Welcome to Panora, Iowa, where small-town charm meets big-time adventure. Our journey begins at Lake Panorama, just north of town. This private lake is the perfect escape for water lovers. We stayed at The Port, right on the lake, complete with a restaurant and tiki bar. It’s like a slice of paradise right here in the heart of Iowa! After soaking up the sun at the lake, we headed downtown to explore Panora’s beautiful town square. It’s a delightful spot with walking paths, a library, and even large musical instruments that the kids – and let’s be honest, I – couldn’t resist!
Feeling the need for a caffeine boost, we popped over to Crafty’s Coffee and Gifts, right across the street. Not only do they serve up delicious drinks and pastries, but it’s also a treasure trove of cute gifts and inspirational home décor. Whether you’re here to work, catch up with friends, or just relax, Crafty’s is the place to be.
Next, we hit the shops! Bella Sorella was our first stop, a charming boutique filled with trendy women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. Trust me, we didn’t leave empty-handed. Before leaving downtown, make a stop at B&B Marketplace(formerly known as Britches N Bows)!
If you’re into antiques, Reborn is a must-visit. You’ll find all sorts of treasures here. And for custom apparel, don’t miss T&K Designs. They specialize in custom vinyl, embroidery, and boutique-printed apparel – perfect for a unique souvenir.
Looking for something active? The Raccoon River Valley Trail runs right through Panora, making it a perfect spot for biking enthusiasts. With 89 miles of paved trail, you can go the distance on this ride! Of course, you can’t visit Panora without stopping at Lake Panorama Pizzeria. Locally owned and offering more than just pizza, it’s a great spot to refuel after a day of exploring. Our next stop is the Guthrie County Historical Village, where you can step back in time. This village features twelve buildings, including a church, schoolhouse, law office, and general store, all staged to look like they did in the 19th century. It’s a fascinating look at local history.
For those interested in sustainability and organic farming, Early Morning Harvest is a must-see. This small-family farm uses aquaponics to grow vegetables and even mills their own flour from certified organic grains. It’s an educational and eye-opening experience.
Panora, Iowa, is a hidden gem, filled with scenic beauty, great shopping, and a warm community. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, there’s something for everyone. Thanks for joining us on this journey and stay tuned for our next adventure! Take a look at our other Off the Beaten Path adventures! Watch our full adventure in Panora:
Welcome back to another adventure-packed vlog. Today, we are thrilled to take you on a journey through some hidden gems nestled in the heart of Iowa. From savoring the finest smoothies to exploring quaint boutiques and indulging in award-winning wines, get ready to experience the charm and vibrancy of Oskaloosa and Albia like never before. So, buckle up and join me as we uncover the magic of small-town Iowa and the wonderful opportunities you can find there.
We started off grabbing lunch at Smokey Row Coffee Shop. Smokey Row is perfect if you’re looking for a place to bring your laptop and work, you’ll find outlets all over the café. If you’re an aspiring artist, you could even have an opportunity to play your music in front of a live crowd. The whole environment is just so fun and unique! I even had the best smoothie I think I have ever had here!
Right next to Smokey Row, you will find the Book Vault. It is an old bank vault turned book vault! You’ll even find an Iowa themed book vault downstairs. There is something for all ages and interests here too. You’ll find books for adults of various genres and the cutest children’s section with books for different ages and stuffed animals! There are more than just books too. You’ll find some great gifts, recipe books, unique kitchen trinkets, and even wine!
We continued to find more unique shopping downtown. I love how Oskaloosa has reinvented their downtown, taken experiences and made them into something new. This was definitely the case at Salvaged Designs. If you like unique, handmade items with meaning behind them, you need to check it out.
We also checked out the cutest boutique, Lu Roo & Co, and if you’re like me, it’ll be nearly impossible to leave without a new outfit!
We decided to check out Tassel Ridge Winery to relax at the end of the day. There are all kinds of wineries and breweries popping up in neighboring towns. Tassel Ridge has several award-winning wines, so I of course had to try a few! If you like sangria, they have a variety of recipes to try with certain wines. I made some with a bottle of their La Crescent, and I wasn’t disappointed!
