. While it is not unusual to see, we are blown away by what people store for decades. After all, it is clear to us that most of the pieces at the Kinney Pioneer Museum are from locals. We find it hard to hold on to our outdated fashions, but fortunately, others have done it for us. This offers a glimpse into how our parents and grandparents would have appeared in their heyday. While some of the outfits are clearly dated styles, we have noticed the recurring theme of resurrecting them for today’s youth. I guess it’s true that what was old will become new again.

The Pains of Beauty

Some of the exhibits that always catch my attention are the ones showing various styling equipment used for fashion. Quite often I feel these could easily be switched with torture devices and some may not even notice. After all, many of them look like something that could be used to elicit a confession from the unwitting victim. Oh, the things we go through for beauty.

Familiar Subject

It came as no surprise that we located a display that featured The Music Man. The composer of this famous musical hails from the nearby sister city of Mason City. In fact, when we planned this trip, we included both cities as a sort of dual-destination excursion. Being so close to each other, we can understand that they would both be proud of having such a successful musician come from this region.

More of the Kinney Pioneer Museum

From the time we arrived, we had the pleasure of a guided tour. This was provided by Kay, the museum curator, who has an exuberant passion for local history. She imparted many personal stories into the explanation of the exhibits. This really makes our visits that much more special. Once we had seen everything indoors, we were told that there were also some outdoor exhibits. It was a beautiful summer day, so we loved getting some fresh air, while we heard more tales about Clear Lake.

History Lessons Learned

With our heads spinning from so much new information, we knew it was time to bid our farewell to the Kinney Pioneer Museum. The stories we heard would help us better understand the origins of some of the street names and local landmarks. This is one way we find to take our visits beyond just a vacation. By diving into the local history, we feel like we have a true cultural connection with the cities we visit. How often do you visit the local history museums during your travels? What’s the most unusual artifact you have discovered?

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Treat Yourself – Mason City Meals

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 09:00:49 +0000

We may have only spent a little over 24 hours in Mason City, but we discovered that it’s easy to treat yourself in this Iowa town. Our time allowed for three square meals, as well as a little sweet treat. Exploring walkable downtowns is always an adventure and is sure to build up our appetites. Let’s see what we discovered in this Midwest destination.

We want to thank Visit Mason City and the local businesses for hosting our visit. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Brewed Breakfast

I cannot remember the last day that didn’t start for us with some delicious coffee. It’s the go-go juice that gets us rolling for a day of exploring. Mason city has some unique choices, so we struggled with having to select just one. Just a couple of blocks from our hotel, we discovered Three on the Tree Coffee & Café. Located on a corner, this woman-owned eatery offers a relaxed setting for some serious sipping. Most mornings, the coffee would be enough to carry us until midday. Of course, the desire to explore the menu had us sampling a little of their edible menu items. A variety of scones were too tempting to pass up, and we added one to our table. Their Biker Bars are a sweet snack packed with nuts and fruit. We even sampled a couple of their egg balls that reminded us of mini-quiches.

Handheld Deluxe

Our lunches are usually a protein-packed outing that fuels the back half of our day. State Street Deli was a perfect fit for this approach. Offering a selection of hot or cold sammies makes this a good stop for a quick meal. Our early arrival ensured fast service, but even when the lunch rush arrived, the line still moved quickly. Crystal enjoyed her smoked turkey sandwich, although I think she was just a little jealous of my pastrami on rye. As you can see from the photo, they don’t skimp on the ingredients, so you can treat yourself to a filling meal for a fair price. Our bellies were happily stuffed by the time we finished our meal.

The Quarry

With a half-dozen Iowa cities under our belt, we have found some amazing meals all across the state. Mason City was beginning to rival some of the stops we made in Des Moines, and we were just now heading to dinner. Just around the corner from our lodging, we found our evening destination. The Quarry Restaurant is a popular upscale destination for distinct dishes. After scanning their robust menu, we decided on a couple of colorful plates. My choice of the Jambalaya Penne Pasta brought the flavors of Louisiana to the dinner table. Crystal went more traditional with the Filet and a side of Brussel Sprouts. A pair of flavorful salads added some more pops of color to our space.

Treat Yourself

As we continue to refine our visits, we have learned to look for historical anchors to add to our itinerary. While visiting with some of the locals, we were clued in about an ages old ice cream stop just a couple of blocks from where we were staying. Birdsall’s Ice Cream has been serving up a variety of creamy flavors since 1931. Even though the ice creamery has changed hands a few times over the decades, it is still ran with customer satisfaction being paramount. We found ourselves facing a long line of locals, who were more than happy to suggest their favorite flavors to us. This certainly added a sweet treat to our Mason City visit.

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Patriotic Twist at PM Park

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:00:32 +0000

The folks in Clear Lake, Iowa certainly know how to celebrate. We visited this lake-centric city on the 3rd of July, and found everyone kicking it with a patriotic twist. The crowds were already in the holiday spirit and a weekend at the lake makes for a perfect escape. Pulling up to PM Park, it was hard to imagine that this place is over 100 years old. This popular hangout was designed for entertaining, so we knew we were in for a treat.

We want to thank Clear Lake Chamber and PM Park for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Patriotic Twist

When we stepped through the entrance to the restaurant, we were a little taken back by the lack of customers. The indoor spaces were decorated with a patriotic twist, so we had expected quite a crowd. Servers were busy dispensing drinks and prepping orders. One of them spotted us and explained that the party was out back. Whew! We were thinking that we may have landed in the wrong place.

Party Atmosphere

Once we moved outdoors, we found that there was quite a party atmosphere going on out back. Rows of picnic tables were packed with diners lounging in the shade. The staff had reserved us a table that landed us in the middle of the celebration. As we scanned the crowd, a band caught our attention. They were playing in a boat, that had been transformed into a stage. Their music was a nice background for all of the revelry taking place in this lakeside space. The Tiki Bar portion of PM Park was built in 2007, so it’s barely used in comparison to the restaurant building.

Sip and Study

Our server stopped by to check on us and take our drink orders. We picked out a summery cocktail that would be perfect for our lakeside retreat. In a flash, she returned with our mixed drink and a couple of waters, to boot. The menu is filled with hands-on dishes and finger foods. The descriptions of their meals all sounded tasty, but in the end we chose a couple of sandwiches.

Hands-on Dining

Crystal was really enjoying the lake atmosphere, so she chose the Hawaiian Burger. They take a hearty Iowa beef patty and top it with Swiss cheese, grilled pineapple, and teriyaki sauce. I spotted a Cuban Sandwich on the menu, and just knew I had to go with it. This version of my favorite sammie is made with deliciously smoked pork, much like one we found in our hometown. An unexpected flavor came from a sweet ham, but it worked well with the pickles, Swiss cheese, and grilled Texas toast. Each order comes with a small side, but we tossed in an order of crispy Onion Rings, as well. The outdoor setting provided plenty of ambiance that added a patriotic twist to our meal.

Party Cove

Being our last stop for the day, we found it easy to linger and enjoy the setting. Nearby, we could watch the activity on the lake. As the sun sank into the horizon, the party atmosphere continued to climb. Everyone was ready to celebrate Independence Day and this was just a precursor leading up to it. Unfortunately, we would be in a different state by the time the fireworks began bursting, but for a while we just savored the moment. If you enjoyed this article, check out some more of our Iowa destinations.

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Sidestreet Discovery – Rancho Deluxe

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 09:00:31 +0000

It is said that “Art imitates Life”, which we have found to often be the case. Of course, then you happen upon a place like Rancho Deluxe, which leaves you in awe of the imaginative powers of the human mind. During our exploration of Mason City, we did a lot of walking. The city is ripe for pedestrian traffic, as the topography is relatively flat. Our art excursion was providing us with tons of sights and when we learned of this sidestreet discovery, we just had to make the short detour.

We want to thank Visit Mason City for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Welcome to the Jungle

As we approached Rancho Deluxe, it stood out from the rest of the neighborhood. This green space is vibrantly decorated with an assembly of brightly colored artifacts. Rows of pennants directed us to the entrance of this unusual art installation.

Color Us Surprised

As we wandered around Rancho Deluxe, it was clear that the main theme was color. Large concrete blocks were stacked in a loose maze design. This meant that as we meandered, the landscape was constantly changing. It was interesting to see the various designs that had been added to the mix.

Don’t Block Us In

Stepping back from the maze, we found that there was no real cohesive theme to the mini-murals. It almost felt like each had been decorated at a different location and then assembled in a haphazard manner. The artwork ranged from simplistic geometric patterns all the way to intricate pictures that portrayed current events. Many of the pieces had an obvious connection to Mason City, like The Music Man theme represented by the band member marching with a trombone.

Lots of Variety

While the concrete blocks take up a substantial part of the property, that is not the only artwork at the site. A garden-type setting has a variety of smaller sculptures, created from various found items. It is easy to find yourself mesmerized by the assembly of these creations, that time seems to stand still. Before long, we were making notes of the individual items that were used to construct these statuaries. On the fringe of the property, we found this patriotic display. Much like the other installations, this one was an eclectic collection of materials that were repurposed into this monument.

Side street Discovery

Mason City was proving to be a very artistic city. Throughout town, we discovered a broad range of artwork. Being a pedestrian-friendly destination, the addition of outdoor sculptures and art installations makes wandering the streets even more enjoyable. With lots of delicious meals on our itinerary, and maybe a sweet treat or two, we were loving the idea of walking off some calories. Do you like to park and walk when exploring new destinations?

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End Of An Era – Surf Ballroom

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 09:00:12 +0000

Each decade seems to bring its own musical trend. The 1940s were all about the Big Band sound that inspired a generation of crooners. When the 1950s rolled in, the sounds of Rock ‘n Roll vied with the previous decade’s hits for airtime. Much like other passing trends, the popularity of this new sound created the end of an era for Swing music. New faces were becoming stars and they were eager to get in front of their fans. For years, the Surf Ballroom was an important step in the progress to gain national fame. Stars from all music genres scheduled shows at this Clear Lake, Iowa venue. Everybody who was anybody paid their dues at the Surf.

We want to thank Clear Lake Tourism for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Fateful Date

The Surf Ballroom has been around since 1934. A tragic fire destroyed the original structure in 1947, but a new venue was quickly built across the street. During those days, the weekly entertainment was split between two genres. “Old Style” music was performed on the weekends, while the early weekdays were reserved for “Modern” music and dancing. We could imagine seeing Duke Ellington or Count Basie pumping up the crowd with some amazing swing tunes. As the 1950s rolled in, the musical pulse of the nation was migrating towards Rock ‘n Roll. It would be a common occurrence for Ricky Nelson, Roy Orbison, or the Everly Brothers to be found at the Surf. On February 2, 1959, this “must-play” venue would become tied to one of the most notable events in Rock ‘n Roll history.

3 Stars Plaza

On that fateful day, Surf manager, Carroll Anderson, had lined up the Winter Dance Party. The musical performers were a whos-who of Rock ‘n Roll stars. Three names that stood out were Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. While Holly had chartered a plane for their next destination, Richardson and Valens wound up on board due to an unusual set of circumstances. Waylon Jennings gave his seat to Richardson, who was fighting a case of the flu. Valens won his seat from Tommy Allsup on a coin toss. The decision to take off during poor wintry conditions is believed to have contributed to the nearby plane crash that took the lives of the three artists, as well as the pilot.

End of an Era

While the music created by these three stars has passed from mainstream radio, it still endures as timeless classics. We visited the 3 Stars Plaza during the evening. As the sunset across Clear Lake, we listened to the short stories that are recorded for each of the lost stars. Slowly the sky darkened and the names of the musicians began to glow on the bottom disc of the memorial. It was a somber moment when we could just sit and think about how that fateful day brought the end of an era. We made our way back to our car and cued up “American Pie” in honor of these lost stars.

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River City Stop – Music Man Square

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 09:00:02 +0000

My mother introduced me to the wonder of musicals, which served as a form of family entertainment, during my younger days. It seems that the golden age of musicals must have peaked by the beginning of the 1960s. That doesn’t mean that no good films came out in this genre after that period. An example of a later addition, and one of my personal favorites, is The Music Man. To this day I will put down the remote when I come across this classic. Just the mention of the title has the melody of “Seventy-Six Trombones” running through my mind. That alone is enough of a reason for us to arrange a River City stop at Music Man Square in Mason City, Iowa.

We want to thank Visit Mason City for hosting our visit. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

The Family Home

Having a chance to visit the boyhood home of Meredith Willson, was an opportunity to learn more about the Midwestern composer responsible for a substantial body of work. After checking in at the Music Man Square, we joined a few other visitors for a guided tour. Willson was born and raised in Mason City, which is situated on the Winnebago River. From a young age he was interested in music. By the time he reached adulthood, he was an accomplished musician on the flute and piccolo.

Growing Up with Music

After attending the Damrosch’s Institute of Musical Art, in New York City, he would go on to perform in John Philip Sousa’s band. Willson moved on from that role to perform with the New York Philharmonic. He would eventually move to San Francisco where he would become musical director for the NBC radio network. By 1940 he was busy composing scores for movies like Charlie Chaplin’s The Great Dictator and The Little Foxes with Betty Davis. World War II would find him working with stars like Gracie Allen and George Burns. After seeing the home, and Willson’s boyhood bedroom, we were ready to move into the Music Man Museum.

The Music Man

Here we would get detailed background on his most famous piece of work. Drawing on his memories of his hometown, Willson wrote the story of a con man named Harold Hill, who visits a small town in Iowa. Hill’s River City stop is designed to convince the townspeople in their need to organize a community band to the tune of “Ya Got Trouble”. While his intentions are underhanded, he becomes sidetracked when he falls for the local librarian, “Marian the Librarian”. The resulting commotion results in an unexpected ending that features an impromptu marching band. Along the way we are treated to some of the other classics like “Seventy-Six Trombones”, “Shipoopi”, “Goodnight Ladies”, and “Till There Was You”.

Memorabilia Galore

Moving through the museum, we found a wide variety of artifacts and memorabilia associated with The Music Man. There are also other pieces that center around his other works. Willson’s other big musical hit is The Unsinkable Molly Brown, which tells a fantastical tale of a wealthy woman who survives the sinking of the Titanic. The story is loosely based on a real person, Margaret Brown, who hailed from Hannibal, Missouri. During our time in the museum, we also discovered that Meredith is responsible for the 1951 song “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”.

Mainstreet USA

Once we completed our time looking at the accolades and awards, we headed back toward the museum entrance. This area is designed to mimic a River City stop along Main Street. Visitors can meander down the road peering in the storefronts. Each one is filled with items that would have been commonplace in 1912, which is the setting for the musical. Strolling to the end, we discovered an ice cream shop that was open for business. You know us, we couldn’t pass up an opportunity to enjoy a sweet treat while we looked out over the diorama.

River City Stop

The Music Man Square and Meredith Willson Boyhood Home are an interesting side note in the history of Mason City, Iowa. It is easy to see how the city has embraced this hometown hero. The entire city has a distinct artistic side which makes it especially interesting for tourists. When The Music Man premiered, in 1962, it was right here in his hometown. He even led the parade through town, which was attended by stars from the silver screen. Much like his imaginary counterpart, Meredith brought music to this Iowa town. Do you remember The Music Man?

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Tulip Time Trek In Pella, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 09:00:28 +0000

We find that festivals are an excellent way to really experience the culture of a city. With a distinctly Dutch heritage, we couldn’t wait to explore Pella, Iowa. Taking a Tulip Time trek to this central Iowa town was a chance to learn more about these descendants of people from the Netherlands. With little knowledge of their traditions, we hoped to immerse ourselves in the food, art, history, and entertainment. The Tulip Time event focuses on the abundant blooms that are found all around town. It certainly adds pops of color to their annual festival.

We want to thank Visit Pella and the local businesses for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Eating Local

Let’s not dawdle getting to one of our favorite parts of visiting a new destination, the food. Having a limited background in Dutch delicacies, we were anxious to see what we would find. My research turned up a lot of bakeries and a healthy number of meat and cheese shops. It was looking to be a great visit. After all, who doesn’t enjoy the opportunity to assemble the ingredients for a delectable charcuterie board? Of course, we can’t pass up a chance to sample festival food, especially when prepared by local organizations. During Tulip Time, you might find longer lines than normal, so be sure to visit your top picks early.

Dutch Dining

With so many delicious bites to sample, and so little time, we went quickly to work checking out the local fare. Treats like Dutch bologna, Gouda cheese, and Poffertjes were top on our list. We also sampled some of the local pastries, including the much sought-after Dutch letters. It’s hard to know just how authentic everything was, but suffice to say it was all delectable.

The Early Days

Festivals are a great time to explore the history of a city. Most of the attractions will be open and ready for visitors since the number of volunteers swells for such events. During a walkabout town, we came upon the Tuttle Cabin, which is the oldest building in Pella. Its origin hails back to 1843 when it was constructed by settlers, This is actually before the Dutch immigrants arrived. It seemed to be a popular stop for others attending the Tulip Time festival, as well.

Let the Fun Begin

While anytime is prime for visiting Pella, attending Tulip Time brings an elevated level of excitement and an atmosphere of frivolity. The main event is the show in the town square. It’s easy to find your way as the 65-foot tall Tulip Toren marks the heart of the festivities. It is not the first Toren built on this site, as the original was a wooden version constructed in 1940. This reinforced concrete version came about in 1968 and has served as the backdrop ever since. Each spring, this three-day festival is overseen by the local Burgermeister. He serves as a Dutch master of ceremonies for the event.

It ain’t Easy Being Cheesy

The daily exhibition roared into gear with a history lesson on the Dutch cheese market. While a variety of cheeses originated in the Netherlands, the two most familiar are Gouda and Edam. As the assembled crowd watches, the story of the markets unfolds. As with many parts of Dutch life, traditions are essential. The uniforms have been consistent for many generations. Cheese Guild members join the “Cheese Father” in the weighing square. Samplers inspect the cheese wheels before they are transported to the scales. By the way, the transports can carry over 280 lbs. of cheese at a time.

