Trips & Routes

Trips & Routes

Endless Outdoor Adventures Await in These 5 Small Towns in Iowa

Check out the most outdoorsy towns in Iowa, with great access to rock climbing, water trails, hiking trails, and biking rails

by Stephanie Frias
on Jun 15
An aerial, river shot of Elkader and the Motor Mill with green foliage, an outdoorsy town in Iowa
Trips & Routes

One of Iowa’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

by Jessica Mlinaric
on May 24
A barge floats past an island filled with homes and green trees on a river
Trips & Routes

This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Iowa

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 22
View of the Mississippi River from an overlook near Guttenberg, Iowa.
Trips & Routes

This Charming Historic Town Is One of Iowa’s Best-Kept Secrets

by Stephanie Frias
on Mar 25
Driving into Oxford, a small historic town in Iowa
Trips & Routes

One of Iowa’s Most Surprising Road Trip Stops Is Hiding in Plain Sight

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 23
Modern Tiffin, Iowa rest area building featuring giant "IOWA" script art and a large quill pen sculpture out front.

Latest Trips & Routes

Trips & Routes

Locals Love This Under-the-Radar Iowa Town (Here’s Why)

Visit Riverside, Iowa, the charming hidden town celebrated as the future birthplace of Captain Kirk. Uncover its Star Trek monuments and luxury casino resort.

by Stephanie Frias
on Mar 10
Captain Kirk Birthplace, Hidden Iowa Town obsessed with Star Trek
Trips & Routes

Burr Oak, Iowa Is a Literary Pilgrimage for Fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder

Plan a literary pilgrimage to Burr Oak, Iowa, and discover the hidden history of Laura Ingalls Wilder. It's a must-visit destination for book lovers.

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 4
The historic red brick Burr Oak Savings Bank building serves as the Laura Ingalls Wilder Visitor Center in Iowa.
Trips & Routes

Pappajohn Sculpture Park Is the Most Colorful Place You’ll Find in Iowa

Pappajohn Sculpture Park is the most colorful place in Iowa. Its rainbow of sculptures is free to explore year-round.

by Stephanie Frias
on Feb 23
Panoramic Awareness Pavilion sculpture at Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the most colorful place in Iowa
Trips & Routes

3 Small Towns in Iowa So Dreamy, You’ll Swear You’ve Seen Them on TV

If you haven’t been to these dreamy small towns in Iowa, you’re missing out on an island getaway, a Swiss village, and a romantic movie location.

by Stephanie Frias
on Jan 22
The bridge over the Mississippi River that connects to Iowa's Sabula Island
Trips & Routes

Not a Skier? This Iowa Snow Tubing Spot Is Just as Much Fun

Seven Oaks Recreation near Boone offers some of the best snow tubing in Iowa. With many runs, a tow, and plenty of food and beverage options, it's a perfect way to spend a winter day in the Hawkeye State.

by Trent Jonas
on Jan 13
Snow tubers navigate down the multiple white runs at Seven Oaks, with a view of the lift lines and trees on either side.
Trips & Routes

I’ve Been Gatekeeping This Hidden Food Network Cafe in Iowa

Barrett’s in Coralville is a Food Network find for Iowa foodies. It has one of the best bakeries in Iowa and a decadent brunch menu, too.

by Stephanie Frias
on Jan 10
Three white plates of food on a wooden tables, brihgtly colored poke bowls and desserts, two cup of iced tea
Trips & Routes

This Town in Iowa Looks Straight Out of a Hallmark Christmas Movie

Oskaloosa’s Lighted Christmas Parade is the Iowa Hallmark movie experience you’re looking for to make lifelong holiday memories.

by Stephanie Frias
on Nov 26
A historic, brick clocktower coverd in red Christmas lights
Trips & Routes

3 Spots in Iowa We’re Especially Thankful for This Year

Thanks to Iowa for one of the longest footbridges in the USA, an unexpectedly pristine river, and an impressive sculpture park!

by Stephanie Frias
on Nov 21
A white bridge suspended by cable over a bridge with a city building in the background.
Trips & Routes

This Hidden Park and Trail in Iowa Is a True Local Secret

This Iowa park and its trails aren't nearly as popular as neighboring parks. Locals would like to keep it that way.

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 20
A view of a small, historic town in a green forested river valley beneath a hazy sky.
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

4 Places in Iowa Locals Hope Tourists Never Discover

These four places in Iowa offer experiences that are similar to more popular tourist spots. But you won't have to brave the crowds.

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 10
Views above Mississippi River and woodlands during autumn from Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa.