A Tour of Unique Iowa Bed and Breakfasts

Iowa’s charm goes beyond sprawling cornfields. Nestled in quaint towns are unique bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) offering a delightful escape. Here’s a glimpse into some of these hidden gems, each with something special to offer.

Iowa Bed & Breakfasts to Enjoy

For the Agritourist:

  • Lucky Star Farm (Johnson County): Wake up to the sound of roosters crowing at Lucky Star Farm, a 20-acre haven between Iowa City and Kalona. Immerse yourself in sustainable practices as you help collect eggs from their happy hens, or cuddle with adorable baby goats, dogs, and kittens. After a day of farm adventures, unwind in their renovated Milk House or vintage camper, complete with modern amenities and a touch of rustic charm.
  • New Day Dairy Guest Barn (Butler County) Ever dreamt of sleeping with the cows? New Day Dairy Guest Barn near Clarksville makes that dream a reality! Their one-of-a-kind B&B experience allows you to stay right in the heart of their dairy operation. You will be given Intro & Farewell Barn tours as you come and go. With large loft windows overlooking the cow barn, you can witness the daily life of dairy cows. Learn about current dairy practices from the helpful staff, and enjoy a delicious continental breakfast.

 

Learn more about agritourism in Iowa by checking out Evolution of the Heartland!

For the Nature Lover:

  • Trickling Waters Retreat (Clayton County): Escape the hustle and bustle at Trickling Waters Retreat, a secluded paradise nestled amidst the beauty of Iowa’s nature near Marquette. Cozy up by the fireplace in your private suite, and let the soothing sounds of the trickling waterfall and the whispers of nature lull you into relaxation. Explore the surrounding trails, simply unwind on the deck and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Barnswallow Cottage (Mahaska County): Breathe in the fresh air and surround yourself with vibrant blooms at Barnswallow Cottage, located outside Oskaloosa. Stay in the historic 1949 A-frame farmhouse, a unique lodging option steeped in rural charm. From July-September, all guests are invited to you-pick flowers for FREE at Barnswallow Flowers! A bucket, snippers and vases will be provided for a truly unique and magic experience in the flower field. Farmer Meredith will provide a small flower farm tour then choose from beautiful flowers to harvest and design your very own special bouquet!
  • Hickory Ridge Bed, Breakfast & Bridle (Clayton County): Escape to the tranquility of Iowa’s countryside at Hickory Ridge Bed, Breakfast and Bridle! Nestled near McGregor, this charming B&B offers comfortable lodging, delicious breakfasts and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Hickory Ridge provides the perfect home-away-from-home for your adventure.

 

For a Romantic Getaway:

  • Oakwood Inn (Dickinson County): Rekindle the spark at the luxurious Oakwood Inn in Spirit Lake, a haven designed for romance. Spoil yourselves with a king-sized bed, a crackling fireplace and a two-person whirlpool in select rooms. Savor a gourmet breakfast made with fresh, local ingredients and embark on romantic adventures. Explore the nearby art galleries, museums and nature center, or simply enjoy the views of the gardens.

Exterior photo of Oakwood Inn

 

For a Historical Retreat:

  • Sabula Castle Bed and Breakfast (Jackson County): Step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Sabula Castle Bed and Breakfast. This charming castle, built for love on the banks of the Mississippi River in Sabula, boasts a rich history and unique architectural details. Relax and unwind with picturesque views, check out all the “local secrets” and become part of the castle’s story.

 

For a Peaceful Escape:

  • Loya’s Little House Bed and Breakfast at Grandad’s Farm (Story County): Find tranquility at Loya’s Little House Bed and Breakfast. This B&B offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the Skunk River Valley, providing a haven of peace and relaxation. Start your day with a delicious, home-cooked breakfast featuring the bounty of local farms. Explore the nearby Iowa State campus in Ames or simply unwind in the serene atmosphere and soak in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

 

Looking for More?

  • Land Alliance Fold Schooll Farm (Johnson County): This versatile B&B located near Oxford offers options for personal or group stays. Choose from comfortable rooms with a shared living area or opt for a more private experience with a full kitchen and living room. Located on a working farm with various experiences to partake in such as classes, retreats, pizza night or flower cutting.  There are places to do creative work or to relax and soak in the peacefulness of the area.
  • PepperHarrow Farm (Madison County): Surround yourself with beauty and learn about sustainable practices at PepperHarrow Farm, a 60-acre flower and lavender farm near Winterset. Stay in their charming glamping tent accommodations and explore their cut flower gardens. Learn about the importance of a healthy ecosystem and appreciate the dedication to minimizing environmental impact.