Community Pride

To have a successful Tulip Time requires a concerted effort by a slew of locals. It appeared that they take pride in being a part of the festivities as everyone was so welcoming. While not all dressed in traditional Dutch garb, many were strutting the designs of the various provinces across the Netherlands. As the festival celebration unfolded, we learned that there are twelve distinct provinces. Many of the residents are direct descendants of the original colonists who came from their motherland. It was interesting to see the various historical outfits that are associated with each section of the country.

Kicking It Dutch Style

With our history lesson complete, it’s time for some local entertainment. A throng of dancers makes their way front and center to the sound of a rhythmic clacking of wooden clogs. While we watched in amazement, the dancers performed a series of traditional steps. During a visit to the Pella History Village, we had watched this unique footwear being made. At that time we wondered how uncomfortable these would be to use. Here in front of us, we were watching dozens prancing around with ease.

Super Soakers

The dancers left the street and it was time for the most unusual activity we have witnessed. On one end of the festival bleachers, a swarm of traditionally dressed residents had assembled. Local councilmembers had deemed the streets in despicably dirty shape, so they needed a good cleaning. A signal was given and the throng of residents began their due diligence. An assortment of water bearers and scrubbers proceeded along the street, much to the delight of the audience. Even the little ones got into the action under the watchful eyes of their parents.

Parading Tradition

With the streets back in acceptable condition, it was time for the annual parade. Covid was still playing a part in the activities, even though the restrictions were being lifted. The town planned a shortened version that would satisfy the crowds without jeopardizing their safety. We watched as a group of costumed vendors wheeled their wagons to market. These brightly colored vehicles had also been viewed in the Pella History Village. Now we could better understand their use.

Lap of Luxury

To capture a good understanding of the Tulip Time festival means at least a one-night stay. Pella is home to an assortment of lodging options. One that keeps you in the heart of the action is The Amsterdam Hotel. Located right off the main square, it afforded us a spot for a quick break from the action, when needed. It also allowed us a restful night’s sleep without traversing the traffic around town. It also features a top-notch in-house restaurant named Liberty Street Kitchen.

Tulip Time Trek

We actually found a short escape from the crowds on the street with a relaxing dinner at the hotel eatery. A refreshing cocktail recharged our senses and we were soon back in the mix. Two days of festival time gave us a great overview of Dutch history and traditions. Learning about other people’s cultures helps us gain an understanding of their views of the world. This helps us piece together the tapestry of lives that make up our melting pot called America. Are you convinced to give Tulip Time a try now?

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Legendary Gunslinger – Wyatt Earp Experience

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 09:00:24 +0000

Wandering through the vast displays of beautiful tulips, we found ourselves immersed in the Dutch heritage of Pella, Iowa. Little would we imagine that this humble Midwestern city has a connection with the rowdy, wild west. Yet, as we made our way through the Pella Historical Village, we happened upon a house that at one time was called home by the legendary gunslinger Wyatt Earp. There was no way we were going to pass up checking out the Wyatt Earp Experience, which had just recently opened.

We want to thank Visit Pella and the Pella Historical Village for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Tech-Savvy Site

The 1855 row house that once housed the Earp family has been transformed. Upon entry to the museum, visitors are provided an electronic listening device. At various stops throughout the building, we found portals that can be used to queue up chapters of the Earp family history. As you move forward in time, the story focuses on Wyatt specifically. While this legendary gunslinger was born in Monmouth, Illinois, he would be two years old by the time his family relocated to Pella.

The Early Years

Of the eight Earp children, Wyatt landed in the middle. His family had migrated from Europe for religious freedom. The family patriarch, Nicholas, took a job as the Pella city marshal. During Civil War time, he also served as the local recruiter for Union troops. The oldest Earp child, James, served in the war, which may have inspired Wyatt to attempt to join, as well. Although he ran off and tried to enlist on multiple occasions, he was always sent home by his father. In 1864, Wyatt was allowed to showcase his shooting skills when he was asked to supply food for a wagon train headed to California.

A Rolling Stone

Returning to the Midwest in 1869, he married Urilla Sutherland. She passed away during childbirth, which created a void in Wyatt’s life. For the next few years, he bounced around the Midwest. A series of bad choices landed him in legal troubles, but none were serious. In 1875, he headed to southern Kansas where he would serve as a police officer in Wichita and Dodge City. It was in this area that he befriended Doc Holiday and Bat Masterson. One of the rooms in the museum shows just how much Wyatt bounced around during his lifetime. It made it clear that this legendary gunslinger was not to be tied down.

The Legendary Gunslinger

Wyatt Earp’s most notable life event took place in the early 1880s. By then, he had joined some of his family in Tombstone, Arizona. His brother Virgil was serving as town marshal and Wyatt was working as a guard at a local saloon. It was an ongoing feud with a local outlaw gang that led to the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The event would propel Wyatt to heralded fame as a legendary gunslinger, even though it didn’t end the feud. After his family was ambushed, Wyatt sought revenge, which led to his flight as a fugitive from justice. Heading west to avoid prosecution, he would finally land in California.

Questionable Escapades

In the early 1900s, Wyatt worked with a biographer to pen his escapades. Wyatt Earp, Frontier Marshal was released in 1931 and it propelled him to mythical status. His daring escapades have been recorded in multiple movies, as well as lots of periodicals. His status as a legendary gunslinger has grown to near mythical proportions over the years. Interestingly enough, during my research, I discovered commentary from his friend Bat Masterson. He described Wyatt as a “quiet, unassuming man…a loyal friend and an equally dangerous enemy.” It seems that the air of mystery still remains.

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Preserving Traditions – Pella History Village

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 09:00:07 +0000

Seeing a new destination through the eyes of others will reveal stories that are waiting to be discovered. We find that digging into the history will give us a chance to learn how communities are preserving traditions. Pella, Iowa is steeped in Dutch culture that can sometimes seem strange to Midwesterners, but at the same time intriguing. A visit to the Pella Historical Village allowed us to watch some of their unique skills being put to use.

We want to thank Visit Pella and the Pella Historical Society for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Milling Around

It’s easy to find the historical village. All you have to do is look for the 125-foot tall windmill. That’s not something we see around Kansas City, so it captured our attention. In fact, it is the tallest working windmill in North America. Built in the Netherlands, they had to take it apart, ship it to the middle of Iowa, and reconstruct it on site. It represents a sight that would be commonly found in Dutch towns throughout the Netherlands. We entered through the first floor and took an elevator up to see the huge blades spinning in the wind. This was definitely an experience we had never had before and are glad we didn’t miss out.

Walk Through Time

Besides the massive windmill, there are plenty of other buildings to explore at the Pella Historical Village. The row of house-like structures display a range of early Dutch architectural design. One of the larger buildings has a collection of historical information. One of the displays helps visitors walk through the history of the land that is now called Iowa. As you progress forward in time, the focus narrows in on Pella. A lot of this portion we had learned during a visit to the Scholte House, which was home to the city’s founder.

A Different Kind of Company Town

Nearby we found an exhibit about nearby Buxton, Iowa. Buxton was a “company town”, which was a city nearly completely owned and operated by a single employer. This one happened to be Consolidation Coal Company. Founded in 1895, this town was unlike almost any other in America, at that time. It was fully integrated with black miners receiving the same wages and benefits as white miners. Families mingled at stores, church, and even the schools. This seeming ‘utopia” drew people from eastern coal mining regions who were looking for a better life. The town peaked by 1910 and the decreasing demand for coal left Buxton a ghost town.

Carts Galore

Earlier in our day we had watched a presentation at the annual Tulip Time Festival. It included a short parade where we saw some handcarts passing by. Each one was operated by a different craftsman who was selling various services or wares. From the grandstand we could only see the carts from a distance. Inside the historical village, we had a chance to get a closer look. We could imagine seeing these passing down the cobblestone streets in a small village. People would depend on these traveling vendors to supply the necessary products that would be needed for everyday life.

Preserving Traditions

Every culture has its own specific nuances, but there are a few that have puzzled us. The idea of wearing wooden shoes (Dutch “klompen”) has always seemed uncomfortable. These traditional accessories are actually beneficial when it comes to safety. Thick socks helped the foot flex as you walk. At the festival, we watched a series of dances that featured this unique footwear. It was really cool hearing the resonating sound from dozens of wooden shoes clomping off of the pavement at the same time. At the De Timmerman building, we were getting a peek at how this famous footwear is crafted.

Getting Your Clog On

Like windmills or Gouda cheese, wooden clogs are associated with Dutch culture. At the historical village we watched as they were made. It involves a series of steps that include plenty of manual labor. Of course, these days machines are used to limit the amount of human elbow grease required. A blank wooden block is created from a tree trunk. This is chiseled down to the rough shape of the iconic shoe. The interior is drilled out to make room for the wearer’s foot. Finally, the front end is clipped to round it off and the shoe is sanded smooth. Painting is done to seal the wood from he elements.

Making Music

Back outside, we sauntered around the Pella History Village. With the Tulip Festival in full swing, the place was hopping with activity. In a small courtyard, we happened upon a staff member operating an over-sized calliope. Dubbed “Goliath”, this Dutch street organ was built around 1900. Songs are played from slotted books, which activate compressed air to pump through the 900 pipes. Inside one of the buildings, we had seen “David”, which is a miniaturized version.

Continuing Education

Visits to places like the Pella History Village are one of the ways we continue our adult education. The artifacts we see all have stories behind them. These are the types of facts that we didn’t see in our textbooks at school. The stories help us piece together a better understanding of the Dutch culture and how the citizens of Pella have been preserving traditions for many generations. With this education came an appreciation for the unique customs that they brought with them to America. It got us to thinking about some of our own family rituals and where they originated. Does your family have traditions that can be traced back to a specific culture?

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Charcuterie Trail – Tastes Of The Heartland

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 09:00:53 +0000

No matter where we travel, we know that food will be involved. After all, everyone needs to eat to survive. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring. For us, the culinary adventure is a large part of our explorations. When we were in the midst of planning our trip to Oskaloosa and Pella, we discovered a plethora of unique dishes. With the resurgence of tapas-style dining growing in popularity, we decided to embark on a Charcuterie Trail. This would certainly provide us with a sampling of the tastes of the heartland.

We want to thank Mahaska Chamber and Visit Pella for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Spring Surprises

Our visit to central Iowa was planned for the middle of Spring, which meant everything was coming back to life. Throughout both cities, we found signs of rebirth, after our harsh winter. The sounds of birds chirping greeted us each morning. Flower beds were bursting out with a wide spectrum of colors, inviting us to slow down and take it all in. This was certainly the season to enjoy all of the delights that can be found throughout the region.

Short-term Samples

This visit to Oskaloosa and Pella was our first excursion into Dutch culture. Our adventure began in downtown Oskaloosa but had expanded to Pella. We had quickly discovered that bakeries are extremely popular with the Dutch. The aromas wafting from each of these shops tempted us each morning. When we could no longer resist, we dropped in for a look-see. Of course, that turned into a need to sample their wares to find out why so many people are eager to visit. The cases filled with pastries, cookies, and Dutch letters were too much to pass up. A small sampling made its way into our possession, but only temporarily. A nearby park bench was all we needed to complete an impromptu breakfast.

Starting Down the Charcuterie Trail

We knew that the pastries were not made for long-term storage, but there was one item on our list that was. Cheese-making has been a mainstay of Dutch culture for centuries. In fact, the first mention of Dutch-made Gouda cheese dates back to the 1100s. We are betting that they have it down to an art by now. To create a charcuterie trail, one certainly needs to have some cheese. The creamy and sweet flavor of Gouda pairs well with just about every other food we can think of, so it had to play a prominent part on our board. A visit to Frisian Farms Cheese House ensured that we were getting some of the best in the nation.

They Take Their Cheese Seriously

At the Pella Tulip Time Festival, we would learn just how seriously they take their cheese. Part of the demonstrations includes a little background on the Dutch cheese markets. While buyers and sellers haggled over the prices, teams stood ready to transport the wheels to a weighing house. What appears to be a bunch of pomp is actually based upon centuries of tradition. One of the oldest Dutch cheese markets has been in business since 1593. Every step of the process has been repeated over and over by generations of Dutch citizens. Watching the demonstration showed us how important Gouda cheese is to Dutch culture.

Don’t Mind if We Wine

With our cooler stocked up on Gouda, we knew that some wine would make an excellent beverage choice. Just down the road from the cheese factory, we found Tassel Ridge Winery. Located between Oskaloosa and Pella, this is one of the largest wineries in Iowa. Inside their tasting room, we found a wide range of wines to choose from. The owners were on hand to help us select the perfect wines to pair with our charcuterie trail items. One bottle of red and one of white would cover all of the bases. Back to the car to head toward Pella for more supplies.

Festival Food

Our time in Pella was focused on the Tulip Time Festival. Like most events of this type, they had a nice collection of food trucks and tents. Many were selling the standard festival foods, and a few of the local clubs were offering Dutch dishes. After surveying the options, we chose one that had some items that were new to us. A Pella Bologna & Smoked Gouda Sandwich brought some pleasant flavors to our taste buds. We also sampled a stick of Frikandel, which is a Dutch version of a meat stick. A combination of beef, chicken, and pork is seasoned with allspice, nutmeg, and other seasonings. Our dessert was called Dutch Delight, which features the almond flavor so readily available in Dutch baked goods.

Tastes of the Heartland

We collected some more supplies at shops around the downtowns of Oskaloosa and Pella. With a cooler filled full of goodies, we could hardly wait to sample our charcuterie trail findings. Back home, we create our first board made with the creamy cheeses we had collected during our visit. It also had some Blue Cheese Bologna that we found at In’t Veld Meat Market. Delicately decorated chocolates were found at Van Veen, while the Dutch cookies and crackers came from Ulrich Meat Market. We sprinkled in some fresh fruit and veggies and popped the cork on a bottle of Iowa wine.

Creating Memories

As we continue to evolve our travel itineraries, we find adding new adventures keeps it all fresh. The idea of a Charcuterie Trail gave us a special purpose during our time in Oskaloosa and Pella. It was like a scavenger hunt that ended with a delicious meal at the end. Definitely a win-win for us. This was also a way to make memories that go beyond the adult education that we gained at the various stops during our visit. Since we all have to eat to survive, adding this culinary experience to our agenda made our excursion extra delightful.

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Scholte House Museum – Finding New Freedoms

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 09:00:58 +0000

While religious persecution was not unknown in Europe, Holland had long been a refuge of safety. By the mid-1800s, this dynamic changed. It signaled the beginning of an exodus for those seeking refuge. A group of about 800 immigrants set sail for America with hopes of a better life. Hendrik Scholte, their religious leader or Dominie, promised his wife a life that would equal that which they were leaving behind. Although they would face hardships it would end up being a promise kept by the founder of Pella, Iowa. Our visit to the Scholte House Museum would educate us on this interesting family.

We want to thank Visit Pella and the Scholte House Museum for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

The Scholte House

During the Tulip Time Festival, we had an opportunity to tour the home. This beautiful house was not what greeted Hendrik, Maria, and their three daughters when they first arrived in central Iowa. As a minister, Hendrik was in favor of the separation of church and state. When Holland changed to a state-supported clergy base, he felt it imposed upon the expression of faith. His ministry became the focus of imposing oversight, as the government began to restrict gatherings. After a decade of increasing scrutiny, it was time to look for a new homeland.

Local History

In the spring of 1847, four ships set sail for the New World. After nearly 60 days at sea, the group reached the American coast. During the voyage, an interesting situation arose. The Dutch travelers felt that the boat did not meet their desired level of cleanliness. To bring it up to their high standards, they set about cleaning the ships from top to bottom. When the ships arrived in Baltimore, they were allowed to dock without the usually detailed inspections. Even the captains were amazed at the orderliness of his passengers.

Time Capsule

Once all of the ships had arrived, it was time for the journey across the land. Once they arrived in St. Louis, a committee was formed to scout out a potential site for their new homes. Even though they remained in the city for a few weeks, they felt very uneasy. Rumors of the group’s wealth had spread around the area and the immigrants were concerned about robbers. When the committee examined the land that would become Pella, they were anxious to move their families. We can imagine the odd looks that the procession of oddly garbed travelers found in the towns they passed through. Surely, their foreign language added to the curiosity of townsfolk.

Maria’s Disappointment

Hendrik’s wife had stayed behind in St. Louis, while he secured the family home. When she and her daughters finally arrived, they found no beautiful town awaiting them. Instead, their lodging was a small log cabin. Knowing that he had made a promise to his wife, Dominie Scholte assembled a crew of workers to construct his grand home. It only took them about six months to complete the Scholte House. We are sure that seeing the home take shape would have propped up Maria’s spirits. Another blow came when the family’s crates of furnishings arrived. Much of her blue-and-white Delft pottery had broken during the move.

The Man Behind Pella

For two decades, Dominie Scholte provided his community with spiritual guidance. Being a savvy businessman, Hendrik invested wisely in banking and a sawmill. During his time in Pella, he would serve as justice of the peace, notary, and land agent. He even started the Pella gazette, which lasted about five years. During that period, he wrote many pamphlets and articles expressing his political views.

Famous Connection

Originally a follower of the Democratic Party, his position changed when they moved toward a proslavery stance. In 1860, Hendrik served as an Iowa delegate at the Republican National Convention. He fervently urged others to support the campaign of Abraham Lincoln and would later attend his inauguration in Washington. He was so passionate about the Union’s role in the Civil War that he promised a free house to any returning war veterans. In all, 129 Dutch veterans took him up on this pledge.

