EOH Explorer Series | Patton Bar & Diner

A Retro Night Out at Patton Bar & Diner

There are certain restaurants that immediately make you want to stay awhile, and Patton Bar & Diner in downtown Cedar Falls is one of them.

As someone who appreciates great design, thoughtful branding, and spaces with personality, Patton caught my attention long before the food arrived at the table.

From the moment you walk through the door, it feels like you’ve stepped into a classic American diner from another era. The vintage tile, old-fashioned bar stools, cozy booths, and carefully curated details create a nostalgic atmosphere without feeling outdated. Everything feels intentional, from the branding to the lighting to the way the space comes together as a whole.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But Patton is more than a beautiful space.

What makes it stand out is how they pair that retro ambiance with a menu that feels fresh, seasonal, and rooted in Iowa. The restaurant works with local producers and farms to source ingredients whenever possible, and you can tell there’s a genuine focus on quality. Every plate feels thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whether you’re meeting friends for brunch, stopping in for lunch while exploring Cedar Falls, or settling in for a date night dinner, Patton seems to fit whatever pace you’re looking for.

The cocktail menu is worth exploring as well. Seasonal offerings rotate throughout the year, making each visit a little different. Even if you’re not planning a full meal, it would be easy to stop in for a drink and enjoy the atmosphere for an hour or two.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While the space naturally lends itself to date nights, girls’ nights out, and gatherings with friends, families are equally welcome. It feels elevated without feeling exclusive.

After your meal, spend some time exploring downtown Cedar Falls. Grab a coffee at Reader’s Cup, browse the local shops along Main Street, or take a walk near the river. If you’re looking to fully embrace the nostalgic vibe, keep an eye out for Frankie’s, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor opening nearby.

Patton Bar & Diner proves that sometimes the most memorable experiences aren’t complicated. They’re found around a table, sharing good food with good company!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Patton’s own tagline says, good food brings people together. After one visit, it’s easy to understand why.

 

Claire’s List – Know Before You Go

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Brunch is highly recommended and popular with locals
  • Try one of the seasonal cocktails if they’re available during your visit
  • The dining room is fairly small, so reservations are recommended for larger groups
  • Street parking is available throughout downtown Cedar Falls
  • Great option for date nights, girls’ nights out, or meeting friends
  • Families are welcome, though the atmosphere tends to appeal more to adults
  • Take time to appreciate the interior design and vintage details throughout the space
  • Pair your visit with shopping and strolling along Main Street
  • Reader’s Cup and The Nook are nearby if you’re looking for coffee and a bookstore stop
  • The Cedar Falls riverfront and trails are a short walk away
  • Plan for 1–2 hours, or longer if you’re lingering over drinks and conversation
  • Open year-round, making it an easy stop in any season
  • My recommendation: Sit for a full meal, but don’t skip a seasonal cocktail. The combination of great food, thoughtful design, and nostalgic atmosphere is what makes Patton memorable.

 

 

EOH Explorer Series | Ærø Arts

Discovering Local Art and a Little Troll Magic at Ærø Arts

There are some places you visit for one reason and leave with something completely unexpected.

That was my experience at Ærø Arts in Elk Horn.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I originally stopped by to see Egon, one of the area’s newest troll sculptures. If you’ve spent any time in western Iowa lately, you’ve probably heard about the growing troll phenomenon inspired by the arrival of Fjord Færgemand, the large Thomas Dambo troll located near the Museum of Danish America. Local woodworker Daryl Nissen has since created a series of smaller trolls that have been popping up throughout the region, and one now lives outside Ærø Arts.

Egon was definitely worth the stop, but what I loved the most was the art inside.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Near the Danish Windmill in a shared parking area, Ærø Arts is a small consignment gallery and art shop that could easily be missed if you didn’t know it was there. The space itself isn’t large, but every corner is filled with creativity. Pottery, block prints, paintings, woven baskets, hand-sewn bags, drawings, and other handcrafted pieces fill the shelves and walls.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I loved seeing how many local artists were represented! Many of the names on the artist cards were familiar to me, which made the experience feel even more connected to the community. The owners have created a welcoming space that celebrates artists from southwest Iowa and beyond while making art approachable for visitors.

