The Ultimate Pie Shop Road Trip In Iowa Is As Charming As It Is Sweet

Is there anything better than pie? Whether you're a fan of apple, strawberry rhubarb, or local favorites like sour cream and raisin, there's a pie shop that's the perfect fit for your dessert needs. The best pies in Iowa are hiding in a variety of bakeries, cafes, and pantries - and this pie shop road trip will take you to six of the state's best.

Have a big appetite? This ultimate pie road trip can be done in one day with under six hours of driving - if you're up for it.

The adventure begins in Guttenberg's Picket Fence Cafe & Catering, a small restaurant with an impressive bakery.

They offer a regular selection of fresh-baked pies, but if they're offering the triple-fruit, don't miss it - it's packed with blueberries, raspberries, and rhubarb.

Heading west to Waterloo, you'll find a bakery named Try Pie with a unique story - it's partially run by teenage girls through a youth ministry.

And these kids can bake! The bakery has all the classics, but also unique seasonal flavors you won't want to miss.

Head south to Cedar Rapids for Kathy's Pies and Bakery. This long-time local institution is one of the most decadent bakeries in the state.

Their fruit pies are excellent, but all the locals will tell you to go for their ridiculously rich, intense chocolate cream pies.

The Coffee Cup Cafe is a small-town restaurant in Sully, on your way west - and their pies are not to be missed.

This local business has a way of putting unique spins on old favorites - like that Dutch Letter pie topped with pieces of the almond-based dessert.

The Baker's Pantry in Dallas Center is a small-batch Amish grocery store known for canned goods - and baked goods.

Finally, head south to Indianola to Crouse Cafe - another local gem.

The friendly staff at this old-school cafe will be happy to tell you all about the pie flavors of the day, but the cherry pie is the runaway winner.

Have you embarked on your own ultimate Iowa pie adventure? Before you take ours, let us know about your can't miss pie destinations in the comments section. If you're looking for a more savory road trip in the Hawkeye State to go with sweet adventure, make sure to check out this hole-in-the-wall BBQ road trip.