Visit a Pella Landmark

Our visit to the Scholte House Museum opened our eyes to a larger-than-life figure from the 1800s. Learning how this one man was able to impact so many lives reminded us that tales like these are waiting out there for us to discover. While we relished in the beauty of this historic home, it is the story behind its creation that truly mesmerizes us. Obviously, much of the home has changed over the decades, but the library still holds most of its originality. When you visit the Scholte House, be sure to check out the statue of Hendrik waiting to be discovered in the gardens.

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A Day Downtown – Exploring Oskaloosa, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 03:00:34 +0000

Long ago, we discovered that the downtown is the center of a community. The very pulse of the city can be felt in this area. The towns that embrace this idea are the ones where you will find a vibrant and thriving society. Our visit to Oskaloosa, Iowa only allowed for one day downtown, but we were determined to make the most of it. It never ceases to amaze us with the variety we find in the places we visit. Oskaloosa was no exception. The citizens have embraced their history and it has propelled them to create an inviting space that offers visitors a relaxed experience with lots of amenities.

We want to thank the Mahaska Chamber and Oskaloosa Main Street for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

First Feelings

Oskaloosa is roughly a 4-hour drive from our home in Kansas City. Heading off after a day of work meant that we wouldn’t arrive until well after dinnertime. When we rolled into town, we were anxious to explore. Unfortunately, the failing daylight signaled that most of the businesses were closed for the day. Having just spent the evening in our car, we still wanted to stretch our legs, so a walk around the square was in order. Here is where we spotted the statue of Chief Mahaska, which is where this region gets its name. His leadership, during the settlement of Iowa, became a symbol of the possibility for peace between the natives and settlers.

Finding Plenty of Local Love

Being early risers, we were anxious to start our day downtown. The area chamber had arranged for us to stay at a new Airbnb located on the downtown square. This made our exploration all the more convenient. Just a short walk away we found our morning breakfast stop. Julie’s Homestyle Café was already hopping with business when we arrived. We could see immediately that this was a hangout for the locals. What a great way to start our day. After a hearty breakfast, we spent time chatting with some of the locals, including Julie herself. This is one of our favorite parts about exploring downtowns. Getting a chance to learn about the history and culture of the places we visit from the people who live it every day.

Exploring Osky Alley

Now that our bellies were full, it was time for a little more coffee. On our way to our next stop, we happened upon the Osky Alley. Throughout the downtowns we have visited, we have seen a repeating theme. The cities that truly embrace their space are always looking for creative ways to recapture it. In Oskaloosa, they have completed a beautification project that turned an ordinary alley into a destination. To make sure that visitors and locals know the history of the city, they have added plaques that tell the story behind each of the historic structures found around the downtown.

Unexpected Find

Moving into the Alley, we discovered that they have decorated the space with a mix of local art and historic displays. What an amazing way to engage with those visiting the space. When you visit Oskaloosa, be sure to set aside some time to explore this place. It really helps give a base background on the city. They have also included a good selection of seating, which pairs perfectly with the nearby coffee shop.

Caffeine Crew

Even with our bellies full from breakfast, we were still in the mood for some more java. Smokey Row Coffee was the perfect place to satisfy our urges. The inside of this place has a fun vibe and their drink selection is impressive. After making our choices, we headed out to do some exploring of the park across the street. The sunny day was quickly heating up, so we decided to pop in some of the locally-owned shops.

Shopped ’til we Dropped

Around the downtown square are a collection of boutique-style shops. Whether you are looking for the latest styles, some new shoes, cosmetics, or even home décor, you will find a place that has it. We loved the variety we found and every shopkeeper was so inviting. It is this opportunity to talk with the locals that make this portion of our day downtown extra special.

Grand Repurposing

While each shop had its own special touches, it was Book Vault that caught my attention. First off, I love to peruse bookstores. The only thing that can make it better is when it has an interesting backstory to the building. Well, this place hits it out of the park with uniqueness. The idea of repurposing an old bank into a bookstore was genius. Not only does the grandiose structure make a great backdrop, but they have even incorporated three vaults into their design.

Our Needed Sweets

It will probably come as no surprise that we sniffed out some sweet treats during our day downtown. When we landed in Oskaloosa, our path took us past a local ice cream stop that had drawn quite a crowd. Always on the lookout for a creamy delight, we pulled in and took our place in line. Sure enough, the delectable treats were well worth the wait and we felt they were a fitting reward for our recent drive. The next evening we changed it up a bit and sampled some fresh slices of pie at Tasos’ Steakhouse on the downtown square.

Close Comfort

Our lodging kept us right in the thick of our day downtown. This new Airbnb sits right on the north side of the square, so we were literally steps away from loads of eats, shopping, and entertainment. It made our excursions by foot so simple and we found the lodging had all of the necessary conveniences for travelers. The access to free parking was an added bonus.

Visiting the Outskirts

While our day was mostly dedicated to exploring the downtown, there was a stop that had to be seen just north of town. The Nelson Pioneer Farm pays homage to one of the early families to migrate to the Mahaska region. Having an opportunity to tour this complex of historic buildings was made all the more special with a guide in period dress. When you make your visit to Oskaloosa, you will want to bring the whole family to this stop. There is so much to see and learn about that it will provide plenty of road trip conversation material.

A Day Downtown

Exploring Oskaloosa reminded us how many great stories there are to uncover with a day downtown. We were excited to find some fun selfie spots, as well as a nice selection of local murals. While we only had one day to do our discovery, we feel like we were able to get a good feel for the vibe of the town. As we often find during our trips, the thing that made this visit so special was the locals. It never gets old meeting all of the kind souls that make up the fabric of a community. We are sure you will find the same results when you do your own exploring.

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Getting Our Dutch Fix – Pella, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 21 May 2021 09:00:29 +0000

We have had the opportunity to sample a wide range of cuisines, but Dutch had escaped our taste buds. It took a visit to Pella, Iowa for us to savor this particular style of dishes. Dropping by for Tulip Time allowed us to immerse ourselves in the culture and flavors of this particular fare. With only a couple of days to check it out, we wanted to get our Dutch Fix every chance we got. The city is filled with tasty opportunities, but we focused our attention on the downtown square.

We want to thank Visit Pella for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Tulip Time Specials

When a city of just over 10,000 plays host to a crowd that nearly doubles the population, you have to make some adjustments. Dutch Fix has learned to adjust its robust menu to streamline the process of serving the masses. This was no issue for us since we had no predetermined dishes in mind. We were just going with the flow and ready to tackle anything that came before us. It was handy that they had placed a placard outdoors since it helped us determine our choices before heading in.

Popular Place

Of course, heading in during Tulip Time means waiting your turn. Being festival savvy, we know to expect lines for everything. This is where the streamlined menu helps out. The staff at Dutch Fix has made an art of serving this type of crowd. With having a halt to the festival in 2020, due to COVID, they were eager to see a return of the crowds. Our plan in these types of scenarios is to scope out other customers’ plates to help confirm our menu selections. With about a 20 minute wait in line, we had plenty of time to complete that task.

Getting Our Bearings

As we made our way through the line we felt our hunger growing. Seeing all of the delectable-looking dishes was really striking a chord with us. We diverted our attention to the colorful mural that decorates the main wall of the restaurant. During one of the Tulip Time festival presentations, we had heard about the history of the Netherlands. Seeing this large map helped us get our bearings of the cities that dot this small European country.

Go Big or Go Home

As the line continued to progress forward, our anticipation grew. When our turn came we were prepared to quickly blurt out our order. We had heard and seen, where others had selected the Dominie Burger. They create this monster burger using twin patties, bacon, Gouda cheese curds, sliced smoked Gouda, mayonnaise, and pickles. Cramming all of that goodness inside of a bun is a real task. Having seen others attempt to tackle it, we decided to split one. When you toss in a side of Frites, we quickly learned it was a wise decision. We have sampled a wide range of burger joints around our hometown and this one definitely stacks up to them. It’s easy to see why it ranks in the Top 10 in Iowa.

Dutch Dessert

During our time in Pella, we had noted a variety of dishes with names unfamiliar to us. One that we kept hearing about was Poffertjes. Everyone told us that we had to try them out, but we weren’t exactly sure what they were. When we spotted them on the menu at Dutch Fix, we knew it was time to give them a whirl. Evidently, this traditional dessert can come with a wide range of toppings, but during the festival Dutch Fix had concentrated on the three most popular. The Amsterdam Poffertjes are tiny Dutch pancakes covered with Nutella and diced strawberries. A hearty dusting of powdered sugar helps take the sweetness to a higher level. It only took one bite to understand why so many people are enamored with this sweet treat.

Getting Our Dutch Fix

Our visit to Pella brought us at the peak of the festival period, so we obviously faced large crowds. Now that we have had a savoring of the Dutch cuisine, we plan to revisit during a less busy period. This summer would make an excellent time to do such a trip and would offer a chance to explore more of the culinary treats that are found in this Midwestern city. We love that Pella embraces its cultural history not only with its museums and shops, but also in its restaurants. Now we just need to figure out how to make those Poffertjes at home.

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Life In The Heartland – Nelson Pioneer Farm

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 18 May 2021 09:00:38 +0000

It is a simple fact that the Midwest was settled by farmers. The fertile lands of the Central Plains are often referred to as the “Breadbasket of America”. Being natives of this region, we enjoy visiting sites that tell the stories of these fruitful laborers. Oskaloosa is home to the Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum, which showcases life in rural Iowa and the occupations that were needed for survival. Over a dozen buildings have been assembled on the acreage that the Nelson family settled only a year after the land was opened. We dropped by to explore the spaces and learn more about how the family started a new life in the heartland.

We want to thank Mahaska Chamber and Nelson Pioneer Farm for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Character Tour

The Nelson Pioneer farm is located on the northeast corner of Oskaloosa. Coming from Ohio, they were seeking lands that would offer fresh, unfarmed soil. Their original claim of 160 acres more than doubled with subsequent purchases. These days, the living history museum occupies some of the original lands that the family pioneered. We arrived at the end of a tour by a local school group, so we found we had the place all to ourselves. Margaret, the museum curator, welcomed us for our guided tour. Being all garbed up in period costumes helped paint the picture of life in the heartland in the 1800s.

The Homestead

Our first stop was to the brick home that the Nelsons completed about 10 years after their arrival. For the first few years, they lived life in a log cabin, much like many pioneers would have done. By the time this structure was completed, the family had grown to seven people. This would surely have made space tight in a small cabin. A building of this size would have been no easy feat in the mid-1800s. The stones for the foundation were quarried nearby, but they would have to wait for winter’s frozen ground to drag them into place. To produce the bricks needed for the exterior, the family constructed a kiln. The plentiful trees provided an abundance of building material for the interior, as they cleared the land for crops.

A True Time Capsule

On a previous excursion, we had learned about some of the unique ways municipalities taxed their residents. The idea of being charged by room, including closets seems a little far-fetched for us these days. While most would avoid this additional cost, the Nelson family embraced it as a way to show status. In this community, they were also taxed on the number of glass panes, but that didn’t stop the Nelsons from incorporating nearly 200 in their completed home. Throughout the period of the family’s stay in the home, they never added electricity or running water. The five-room home was heated using four fireplaces.

Modern Conveniences?

Today we have all of the modern conveniences in our kitchens. In the 1800s it would have been a much different story. Where the fireplaces would have been used to heat the homes during cold spells, having a fire in the house during the summer would have been brutal. Like most 1800s homes, a summer kitchen was built to cook meals during the temperate months. Storing food during the warm months would have been easier with this version of a dumbwaiter. A series of trays would be loaded with perishables, which could be lowered into a dry well. This would keep the food at a stable temperature and well away from the blistering summer heat.

The General Store

Margaret led us to a section of the farmstead that holds a series of buildings. Most of these have been moved here from nearby communities. We like that they were able to salvage these historic structures, which would have otherwise fallen into disrepair. The Mott General Store had originally sat in lacey, Iowa. Like many of these types of establishments, payments could be made in various forms. While cash was always accepted, some of their clients would barter or trade for the things they needed from the store.

Equipment Through the Ages

The other buildings teach visitors about other aspects of daily life in the heartland. We toured a schoolhouse, post office, scale house, blacksmith shop, lumber office, and even a voting house. As we collected information from our guide, it painted a picture of living in a farm community during the 1800s and early 1900s. Margaret led us past these historic buildings to a large warehouse. Inside we discovered a collection of farm equipment and vehicles that would have seen nearly daily usage in those days. When I spotted this wagon, I was immediately enamored with the witty saying painted on the outside. What a great advertisement tool for a traveling salesman.

Timely Display

Our visits to historic sites like the Nelson Pioneer Farm are more than fun, they are educational. The stories we hear and the backgrounds we discover help us fill in the voids that we either never learned or had forgotten over the years. Oftentimes, we see displays that stand as a stark reminder that current events are simply reflections of things that our forefathers faced in the past. Seeing a display about the various inoculations that families faced in the past help put our current pandemic situation in perspective. After all, even without the amazing advancements in medical knowledge, they were able to combat polio, whooping cough, measles, and other debilitating diseases.

Life in the Heartland

The Nelson Pioneer farm is too large to encompass in a single article. There are so many stories that are hidden within the walls of the buildings that dot the landscape. Margaret did a great job of detailing some of these, in the limited time we had available. It is easy to imagine a family spending hours exploring this place. After all, I haven’t even mentioned the barn, log cabin, sawmill, windmill, or the mule cemetery. They also have a model home from the community of Buxton, Iowa, which sat within the coal mining region of central Iowa. To learn more about life in the heartland, we suggest a visit to the Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum. Be sure to tell Margaret that we sent you!

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Discover Dubuque – Iowa’s First City

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 09:45:29 +0000

To gain a true history of Dubuque, you have to go all the way back to the 1700s. The first European settler arrived in the region in 1785. Julien Dubuque had received permission from Spain to mine the lead-rich deposits in and around the bluffs of the Mississippi River. The ownership of the territory would change hands after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. In 1837, more than two decades after Dubuque’s death, the city would be officially chartered and named after the original pioneer. Having a chance to discover Dubuque attractions, eateries, and sights was an opportunity we were not going to pass up.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and the local businesses for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are ours.

Howdy Partner!

A big part of a successful blogging trip includes establishing a working relationship with the local tourism bureau. Travel Dubuque helped us identify key destinations, that would be a perfect fit for our audience. After a quick stop at their downtown location, we had all of the information we needed for a successful visit. Always remember to check out the local visitors’ center for brochures, tips, and even coupons for local businesses.

Iowa’s First City

As we began to explore Dubuque sights, we discovered that it is not just the oldest city in Iowa. In fact, it is one of the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. This river city was built by hard-working immigrants, who came to the region in search of a better life. While early commerce focused on mining, the city would later become an industrial mecca. Some of the main industries were logging, mill-work, meat packing, and even button making. We found out that this particular industry derived from the mother-of-pearl that was harvested from shells gathered from the nearby river.

Getting Back to Nature

Since the best way to discover Dubuque history is from the beginning, it just makes sense that we head to the Mines of Spain. This area was originally inhabited by the Mesquakie tribe. Evidence shows that they were working lead mines prior to the Revolutionary War. They also dealt with fur trading with French trappers who visited the region. The area is covered with hiking trails and offers a chance to get back to nature. A visit to the Mines of Spain also brings with it plenty of amazing views from the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. While we were in the neighborhood, we decided to add a visit to Crystal Lake Cave. This spelunking venue was accidentally discovered by a lead miner in 1868. A brief history of the cave can be found in one of our previous articles, along with some photos from the underground. (Explore the cave here.)

Bird’s Eye View

Now that we had explored the underground world on which Dubuque lies, it was time to see it from a different perspective. A visit to the Fenelon Place Elevator offers an opportunity for a historic ride up the bluffs. Touted as the “World’s Shortest Railway”, we found that it is extremely popular with locals and visitors alike. We have to say that the views found above are fantastic. From the top, we could see out across the downtown area and over the Mississippi River Valley. You definitely want to include this stop on your itinerary. (Take a ride here.)

A River Runs Through

With all of these wonderful views of the water, it was time to get a little closer perspective. A visit to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium would give us an inside view of our nation’s waterways. This Smithsonian affiliate complex is filled to the gills with exhibits and artifacts. Be sure to block off some extra time, so that you can explore all of the buildings, as well as the extra exhibits out back. (Explore the River Museum here.)

Slowing Our Pace

With all of this running around, we needed a chance to slow down for a bit. A visit to the Dubuque Botanical Gardens was the perfect solution. This volunteer-run attraction offers tranquil settings and peaceful places to relax. During our time there, we noticed others must have had the same idea. We even saw some local artists painting landscape scenes in the gardens. (Take a walk through the gardens here.)

Historic Lodging

Speaking of getting some rest, let’s discuss finding the perfect overnight lodging location. Hotel Julien was a great solution, as it allowed us to stay right in the heart of all the fun. This historic hotel has been the temporary dwelling of some big names, through the years. As we explored the spaces, we imagined that we were walking in the same steps as Abraham Lincoln and Al Capone. We were beginning to discover that Dubuque has been a hot spot for visitors for decades. It was definitely an experience that we will remember. (Explore Hotel Julien here.)

A Fresh Start

While breakfast at the Hotel Julien was a convenient way to start the day, we also wanted to sample the local flavors of the Millwork District. Located near the downtown, it is an area that is seeing a flurry of revitalization, much as we have found in other downtowns. We visited this cute coffee shop, which offers a tranquil, relaxed way to ease into the day. Inspire Cafe is certainly well named, as it inspired us to discover Dubuque districts outside of downtown.

A Nod to the King

The task of researching potential itinerary stops allows us to envision the flavor of a new destination. What that can often lead to, is the struggle with paring down our choices that can be visited in the time allowed. This really comes out when the subject is dining. It never fails that we find tons of interesting eateries, but we can only eat so many meals. When we found a spot that offers a PB&J burger, at 1st & Main, well it jumped up to the “must try” list. (Check out 1st & Main here.)

Cutting Edge

We always look for at least one stop that is on the cutting edge of the local social scene. In Dubuque, we chose L. May Eatery, and we were not disappointed. The locals flock to this urban eatery for cocktails, consumables, and conversation. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers indoor and outdoor seating options. We would soon discover Dubuque is a great choice for people watching. (Step inside L. May here.)

One of the Family

Since we had the people watching spot covered, we wanted to find a dining option that brought some comfort food to the table. When we spotted Vinny Vanucchi’s, it immediately caught our attention. The idea of dining in a family atmosphere should elevate comfort to the highest level. When we arrived, it went well beyond dining with family and ended up feeling like they adopted us into their clan. (Check out Vinny’s here.)

It’s the People

Speaking of family, we found the most amazing chocolate maker, while exploring Dubuque, Iowa. Betty Jane has been a Dubuque landmark for many years. When it changed hands, some people were worried that the original recipes would be replaced. No worries here, the new owners have focused their energy on making the brand recognizable worldwide. After some taste testing, we knew that their sweet treats were too good to be kept a Dubuque secret. Besides, the new owners are amazingly friendly folk, that welcome the chance to show off some Iowa products. (Read more about Betty Jane here.)

Farewell for Now!

Our visit had allowed us to discover Dubuque treasures, that are fun for all ages. With all of these memories in the bag, it was time for us to make our return to our hometown. As we made our last trip through the downtown, we took the last chance to check out all of the cool wall murals. Our time in Iowa’s first city had opened our eyes to a wide variety of entertainment and dining options. We didn’t get to see all of the places we had researched, but we were happy to have an opportunity to savor a taste of Dubuque. Which of these stops would you add to your vacation itinerary?

The post Discover Dubuque – Iowa’s First City appeared first on Our Changing Life.

Nature’s Highways – National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 09:45:22 +0000

There were certain attractions that were “must-sees” during our visit to Dubuque, Iowa. Being Iowa’s first city, it is no surprise that there is a river nearby. Of course, this isn’t just any river. Visiting the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium promised to be an adventure on a grand scale. After all, it’s the largest river in North America, and this museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute. We booked three hours to explore the exhibits designed around nature’s highways and knew that we would be pushed to the limit to see it all in detail.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and the National Mississippi River Museum for their hospitality. rest assured all opinions are our own.

Impressive Layout

With a place as large as this, we knew that our article would only offer a cursory view of the exhibits. There are multiple buildings to be explored, so we started with the National Rivers Center. Just looking out over this first space, showed us that they have found a way to utilize every inch of space. This gallery is focused on introducing visitors to the early uses of rivers in the wilderness. From the earliest days, rivers were nature’s highway system that would allow travel throughout the lands.

Earliest People

Archaeological excavations have produced evidence of earlier civilizations all around the river’s path. This is probably no surprise to anyone since water is the lifeblood of all living creatures. A series of displays show some interesting pieces that have been unearthed. They offer a glimpse of the past and help us form a vision of what these cultures must have been like, in those early days.

Nature’s Highway

Besides the native Indians, the rivers were also used as nature’s highways by traders and explorers. These early adventurers set out to discover new regions and hopefully strike their fortunes. Some were trappers who found plenty of wildlife living in and around the waterways. These early roads were used by the explorers as pathways to the mountains, where many of the rivers had their origins. In a nearby cave exhibit, we were able to sit and listen to stories of early explorers like Samuel de Champlain and Jacques Marquette.

Exploring New Lands

The fur trade was a huge driver behind the exploration of North America. Trappers pushed further and further inland, in an effort to discover pristine areas. The rivers provided an alternative to overland travel. As the push into new territories expanded, it brought with it contact with new native tribes. These early explorers discovered that many of the native Indians had long ago established a trading system between tribes. The Europeans did bring new merchandise, that was eagerly sought after by the native people.

Splash Zone Ahead

Now that we had explored the origins of traffic on nature’s highway, it was time to roll up our sleeves and get wet. The RiverWorks Splash Zone is designed to let kids of all ages discover the many uses of nature’s highways. A series of exhibits allowed us to get hands-on while learning how ships navigate the rivers and use locks systems. Nearby, there are a set of small aquariums that hold various species of aquatic species.

Little Learners

One of the animals most associated with rivers is the beaver. At the National Mississippi River Museum you can explore a beaver’s lodge, while you learn more about this creature. Displays explain how they are able to chew through trees with such efficiency. We even got to feel a little of the beavers pelt, which was so sought after by those early fur traders. This whole space is fun for kids, but parents can enjoy it, as well.

In Touch With Nature

Speaking of getting to feel creatures. Step on over to Down in the Delta for another fun experience. Here you can get up close and personal with stingrays, at their 2250 gallon touch pool. These gentle beings glide through the water, as guests are invited to feel their slippery skin. Also in this area, we found more aquariums. Most of these focused on creatures that live close to where the Mississippi River flows out to meet the ocean. The largest aquarium in the museum resides near this area and features an assortment of saltwater species from the Gulf of Mexico.

Watery Inhabitants

With our time passing faster than we wanted, it was time to move over to the Mississippi River Center. We passed the aviary on our way to the other complex. Here the focus turns from all of nature’s highways to the one great river in Central North America. Inside this building, we found more aquarium style exhibits. Each one focused on a specific ecosystem that can be found along the river’s path. Still, water areas are home to water snakes, turtles, and dozens of bird species. Deepwater holds interesting creatures like the paddle-fish. There is even an exhibit about the bayou area, which includes the American alligator.

Timely Education

During our exploration of this building, we noticed additional exhibits on the second floor. What we found there, was a grouping of rotating displays that showcase historical artifacts about Dubuque, Iowa. One that caught our eye, was a model of the Fenelon Place Elevator. While the main museum focuses on nature’s highways, this exhibit showcases one a little further inland. Since this was one of the attractions on our itinerary, it was perfect that we got a chance to discover how it operates. (You can read our article about the elevator here.)

Rotating Exhibit

The other half of the second floor holds a temporary exhibit. During our visit, it was all about fairy tales. The brightly colored displays give children a chance to immerse themselves in the stories that they have heard for years. Of course, there were a few obscure tales that we were unfamiliar with. Space was well designed and laid out to accommodate areas for play.

Heading Into the Woods

Each of the specific tales included at least one interactive part in the display. Visitors were invited to slide down the beanstalk or try on Cinderella’s glass slipper. It was an entertaining exhibit, even for grown-up kids like us. These two areas reminded us of the outdoor theater we experienced in Lindsborg, Kansas. (You can read about it here.) Once we finished playing around in this area, we realized that time was quickly running out on our visit. We quickly made our way to the outdoor space, between the centers. In this area, visitors have a chance to check out a paddle-wheel driven river dredge ship. There are even more exhibits to see, but we’ll leave some surprises for your visit. You may want to plan for more than three hours.

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Family Tradition At Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 09:45:58 +0000

When we are developing an itinerary for a new destination, picking our dining locations is especially important. I got my blogging start by hosting a local restaurant site for five years. When we expanded to our travel blog, it was important that we maintained our roots. Fortunately, locating interesting restaurants is usually easy. When I started researching downtown Dubuque, I found that there were way too many eateries for us to visit. This meant that we had to select a handful that would offer a broad example of what can be found in Iowa’s oldest city. When we learned about Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy, it was clear that it needed to be explored. Little did we know, that we would find loads of family tradition at this welcoming dining destination.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and Vinny Vanucchi’s for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Seating Choices

Downtown Dubuque is easily navigated on foot. With everything in close proximity, we were never more than a few blocks away from our hotel. (You can read about Hotel Julien here.) Our dinner at Vinny Vanucchi’s ended up being less than a block down the street. Inside, we found that they have a few seating areas to choose from. A counter-service deli offers a quick lunch area that transforms into extra dining space in the evening. There is also a bar area for those just wanting to enjoy a Happy Hour. We chose to be seated in the main dining room. No matter where you sit, you’ll have views of plenty of family photos.

Drink Up!

Once we were seated, the restaurant manager, Sunny Moore, came by to visit. Like most visits, we had pre-scheduled a time when the staff wouldn’t be overloaded. This is an approach we find works best for all involved. It’s also a great way to have top-notch service since the wait staff isn’t slammed with customer requests. Sunny suggested we start with a drink, and when we struggled to pick the best one, she decided to bring out a trio to sample. The White Sangria had a mellow, fruity taste that makes for a refreshing summer cocktail. The Dirty Frank packed a good punch, and along with the Raspberry Cosmo, made us look very upscale.

Time for some Italian Classics

We sipped our cocktails, while we ate our salad and breadsticks. We weren’t worried about the effects since we were doing the pedestrian thing that evening. Before long our dinner dishes arrived. Crystal had selected the Chicken Vinito, which features a delectable mix of tomato, artichoke, and basil. These are tossed with fresh Linguine and a charbroiled chicken breast. The flavor reminded her of one of her favorite Italian dishes, so I could tell she was completely satisfied.

Getting Stuffed

Since Crystal was going old school with one of her favorites, I felt I should as well. Uncle Paulie’s Baked Penne combines the three flavors I enjoy the most from Italian cuisine. Vinny Vanucchi’s hits it out of the ballpark with this dish. Baked Penne noodles are doused in a delicious tomato sauce. Then they add Ricotta and Mozzarella cheese to the bake for gooey richness. A healthy sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds that extra zest. We were going to be full for a week.

Any Room Left?

Sometimes, I think we do ourselves an injustice by leaving dessert for last. Sure, we were full, but the dishes they brought to the table looked too tasty to pass up. Cream filled Cannoli, decadent Tiramisu, and an airy piece of Italian Lemon Wedding Cake all begged to be tasted. It was looking like we were going to need to do a lot of walking after dinner.

Family Tradition at Vinny Vanucchi’s

After we pushed ourselves away from the table, we had one more surprise. Sunny wanted to show us a little more of the space. We had already noted that Vinny Vanucchi’s is filled with many old photographs, and she explained that most are actually family shots. She led us upstairs to a seating area that can be reserved for special occasions. There is even space, with the head table, that puts the guests of honor in an old jail cell. Can you imagine having your wedding reception here? Everywhere we looked, there were mementos and artifacts of the family. Our visit to Vinny Vanucchi’s was more than just a meal, it was like being invited into the family.

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In The Shadow Of Giants At Hotel Julien

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 09:45:23 +0000

History has a way of sneaking up on you. When we visited Dubuque, we knew we were experiencing Iowa’s first city. The moment that Julien Dubuque first arrived on the western shore of the Mississippi River, was the start of something special. It would be almost 50 years before the city would be officially chartered, and another 13 years before the territory would become a state. By that point, there was already a hotel occupying the corner of 2nd and Main. Fast forward 180 years and the Hotel Julien stands proudly on this spot overlooking the Mighty Mississippi. Over the decades this site has hosted a cavalcade of dignitaries. Our visit gave us a chance to sleep in the shadow of giants, at this elegant downtown boutique hotel.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and Hotel Julien for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Silent Sentinel

When we discovered that Hotel Julien would be our home away from home for a couple of days, our first task was to find out about the hotel’s history. Way back in 1839, a building was erected on this spot. The original four-story lodging was called the Waples House, after a wealthy Dubuque merchant. Travelers coming from the east would find this building greeting them, as they crossed the river. The views from our corner room looked east across the river. We could imagine those early pioneers coming out of the fog to suddenly see this grand hotel rising from the banks.

Elegance Abounds

In 1854, the building was purchased and renamed. Even in those early days, it was already drawing in notable guests. In 1859, Abraham Lincoln spent time in the hotel, during a stint working for the Illinois Central Railroad. While records don’t note which room he stayed in, he obviously used the same lobby as we did. Our room on the eighth floor brought us close to another famous visitor. We heard a variety of stories about the notorious gangster, Al Capone, and his visits to the Hotel Julien. When the heat got too high in Chicago, he would travel with his entourage to Dubuque, to lay low. It is reported that they would block off the entire eighth floor during their stays. While the renovation removed all of the old furniture, we knew that there was a chance we might sleep in the shadow of giants.

Refresh

The Hotel Julien went through an extensive renovation a few years ago. Today, it has all of the modern conveniences that travelers expect, but still holds its air of historic significance. Even with a packed itinerary, we made sure to reserve some time to explore the hotel. Our goal was to seek out their indoor pool area, so we set off in search of our prize. When we happened upon the Potosa Spa, we decided to pop in to check it out. We found out that the unusual name comes from a daughter of a chief from a local Native American tribe. She was supposedly the wife of Julien Dubuque. To honor her, the spa offers treatments that draw inspiration from Native American culture.

Relax

As we continued our exploration, we came to the indoor pool area. This space is decorated in the same rich colors that are found throughout the hotel. In one corner of the room, we found their whirlpool spa. We were hoping to squeeze in a little time in the spa, to help unwind after a day of walking around town. I dipped my toe into the spa to feel the deliciously warm water. Now I was really looking forward to a late evening visit.

Recharge

Hotel Julien not only had us sleeping in the shadow of giants, but it also has a restaurant with its own story to tell. Caroline’s is named for a local businesswoman with ties to the hotel’s management, but her tale comes from the late 1800s. Her husband owned an ice business but died from pneumonia after falling into the Mississippi River. With five children to feed, she took over the business and eventually invested in a variety of downtown properties. She was very diligent about her business. It is reported that she would follow her delivery drivers, to make sure they did their job correctly.

Delectable Eats

Today, Caroline’s is positioned to offer views of the harbor, where the ice was harvested. With this beautiful view laid out before us, we enjoyed a delicious American breakfast. This was one where we each ordered, but then shared dishes for more variety. My choice was the Chicken and Waffle, which is a tip of the hat to a dish popular in river towns in the southern U.S. The version served at Caroline’s offers up a crispy fried chicken breast laid out on a Belgian-style waffle. Crystal picked the Biscuits and Gravy, which is another southern dish. Another well-done dish, which disappeared in a few minutes. Now we were ready for another day of exploring.

Sleep in the Shadow of Giants

The Hotel Julien is a delightful mix of historic opulence and modern convenience. Being located in the heart of the downtown area, it makes the perfect home base for exploring the surrounding community. It maintains a prominent spot in the city’s landscape, which makes it easy to use to reset your bearings. There is a slew of restaurants, shops, and attractions within walking distance. (You can read about one at 1st and Main here.) Besides, how often do you get the opportunity to sleep in the shadow of giants like Lincoln or Capone?

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Spelunking In Dubuque, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 02 Oct 2019 09:45:47 +0000

Iowa is known for many things, but underground caves are one that didn’t make it on our list. You can imagine our surprise when we learned that Dubuque is home to Crystal Lake Cave. Located near the Mines of Spain Recreation Area, this underground attraction offered us a chance to satisfy some spelunking urges. Visiting caves is a fun way to learn the history of a city from the ground up. As a matter of fact, this stop would give us a peek below the ground, as well.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and Crystal Lake Cave for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Spelunking Equipment

Crystal Lake Cave is a living attraction, which means that many of the formations are still growing. It was originally discovered in 1868 by James Rice, a lead miner looking for ore. The lands around Dubuque are known for being rich with this mineral. Much to Rice’s surprise, the cave was filled with an amazing array of minerals. In those days, access was made by being lowered down 45 feet in a bucket. Not exactly the type of transportation method we would prefer. They could have used an elevator like the one found downtown. (You can read about it here.) These days there is a staircase that leads into the cave. The gift shop offers spelunking helmets, which we decided to pass up. In hindsight, I wish I would have gotten one. It would have kept the drips off of my head, and made a great souvenir of our visit.

Shining a Light on Dubuque History

Our guide led us down the stairs and into the cave. As we made our way through the twisting tunnels, she explained some of the histories of Crystal Lake Cave. From its early start as Rice’s Cave, it passed to Charles Linden. Renamed Crystal Lake Cave, in the 1930s, Linden’s son-in-law developed it as a tourist attraction. It stayed in the family’s possession until 1978. James and Doris Rubel became owners at that point and had the lighting system completely refurbished. Using theater-style lighting techniques, it created less heat and increased the dramatic impact on visitors.

Live Spelunking in Dubuque

Being a living attraction means that Crystal Lake Cave has many formations that are continuing to grow. To accomplish this, it requires water to seep through the ground. That means that many of the formations continue to “weep” with mineral-rich moisture. As we made our way through this spelunking adventure, we would periodically feel a drip on our heads. That’s where the mining caps would have come in handy. There are also some low ceiling areas, that would favor a bump cap, but our guide was always warning us of any potential danger.

Back Above Ground

I’m not claustrophobic, so our spelunking adventure was fascinating to me. With our visit complete, and our souvenirs in hand, it was time to move along. Before heading out, I took a moment to celebrate our spelunking adventure with the zest of an old-fashioned prospector. We certainly hit the mother lode when it comes to seeing some beautiful formations.

A Quick Stop at a Major Landmark

Before heading back into downtown Dubuque, we decided to make a short detour into the Mines of Spain Recreation Area. With over 1400 acres of wooded hillsides to explore,this is the perfect place for hiking, canoeing, wildlife watching or just a picnic. This space is home to a variety of creatures including; bobcat, deer, turkey, hawks, and various songbirds. It also boasts around 21 miles of trails that can be explored year-round. For those cold weather fans, roughly 6 miles of them are designed for cross-country skiing.

Honoring Dubuque’s Pioneer

Since our time was limited, we decided to visit the Julien Dubuque monument. Located on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, it affords breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the city of Dubuque. The site, as well as the city, are namesakes of the first European settler to the region. Julien Dubuque had received a grant to work the lands, which were owned by Spain in 1788. He built a trading post, as well as his residence in what would become Iowa territory. Trading with the native peoples, he established a collection of buildings and named the site the Mines of Spain. Today, the 25-foot tower stands as a monument to this pioneer who saw the value of the surrounding lands. Have you ever seen the view from this historic spot?

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Social Hot Spot At L. May Eatery

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 09:35:53 +0000

Downtown Dubuque, Iowa is filled with an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. This walk-able destination is perfect for pedestrian visits. On a day filled with exploring, we found ourselves doing a once-around the downtown space. It started as an adventure to check out some local murals, that are found on the sides of many downtown buildings. After working up an appetite, we were ready to sample a social hot spot, just a few blocks up from our hotel. When we arrived at L. May Eatery, we could tell it was popular with the locals.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and L. May Eatery for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are ours.

Social Hot Spot

We passed by the collection of bistro tables located along the sidewalk in front of the restaurant. Even on an unusually warm evening, most of the tables were occupied. We opted to spend our meal time indoors, so we made our way inside. As we waited for our table to be readied, we noted that the bar area was another social hot spot. I made note of some fanciful drink options, as a few looked quite interesting.

Dining with the Locals

In just a couple of minutes, our hostess led us to our table in the main dining area. There are two rooms that incorporate booths and tables into one. This works great, since Crystal prefers booth seating, while I am a chair guy. Once again, we noted that L. May Eatery could be noted as a social hot spot. While we didn’t take a survey, it was obvious that many of the guests were locals. We enjoyed the large windows, which allowed us to people watch diners inside and out.

Small Bites Starter

When we selected L. May Eatery for our itinerary, it was based on the rave reviews of their pizzas. To get us started, we decided to sample a couple of their signature cocktails, as well as a charcuterie board. I chose a Honey Bee Fashioned, which is a delicious blend of Iowa produced honey and bourbon. Add in the flavor of freshly muddled cherries and you have a wonderful version of a classic drink. Crystal went with a mocktail. This interesting concoction was invented by the owner’s daughter and offered plenty of flavor without the liquor. We sipped our drinks, as we nibbled on our SW Wisconsin Cheese Plate. Four kinds of local cheeses combined with prosciutto, olives, apple, artisan crackers, and a delectable chutney.

Pizza Elevated

We munched on our appetizer, as we waited for our made from scratch pizza. Our selection was the Pig & Fig. This specialty pie combines the sweetness of sliced figs and the hearty flavor of roasted pork. The cracker style crust brings a nice crispy texture. Our appetizer had taken the edge off of our hunger, and this pizza helped put it to rest. After a day filled with exploring some of Dubuque’s unique attractions, this was the perfect way to replenish our energy for an evening walk. (You can read about one of the unique stops here.)

Back to Exploring

We were very pleased with our visit to this Dubuque social hot spot. A visit to L. May Eatery is definitely a good addition to any vacation itinerary. They serve up some delicious bites, and the staff is very friendly. We even had an opportunity to speak with the owner for a couple of minutes, although he was busy behind the bar. It was obvious that the restaurant is a labor of love for him. We discovered that it is named after his grandmother, Lil’ May, which just added to our love for the atmosphere. This is exactly the kind of place we like to visit during our travels. One where you will find and experience and tastes that won’t be soon forgotten.

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Slow Your Pace At Dubuque Arboretum

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 09:45:09 +0000

When traveling to a new destination, it is easy to get wrapped up into rushing through sites. Too often, we are trying to pack as much as possible into our time. The idea of missing out on even one attraction leads to a hurried pace. To help prevent us from falling into this mode, I will arrange our schedule to include a couple of stops designed to change our speed. The Dubuque Arboretum is one of those places that is designed to slow your pace.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and the Dubuque Arboretum for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Slow Your Pace

What began in 1980, has grown to become a favorite of the community. The gardens were created by volunteers and is still maintained by an all-volunteer staff. Admission is FREE, but they do accept donations to help keep the gardens growing. We started our visit by passing through this charming Japanese Garden gate. Immediately, we could feel the peacefulness flow over us. Just inside the garden is a bench, where we made a short stop to just take it all in.

Tranquil Settings

We made our way down the hillside and arrived at a small pond. The sound of falling water drew our attention to a nearby bridge. Stopping along the way across, we let the sound wash away any tension that we had leftover. Beneath the bridge, a school of Koi fish darted in and out of the shadows. The summer day promised to be hot, but for now, the gentle breezes made the weather delightful.

Getting a Little Formal

Farther into the Dubuque Arboretum, we came across an English Garden. Set in a formal design, it is lined with rows of neatly trimmed boxwood bushes. The repeating patterns are certainly pleasing, but not quite our cup of tea.

Inspiring Ideas

When we happened upon the Cactus Garden, we had to slow our pace a little more. Being from the Midwest, it surprised us to see so much variety in this bed. We have considered adding cacti to our own landscape but wondered how they would handle the unpredictable winter weather. It was reassuring to see that they were able to survive in an ecosystem north of our own.

Something For All Ages

After stopping in the gift shop for a break, we made our way back into the garden area. Just a few steps away, we came upon a Children’s Garden. It held multiple smaller beds, that each had an interesting story to tell. Actually, there was a theme that ran through all of the beds, which was children’s nursery rhymes and tales. Everything from Hickory, Dickory, Dock to the Princess and the Pea were found. It was fun figuring out what each flower bed was supposed to represent.

Slow Your Pace

Discovering that the Dubuque Arboretum is completely volunteer-run, made the place a little extra special. Checking out all of the beautiful gardens will certainly cause you to slow your pace. Perhaps you will even want to join the locals, and enjoy painting one of the scenes found around the space. If you have plenty of time, there are spots to rest for a bit and just take in the scenery. No matter how you decide to take in the sights at this attraction, we are confident that you will finish your visit in a relaxed state of mind. How many of you enjoy visiting arboretums?

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Sweet Success At Betty Jane Candies

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 09:45:28 +0000

Let’s see a show of hands for all of our candy lovers out there. You can bet that Crystal and I each have our hands raised. Not every destination we visit gives us a chance to sample some new confectionery. Of course, I am always scoping out the landscape to see if one is available and within striking distance. Dubuque, Iowa offered a perfect opportunity to sample the sweet success at Betty Jane Candies. While we were unfamiliar with this particular chocolatier, we would soon discover that they have an immense following worldwide.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and Betty Jane Candies for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Colorful Displays

Betty Jane Candies isn’t exactly located in the downtown, so it wasn’t initially on our radar. When we decided to add the Dubuque Arboretum to our itinerary, it meant that we would have to venture outside of our home base space closer to the river. (We will add a link to the arboretum here when the article is released.) Now we would be passing directly by the candy store, so we obviously had to make a stop. When we entered the store, we were greeted by brightly colored candies arranged in eye-pleasing displays.

Under Wraps

We don’t know if it is a fact, but we will toss it out and see if it sticks. It is impossible to be sad in a candy store. With so many shiny bags filled with sweet treats, our taste buds were kicking into gear. The intoxicating aroma of chocolate filled the air, drawing us in closer. I jumped into action and began taking photos of the beautiful displays. There is something magical about a candy shop that brings cheer to your heart.

Sweet Presence

We were greeted by Andrew Siegert, who is the new-ish president of the company. Betty Jane Candies has been serving up delicious treats since 1938. For over 70 years, one family managed the business. In 2011 this changed, as the family handed the reins over to the new owners. While we are sure the founding family was concerned with the tradition continuing, those fears were unwarranted. Andrew, and his staff, are diligent about maintaining the highest level of quality and preserving the time-proven recipes.

Sampling the Sweets

Now that we knew the back story, it was time to get down to business. The reason for the sweet success at Betty Jane Candies is their strict adherence to providing a consistently high-quality product. Their candies are deliciously decadent and are concentrated between milk and dark chocolates. We found that they offer nuts, toffee, creams, and caramels encased in silky chocolate coatings. As we became intoxicated with the chocolate, we would soon discover our favorite, the Gremlins! This delicate blend of caramel, pecans, and milk chocolate is sinfully delicious.

Sweet Success at Betty Jane

Now it may sound like we are exaggerating the goodness of the candies at Betty Jane, so let’s let the facts speak for themselves. This small Iowa chocolatier has risen to fame in the past few years. Under Andrew’s direction, they have moved from being an Iowa favorite to becoming a sweet success on a worldwide scale. In 2013, they appeared in the “swag bags” at the Emmy Awards. In 2014 it was the Academy Awards ceremony. They repeated this feat with an appearance in the bags at the 2017 Grammy Awards. This exposure has propelled Betty Jane Candies to fame but has not changed the love that they put into each step of production.

Midwest Hospitality

With so much going right for them, we are confident that this Iowa confectioner will continue to receive accolades for many years to come. After all, to them it is more than just a business, it is a chance to share their passion with the rest of the world. Before we departed, Andrew loaded us up with an assortment of their products. These were well received by all of our friends and family, but we kept the Gremlins for ourselves. After all, we wanted to share in the sweet success at Betty Jane Candies, as well. Have you ever sampled their sweet treats?

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Riding The World’s Shortest Railway in Dubuque

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 09:45:34 +0000

Dubuque, Iowa sits along a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Let me clarify that by saying, part of the city sits on a bluff. The oldest portions of the city lie along the flood plain that rests beside the river. Carved out by the changing river patterns, this is home for many of the original businesses that fueled the growing city. It is also the place that we ended up riding the world’s shortest railway.

We want to thank Travel Dubuque and Fenelon Place Elevator for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Cheap Trip

There may be some dispute over where the world’s shortest railway resides, but for us, this one certainly fits the bill. It is also safe to say that this is the steepest one we have ridden. With an ascent angle of 41°, this unique attraction bears riders up the 189-foot hillside. While many locals use this as a daily form of commuting, we were merely doing the tourist thing. A round trip is just $3.00 and offers some amazing views from the top. While the opportunity didn’t arise, we are guessing the views at night would be enchanting.

Scaling the Bluff

The bluff, that provides the scenic views of the surrounding region, forms a ridge that rises a couple of hundred feet above the businesses below. These days a car will help navigate the hill in no time, but that was not the case in the early days. Many of the residents lived on top of the hill and made the daily commute down to the buildings below. The trip took about a half-hour, and was made in the morning, round-trip at lunch, and returning in the evening. In 1882, a local merchant received a franchise to build the first Swiss-style cable car.

See Ya’ later

The ridge that separates these two elevations of the city, is easily apparent, from the east. As we approached the Fenelon Place Elevator, we were amazed to watch it run. We watched as the group in front climbed aboard. The seats are positioned in rows, and once inside, you pull the rope to signal the operator on top of the hill. As the car pulls away from the station, the doors close behind you. At the same time, the second car begins its descent from above.

It’s a Split

As they approach the midway point, the tracks split to allow the two cars to pass. Once this happens, the cars return to their path and eventually wind up switching positions from bottom to top. We noticed that when the cars are passing each other, it is customary to wave to the occupants of the other car. This is definitely Midwest hospitality shining through. We watched patiently, as we waited our turn to ride the world’s shortest railway.

Breaking It Down

Earlier in the day, we had made a visit to the Mississippi River Museum, where they had a display about the Fenelon Place Elevator. It is a fairly simple process, and the exhibit does a great job at showing the scientific principle behind the design. After a stop for lunch at one of the downtown eateries, we walked a few blocks over to explore the elevator up close. (You can read about our lunch here.)

Our Turn on the World’s Shortest Railway

Standing at the base of the hill, it was our turn for a ride. We took our seats and were joined by another couple who were doing the tourist thing. Away we rose, up the hill. The ride is quite smooth, and soon we found ourselves stepping out onto the overlook above.

View From Above

Once we arrived at the top, we took some time to take in the view of the surrounding region. From this vantage point, we could see the oldest parts of the city laid out at our feet. The majority of our explorations would be taking place in that area, so it was exciting to have this perspective. After chatting with some other tourists, we made our way back down the world’s shortest railway.

Exploring the Neighborhood

During our walk to the Fenelon Place Elevator, we had noticed some boutique-style shops in the surrounding neighborhood. With a little free time on our hands, we decided to explore some of them. Most are housed in older buildings that appear to have originally been homes. These days they have been transformed, but the original exteriors make the neighborhood look very quaint.

Couple Goals

Around the corner from the elevator, we found an entire street of shops. We made our way in and out of them and found that each holds something unique. Before the guys in the audience begin to cringe in fear, of a day of shopping, just know that there are things for gents to see, as well. Actually, we found some really cool stuff for guys. It was also a good opportunity to mingle with some locals and learn more about this river city. Now that we had experienced the world’s shortest railway, we were interested to see what other unique attractions Dubuque had in store for us. What’s the shortest railway you have ridden on?

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Delicious Start in Dubuque, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 09:45:00 +0000

During the late 1800s, Dubuque, Iowa was transitioning from a lead mining leader into an industrial center. The growth of mill-working businesses helped push the city to be one of the 100 largest urban areas in America, between 1860 and 1880. This period saw enormous expansion, as well as a bustling downtown. These days, many of the historic buildings have been re-purposed , and continue to serve the community. Our first dining experience in this river city landed us at 1st & Main. It would make for a delicious start in Dubuque, and fuel our afternoon of exploring.

We want to thank Visit Dubuque and 1st & Main for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Embracing the Past

It was pretty easy to locate 1st & Main since the address is obvious. Once inside, we discovered that the interior was a nice mix of old and new. The industrial feel was apparent in the exposed brick and high ceilings. A long bar occupied one side, while table-tops lined the other. There were a few regular tables near the entrance, and even more in a second dining room. We were seated at one of the short tables, with a good view of the entire place. We examined the menu and quickly found a couple of delectable sounding handhelds.

Seasoning It Up

Crystal chose the Greek Chicken Sandwich, which had a nice combination of flavors. The marinated filet is topped with feta cheese, tomato, lettuce, and basil pesto sauce. The sandwich came with a choice of fries. Crystal went for the Garlic Parmesan Sidewinder Fries, which had a nice crisp, and a good texture inside. While her choices were very interesting, mine would be a special treat.

Hunka, Hunka Flavor

As I perused the menu, I came upon a sandwich made with an intriguing combination of ingredients. Once I found the 1st & Main Burger, my mind was made up. Now, this dish starts basic enough, as it has the best of a bacon burger. The addition of pepper jack cheese adds a little spice, but what comes next was surprising. How about slathering on some peanut butter and jelly? Oh yeah, this had to be tasted. My first bite was a big one so that I was sure to get all of the flavors. Wow! The creamy and sweet addition was the perfect complement to this juicy patty. Toss in a side of sweet potato fries, and I was in foodie heaven. It was definitely a delicious start in Dubuque. The burger was large, but the flavor kept bringing me back for more and more. By the time we left, I was completely stuffed.

Delicious Start in Dubuque

With our first culinary adventure being a complete success, our anticipation of future meals was riding high. Time for us to get out and do some major walking to burn some of this off. Fortunately, Dubuque has a pedestrian-friendly downtown, so we knew we would be getting our steps in. As we made our way toward the Fenelon Place Elevator, we reflected on the peanut butter burger. I thought of Elvis, and what his opinion of the sandwich would have been. I’m guessing he would have named it the “King” of burgers. How many of you would enjoy that addition on your burger?

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3 Amazing Days In Downtown Des Moines, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 09:50:13 +0000

We always get a chuckle when we hear people tell us that there is nothing to see or do in the Midwest. While the destinations can be spread a little farther apart, we find the drive between cities to be filled with beautiful scenery. Once we arrive at our new destination, we are amazed at just how many fantastic sights are waiting to be explored. This is certainly the case for our 2018 visit to Des Moines, Iowa. For years, Crystal and I have been traveling through this Midwest metropolis on our way to Minnesota. Our stops in Des Moines were always limited to fuel pit stops or dropping in on her family members who live in the area. When Travel Iowa asked us to feature some cities in their state, we knew this was the perfect opportunity to explore this capital city in greater detail.

We want to thank the Travel Iowa and Catch Des Moines for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Learning The Lingo

Our first step, after picking a destination, is to begin determining an itinerary. This is done with an attempt to balance our stops with lots of variety. We know that our readers cover a huge variety of demographics, so we always try to pick plenty of stops for them to choose from when planning their own get-away. One of the first things we look for are educational opportunities. We truly believe that travel is a form of continued education, and opens up plenty of chances to learn about the culture and history of our destinations. A stop at the State Historical Museum of Iowa helped pave our way to better understand how Des Moines grew to its current status. Here we learned not just about the city we were getting ready to explore, but also the state in general. This makes a great first stop for your Des Moines vacation. (Read more about the Historical Museum here.)

While I was doing the planning, I stumbled upon a lesser known museum. Inside the downtown Wells Fargo location there resides one of about a dozen Wells Fargo Museums. These small scale exhibits are chocked full of hands on displays designed to highlight the role that Iowa played in connecting an expanding nation. What surprised us the most was just how many interactive exhibits this place has assembled. It’s a great stop for families, since there are lots of activities that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages. (Even my age!) (Read more about the Wells Fargo Museum here.)

Speaking of family friendly sites, how about stopping in the Science Center of Iowa. Here we found another place that is packed with all age accessible displays. While the majority of the space is designed to educate about various scientific principles, there is a gallery filled with more local appeal. The “What On Earth?” exhibit is a good place to learn about some of the native species that you may encounter during your visit to Des Moines or Iowa in general. (Read more about the Science Center here.)

East Village Appeal

The layout of the downtown region in Des Moines is designed to be user friendly. The Des Moines River cuts a swath through the heart of the downtown and becomes a centerpiece for the design of the area. On the east side of the river, the neighborhood is called the East Village. This area is filled with a mix of commercial and residential, as well as holding the capitol building. We had the pleasure of meandering through the shops on a couple of occasions. Lots of boutiques are found in and around the area, and we even located one that we recognized form Kansas City. (RayGun has a store in the CrossRoads District of KCMO.)

