Sometimes it’s nice to just get away for a couple of days and enjoy the simpler things in life. If you’re in the mood for that kind of getaway, then a trip to the Villages of Van Buren is just what the doctor ordered.The Villages of Van Buren encompass 12 tiny historic villages, including Milton, Cantril, Bentonsport and Bonaparte. There are so many charming and interesting sights to see, from shops to old-fashioned general stores to amazing historic restaurants, and more. Without a doubt, a trip to these historic Iowa villages makes for a picture perfect weekend.

To start out, cheese lovers will want to make sure to pay a visit to Milton Creamery in Cantril.
Google Maps
Milton Creamery buys all of its milk from local, Amish farmers who raise grass-fed cows. The creamery sells only the most high quality cheeses, like Prairie Breeze™, a mouthwatering, aged white cheddar. 202 East Highway 2, Milton.
Then, make sure to stop at the Dutchman’s Store.
Flickr/BarbaraLN
This old-fashioned general store is run by Mennonites and contains all kinds of treasures, like bulk foods, local produce, kitchenwares, gifts and more. 103 Division St., Cantril.
Next, check out the sights and sounds in Bentonsport.
Facebook/Bentonsport Historic District
This charming little village has plenty to see and do, including going for an Amish buggy ride.
Facebook/Bentonsport Historic District
And browsing the local shops.
Flickr/David Wilson
There are many shops to explore, including arts & crafts, antiques, an old blacksmith shop, a quilt company and more. Added bonus, as you visit the shops, you’ll get a chance to observe the shopkeepers working on their crafts.

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Stop at Forever Sweet Creations for a taste of homemade fudge or ice cream.
Facebook/Forever Sweet Creations
21969 Hawk Dr., Bentonsport, IA.
And walk along the Des Moines River to take in the local architecture and ruins, as well as the old truss bridge.
Flickr/David Wilson
When you’re done exploring Bentonsport, head over to Bonaparte to wander through their historic district.
Flickr/Jody Halsted
This charming riverfront district is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the area has also been named a winner of the "Great American Main Street Award."
For dinner, stop in at Bonaparte Retreat, a historic restaurant that’s in an old grist mill.
TripAdvisor/Couple_of_Flakes
They serve incredible homestyle food, like hand-cut steaks, chicken, pork chops and more. 713 1st St., Bonaparte, IA.
If you need a place to stay, you can’t beat the historic Mason House Inn.
Flickr/Jody Halsted
This inn is one of the oldest continually operating inns in the United States, and in addition to their traditional rooms, they have a one-of-a-kind guest suite located in an actual train caboose. 21982 Hawk Dr., Keosauqua, IA.

For more fun Iowa getaway ideas, These 12 Road Trips In Iowa Will Lead You To Places You’ll Never Forget.

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