The Amana Colonies are a great place to learn about a rich part of Iowa's history. Stop by the Amana Heritage Museum to learn about the community's 300-year legacy, shop for locally made goods in a variety of shops and grab an authentic German meal at The Ronneburg or the Ox Yoke Inn.
During the holiday season, explore the Tannenbaum Forest, located in the historic Festhalle Barn.
Albert the Bull is a must-see stop in northwest Iowa! Stop by Albert the Bull Park for a picnic & to snap a photo of this huge Hereford.
Albert also has had his share of the limelight. He appears in the movie “Beethoven’s 3rd” and was mentioned on both “Jeopardy” and “The West Wing.”
Travel Tip: Continue on HWY 228 toward Long Lake, the 20-foot-tall World's Largest Loon is located in Vergas Park.
If there are two things I truly love in this world, it’s donuts and puns. And Glazed & Infused combines them! You can't go wrong here.
Stopping by to see Punxsutawney Phil, regardless of the time of year, is always fun! You can find Phil visible outside of the public library at 301 E. Mahoning Street.
According to the plaque next to his burrow, Phil is more than 100 years old (despite the fact that groundhogs only live to be 6 or 7). Believe what you will!
After being diverted from the highway because of a major accident, we ventured out on some (very) bumpy dirt roads in search of this roadside attraction and our predetermined detour. (If you do try to seek out this spot, proceed with caution—roads are poorly/un-maintained.)
When we finally found it we were mildly disappointed—don’t get me wrong, it’s a cool photo opp, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to add this one to your road trip list.
The Voyage Home Museum is home to historical items about the town of Riverside, Iowa, but more importantly, collects any and all Star Trek paraphernalia (they also have a gift shop). Be sure to pose for a photo with the U.S.S. Riverside out front!
Having trouble finding the marker? Take the path on the right of the New Image Salon and head around back for Captain James T. Kirk's future birthplace.
For the true Star Trek aficionados—head up the street to Murphy’s Bar & Grille and look for a plaque in the back room marking the point where Captain Kirk will be conceived. The plaque was once affixed to the bottom of the pool table, but now hangs on the wall.
Worth a stop—especially if you're an American history buff! This home was gifted to Ulysses S. Grant by grateful citizens in 1865 after his victories in the Civil War. He used the home as his official address through his election, presidency and into his retirement, visiting for the last time in 1880.
The Olsen twins have since vacated and this home is now a private residence, but for a true Full House fan, this is a great photo opp if you're visiting San Francisco.