Close-In Comfort

We were fortunate to be lodged right in the heart of the region we were exploring. The Staybridge Suites, in the East Village, made a perfect home base for us. The room was fantastic with lots of plugins for all of our electronics. We even got the chance to try out their pool and hot tub one evening. These were welcomed after a day of walking throughout the downtown. They have a breakfast buffet every morning, but we had already made plans to explore some of the local eateries. In talking with other hotel guests, the food was described as delicious. With a dedicated covered parking lot and key card access, this place worked well for our busy schedule.

Getting Outdoors

Downtown Des Moines is filled with interesting outdoor spaces to explore. From the capital hill over to the Gateway Park, you can find unique sights that are specific to this area. Each stop has its own flavor and at any time you could find a crowd. During our evening we would stroll around admiring the murals we found tucked away on the side of various businesses. (Great for selfies!) Of course, artwork is limited to this style, and a visit to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park offers tons of potential picture possibilities. Besides, it is nice to get out into the green spaces that Des Moines has reserved for its residents and visitors. (Read more about the outdoor spaces here.)

Another good spot to get in touch with nature is the Des Moines Botanical Gardens. Here we were in awe of the amazing number of species that can survive the wild weather of the Midwest. We even found a couple that we are wanting to add to our own landscape. Just down the road we visited the Robert Ray Asian Garden that holds some interesting foliage and sculptures. Its riverside location makes for a great spot to reflect and view the city skyline. (Read more about the gardens here.)

With so much to see and do in downtown Des Mines, Iowa you may want to plan a couple extra days for exploring. After all, we only had enough time to see the center city section. There are still tons of sights to be discovered on your own vacation to the Iowa capital. What are some of the places you think we should add to our next visit? Mention them in the comments section below and we will add them to our list. Thanks!

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8 Delectable Downtown Des Moines Dining Destinations

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 09:50:54 +0000

Traveling to downtown Des Moines, Iowa allowed us an opportunity to park our car and stretch our legs. This area is very walker friendly and we knew we would be wanting to burn off the extra calories that were sure to be heading our way. One of our favorite parts of visiting new destinations is sampling the flavors of the city. Since we all have to eat to survive, we assume you all enjoy good meals as much as we do. The task of identifying which eateries we will visit falls on my shoulders, and I gladly take up the challenge. Our goal is to search out locally owned places (Or at least regionally) that offer a good sampling of the various cuisines found in the area.

Getting A Good Start

One of the best ways we have found to uncover the local favorites is to ask. We will join a Facebook group that is specific to the food lovers of the particular destination. From them we can glean some excellent suggestions, as well as interesting background information. While we wish we could visit every single place they suggest, in the end we must narrow the field to the ones that fit our itinerary best. The morning we spent at the downtown Farmers Market allowed us a chance to pop into Java Joe’s for a cup of morning wake-me-up. This local chain has an eclectic retro vibe that is perfect for its Court Avenue District location. With our caffeine covered, it was time for more exploring. Java Joe’s does offer some breakfast bites as well, but we decided to test out some of the items being sold at the market.

We were fortunate enough to have a second morning in Des Moines, which meant that we had the opportunity to visit St. Kilda. The idea of dining at an Australian style restaurant certainly piqued our interest. With an open, airy interior and some unique flavor combinations, this place certainly left us with delicious memories.

Munching On Handhelds

Lunchtime for us is usually reserved for sandwiches of some style. During a busy day of exploring, it is important to refuel. We have found that this particular meal time is good for a protein boost, and a nice juicy burger really hits the spot. The Walnut is the brick & mortar child of a long loved food truck named The Food Spot Truck. Adding the non-moving destination to their portfolio has allowed them to increase the number of fans they can serve. We stopped by after a visit to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and soon found out why they are so popular. Dishes like their Mushroom Swiss Burger and Mediterranean Chicken Pita offer plenty of flavor, while filling us up for more downtown time.

Do you ever get so hungry that you feel like you are running on empty? You know the times when you feel like a zombie just staggering through life. Well then, downtown Des Moines has the perfect dining destination for you. Stop in Zombie Burger for a frightening good time filled with good eats and interesting decor. Be sure to bring your camera, (Or phone camera) as you will certainly want to document this world changing event. (You can read more about Zombie Burger here.)

Selfie Spots

Since you have the camera handy, why not check out some of the local art that can be found in and around the east Village and other downtown areas in Des Moines. There are some nice murals, tucked away on the sides of buildings, just waiting to be discovered. It pays to get out of the car and do some exploring by foot.

Dining Around The World Without Leaving Downtown

The availability of so many cuisines makes downtown Des Moines a food lovers paradise. With dozens of choices, it would be easy to dine in the area every weekend all year long and not have to repeat locations. Some include interesting entertainment, like what we found at Olympic Flame Restaurant in the East Village. This Greek food eatery thrills customers with their flaming cheese, which has to be seen in person. (We have a short video of it in the linked article.) We also had the chance to be entertained by a local belly dancer who clearly enjoys interacting with the crowds. (You can read more about Olympic Flame here.)

What could be better than sampling a different cuisine in a new destination? How about a restaurant that combines two cultures into one great space. Welcome to Fong’s Pizza. From the outside you expect to find a Chinese eatery and the feeling continues inside. Then the menu comes out and you see it is filled with pizza pies. But wait! These aren’t your standard everyday pizza toppings. Here’s where the Chinese meets the pizzeria with flavors like General Tso’s or the ever popular Crab Rangoon. Finish off your meal with a sweet treat of Raspberry Cheesecake Egg Rolls.

Now that brings up the subject of dessert. Everyone knows it’s the best part of the meal, and we try to always seek out a couple on each of our trips. After all, we don’t want to waste all of that walking we do. Just down the street from Fong’s, we came upon Royal Mile. This English style pub draws in plenty of people for a pint, but also has an interesting menu. Since we had already had plenty of main meals, our visit was specifically to test out their dessert menu. As you can see, it has some deliciously decadent dishes available. (You can read more about Fong’s Pizza & Royal Mile here.)

While the other desserts were scrumptious, for us nothing holds a candle to some sweet ice cream. This is especially true in the summertime. When planning our Des Moines weekend, we looked high and low for something unique to that city. When we stumbled upon Black Cat Ice Cream, we knew we had hit the motherlode. This small batch business makes their products with quality ingredients, which is apparent in the taste and creaminess. It was a perfect accent to the amazing foods we found in downtown Des Moines. (You can read more about Black Cat here.) Which of these places look most appealing to you? Let us hear from you in the comments section below. We love getting feedback.

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3 Outdoor Spaces Not To Be Missed In Des Moines, Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 09:55:09 +0000

Let’s just face the facts. There is something special about capital cities that sets them apart from other destinations. Des Moines, Iowa certainly fits in this category, as we quickly discovered. Our three days was enough to give us a chance to sample the flavors of this Midwestern city. Of course, we realize that we spent our time in just a few blocks of a city that spreads across five counties. With all we found to see and do in this portion, we can only imagine how many weeks it would take to do a more extensive study of the city. While our itineraries are always packed full of attractions, dining and shopping, we still try to leave some for exploring the sights and sounds of the destinations we visit.

We want to thank the Travel Iowa and Catch Des Moines for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Monumental Sights

Since almost all of our time was spent in the East Village or downtown, we could usually count on having a view of the capitol building nearby. There were a few times that it was eclipsed by the skyscrapers that tower over the downtown. We picked a quiet Sunday morning to walk the grounds and check out the amazing sculptures and monuments. It was such a peaceful time that we were able to reflect on the reasons for each of the tributes. This area is definitely one you will want to visit during your next trip to Des Moines.

The view of the cityscape is amazing from the foot of the capital. We lingered for a while, taking in the beauty of the skyline. It may have been our last morning in the city, but we knew we would be taking plenty of memories home with us. Nearby, we watched a family exploring the area and using it as an opportunity to educate their children on the local history. It was nice to see this interaction and we hope it instilled in the kids the desire to explore the world around them.

Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Before our visit, I reached out to some Des Moines groups to seek their suggestions on sites for us to visit. One that we heard mentioned more than any was the Downtown Farmer’s Market. When they described it we saw words like; huge, massive, biggest, and immense. We were hoping these weren’t just braggadocios statements designed to draw us in. Once we arrived, we quickly realized that these may have not truly expressed the true size of the event. With around 300 vendors, this weekly attraction draws in around 25,000 shoppers every Saturday during the summer months.

The market covers nine city blocks with vendors selling just about everything under the sun. Wandering through the area is a photographers dream. Vivid colors grabbed our attention, drawing us into booths filled with all sorts of artistic creations. The morning sun played off the art glass, casting colorful shadows across tables. We felt like kids in a candy store and strained to see everything. It didn’t take long before we realized that we needed a plan, if we were to tackle this place in an orderly fashion.

Joining In

We decided that the best approach would be to focus our attention on one side of the street at a time, and work our way up and down the rows. It proved to be a solid plan and soon we were able to focus on one booth at a time. Periodically, we would come upon a musical performer that had captivated an audience. During our visit we saw a jazz band, made up of high school students, swaying the crowd in front of the Polk County Courthouse. This architectural masterpiece made a beautiful backdrop for their band. Further down the street a couple performed with some unique instruments. They even had a “musical petting zoo” of sorts, and invited kids and adults to join in. The atmosphere of the market was akin to a fair or carnival, and everyone seemed to be relishing in the fun.

With so many baubles to be seen, we came to the conclusion that there was no real way we could possibly take it all in. The morning passed with plenty of caffeine, colors, and conversations. We stopped in a few booths and talked with the vendors about the Farmers Market experience, as a whole. It was apparent that this weekly event is known throughout the region and draws sellers and shoppers from miles around. With so many interesting pieces for sale, we couldn’t help but spread some of our tourism dollars around.

Greening Up

We did notice that a majority of the booths focused on items that weren’t grown on a farm. Of course, there were some produce stands and plant growers peppered in the mix. We are guessing it was enough for those who came looking for these items. Periodically we would see someone pass us pulling a wagon laden down with the fixings for a great salad or items that would be added to their landscape. These booths added some nice green to the market.

Western Gateway Park

On Saturday afternoon we wandered the farthest distance from our hotel during our visit. Our goal was to explore the Pappajohn Sculpture Garden located in this green space. The entire park covers around 13 acres with about a third of it being dedicated to the 28 sculptures. Heading to the park from the west (opposite of our lodging) makes it appear as a gateway to the downtown area of Des Moines. While climbing on the sculptures is not allowed (common sense) there is plenty of lawn for a picnic.

We had made a stop at Black Cat Ice Cream before arriving, so our visit was purely for admiring the artwork. There is a nice variety to the pieces, since it comprises the work of 22 different artists. The park is open during daylight hours and is free to the public. A meandering walk leads around the grounds to allow visitors closer views at each of the pieces.

Puzzling Pieces

As we made our way through the park, we tried to figure out what significance each of the pieces holds for the artist. Some are obviously playful expressions like the hare posing as The Thinker. Others seem to carry a more ominous undertone like the empty shroud. While the Des Moines Art Center does offer a tour of the sculpture garden, we chose to let our own imaginations fill in the blanks.

CelebrAsian

Our timing to visit Western Gateway Park could not have been better. That weekend was the Des Moines CelebrAsian event that celebrates the culture of the Orient. With over a dozen different Asian villages, there is tons to see, hear, eat, and do. Each of the villages displayed items that are common to their culture. Most sold some food products, so visitors had the opportunity to sample a variety of cuisines.

Much like the farmers market, this event offered lots of colors and textures, which make for plenty of lovely photos. Live music and entertainment took place on two separate stages. We watched a little of a Bollywood style dance exhibition, while resting in the shade of the tents set up nearby. The entire event had a relaxed pace, which was amplified by the hot summer day. On the smaller stage there were an assortment of martial arts demonstrations that were extremely popular with the crowd.

Fun For All Ages

As we explored the various villages, we noticed that almost all of them had items geared specifically for children. The CelebrAsian event is truly family friendly and even featured some children’s musical performances. We took a few minutes to watch the cosplay competition, before continuing our wandering. With hunger beginning to creep back in, we knew it was time to work our way toward another delicious Des Moines eatery.

Making New Friends

While we walked to our dinner location, we discussed how many interesting sights we had found in Des Moines. This city is filled with plenty to occupy a weekend or even longer. Our three days were certainly packed, and would make a four or five day itinerary for most travelers. With only about 10% of the city’s footprint covered, we know there are still loads of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Why not make your plans to visit Des Moines and check out some of these sights firsthand. You might just uncover something we missed, and we hope you would share it with all of us in the comments section below. Remember, Sharing is Caring!

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Relaxed Beauty at Des Moines Botanical Gardens

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 10:00:16 +0000

A visit to a botanical garden is always a new experience, since the plants change so much with each season. The spring is popular for the bright blooms, while fall brings the vivid foliage as it prepares to go dormant. Summer is the transition period, but we enjoy the textures and shades of green that dominate the landscape. Our stop at the Des Moines Botanical Gardens gave us a chance for a relaxed stroll through their lush gardens.

We want to thank the Des Moines Botanical Gardens, Travel Iowa and Catch Des Moines for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Under The Dome

W started out by exploring the Conservatory and Indoor Gardens. Their 80 foot tall geodesic dome is perfectly suited for the tropical species that they maintain indoors. The warm, humid atmosphere well represents what one would find in the jungles of Central America. Here and there we spotted bursts of color from orchids or other blooming plants. With access to multiple overlooks, it was easy to get a better feel for the entire exhibit.

As we meandered along the hardscaped pathway, we took in all of the beauty that surrounded us. As we made our way across one of the small bridges, we caught sight of this most unusual sculpture. We guess it was only fitting to find such an over-sized garden tool when you consider the overall size of many of these jungle plants.

Selfie Time

A small waterfall gave us a reason to stop for a selfie. (We love waterfalls.) Of course, like many it takes multiple shots to get one we can both agree on. While this was taking place, we had a visitor pop out nearby. We are guessing he wanted his time in the limelight, so we were honored to be able to add him to our pictures. Afterwards, he scurried away back into the foliage.

Ideas Abound

After the Conservatory, we passed down a hallway that led to the Gardeners Show House. This area is designed to provide inspiration to budding gardeners. It serves as a showcase for projects that utilize common plants, and re-purpose everyday objects. Some of the seating options are reclaimed from old pallets, and would fit well in most garden areas. While this area is not large, it is certainly packed full of great ideas. Be sure to check it out when you visit the Des Moines Botanical Gardens.

Heading Outdoors

We had already found so many interesting things to see, and we hadn’t even stepped out into the main garden area. Through the double doors we passed, and immediately found ourselves in the Bonsai Collection. This series of diminutive trees have been trained for decades. The oldest example in the collection started out in 1865. Let that sink in. That is the time of the Civil War era, so over 150 years old. These miniature masterpieces are amazing to behold.

Moving past the bonsai, we entered the Water Garden section of the botanical gardens. This half-acre area offers still waters, which reflect the landscape around it. We made our way across the walkway, taking in the nearby city skyline. Here and there we would see the water lilies lying gracefully upon the surface of the pond. We were hoping to catch sight of one of our new friend’s distant relatives. Unfortunately, the other turtles were either hiding or had great camouflage.

Running Waters

Another waterfall caught our eye and we made our way toward it. Sitting at the base of the Hillside Garden, this waterfall offers an excellent spot for more selfies either in front of or even behind the falling waters. Be sure to take a few minutes to climb the hill for a better view of the entire garden facility. It is another spot to get a prime skyline view, as well.

Beauty in Form

As we mentioned earlier, the beauty of gardens doesn’t just lie in the colorful flowers. Much like a room in a house, the few artwork pieces are made richer by the background wall supporting them. The same holds true for a complete garden. While the bright blooms are stunning to behold, they are also fleeting. The textures and shades of greens, tans, browns, and reds brought in by foliage are the backbone of a beautiful garden. In the Conifer Garden, we were able to see a wide variety of species that winter well in our climate. We have always considered places like the Des Moines Botanical Gardens to be a perfect place to explore new potential varieties to add to our own landscape. How many of you do the same thing?

Bonus Garden

As we were making our way to the Des Moines Botanical Gardens, we passed a roadside garden that looked quite promising. After our main visit, we decided to stop by the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden for a closer look. This small urban park features a Chinese pavilion situated along the banks of the Des Moines River. It is a nice place for a short stroll or a chat in the shade of the pavilion.

Just beyond the pavilion the walkway leads into a small shaded sculpture garden. The day we visited was warming up quickly, but the gentle breezes through this tree shaded area was quite refreshing.

Great Views Available

The walk into the park is connected to a walking path that leads into the heart of the city. As we made our way up the small hillside, we found ourselves with this fabulous view of the downtown. It made the stop worth it alone. Of course, the beauty of the Asian gardens was the cherry on the top. Do you plan to add the Des Moines Botanical Gardens to your vacation plans? We would love to hear your thoughts.

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Flavors To Wake The Dead At Zombie Burger

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 10:00:33 +0000

Every once in a while we will spot a location that we know is based on a novelty idea. Some we pass up, but then there are the ones that just hook our attention and yell out for us to visit. This is exactly what happened when we spotted Zombie Burger during our preview of Des Moines, Iowa. When we put out our feelers for ideas on restaurants to visit, this one got mentioned quite a bit. While it did get mixed reviews, the theme sealed it for us. Where else could we experience flavors to wake the dead?

We want to thank the Travel Iowa and Catch Des Moines for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Deadly Decor

Zombie Burger actually ended up being the last meal we experienced during our visit to Des Moines, so we had plenty of time to anticipate it. During our stay, we did have the chance to discuss our itinerary with local residents, and many were anxious to hear our opinions of this spot. When we entered the restaurant, we immediately were intrigued by the unique decor. While the seating options are pretty standard, it is the added layer of semi-gruesome murals and props that make the place stand out. During your visit, you will want to take a stroll around the interior to spot all of the various artwork pieces they have on display. Be sure to say Hi! to the happy couple awaiting your arrival. (Top picture)

Monstrous Meals

We were seated in the bar area, so it gave us a good view of the dining room. All around us we watched plate after plate of delectable dishes being delivered. We scanned the menus, which are designed like a copy of a local newspaper. With around 30 burger options, it took us a bit to finally decide. A discussion with the bartender was helpful, as she pointed out some of her favorites. Crystal finally rested on the La Horde. This all beef burger is topped with caramelized onions, bacon, goat cheese, and mayo. She opted for the Sweet Potato Fries as her side dish. They are served with a tangy sauce that added a nice little kick.

When I reached out to Zombie Burger, I was informed that the most popular burger was The Walking Ched. I discovered that the bun is actually made of deep fried macaroni and cheese. This sounded like it would be a little difficult to hold, and I was really in the mood for a handheld sandwich. (The person beside us ordered it and had to eat it with a fork, so I was correct.) I still wanted something completely out of the ordinary, so I chose the Trailer Trash Zombie. This little monster comes with the same style patty, but is loaded with some unique toppings. American cheese, fried pickle, ranch dressing, cheese curds, and even some chicken fried bacon crown this burger. It was a delicious dish destined for undead distinction. (Okay, I’ll watch the alliterations.) The need for a side dish that could match the flipped out flavors of my sandwich was apparent. Scanning the menu, I located the Garlic Bacon & Blue Cheese Fries, which seemed like a perfect compliment to the ranch dressing. Sure enough, I couldn’t seem to get enough of this combination. Of course, I finally had to stop eating for fear of being able to walk, and possibly being mistaken for one of the undead hosts.

Serious Shakes

Prior to our visit, every conversation we had about Zombie Burger always included a description of one of their signature shakes. We certainly weren’t going to let this opportunity pass us by, so we decided to sample a couple of options. Once again, I was the one to show my creative flair by ordering the most unusual item I could find on the menu. The Zombie Unicorn is comprised of vanilla ice cream, marshmallow cream, and a serious dose of Fruity Pebbles. They gave me a straw, but let’s get real. It took a spoon to down this magical treat. Crystal went vanilla on me, well kind of. She ordered the Peanut Butter Banana, which is pretty self-explanatory. Although it was fairly plain looking, it had a delightful flavor. By the end of our visit, we were both a little wobbly from the high concentration of delectable dishes we consumed. We may not have been the walking dead, but we were certainly close to being a cadaverous couple. What do you think about a zombie themed dining experience? Would you be game?

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Relive The Past At The Wells Fargo Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 10:00:16 +0000

Sometimes even travel writers can be surprised when they stumble upon an unexpected treat. Such is the case when we visited the Wells Fargo Museum in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. This free museum is located in their bank lobby, and is the newest in a string of museums that Wells Fargo hosts. When we discovered this unique attraction, we didn’t have high expectations for an interactive experience, but we soon discovered it holds more than we had hoped for.

We want to thank Wells Fargo for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

On A Mission

The main purpose of the museum is to highlight the role Iowa played in the early connection of travel across the nation. The country was expanding rapidly and communication was struggling to keep up. Lots of enterprises, like the Pony Express, sprang up to offer temporary relief of these problems. The railroad was building its intercontinental line, but in the meantime many travelers were resigned to travel by stagecoach. It was also a primary form of delivery for the mail and banking institutions. The Wells Fargo Museum has a number of displays that spell out the history of these changes, as well as offering a glimpse at artifacts from those days.

Recognizable Sight

Have you ever had one of those Aha moments where you suddenly connected the dots? This was the case for us when we saw the Wells Fargo wagon, which is a model of the one used in the movie The Music Man. Suddenly, we see how companies tie back into the everyday lives of those who came before us, and it gives us a connection to the past. It is only appropriate for us to see this particular device in Des Moines, since the original play was written by the Iowa native, Meredith Willson. We do have to wonder how many of the younger visitors miss this connection and move right past to the hands-on exhibits.

Playing Old School

We figured the Wells Fargo Museum would be filled with a grouping of static displays that told the chronological history of banking through the ages. The idea that there would be lots of interactive exhibits had not even crossed our minds. You can imagine our pleasant surprise when we discovered that there are lots of hands-on artifacts for little (and big) hands to hold. Visitors to the museum can explore old telephones, telegraphs, and bank punches. Each of these exhibits include educational information to help understand how the devices were used in the “good old days”.

They even have an area where you can get your own picture printed on money. I’m pretty sure that a bank note with my mug on it would certainly be worth at least five dollars, if not a couple more. This particular exhibit makes for a nice souvenir from your visit, and we are betting the kids will all want one.

Your Carriage Awaits

Traveling by stagecoach has been romanticized by Hollywood for quite sometime. The horse-drawn Concord stagecoaches are easily recognizable to most Americans. The suspension of the coaches were designed to take the constant abuse from the rough roads that they traveled. Leather straps were used to help absorb some of the jarring that would have come from the rough trails and create a swaying effect for the passengers. At the museum they have a display coach where visitors can recreate the feeling of stagecoach travel. Nearby you can see a full-size stagecoach decked out with the familiar red-gold paint job that signified it was part of the Wells Fargo family.

What Was Stagecoach Travel Like?

While stagecoach travel seems like the way to cross the country, it wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. Travelers were subjected to lots of uncomfortable situations. The museum has an interactive display that shows some of the real life situations that stagecoach travelers would have faced during their journey. After seeing some of the real facts, we are happy to have our automobiles and modern highway systems. Watch the video and tell us how you would have liked traveling by stagecoach.

Moving Into Modern Times

Since the museum is based in part on banking, it only seems appropriate for it to show the advances through the ages. The invention of automobiles certainly changed how people get places and signified a death toll for many of the start-up travel industries. These days we all are familiar with drive-thru banking, which began in the 1930’s. As technology advances, so do our means of travel. We can all be glad that we have more comfortable options than stagecoach. Let’s leave that method to the movies. For now, it’s enough to just pretend that we are riding one in this interactive museum. Ready to hit the trail?

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Four Fabulous Reasons To Try Olympic Flame In Des Moines

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 02 Jul 2018 10:00:56 +0000

It’s not unusual to hear people talk about dinner and a movie, but how come the idea of dinner and a live show is less commonplace? We can’t speak for others, but we like the idea of having entertaining activities taking place while we dine. In Des Moines, we were able to get just that when we visited Olympic Flame Restaurant in the East Village. An added bonus for us was that it was easily within walking distance of many shops and our lodging. We would appreciate this later when we were walking off our meal.

We want to thank the Travel Iowa and Catch Des Moines for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

1) Locals Know It’s Great

Olympic Flame is the brainchild of Angelo Ligdis, who was born in Olympia, Greece. That means it would be hard to get a more authentic experience without leaving the U.S. He opened his Des Moines restaurant in 1988, and it has become a local favorite. It was obvious to us that many of the other diners were quite familiar with the place, since they are regulars. This is always a plus, since it is a sign of consistency. After a day of exploring, we were ready to sit a spell and enjoy a delicious meal. We were also intrigued by the promise of some unusual sights that can be found at this place.

2) Flaming Cheese

When was your last visit to a restaurant that had such an unusual menu item that it made everyone else stop and watch the presentation? It’s hard to think of one that we have experienced quite like the delivery of Saganaki. To be honest, it’s easier just to refer to it as flaming cheese. The base of this appetizer is Kasseri cheese, which is made from sheep’s milk. Somewhat reminiscent of provolone or mozzarella, it comes dipped in egg batter and fried. The real experience begins when they deliver it to your table. A drizzle of ouzo makes the dish flammable, much to the delight of patrons. The jumping flames are quickly extinguished with a squeeze of lemon juice and a shout of Opa! We watched this show repeated a few times during our visit, and each time it was just as impressive.

3) The Cuisine

A common result of dining at Greek restaurants is that you will leave with a full belly. The dishes are filled with a combination of flavors that have been tweaked over centuries to create he perfect combinations. Olympic Flame offers a variety of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches perfect for smaller meals. Since this was our dinner time, we decided to choose from the platter items on their menu. Crystal went old school with the Gyro Plate. The name obviously comes from the main course, which was filled with deliciously tender lamb and beef. It also included a Tiropita, which is made with a cheese combination stuffed inside filo dough. It was so light and airy.

I selected the Souvlakia (Shish Kabob) that is made with tender cuts of pork seasoned with Greek spices. Like Crystal, my plate came with Tiropita, as well as Spanakopeta, which is similar except it includes spinach. Both platters also come with Dolma, a beef and rice mixture stuffed into grape leaves. A helping of orzo provides the pasta carbs for the meal. To keep us from the unlikely potential of leaving hungry, the meals started with homemade soup, Greek salads, and fresh bread. This is why we were so thankful to get to walk around after we finished.

4) Live Entertainment

As we dined, we would get the occasional show of flaming cheese. Every time they brought out the tray, the entire room would halt conversations to watch in awe as the flames erupted from the dish. Once they were extinguished, everything went right back to normal. It was quite interesting to observe this phenomena repeated over the next half hour. Just as this was starting to become commonplace, the next diversion arrived. During our research for our visit, we discovered that Olympic Flame hosts a belly dancer every Friday evening. Dinner and a second show? Yes, please!

After a short setup period, our evening show began. The rhythmic sounds of music pulsed through the restaurant, as our evening entertainer swayed to the beats. Most of the patrons seemed quite familiar with this attraction, and continued dining and their conversation. Periodically, a customer would offer a tip to the dancer, which was just as entertaining as her regular dance routine. We found ourselves slowing down the pace at which we were eating, so that we could savor more of the show. The dancer performs for an hour, and we were able to catch about half of her show. It made this one of our most memorable meals in quite some time. Now we wonder why more places don’t offer dinner and a show. What are some of your most memorable dining experiences? Share them with all of us in the comments section below. Thanks!

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Big Kid Fun At Science Center of Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 10:00:09 +0000

Visits to science centers are becoming a standard practice for us when we travel to new cities. Many times we are met with surprise, since visits to these locations usually include children in tow. Little do they realize, but we are two of the biggest kids around. This was the case when I discussed our itinerary with the staff at Catch Des Moines. With the Science Center of Iowa smack dab in the middle of our day, they wanted to make sure we understood it was designed with kids in mind. We assured them that we were well aware, and that we would have no issues exploring this destination.

We want to thank the Des Moines Science Center, Catch Des Moines and Travel Iowa for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Get Building

After getting the lay of the land from a staff member, we made our way into the gallery on the first floor. This area is called the Makers Studio and offers visitors a chance to get their hands engaged in creating a variety of inventions. A series of workbenches offer tools and instructions to get the imagination flowing. A really neat feature is the circuit blocks where we hooked up various components and then powered them with the turn of a crank. If you were following our “Story” on Instagram or Facebook then you should have seen these in action. It was quite entertaining.

Heading Upstairs

The second floor holds a series of galleries that each showcase a different science field. We started in the area that one of the staff members described as her favorite. Toying with Science is a chance to get physical with movement and flows.

A pair of water tables have various paddles that can be used to alter the flow of the water. The goal is to see how the current affects the production of energy in each stage. We noticed in this gallery that we weren’t the only “adult” kids enjoying a chance to play with the exhibits.

Having A Ball

Along the back wall we found a huge setup that involved tubes, levers, gears, and other contraptions that allowed us to alter the path of balls as they cruise through their maze. Nearby, another exhibit had a series of air nozzles that challenged visitors to attempt to get a series of balls to float in unison.

Another air powered device was a drum with a rubber membrane attached. By beating on the membrane, it would send air waves toward a panel covered with shiny discs. These would flutter with the breeze and showed how air patterns work. It didn’t take us long to understand why this gallery was so popular with people. We watched others as they raced tennis balls along a series of ramps that show how angles affect speed. In another section of the gallery, a couple of people worked to assemble paper rockets that they could launch to compete for distance. Perhaps you are starting to see why we enjoy visiting science centers.

Moving Into A Different Space

The next series of displays are contained in the Why The Sky? exhibit. It begins with a short introduction to human space travel, before moving into displays focused on explaining many of the mysteries of the universe. A spinning table demonstrates centrifugal force by allowing guests to experiment with various items like ping pong balls. This was another of those popular displays, so we only got to watch others playing with it. The display helps drive home the importance of gravity when dealing with centrifugal forces of nature. Otherwise all of the planets would shoot out through space.

With everyone focused on the spinning table, we moved on to some of the other displays. We are sure many of you have seen and maybe even played with plasma balls. These interesting little “toys” are actually a scientific device that many use merely for enjoyment. Now that we know more, we will certainly remember back to this visit whenever we see one in the future. If the goal of the Science Center of Iowa was to teach us something, it was doing a great job.

How High Will It Bounce

This display was all about supernovas and it actually grabbed our attention for its sheer entertainment value. The purpose of this setup is to show how stars age and eventually collapse upon themselves. When this occurs, the sudden collapse creates a shock wave that blows the star into space. That explosion is called a supernova. The fun part of the display is to lift the balls along the line and then gently let them drop as a group. Like a supernova, the heavier balls push the lighter balls away with amazing force. We spent a few minutes seeing who could get their top red ball to shoot the farthest up the line. I would like to claim it was a tie, but in reality Crystal won this challenge easily.

Bring It Back To Earth

Space was a lot of fun, but it was time to set our feet back down on the Terra Firma for our next gallery. What On Earth? is designed to showcase species and situations found all around Iowa. The promise of a weather station piqued my interest as we headed into the brightly lit space.

Who You Looking At?

The largest portion of this gallery focuses on allowing visitors to learn more about the animals, reptiles, and amphibians that share our space. It’s a good place to discover things with your kids or grandkids. Lots of displays are available to help explain the cycle of life to all ages. Nearby, we found a series of tanks that held many of the species that are native to the state. One in particular was happy to hop up and have his photo taken.

Staff members are on hand in all of the galleries to help instruct and educate guests. In this area, we watched as a young visitor became acquainted with one of the center’s snakes. It’s fun to watch the discovery in their eyes and the smile light up their face. We moved over to the weather station to see what it held for us. Here we found a green screen, where I was able to show off the weather for the day. (Another live action item we placed on our Story.) By the way, the forecast was for hot temperatures, sunny skies, and periods of excessive fun.

What’s Down There?

We made our way back down to the first floor and were prepared to leave, until Crystal spotted an area we had overlooked. Small Discoveries is designed for toddlers and their families to explore. A market allows kids to do their grocery shopping. They can take their purchases and create a healthy meal for their family. Others were busy exploring the farm area, and possibly considering milking a cow.

Bubbling With Fun

It was this toddler area that included an attraction that we had noticed when we were scoping out our visit. The Bubble bay is designed to let guests create amazingly huge bubbles. We watched as more “Big” kids tried their hands with the oversized wands. It was not only captivating for the kids to see, but it certainly held our attention as well. With this final box checked off from our visit, we knew it was time to head on. The one thing we didn’t have time for was one of the Imax movies, but that gives us a reason to plan a return visit. Which area would you like to explore at the Science Center of Iowa?

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Secret Treats At Black Cat Ice Cream

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 10:00:30 +0000

During the periods we spend researching new destinations, many sites will be added to our list. From these, we can glean a finished itinerary that will allow us to showcase a variety of options for our readers to add to their own travel schedule. We are always excited when we uncover one of those places that the locals love, but is off of the beaten path. Such is the case for Black Cat Ice Cream, which is located in the Gas Lamp building near Pappajohn Sculpture Park. It’s the kind of place that would be hard to distinguish from a moving vehicle, but since we were afoot, we easily scoped it out. On an unseasonably warm, late spring day, we made our way to Black Cat for a cooling treat. A line was snaking out from the window where the creamy treats were being dispensed. As we approached, we made note of the dishes that people were devouring as they headed away from the building. We knew we had found our secret destination, and that we were in for a true surprise.

We want to thank the Catch Des Moines for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Ever Changing Menu

The business operates out of the first floor and service is through a single window. No seating is available, unless you pull up a spot on the sidewalk, like we did. The menu is located on a placard outside the storefront and lists the available flavors for the day. Once a flavor sells out it gets removed from the list. The owner makes up as many gallons as possible and usually sells out. The small batch approach means that the product they offer is of the highest quality. After our visit, we had mentioned to some of the people we met about how much we liked the ice cream. We heard some of the nicest stories about the business and its friendly owner. One of the most touching was that during the coldest part of the winter, he made deliveries to those who couldn’t get out to get their ice cream fix. Now that is true customer service.

Funny Feline

When we arrived, there was a line to order, but it moved quickly. Alex Carter, owner and ice cream aficionado, was busy serving up some of his homemade specialties to adoring fans. A short lull in the line allowed us to chat with him for a moment. He explained about his fondness for ice cream, and his desire to serve only the best possible product he could produce. That is why his flavors and volume are limited. It allows him better control over the results, as well as giving him a chance to experiment with new flavor combinations. Why Black Cat Ice Cream? Alex told us about his cat (Yes, it is black!) which has a fondness for ice cream. It was an easy decision to connect the two when he began this venture. Pictures of his favorite feline adorn the inside of his shop. After a little more small talk, we decided on the two flavors we wanted to sample. After placing our order, we patiently watched while Alex scooped our treats from his five-gallon buckets of creamy goodness.

The Verdicts In

Our decision was to test out one of the cream based flavors, as well as one of the sorbet. Crystal ordered the Red Velvet Oreo, (pictured on the right) which had a wonderful Devil’s food flavor and real chucks of Oreos. The texture was creamy and the cool treat was more than welcome on the hot day. I went with the Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet that featured a mix of the two flavors. It was so creamy and the flavors were well balanced. We found a spot on a nearby stoop and sat down to enjoy our dishes in the shade. We knew that we would eventually have to head back out into the sunshine and heat, but for now we would just savor our desserts from this hidden gem. Are you ready to sample Black Cat Ice Cream?

