Posted in Iowa Day Trips December 28, 2022 by Raymond Goldfield

This Walkable Stretch Of Shops And Restaurants In Small-Town Iowa Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

There are few things more relaxing than a day of browsing a main street for unique stores and restaurants, and Iowa is full of charming small towns that are perfect for a day trip. The tiny town of Chariton may be home to the best small-town shopping in Iowa, with the area’s best stores and restaurants all being located within a few blocks of each other spread out over less than a mile. You won’t even get tired exploring this unique shopping district – including one of Iowa’s most iconic candy stores – but that doesn’t mean you won’t want to stop at some of the charming restaurants and coffee shops in the area. It’s the perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon and come back with some great souvenirs and unforgettable memories.

Chariton is a relaxing small town with some beautiful architecture, but the best thing to do here is to explore its shopping and dining district!

If you want a faster way to get around, you can start your trip at the Connecticut Yankee Pedaller - an extensive bike shop that's perfect for those who want to explore the local park trails.

To fuel yourself for the day, head to The Porch - a charming neighborhood coffee shop with delicious pick-me-up drinks.

The Porch is also a popular breakfast and lunch spot, and you'll definitely want to drop in for some of their house-baked cinnamon rolls.

Your next stop is That Place on Main, a unique antique and secondhand shop, where you can browse through hundreds of unexpected finds to pick out the perfect accent for your home.

No trip to Chariton is complete without a visit to Piper's - arguably Iowa's most iconic candy store and a town institution.

From fresh fudge to a daily lunch menu, Piper's is always full of surprises - and the perfect place to buy souvenirs for friends and family.

There is no better way to end your day in Chariton than with a visit to the Iron Horse - a neighborhood bar and grill located inside a historic hotel building.

The classic menu of steaks, pasta, and barbecue is packed with flavor, and you'll want to come back to try all the options!

Have you visited Chariton and explored its shopping district? Let us know about your visit, and tell us your pick for the best small-town shopping in Iowa in the comments section. If you’re planning a visit, you can check the Chariton website for more information, and make sure to drop by the Iron Horse’s Facebook page to learn about their latest specials. For another memorable small town in Iowa, why not discover what’s waiting in Marion?

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Address: Chariton, IA 50049, USA

Address: Piper's, 901 Braden Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA

Address: The Porch: Neighborhood Coffee House, 705 Auburn Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA

Address: The Iron Horse Charitone, 831 Braden Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA

Address: That Place On Main, 101 N Main St, Chariton, IA 50049, USA

Address: Connecticut Yankee Pedaller Inc,, 906 Court Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA