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 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

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