The next day we traveled on in the area. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway and you love to be surrounded by nature, you need to add Honey Creek Resort to your bucket list. Guests have the option to stay in the resort, a cabin, or camp! During your stay, take advantage of the indoor waterpark, grab a bite to eat in the Prairie Rose or The Depot, rent a bike or go for a walk along the paved trails, play a round of golf and of course, explore the lake! Play a round of sand volleyball, relax, take a walk on the beach, or watch the kids play on the giant inflatables!
After a fun morning at Honey Creek we explored Albia and grabbed lunch at InspireU, the most adorable little café and boutique. The food is delicious, the drinks were great, the cookies were amazing, the employees were SO nice and ladies, the clothes, décor and gift ideas are the cutest. Put this on your bucket list now.
We found more unique shopping in downtown Albia at the Mustard Seed. If you’re looking for home décor or love Magnolia Market, this store is for you.
Finally, a trip to Albia is not complete without a stop at the Welcome Home Solider Monument. It is a breathtaking beauty and its profound significance make it a must see for all!
That’s a wrap on our trip through Oskaloosa and Albia! From the welcoming charm of local restaurants to the unique finds in small-town shops, every stop showed us what makes this part of Iowa special. Whether you love great food, browsing for hidden gems, or just enjoying the scenery, there’s something here for everyone. Until next time, keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep creating unforgettable memories. Stay tuned for our next adventure!
Iowa might be known for its cornfields, but it also boasts sparkling lakes perfect for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Today we’re taking a trip across the beautiful state of Iowa, exploring some of our beautiful lakes. When we think of Iowa lakes, our minds likely go to the usuals:
Spirit Lake: Located in northwest Iowa this lake is known for its clear waters and offers tons of fun activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
Okoboji Lakes: Likely the most popular destination for water enthusiasts and located in northwest Iowa, these lakes include West Okoboji, East Okoboji, and Spirit Lake. West Okoboji is the deepest natural lake in the state while Spirit Lake is known for its clear waters. These lakes offer a ton of fun activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. Check out Vacation Okoboji for trip ideas.
Saylorville Lake: Located near Des Moines,Saylorville Lake offers a range of activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.
Looking to Go Further Off the Beaten Path?
These are fantastic water holes, but Iowa has a hidden gem for everyone. Here are some of the lesser-known lakes that are equally amazing spots to visit and connect with nature in Iowa.
Rathbun Lake
First stop, Rathbun Lake! This massive reservoir is a paradise for water lovers. Shelly absolutely adores this spot, and for good reason. You can boat, fish, camp, and truly soak up nature’s beauty. Plus, there’s Honey Creek Resort, which is the perfect place to relax after a day on the water. It’s actually the largest lake in Iowa, but since it is owned/operated by the Army Corps of Engineers there cannot be any private development on the lake which keeps its natural beauty. While you are in the area, check out the Off the Beaten Path video below for all the local favorite stops!
Lake Red Rock
Next, we head to another large reservoir in southern Iowa, Lake Red Rock. This one’s located in Marion County only 10 minutes from Pella and offers all the fun stuff – boating, fishing, camping, and even some hiking trails! With its 15,000 acres of water, Lake Red Rock is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts of all kinds. Want to discover unique places nearby? Check out the video below!
Clear Lake
Calling all beach bums! Clear Lake in Cerro Gordo County is famous for its sandy shores and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying some lakeside fun. There’s always something going on here, with events and festivals throughout the year. Uncover secret local haunts white you are in town! Watch this video for all the tips on where to stop!
Coralville Lake
Now, let’s head to Coralville Lake near Iowa City. This scenic reservoir is a haven for fishing, boating, and camping enthusiasts. The Coralville Dam and Reservoir area is gorgeous and offers tons of outdoor recreation options. Rent a kayak and explore the peaceful coves or cast a line and try your luck at catching a walleye.
Lake Macbride
Not too far from Coralville Lake is Lake Macbride, which also features a gorgeous state park. Located near Solon, this popular spot is perfect for boating, fishing, and camping. At Lake Macbride State Park, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities beyond the water. Hike or bike on the scenic trails, or have a picnic in the park for a truly immersive experience.
Storm Lake
For a more low-key vibe, Storm Lake in Buena Vista County is a perfect choice. It’s popular for boating, fishing, and all sorts of water activities. Plus, there are amazing cabins and campsites around the lake. And for some extra fun, check out King’s Pointe! This water park offers suites and cottages, firepits, indoor and outdoor water parks with water slides, and mini-golf for a full day of family entertainment.