Iowa’s bed and breakfasts cater to diverse interests. Whether you seek a farm adventure, a romantic escape or a historical immersion, there’s a perfect B&B waiting to be discovered! Let these hidden gems transform your next Iowa getaway into an unforgettable experience.

 

Discover more Iowa adventures!

A Visit to Panora, Iowa

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!
woman playing bells at a music park
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.
coffee shop interior
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)!women's clothing boutique
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.
exterior of an antique store
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.
Historical village
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.organic farm
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:
PANORA TRAVEL GUIDE

A Visit to Oskaloosa & Albia

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.

sandwich and smoothie at smokey row coffee

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!

 

book store shelves

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!

 

antique store interior

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!

 

Winery

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!

 

swimming pool at honey creek resort

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!

 

boat dock in albia

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.

 

liberty bell and flags at a soldier monument

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!

OSKALOOSA & ALBIA TRAVEL GUIDE MAP

Discover the Top Community Festivals in Iowa

Iowa hosts numerous community festivals throughout the year, showcasing the state’s diverse cultures, traditions and interests. While determining the “top” festivals is subjective, here are ten notable community festivals in Iowa that celebrate traditions and highlight the vibrant community spirit of the state.

1.Tulip Time Festival (Pella, Marion County)

2. Orange City Tulip Festival (Orange City, Sioux County)

Celebrated in the charming town of Pella, Tulip Time Festival is a Dutch-themed extravaganza that transforms the town into a sea of vibrant tulips. Visitors can enjoy traditional Dutch attire, wooden shoe-making demonstrations, parades and delicious Dutch pastries. This festival is a perfect blend of color, culture and community spirit. While you are in town be sure to watch this Off the Beaten Path video and hit all the local stops!

Similar to Pella’s Tulip Time, the Orange City Tulip Festival is a celebration of Dutch heritage with stunning tulip displays, parades, traditional costumes and cultural performances. This festival is a testament to the Dutch roots of the community and offers an immersive cultural experience. Off the Beaten Path can guide you to the best stops in town.

woman standing in front of red tulips

3. RAGBRAI (Various Locations)

The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) is an iconic cycling event that takes participants through different communities across the state each year. It’s a unique way to experience Iowa’s scenic landscapes, small towns and local culture. Each stop along the route offers its own mini-festival, complete with local food, music and hospitality. Even if you’re not a cycling enthusiast, there is truly something for everyone at each stop along the way.

 

4. Oktoberfest/Maifest (Amana Colonies, Iowa County)

Celebrated in the historic Amana Colonies, Oktoberfest (and its spring counterpart, Maifest) embraces German traditions with live music, dancing, beer tastings and ethnic activities. The Amana Colonies’ rich German heritage is on full display, offering a festive atmosphere that transports visitors to a traditional Bavarian village. Make sure to hit the best stops after watching this Off the Beaten Path video.

building in Amana Iowa

 

5. Bridges of Madison County Festival (Winterset, Madison County)

Winterset, famous for its picturesque covered bridges, hosts the Bridges of Madison County Festival. This event celebrates the book and movie “The Bridges of Madison County” with guided tours, live performances and special events. It’s a must-visit for fans of the story and those who appreciate the charm of historic covered bridges.

booth at a fall festival

 

6. Hinterland Music Festival (St. Charles, Madison County)

Hinterland Music Festival, held in St. Charles, is a celebration of music, art and the great outdoors. This festival attracts top musical acts and offers a diverse lineup of genres from indie rock to folk. Set against the scenic backdrop of rural Iowa, it’s an ideal event for music lovers and those looking to enjoy a weekend of camping and camaraderie.

7. Tivoli Fest (Elk Horn, Shelby County)

Elk Horn’s Tivoli Fest is a Danish celebration held over Memorial Day weekend each year. The festival features traditional Danish food, folk dancing, music and the famous Danish windmill. It’s a family-friendly event that highlights the Danish heritage of the community and offers a fun, cultural experience for all ages.

tivoli fest windmill in elk horn iowa

 

8. Color the Wind (Clear Lake, Cerro Gordo County)

Color the Wind Kite Festival is a colorful spectacle that takes place on the frozen Clear Lake during winter. Participants and spectators alike can enjoy the sight of hundreds of kites soaring in the sky, with activities ranging from ice fishing to kite flying competitions. It’s a unique winter festival that brings the community together for a day of fun.

kites flying over a frozen lake

9. Decorah Nordic Fest (Decorah, Winneshiek County)

Decorah’s Nordic Fest celebrates the town’s Scandinavian heritage with traditional crafts, food, music and dance. The festival features a grand parade, folk art demonstrations and the famous lutefisk dinner. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Scandinavian culture and enjoy the hospitality of Decorah.  As you plan your trip to Decorah, be sure to check out this Off the Beaten Path video for the best stops in the area!