As someone who appreciates thoughtful design and handmade pieces, I found myself slowing down and looking closely at everything. I picked out a piece of pottery to bring home as a gift for a friend!

One of the things that makes Ærø Arts such an easy addition to an Elk Horn day-trip is its location. After visiting the gallery and snapping a photo with Egon, you can simply walk across the parking lot to explore the Danish Windmill. From there, the Museum of Danish America, Fjord Færgemand the troll, The Egg Krate, and several local restaurants are just minutes away.

Whether you’re searching for a unique gift, enjoy supporting local artists, or simply appreciate discovering places that feel personal and authentic, Ærø Arts is worth a stop.

The best souvenirs are handmade and have stories tied to them!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Claire’s List – Know Before You Go

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Start your visit by saying hello to Egon the Troll located outside the gallery
  • The gallery is free to browse, with artwork available at a variety of price points
  • Plan for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you enjoy browsing
  • Most of the artwork is created by local and regional artists
  • The gallery space is small but packed with unique pieces and creative inspiration
  • Be mindful of breakable artwork if visiting with young children
  • The space is not ideal for strollers due to its size and layout
  • Parking is available in the shared lot near the Danish Windmill
  • Hours may vary seasonally, so check before making the trip
  • Don’t rush through the artist cards. Asking questions and learning about the creators adds to the experience.
  • Pair your visit with the Danish Windmill, Museum of Danish America, and Fjord Færgemand
  • The Egg Krate, Larsen’s Pub, and Norse Horse Tavern make great nearby stops
  • Check out Seneca Studio’s storefront for another piece of Danish inspired art!
  • Perfect for anyone who enjoys local art, handmade goods, Danish heritage, and small-town exploring
  • My recommendation: Even if Egon the Troll is what brings you here, spend time inside. You might just find the perfect piece of Iowa-made art to take home.

 

 

EOH Explorer Series | Anton’s Garden in Waterloo

Grab a German Beer and Unwind at Anton’s Garden in Waterloo

Some places surprise you.

Tucked into downtown Waterloo near the river, Anton’s Garden feels like one of those spots you’d stumble upon while exploring and immediately wonder how you didn’t know about it sooner. Part outdoor gathering space, part neighborhood beer garden, and part community park, it’s a hidden gem that offers a completely different pace from the rest of the city.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The first thing you’ll notice is the atmosphere. Wide open green space, plenty of picnic tables, shady spots to relax, and a distinctive German-inspired structure that serves as the heart of the garden. It feels airy, welcoming, and designed for lingering.

Anton’s Garden celebrates Waterloo’s German heritage, and that influence can be found throughout the space. Informational displays share stories about German immigration to Iowa, helping visitors connect with an important piece of the state’s history. I even spotted information highlighting Manning’s Hausbarn Heritage Park, a fun reminder of how connected Iowa’s communities can be.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, many visitors come for the drinks.

The bar offers a selection of beer, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options, including several German beers on tap. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a refreshing drink on a warm afternoon, it’s easy to find something to enjoy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What makes Anton’s Garden especially appealing is that it works for almost any type of outing. Families can spread out on the lawn and enjoy the yard games. Friends can gather around a picnic table and catch up over drinks. Couples can relax in the shade before continuing their downtown adventure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you’re exploring Waterloo for the day, Anton’s Garden pairs perfectly with nearby stops like Sidecar Coffee, Singlespeed Brewing, or a bike ride along the area’s trail system. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t require a big plan. Just show up, order a drink, find a seat, and enjoy the moment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes the best travel discoveries aren’t major attractions. They’re the places where locals gather, conversations happen naturally, and visitors can slow down long enough to appreciate the atmosphere.

Anton’s Garden is exactly that kind of place.

