A Visit to Spencer

Hey, everyone! Today, we’re heading off the beaten path to discover the charming town of Spencer, Iowa! I’ve heard so many amazing things about this place, and I can’t wait to explore it all. Let’s dive in!

First stop: Poiema Design, a dreamland for anyone who loves home décor and furniture. Their unique and beautiful pieces are perfect for adding that special touch to your space. Next, we’re checking out Beverly Jean Boutique! This boutique is packed with the latest trends in women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. If you love stylish finds, this is your spot! The Hen House is up next, and wow – it’s like a treasure trove! Décor, home goods, kitchenware, gifts, and even fun stuff for the kids – they really have it all.

 

Here’s something unique: Vermeer Glass Art. You can browse stunning handmade fused glass art or even get hands-on and create your own masterpiece. What a cool experience!

     

 

After all that shopping, it’s time for a little treat. I grabbed a coffee from Toad’s Coffee & Tea!  Toad’s is known for roasting gourmet coffee beans from around the world, offering fine loose-leaf teas, local art, and a selection of fine books , it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge.

After a recharge, I checked out a new spot, Pressed. This shop is all about inspiration, with handmade gifts, hand-stamped metal jewelry, letterpress greeting cards, and screen-printed apparel, all designed and created right here in Spencer. It’s a must-visit! Right next door is The Loft by Pressed, a fully equipped rentable studio for photo, video, and podcast projects. It’s perfect for creators looking to tell their stories!

     

Did you know Spencer is home to the famous library cat, Dewey? At the Spencer Public Library, I got to learn all about his incredible story – what a heartwarming piece of local history!

 

For some entertainment, check out the Spencer Community Theatre. From plays to musicals, this is the place to catch a great show. Finally, we’re wrapping up the day at Century Farms Distillery. Between the tour, tasty drink samples, live music, and a food truck, this was the perfect way to end the day.

Spencer, Iowa, is such a hidden gem! From its unique shops and dining to its fascinating history and vibrant local culture, this town has so much to offer. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, Spencer is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Thanks for joining me on this adventure off the beaten path. Stay tuned for our next adventure!

A Visit to Spencer Travel Guide

A Visit to LeMars, Iowa

Today, we’re venturing off the beaten path to the charming town of Le Mars, Iowa. Join me as we uncover the hidden gems and delightful experiences this Midwest gem has to offer!
Our first stop takes us to downtown Le Mars, where art comes alive on the streets. With over 115 Midwest artists contributing to the alley art and murals, every corner tells a unique story.
If you’re in need of a caffeine fix or a sweet treat to get your morning off on the right foot, look no further than Habitue Coffeehouse. With its cozy atmosphere and an array of bakery delights, it’s the perfect spot to start your day. And don’t forget to check out their custom cakes, they’re as delicious as they are stunning!
After fueling up, it’s time to hit the shops! Hotopp Jewelry and Gifts dazzles with its exquisite jewelry and eclectic home decor. And for the little ones in your life, Sugar N Spice offers the cutest clothes and gifts. Shop Cary Boutique is conveniently located under the same roof, so Mom can shop for herself while she browses for the littles.
Feeling hungry? Let’s grab a bite at Bob’s Drive-In, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering Bob dogs topped with homemade meat sauce. With a diverse menu, root beer floats, and a charming back patio, it’s the perfect spot for a classic American meal.
After a day of exploring, unwind in style at the Inn on Central bed and breakfast. Each room is a symphony of comfort and elegance, inspired by the musical talents of the Browns family, who also happen to own the inn. And be sure to visit Brown’s Theatre and Gift Shoppe, where history and entertainment collide.
And of course, no trip to Le Mars would be complete without a visit to the Blue Bunny Visitor’s Center. Dive into the rich history of this beloved ice cream brand, indulge in a scoop or two, and maybe even witness the magic of ice cream-making firsthand!
That concludes our journey through Le Mars, Iowa. From art-filled streets to delectable eats, this town truly has something for everyone. Thanks for joining us, stay tuned for our next adventure!
LE MARS TRAVEL GUIDE

A Visit to Guthrie Center

Today, we’re exploring the charming town of Guthrie Center, Iowa. Situated in the heart of the state, Guthrie Center is a hidden gem with so much to offer, from its vibrant downtown to the tranquil beauty of Springbrook State Park.

Guthrie Center is proud to be a Mainstreet Iowa community, and you can see the dedication to revitalization everywhere you look. And trust me, if you’re up for a girls’ shopping day, Guthrie Center is the place to be!

Our first stop is Pearls and Lace Country Boutique, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute gem. From trendy women’s clothing to fun graphic tees and accessories, this shop has it all.

 

Next up, we checked out the Strawberry Patch. Not only do they offer a fantastic selection of women’s clothing, home décor, and jewelry, but on Sundays, you can even grab some delicious food to go from the Cabbage Rose Buffet located inside!

We couldn’t resist popping into Dowd Drug next. Their gift shop is a treasure trove of seasonal home décor, accessories, and unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

After all that shopping, it’s time for a quick lunch break. Pull up a chair for some classic American fare at Primetime Bar and Grill and enjoy delicious Midwest flavors!

Our shopping spree continued at the Pink Poppy Apothecary, where you’ll find an array of essential oils, candles, natural beauty products, and more. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to pamper themselves or find the perfect gift.

Our downtown shopping adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Art on State. This gallery, created by the Guthrie County Arts Council, showcases the incredible talent of local artists and offers a unique selection of handmade goods.

 

Now, if shopping isn’t your thing or you’re just craving some outdoor adventure, Springbrook State Park is the perfect escape. With its scenic trails, beautiful lake, and abundance of recreational activities, it’s the ideal destination for nature lovers.

 

Springbrook State Park has something for everyone. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach, it is a true oasis of tranquility.

 

Thanks for joining us on this journey to Guthrie Center, Iowa. We hope you enjoyed exploring this charming town as much as we did. Stay tuned for our next adventure!

GUTHRIE CENTER TRAVEL GUIDE

A Visit to Decorah, Iowa

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.
Decorah High Point Cabins
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!Lobby of Hotel Winneshiek in Decorah
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.
Kayaking on the Upper Iowa River
Of course, no trip to Decorah is complete without a visit to local hotspots like Mabes Pizza for the best pizza in town, Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. or Pulpit Rock Brewing Company for a refreshing drink, Dunning Springs Park for an exhilarating hike to a 200-foot waterfall, and the Decorah Fish Hatchery to catch a glimpse of the famous eagles.
Pizza from Mabe's Pizza in Decorah Iowa      Waterfall at Dunning Spring Park
 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!
Coffee shop in Decorah     Impact Coffee shop
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!
Twin Springs Supper Club
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.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum Entrance Entrace to the Bily Clocks 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.
Freedom Rock flag memorial in Lawler Iowa
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.
Mikkelson Park in New Hampton, Iowa Rock garden memorial
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.
Architecture at Vesterheim Museum Vesterheim Museum
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.
Family photo in Decorah
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!
DECORAH TRAVEL GUIDE