10. Old Threshers Reunion (Mount Pleasant, Henry County)

Held in Mount Pleasant, the Old Threshers Reunion is a nostalgic journey into the past, celebrating agricultural history with steam engines, antique tractors and live demonstrations of historic farming techniques. The event also features a carnival, live entertainment and a wide variety of food vendors, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

11. Meskwaki Pow Wow (Tama, Tama County)

The Meskwaki Pow Wow is a celebration of Native American culture held near Tama, featuring traditional dancing, drumming and crafts. Held by the Meskwaki Nation, this event is open to the public and offers a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Meskwaki people.

These festivals highlight the diverse cultural influences, traditions and interests found in Iowa communities. Each event offers a unique experience, and attending one can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and community spirit. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Iowa’s community festivals are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the state’s vibrant heritage. This list just scratches the surface of the incredible community festivals Iowa has to offer. So, grab your calendar, pick your interests, and get ready to experience the warmth and spirit of Iowa communities at their finest!

A Visit to Clear Lake

Welcome to Clear Lake, a charming lakeside destination in Iowa with so much to offer, from incredible food and shopping to rich history and relaxing views. Let’s explore everything this town has to offer.

Start your morning right with a coffee from Cabin Coffee and grab some donuts to go. Be sure to order ahead so you don’t miss out on their delicious selection!

three woman smiling at a coffee shop

A visit to the Surf Ballroom and Museum is a must. This historic rock and roll landmark has hosted countless iconic artists over the years. It’s best known as the last concert venue for Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper Richardson before their tragic plane crash in 1959. Inside, you’ll find their legacy beautifully captured, and just outside of Clear Lake, you can visit the crash site memorial that keeps their memory alive.

plane crash memorial site in clear lake display case of a guitar at the surf ballroom surf ballroom exterior

If the weather isn’t beach-friendly or you’re not ready to take a tour on the Lady of the Lake, spend the rest of your morning exploring Clear Lake’s charming downtown shops.

boat in clear lake

Start shopping at these amazing boutiques:

Need a pick-me-up? Stop by Holistic Harmony for a tea or latte while browsing their wellness items. Don’t miss K&B Emporium, where you can shop even more or enjoy a bite to eat at their café. Or grab lunch at Starboard Market, known for its delicious offerings.

coffee shop

Gyro Place is a fantastic lunch option with tacos, Philly sandwiches, and, of course, gyros. Dessert is a must in Clear Lake. Try the malts at Charlie’s Soda Fountain (open seasonally) or grab a cookie at Cookies, Etc. Or, if you’re like me, try both!

gyro old fashioned soda fountain shop

Spend your afternoon soaking up local art at the Clear Lake Arts Center. Browse the galleries and gift shop filled with work from local artists. Then, head over to Central Gardens, which are open May through October. With more than 20 themed gardens, it’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy an event, or share lunch with a friend.

For drinks, stop by Lake Time Brewery, the fastest-growing brewery in the U.S., and enjoy one of their specialty or seasonal brews. You can also add a stop at The Cardinal cocktail lounge at 173° Craft Distillery on your list, with great outdoor seating!

glass of beer

For dinner, Clear Lake has plenty of options:

End your night with some fun at Tap’d, where you can enjoy cocktails and games, or check out Battlefield Midwest for laser tag, virtual reality, and an escape room adventure.

Finally, rest up at the Lakeside Inn, a boutique hotel that lives up to its name. Be sure to request a lakefront room for the best views.

view of the lake from a hotel room patio

hotel room at lakeside inn

Thanks for joining us off the beaten path in Clear Lake, Iowa. Stay tuned for our next adventure!

CLEAR LAKE TRAVEL GUIDE

Hitting the Lakes in Iowa

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

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.

Lake Macbride

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.

Storm Lake

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.

Swan Lake

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!

Evolution of the Heartland Wins Two Iowa Tourism Awards

Emerge Marketing Solutions was awarded the ‘Outstanding Marketing Collaboration’ award and the ‘Outstanding Social Media Execution’ award for their work with Evolution of the Heartland at the 2024 Iowa Tourism Conference hosted by Travel Iowa on March 20th.

