Weekend Getaway to Audubon, Manning & Templeton: Whiskey, History & Small-Town Charm

Day 1

Heritage, History & Small-Town Discovery

Morning  

• Start your weekend in Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park.
• Explore the restored 1660 German Hausbarn, one of the few of its kind in the United States.
• Wander through the heritage park and learn about the German immigrants who helped shape this region of Iowa.

The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s cultural roots and is one of the most unique historical attractions in the state.

• Visit Manning’s Freedom Rock and Charters of Freedom monument site.

The Freedom Rock honors veterans through Ray “Bubba” Sorensen’s artwork, while the Charters of Freedom display features life-sized replicas of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Civil Rights Amendments. Together, they create a meaningful stop celebrating American history, service, and freedom.

Take time to walk the grounds, read the displays, and reflect on the stories that helped shape our nation.

Lunch

• Enjoy lunch in downtown Manning and take time to explore the welcoming business district. Choose from one of these hometown restaurants.
  • Deb’s Corner Cafe
  • Cliff’s Place
  • Level B
• Browse local shops and experience the hospitality that small-town Iowa is known for. Here are a couple of places to get you started.
  • The Marketplace Manning
  • Totally You Boutique

Afternoon

• Travel to Templeton Distillery in Templeton.

Learn the fascinating story of Templeton Rye, whose roots trace back to the Prohibition era. Tour the distillery, explore exhibits, and discover how a small Iowa town became famous around the world for its legendary whiskey.

Guests can enjoy tastings, handcrafted cocktails, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of Iowa’s premier distilleries.

Bonus Stop: A Piece of Templeton Rye History

Before leaving Templeton, visit Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery and the grave of Reverend Bernard Schulte.

According to local legend, during Prohibition, Templeton bootleggers used the hollow interior of Reverend Schulte’s monument as a secret hiding place for whiskey and cash. By removing a metal plaque from the side of the monument, they could access the concealed space inside and keep their prized Templeton Rye hidden from revenue agents.

Whether fact, folklore, or a little of both, the story has become one of Templeton’s most enduring tales and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the community’s Prohibition-era history.

If the stories spark your curiosity, Whiskey Cookers  and Gentlemen Bootleggers offer an even deeper look into Templeton’s colorful Prohibition-era past.

Evening 

• Travel to Audubon County and check in at Taylor Hill Lodge.

A century-old cattle barn converted into a 6-room Bed & Breakfast, Taylor Hill Lodge offers guests a peaceful retreat surrounded by the rolling hills of western Iowa. The Lodge combines modern comforts with beautiful countryside views, creating an ideal setting to unwind after a day of exploring. While you’re here, ask innkeeper Ann about the area’s fascinating Prohibition history (and anything else local!). Lodge owners Chuck and Kathy Manatt’s son, Dan Manatt, and farm managers Ted and Donna Bauer’s son, Bryce Bauer, co-created the documentary Whiskey Cookers based on Bauer’s Gentlemen Bootleggers, both of which explore the legendary history of Templeton Rye and the bootleggers who made the small town famous.

Dinner

Choose from local favorites in Audubon:

• El Adobe for flavorful Mexican cuisine, American fare and Italian dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
• The Feed Mill Restaurant for steaks, comfort food favorites, and small-town hospitality.
• Pide Pizza for handcrafted pizzas made with fresh ingredients, along with appetizers and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal with family or friends.
• The Bull Pin Restaurant housed in the Audubon Rec Center bowling alley, they have all your bar-style favorites from burgers to pizzas and appetizers. As a bonus you can enjoy of game of bowling while you are there.

After dinner, return to the lodge and enjoy a spectacular western Iowa sunset on the patio before settling in for the evening.

Stay

• Taylor Hill Lodge – short drive out of town for a true Iowa experience in a renovated barn stay.