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Iowa Through The Ages – State Historical Museum of Iowa

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 09:50:24 +0000

A visit to Des Moines, Iowa wouldn’t be complete without checking out the State Historical Museum of Iowa in the East Village. This place is dedicated to telling the story of the people who have inhabited the territory for as long as the history is known. It was a short walk from our hotel to the museum and a beautiful day to take in a few of the sights. Upon entering the building, we were greeted by the skeleton of a mammoth. A similar species was discovered nearby during excavation for a building. It is a little surreal to imagine that the ground you are standing on was once the wandering place for these ancient animals.

Heads Up

The open atrium lobby offers a chance to view the three aircraft that are displayed. All of these are from the period just after the start of the twentieth century. The oldest of which was commonly used as a “trainer” plane for new pilots in the early 1900’s. Be sure to climb the steps to the second floor landing for a better view.

Regional History

Like every good state museum, the Iowa version focuses a lot of attention on the people and stories associated with the growth of the region. In this area we discovered many pieces specific to Iowans who are known around the world for their accomplishments. Pieces of clothing that have been used to climb Mount Everest or travel into space can be found in this gallery. We are sure that many of the stories are familiar to the people of the state, but it is a great way for travelers to quickly learn more about the background of some of Iowa’s celebrities.

The Early Days

A visit to the “You Gotta Know The Territory” gallery showcases the indigenous people of the land. Here we learned about the Wiki-up, which is the bark covered lodgings that they used. A nice collection of artifacts helped guide us through the discovery of the traditions of these early inhabitants.

The State Historical Museum of Iowa has separated this gallery into multiple sections, so we spent a considerable amount of time here. Large display cases hold various pieces of apparel, jewelry, and trade goods that would have been commonly found in the villages. A few examples of the native species is also among the collections.

Settlers Arrive

As we progressed through time, we came to the point that settlers first began arriving to stay in the area. A Conestoga wagon stands as a stark reminder of how people traveled during that period. It is hard to imagine packing up your entire life’s worth of belongings in one of these (Be sure to leave room for the family!) and then move across the country. Pioneers discovered the fertile lands were perfect for crops and soon Iowa became an agricultural center in the expanding nation.

The War Between The States

During the Civil War, Iowa saw around 76,000 of its residents fight in the battles and skirmishes. The State Historical Museum has dedicated a good size space to showing life before, during, and after the conflict. There are informational exhibits that detail how the pioneers of those days were turned into proficient soldiers. Some of our favorite pieces describe how some of these soldiers felt during this period and their beliefs focused around the war in general. It was quite enlightening.

A nice touch in the gallery is the description of and displays associated with the recreational time between the battles. Here we gained a better understanding of how the soldiers passed the time when not on the march or fighting. It made us stop and think about all of the free time they would have had, and how they would want have wanted to fill it with activity to take their minds off of the brutality that they would have witnessed during battle.

A Delicate Balance

Like many of the states in the heartland, Iowa has seen its own challenges in regards to how to harvest the bounties of the land. We never realized that the region was once a major hub for the production of pearl buttons. This large scale industry ran strong for many years, before suffering extensive setbacks due to over harvesting and changes in the fashion industry.

Coal mining was another industry that required people to disturb the natural landscape. Many people worked the mines in the late 1800’s through the first couple decades of the 1900’s. By the 1920’s the mining industry has subsided for the most part, as Iowans sought out alternate fuel sources. One of the main concerns, and killers to this industry, was that Iowa coal had a higher sulfur content that other regions of the country. The last Iowa coal mine shuttered in 1994, and the industry is now just a memory in the state’s history.

You Ought To Be In Pictures

One of our favorite galleries at the State Historical Museum of Iowa centered around the movie industry. Most Americans are familiar with The Music Man, which is centered around the ideals of a Midwestern town and its values. A couple other notable films were Field of Dreams and Bridges of Madison County. Both of these help propel Iowa into the limelight and vastly increase tourism.

Sitting in the center of the gallery is a small display focused on drive-in movies. We can both remember the hey-days of this industry and miss the Friday nights spent sitting in the car watching first run flicks. There is something to be said for the nostalgia of this era, which can’t be truly replicated with a visit to the big house movie theaters. Those were certainly some memorable moments.

An Unexpected Collection

We have had the opportunity to visit many museums during our travels. While each has its own unique spin on the local and regional history, most have common themes that come to be expected. Once in a while there will be a display that takes us on a turn that we didn’t see coming. Such was the case at the State Historical Museum of Iowa, when we came upon the “Riding Through History” gallery. It started with a couple of guys wanting to showcase their six-day ride across Iowa in 1973. They invited local, regional, and national newspapers to follow along and ended up with about 300 riders in total.

This had led to the creation of a seven-day event that draws upwards of 10,000 riders annually to explore the varied landscapes across the state. The event has blossomed into an almost carnival atmosphere with foods and entertainment along the route. The displays at the museum took us on a day-by-day exploration of the event and showcased some of the bikes, team jerseys, and memorabilia collected from previous events. It was certainly an unexpected and pleasant surprise to find in the museum. Of course, we found many more displays inside, but our goal is to pique your interest to make your own trip to the State Historical Museum of Iowa. It’s a great way to learn about the people of the state, so make it one of your first stops during your stay in Des Moines.

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Dining Around The World in Downtown Des Moines

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 09:59:47 +0000

Those of you who have been following our escapades for a while know that we love pizza. Whatever city we visit, we always try to add at least one good pie to our list of meals. Des Moines, Iowa was no exception, but it did deliver our treat with a twist. During the planning stage of our trip I reached out to many of the Des Moines locals through a restaurant Facebook group. (This is an excellent tip for those visiting a new city.) Throughout an ongoing conversation feed, it became apparent that Fong’s Pizza was the one downtown pizzeria that had to be added to our itinerary.

We want to thank the Catch Des Moines and Travel Iowa for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

East Meets Italy?

We made our way to the downtown side of the river, (We were staying in the East Village) and easily found the restaurant. Tucked into an area filled with restaurants, nightclubs and shops, Fong’s exterior looked more like a Chinese food establishment. We had been warned that this place is extremely popular, so we planned our visit to be after the lunch rush had subsided. Even with the mid-afternoon timing, the place was still pretty full. During our time there we saw a steady stream coming and going, but then some looked to be picking up to-go orders.

But Wait, There’s More

Fong’s could be described as a pizza joint with an identity issue. Not only is the menu a little unexpected, but the place also serves as a Polynesian Tiki bar. An assortment of unique goblets are available to hold your cocktails. (You can buy them if you wish.) After placing our drink order, we took some time to examine the interior. Once again the feeling that this is a Chinese food establishment was overwhelming. While I snapped some photos for the article, I noticed a group of friends having shots. It is obviously a ritual to wear the racing helmets while doing this activity. They were nice enough to pose for a picture, and then explained that they were celebrating one of them recently becoming a doctor. The reason they gave for their choice of celebratory digs was that they lived off of Fong’s Pizza while attending college.

Not Crab Rangoon Pie

Almost everyone we spoke to told us we had to try the Crab Rangoon pizza. While we know that this dish is delicious, we had already sampled that flavor at another Iowa pizzeria in the Amana Colonies. Instead we wanted to test one of their other specialty pies. With names like General Tso’s , Fongolian Beef, and Sweet and Sour Chicken the choice of choosing one flavor became difficult. We finally landed on the Thai Chicken pizza which includes; peanut sauce, spicy Thai chicken chunks, mirepoix (diced vegetables), Asiago and mozzarella cheeses. Topped with fresh cilantro this pie had lots of flavors working together to deliver a power packed taste. The crust was thin enough to have a touch of crunch, but still substantial enough to hold in all of the toppings. We were certainly impressed with this East meets Italy combination.

After we completed our pie, the manager brought out a little surprise for us. (Thank you, Jeffrey Diemler!) Raspberry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are another unexpected adventure at Fong’s Pizza. Stuffed with a sweet cream cheese filling and raspberry compote, the rolls are fried and drizzled with chocolate sauce, before being dusted with powdered sugar. Yeah, they are a little decadent, but oh so tasty. Even though we had dessert plans for later, we couldn’t pass up these tasty treats.

All In The Family

Fong’s Pizza is part of a family of downtown establishments that serve up eats and drinks to the locals and travelers alike. Names like El Bait Shop, The Red Monk, Hessen Haus, and The Royal Mile are synonymous with the downtown dining scene in Des Moines. We didn’t realize the connection when we made our plans for the day but it worked out well. Later in the evening we returned to the same block where we had enjoyed such a delectable lunch. This time we were on our way to an English style pub for an after dinner dessert run. The Royal Mile sits on the opposite side of the street and just a couple of doors down from Fong’s. We were beginning to become very familiar with this area.

Do Calories Count On Vacation?

During our visits we usually try to add in at least one dessert stop. These will usually be a bakery or ice cream shop. The Royal Mile was an unlikely choice, but ended up being a home-run pick. We were struggling to choose between the Apple Cinnamon Pasty and the Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownie, so we just ordered one of each. Wow! These desserts were amazing. The apple dish was like a smaller version of an apple pie with a deliciously flaky crust. To compliment this homey goodness, they toss in a couple of scoops to make it Ala mode. The brownie was baked to perfection with a little crust along the edges, but still gooey in the center. This too had the ice cream accompaniment that helped moderate the chocolate overload. Upon delivery of our order, we noted that we could just eat a portion to get a good taste for their dishes. A little while later, we were staring at empty dishes. Good thing our trip was designed to be a walking adventure. Have you ever dined at either of these restaurants? Tell us about your experiences in the comments section below. We would love to hear about the other pizza flavors. Thanks!

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A History Lesson At The Amana Colonies

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 10:30:37 +0000

Our visit to the Amana Colonies, in Iowa was a chance to slow down and enjoy a simpler pace. Like many of you, our lives can become so hectic with all of the commitments, that we almost forget how to relax. Our morning drive began with rush hour traffic, but before long we found ourselves cruising through the Iowa countryside. The sight of roadside vegetables stands and Amish buggies suggested us we had traveled, not only to another region, but also another time. While the people of Amana are not Amish, we were certainly in a region that offered a slower pace of life than what we are used to in the city.

Unique Background

The Amana Colonies are comprised of seven villages, which form a chain of communities. The name Amana is a common theme with six having it in the title. West, East, Main, South, High, and Middle Amanas are joined by Homestead to complete the list. Our focus was in Main Amana, which is quite often just called Amana. It is the largest of the towns, and contains the majority of the shops and restaurants. A good way to begin a visit is a stop in the Amana Heritage Museum. Here we learned about the history of the community and the German Pietists who formed it. They came to America to pursue their religious freedom, and after a stay in New York, finally settled in the middle of Iowa. They kept to themselves with a self-sufficient society until the mid 1930’s. With a better understanding of the community’s background, it was time to explore it for ourselves.

The Amana Colonies was added as a National Historic Landmark in 1965, and has become a major tourist attraction. Living a communal lifestyle meant that residents worked as a community to supply schooling, medical needs, meals, and all other necessities. No one received wages, but all had a living stipend to purchase their supplies. Jobs were assigned by the community leaders, and quality craftsmanship became synonymous with the name Amana. Their lives were simple, and unchanged for many years, but the Great Depression brought a change. A ruined marketplace was the catalyst for a change that allowed a greater interaction with the outside world. These days travelers from all over the world descend on the Amana Colonies to experience the hospitality and quaint nature of the area.

Lily Pond

During our drive through the villages, we came across a couple of interesting places, The first was the Whirlpool factory. We both had one of those “ah-ha” moments, when we realized the association of the name Amana, in reference to appliances. Yes, this is the home of the Amana Radar Range, for those of you old enough to remember. The second thing we discovered is called Lily Pond. This small lake is almost completely covered by lily plants. During the warm weather, the flowers open each day and create a beautiful landscape. It was certainly an amazing sight to behold.

Clockwise from top left: Amana Colonies Bakery & Cafe, Hahn Babker, Amana Meat Shop & Smokehouse, The Chocolate Haus

Hand Crafted Foods

The Amana Colonies have a long history of food making. Being a self-sufficient community requires attention to details, and it certainly comes through in their food products. We started our morning with pastries purchased at one of the local bakeries. A suggestion from the Visitor’s Bureau staff had us waking early one morning to drive to the next town over. Here we found Hahn Babker (bakery) open for business. On Tuesday through Saturday, Hahn Bakery opens to sell all of the goods they have baked up that morning. Once they are gone, the store closes, so you will want to arrive early.

At the Amana Meat Shop we were hard pressed to only purchase what would fit in the cooler we brought from home. We had called ahead a couple of weeks, and had them set back some dry ice to help protect our investment. After savoring all of our goods when we got home, it is safe to say that this is some of the best meats we have ever found. We are so glad that they offer mail order, so that we can enjoy more of their wonderful products when we choose.

The Chocolate Haus is a little slice of heaven in the middle of the Colonies. This store is packed with all kinds of truffles, caramels, fudges, and just about anything that can be coated in chocolate. It is a working chocolate shop, and each time we visited they were in the process of making a different sweet treat. The aroma inside the store is intoxicating, and the treats are delicious.

Clockwise from top left: Millhouse Brau Haus, Ox Yoke Inn, The Ronneburg Restaurant, PHAT Daddy’s Restaurant

A Meal For All

Our stay in Middle Amana allowed us four restaurant options, and we sampled them all. The Amana Colonies were founded with communal kitchens, which meant that everyone ate in large gatherings. Food is essential to life, and the residents embraced this time for bonding and fellowship. These same sort of values remain today, and some of the restaurants still offer “Family style” dining.

At Millhouse Brau Haus we dined on German traditional foods created with a modern twist. This recently revamped inn has been turned into a quaint dining establishment that features beers from the oldest craft brewery in the state of Iowa. Everything was so good that it was difficult to stop eating when we got full.

Our visit to the Ox Yoke Inn was filled with traditional standards. While we enjoyed the food at all of the restaurants we visited, the Pork Loin at this place was an amazing dish. We quickly discovered that the meats from the Amana Meat Shop were a common theme throughout the colonies. When you visit this restaurant, be sure to check out the small museum on the second floor.

The Ronneburg Restaurant was big on the family style dining feature. This is the type where each guest picks a main entree, and then the sides are delivered in large multi-serving bowls. Since we were a party of two, we never had the chance to experience this style of service, but it was clearly a popular choice among others in the restaurant.

It was clear that the German heritage of the colonies shines through in many areas, and especially in the dining menus. How surprised we were when we discovered PHAT Daddy’s Restaurant, which has quickly become famous for their unique pizza offerings. This out of the ordinary dining location offers some really interesting topping combinations, which may sound odd at first, but they certainly taste great.

Shop Till You Drop

In between meals we needed something to work off the calories. Main Amana is a great place for walking. The landscape is fairly level, and sidewalks are numerous and wide. The town is small enough to be covered in a few minutes, but our walks kept getting broken up by all of the great shops. Quality and craftsmanship go hand in hand at the Amana Colonies. In every shop we found a variety of beautiful goods to purchase. This is another reason we love traveling by car, as it allows for ample room to haul home our new found treasures.

The main drag through town is lined with the brown, unpainted buildings that are the trademark of the colonies. As we popped into each, we found boutiques offering unique articles of clothing and jewelry. At Midwest Leather, a nearby leather goods shop, we found everything from jackets to moccasins. Just a couple doors down is an amazing toy store named Little Red Wagon, which is filled to the rafters with gift ideas for the grandkids. Next to this is the Christmas Room, which as it name refers, is all about our favorite winter holiday. Here you can find just about any kind of ornament your heart desires, as well as the tree to hang them on.

Farther east we came upon some of the hand crafted pieces that are designed to become family treasures. At the Amana Furniture & Clock Shop the place is packed with pieces built to be handed down to the next generation. The meticulous work is evident in every piece they create, and it made me wish we would have brought a trailer along, as well. Just a little farther down the path we came to the Amana Woolen Mill, where visitors can see the machinery used to create their beautiful blankets. This is the oldest business in the Amana Colonies, and has operated since 1857. Clearly they have developed a winning recipe over that long of time.

Entertainment Options

After a day filled with shopping and eating, it was time to find some other distractions. There are a few trails around the colonies that offer a chance to commune with nature. At the Amana Colonies Visitors Center we were able to get a couple of bikes to help take in some sights. These came in handy for a ride along Lily Pond, which is especially nice in the evening.

Main Amana has a nice collection of wineries to visit, and each have their own distinct styles. (Read more about the wineries here>) It is quite easy to hit all of them in one day, if you wish. Of course, if you are there for the weekend you might as well spread it out.

During our stay we were fortunate enough to have the chance to catch a show at the Old Creamery Theater. It was interesting to find this place sitting out away from the main town. The entertainment was very good, and we felt quite welcome. It was certainly worth the visit.

A Cozy Place To Rest

The lodging options in Amana focus primarily on Bed & Breakfast style accommodations. There is one motel in the main town, as well. For our visit, we were fortunate enough to be hosted by Buh Schloss, which was one of the newer lodging choices. This charming home sits just off the main street, and offers a quiet place to rest after a day of exploring. This lodging option is the only AirB&B in the town, to our knowledge.

A Relaxing Pace

Our visits to most cities usually have us moving at a fairly quick pace. We do this to be able to feature as many great options as possible, so that our readers can build an itinerary with the choices that best fit their favorite types of establishments. In the Amana Colonies the pace was slower on purpose. This type of town is meant to be savored, and a thorough exploration requires immersing in the local culture. The people of Amana are so kind, and friendly, that this is easy to do. Although we only spent a couple of days with them, we felt as though we were able to get a better understanding of the lifestyle that helped build this wonderful community. We hope you will take the time to visit the Amana Colonies, and sample their unique brand of hospitality. We are betting you will be impressed with the exceptional quality that is apparent in every thing they do. So what looks like the first thing you would want to try when you get to Amana?

*We want to thank the Amana Colonies for hosting our visit. Rest assured that the opinions are all our own.

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