Claire’s List – Know Before You Go

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Anton’s Garden is located in downtown Waterloo near the river and makes a great stop while exploring the city.
  • Try one of the German beers on tap for the full experience.
  • The space is much more than a bar, with plenty of green space, picnic tables, and yard games.
  • Families, couples, and groups will all feel comfortable here.
  • Take time to read the displays about German immigration to Iowa and local German heritage.
  • The entrance arch makes a great photo opportunity.
  • Visit during the mid-to-late afternoon when the shade and atmosphere are especially enjoyable.
  • Grab a drink and relax rather than rushing through the experience.
  • Plenty of space is available whether you’re looking for a lively gathering spot or a quiet place to unwind.
  • Street parking is available nearby.
  • The outdoor setting is pet-friendly and family-friendly.
  • Check their social media before visiting, as they occasionally host special events and community gatherings.
  • Hours may vary seasonally, so verify before making a special trip.
  • Pair your visit with Sidecar Coffee, Singlespeed Brewing, or a bike ride on Waterloo’s trail system.
  • Great addition to a girls’ getaway, couples’ day trip, or an afternoon exploring downtown Waterloo.
  • Spring, summer, and fall are the best seasons to visit.

 

EOH Explorer Series | A Coffee Stop Worth the Detour

One of my favorite parts of exploring Iowa is discovering places that care deeply about what they do. Sometimes it’s a scenic overlook, sometimes it’s a small-town main street, and sometimes it’s a coffee shop that makes you slow down and appreciate the process behind your morning cup.

That’s exactly how I felt visiting Rural Route Roasters in Auburn.

From the moment I walked in, I noticed how open and welcoming the space felt. The layout allows visitors to see the coffee roaster itself, giving you a glimpse behind the scenes. As someone who appreciates thoughtful design and learning how things are made, I loved being able to see part of the roasting process while enjoying my drink. Throughout the shop, signage explains the journey of the coffee bean, making the experience feel educational without being overwhelming.

It’s clear that coffee is taken seriously here. Their focus on quality is evident in everything from the roasting equipment to the finished product in your cup. The coffee was smooth and flavorful without being overly sweet, something I personally appreciate.

Of course, great coffee is only part of the experience.

My husband and I ordered breakfast sandwiches and a lemon roll, and both were excellent. The breakfast sandwich served on toast was simple, fresh, and satisfying. The lemon roll paired perfectly with a cup of coffee and made for a relaxing start to the day.

What stood out just as much as the food and drinks was the atmosphere. The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, creating the type of environment that makes you want to stay awhile. Whether you’re meeting a friend, catching up on work, or simply taking a break while traveling through the area, Rural Route Roasters feels comfortable and inviting.

I also learned that they occasionally host live music and special events, adding another layer of community connection to the experience. It’s worth checking their social media before your visit to see what’s happening.

If you’re exploring western Iowa or simply passing through town, Rural Route Roasters is a stop worth making. Grab a coffee, enjoy a pastry, and take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every cup.

Sometimes the best day trips aren’t built around major attractions. They’re built around small places that do simple things exceptionally well.

Claire’s List – Know Before You Go

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Watch for the coffee roaster inside the shop for a behind-the-scenes look at the roasting process
  • Take time to read the educational displays explaining how coffee goes from bean to cup
  • The breakfast sandwich on toast is highly recommended
  • Don’t skip the lemon roll if you’re looking for something sweet
  • Coffee drinks are flavorful without being overly sweet
  • The atmosphere is comfortable for meeting friends, working remotely, or relaxing with a cup of coffee
  • Check their social media before visiting as they occasionally host live music and special events
  • Hours may vary, so verify before making a special trip
  • Parking is available on-site
  • The shop is family friendly and easily accessible
  • Consider pairing your visit with a stop at Britt’s Farm Market down the road
  • Great stop for travelers passing through town or exploring western Iowa
  • Look for the coffee bean-stamped concrete outside the building for a fun photo opportunity