Easter Lake:
Easter Lake in Des Moines might be small, but it’s huge on accessibility. Easter Lake Park is designed to welcome people of all abilities to enjoy the outdoors. They have nature trails, zero-entry ramps for easy swimming access, and even a calming room for those who need a quiet space.
Viking Lake:
Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty at Viking Lake. Located in southwest Iowa near Stanton, Viking Lake State Park, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike or bike the 5.5-mile trail encircling the serene 136-acre lake. Cast a line and snag a trophy fish or launch your boat for a peaceful cruise on the water. With a sandy beach, picnic shelters, and abundant wildlife, Viking Lake offers an unforgettable escape for all ages.
Willow Lake:
If you’re looking for a fun family escape, Willow Lake Recreation Area near Woodbine is the place to be. This park centers around a lake perfect for fishing, with a playground, and picnic shelters. Hikers and birdwatchers will love exploring the trails, while campers can pitch a tent or rent a modern cabin with amenities. Open year-round, Willow Lake offers something for everyone!
Swan Lake:
For a more serene experience, Swan Lake State Park south of Carroll is calling your name. This park caters to all interests, with opportunities for fishing, paddling, camping, hiking on paved and non-paved trails, and wildlife watching. There is an education center with meeting rooms and even a gift shop and concession stand.
Lake Icaria:
And finally, we have Lake Icaria in southwest Iowa. This 650-acre lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, biking, and exploring scenic trails. There are two campgrounds, full-service cabins that are handicap accessible as well as sleeper cabins and cottages! Something for everyone to enjoy!
So, there you have it! These are just a few of the amazing lakes Iowa has to offer. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or family fun, there’s a perfect lake getaway waiting for you in the Hawkeye State.
Don’t forget to leave a comment below letting us know which lake you’d love to visit and what kind of activities you’d enjoy! And if you’ve been to any of these lakes, share your experiences in the comments as well. Thanks for joining me on this refreshing adventure across Iowa! Let’s hit the road and explore some more amazing places soon!
With the cold winter weather here, we’re dreaming of warmer days and planning our next summer getaway! Today, we’re taking you on a visit to Decorah, Iowa, a town full of rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique local treasures. So, grab your sense of adventure and get ready to explore!
As we hit the road, let me tell you a little about why we’re so excited about Decorah. It’s nestled in what’s known as the driftless region, where the landscape is characterized by its rolling hills, stunning bluffs, and untouched natural beauty. We chose to stay at the Decorah High Point Cabins, and let me tell you, it’s a slice of paradise. With seven unique cabins offering spacious rooms, breathtaking views, and plenty of activities for the kids, it’s the perfect base camp for our adventure.
Another great place to stay is the historic Hotel Winneshiek located on the main drag in Decorah, in walking distance of lots of shops, coffee shops, and restaurants!
One of the highlights of Decorah is the Upper Iowa River, offering excellent fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. We even got some great tips from Off the Driftless for our float trip, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable experience.
If you’re a coffee lover, you have to check out Impact Coffee located just across the street from Hotel Winneshiek. Their seasonal lattes are delicious and they have lots of monthly events!
If you want to really go off the beaten path, make sure to make reservations at Twin Springs Supper Club. A delicious meal and even better setting!
But our adventure didn’t stop there! We also explored nearby towns like Burr Oak, home to the childhood home of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and Spillville, where we marveled at the incredible hand-carved clocks at the Bily Clock Museum.
And let’s not forget about the importance of honoring our history. In Lawler, we paid our respects at a memorial commemorating our service men and women, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom.
One of the things I love most about these off-the-beaten-path adventures is the unexpected discoveries, like stumbling upon the biggest playground ever at Mikkelson Park in New Hampton or discovering a beautiful rock garden memorial in the park.
Another iconic stop is the Vesterheim Museum – “the most extensive collection of Norwegian-American artifacts in the world!” Next door is the Veterheim Commons, designed by world famous architects, making it a definite must-see.
Photos by ZaigerVision
As we make our way home, we’re filled with gratitude for life’s journeys and the memories we’ve created along the way. So, if you ever find yourself in Iowa, I encourage you to take the road less traveled and discover the hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Well, that’s it for today. Thanks for joining us on this adventure, and until next time, remember to embrace the journey and explore the world around you. Stay tuned for our next adventure!
