Bison, Barns & Backroads: Northeast Iowa Agritourism Getaway

Bison, Barns & Backroads

Some of the best travel experiences happen when you leave the interstate behind and take the scenic route. This Northeast Iowa getaway invites you to do just that. From hand-feeding bison and exploring a family-owned flower farm to spending the night on a working dairy farm, this itinerary offers a closer look at the people, places, and stories that make rural Iowa unique. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or simply looking for a different kind of road trip, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to slow down, learn something new, and connect with the land

A Northeast Iowa Agritourism Getaway

Day 1

Bison, Blooms, & Rural Iowa

Morning

Start your adventure at Hawkeye Buffalo & Cattle Ranch near Fredericksburg.
Tours are available by appointment only, so be sure to contact the ranch and schedule your visit in advance.
Climb aboard a wagon and venture into the pastures and timber where a herd of bison roams.
Learn about the history of bison in America, regenerative farming practices, and the family’s agricultural legacy that spans more than 150 years.

The highlight for many visitors is hand-feeding the bison and seeing these incredible animals up close. It’s an experience that’s both educational and unforgettable.

Before leaving, stop by the ranch store to browse locally raised bison and beef products, including steaks, roasts, jerky, and more.

Lunch

Head to nearby Waverly for lunch and time to explore the community. Downtown Waverly offers locally owned restaurants, shops, and a charming small-town atmosphere that makes for a relaxing midday stop.

Afternoon

Visit Engelbrecht Farm near Waverly.

What began as a shared love of horticulture has grown into a thriving family-owned flower farm. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy colorful blooms, locally grown products, and beautiful countryside views.

The farm offers a glimpse into modern small-scale agriculture while providing a peaceful setting perfect for slowing down and enjoying the beauty of rural Iowa.

Evening

Travel to New Day Dairy Guest Barn near Clarksville and check in for the evening.

Overlooking an active dairy operation, the beautifully renovated Guest Barn offers one of Iowa’s most unique overnight stays.

Spend the evening relaxing in the countryside, exploring nearby communities, or enjoying the property’s famous cow-gazing loft, where guests can watch the dairy herd throughout the day and evening.

Stay

New Day Dairy Guest Barn

This one-of-a-kind farm stay combines comfort, education, and authentic Iowa agriculture. Guests can enjoy modern accommodations while experiencing life on a working dairy farm.

One of the most popular features is the cow-gazing loft, offering a unique perspective of daily farm operations. It’s the perfect place to unwind and gain a new appreciation for modern dairy farming.

Day 2

Dairy Life & Countryside Discovery

Morning

Wake up to peaceful countryside views and enjoy breakfast at the Guest Barn.
Take time to watch the dairy operation come to life as the day begins.

For visitors looking for a deeper agricultural experience, consider participating in New Day Dairy’s popular “Be A Dairy Farmer Challenge.”

This hands-on experience provides a behind-the-scenes look at daily dairy operations and offers a fun opportunity to learn where milk and dairy products come from.

Mid-Morning

Spend additional time exploring the farm and visiting with the people behind the operation.

One of the best parts of agritourism is the opportunity to hear directly from the families who work the land and care for the animals every day.

Before leaving, browse the farm store and pick up locally made products or souvenirs to remember your stay.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch in Clarksville or nearby Waverly before beginning your journey home.

Take time to explore a few local shops or grab a sweet treat before heading out.

Afternoon

Take the scenic route home through Northeast Iowa’s rolling farmland and rural communities.

The countryside itself becomes part of the experience, with picturesque farms, small towns, and open landscapes around every corner. Consider stopping at a local farm stand, bakery, or community park along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy one final taste of rural Iowa.

There’s something special about seeing agriculture up close and meeting the people who make it happen. From hand-feeding bison to watching a dairy farm at work, this Northeast Iowa getaway offers more than just a weekend away, it provides a deeper connection to the land, the animals, and the families who help feed and sustain our communities. Slow down, take the backroads, and discover a side of Iowa that many travelers never see.

Why You’ll Love This Trip

Hand-feed bison on a working ranch
Learn about regenerative agriculture and livestock production
Visit a family-owned flower farm
Stay overnight on an active dairy farm
Experience the famous Cow-Gazing Loft
Optional hands-on Be A Dairy Farmer Challenge
Meet local farmers and hear their stories
Scenic drives through Northeast Iowa’s countryside
Perfect for families, couples, and agritourism enthusiasts
A true behind-the-scenes look at Iowa agriculture

Know Before You Go

Hawkeye Buffalo & Cattle Ranch visits are by appointment only and should be scheduled in advance.
Flower availability at Engelbrecht Farm varies by season.
New Day Dairy Guest Barn books up quickly during peak travel seasons book before you go.
The Be A Dairy Farmer Challenge may require advance reservations.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for farm tours and outdoor activities.
Many experiences take place outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.
Spring through fall typically offers the widest variety of agritourism experiences.
Be sure to check each business’s website or social media pages for current hours and availability before traveling.