2024 Iowa Tourism Award Winner for Outstanding Marketing Collaboration - Emerge Marketing Solutions“It was quite an honor and surprise to receive these two awards from Travel Iowa,” said Emerge Marketing Solutions Owner & visionary leader behind Evolution of the Heartland. “We want to thank all the partners who have believed in us enough to invest in our cause and make this vision a reality for rural Iowa. We truly wouldn’t have been able to get this far without

them. After attending this year’s Iowa Tourism conference, I recognize that we have arrived, rural Iowa!! There has never been a better time to showcase the evolution of the heartland.” 

Emerge received the first award on behalf of the marketing collaborations between Travel Iowa; Iowa Farm Bureau (including Audubon, Shelby, & Carroll County Farm Bureau); Community Foundation of Southwest Iowa; Iowa commodity groups: Iowa Corn, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Turkey Federation, and the Iowa Food & Family Project (Iowa Soybean Association); local community organizations: the City of Manning, Audubon County Economic Development & Tourism, Main Street Manning, Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park, Audubon County Fairgrounds, Nathaniel Hamlin Museum; various influencers: the Farm Babe, Michelle Miller; Iowa’s Storyteller – Darcy Maulsby; Olio in Iowa – Megan Bannister; Des Moines Parent – Erin Huiatt; and Ceara Kirkpatrick; and 15 private tour locations on local farms and agricultural businesses in the Manning, Audubon, Carroll, and Templeton area.2024 Iowa Tourism Award Winners

Evolution of the Heartland 

“We wanted to create and implement an authentic agritourism experience that highlights rural Iowa in a way that no one has been able to effectively do before,” said Greving. “Our ultimate goal is to gain exposure for the evolving rural Iowa; change perceptions of rural life and agriculture; create awareness of opportunities to visit, play, work, and live in Iowa where there’s an exceptional quality of life; and ultimately inspire others to pursue the American dream right here in Iowa.”

Through multiple local and statewide strategic partnerships and sponsorships, the inaugural Evolution of the Heartland event was held on August 31, 2022, at the primary host site of the Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park. The second annual event was hosted by Manning/Audubon on August 3, 2023. With more than 90% of Iowa being comprised of rural communities, Greving emphasized the importance of this initiative going beyond one or two communities. So, the Emerge Marketing team is working to bring Evolution of the Heartland to more rural communities in Iowa and scale the experience statewide in the next five years. 

Their vision to replicate the agritourism event across the state so that even more rural communities can benefit is already becoming a reality. This year, four Iowa communities will host an Evolution of the Heartland experience: DeWitt on July 25th, Stanton on September 12th, Coon Rapids on September 26th, and Manning on October 3rd. Registration for all events opens on May 1st and is limited to 50 people for each location. Registration will close three weeks before each event or when all spots have been reserved. Early bird registration features a $25 discount per person and ends June 1st. Participants can sign up to be notified when registration opens at www.evolutionoftheheartland.com. 

Emerge Marketing Solutions

Emerge Marketing is a local marketing organization owned by Shelly Greving of Manning. Greving, along with her team, including Katie Lange (Sextro, originally from Manning), Claire Zaiger (Olsen, originally from Audubon), and Annie Greve (Carroll) work to revitalize rural Iowa and support communities, non-profits, and businesses that make up the fabric of Iowa’s small towns through a variety of marketing services including brand development, business consulting, digital marketing, fundraising, social media management, strategic planning, video production, website development, and more. 

2024 Iowa Tourism Award Winner for Outstanding Marketing Collaboration and Social Media Execution - Emerge Marketing Solutions

This marks the third year in a row that Emerge has received a Travel Iowa Award, specifically the Social Media Execution Award. In 2022 they won for their video series promoting rural Iowa communities, ‘Off the Beaten Path in Iowa’; in 2023 for their digital promotions for Wright County Fair, and now for their Evolution of the Heartland social media marketing efforts. Emerge has received additional awards on behalf of their clients in previous years, including: ‘Outstanding Niche Market Initiative’ for their Look Local First initiative with DeWitt Chamber & Development Company in 2017 and ‘Outstanding Promotional Material’ for their social media marketing for the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park in 2017. 

“I am so grateful to our talented Emerge team who have worked tirelessly to showcase our rural communities and take our digital marketing efforts to new levels,” expressed Greving. “So, if you are a visionary leader and passionate about your rural community, reach out to us. Agritourism is one of Iowa’s priority areas that was highlighted at the conference, and there has never been a better time for our small towns to shine. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for our rural communities.” 

To learn more about Evolution of the Heartland or Emerge Marketing Solutions, contact Shelly Greving at (712) 292-6875 or shelly@em3rgemarketing.com.