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Escape the monotony of daily life and visit Fort Dodge. The community’s vast art collections, historic attractions and charming restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to recharge. We’ve done all the planning for you, all you have to do is pack the car and hit the road.
Kick-start your Fort Dodge adventure with one of Stella’s tasty specialty drinks and breakfasts. Their seasonal lattes feature fresh ingredients, including fruits, lavender and honey and the food menu includes everything from avocado toast and breakfast bagels to acai bowls.
Located in the historic Oak Hill District, the Blanden Memorial Art Museum is housed inside a stunning 1932 Neo-Classical building. Step inside to admire special exhibitions and collections which include American, European and Japanese paintings, sculptures, prints and photography. Once you’ve toured the museum, head back outside and admire the community’s public art. Crane your neck to take in the 110-foot-tall Fort Dodge Grain Silo Mural (the tallest in Iowa), then stop by the 14-foot-tall Floyd of Rosedale statue, which depicts a prize-winning hog and a unique community story.
Take a break at Tea Thyme for an upscale dining experience. Each day features two local favorites and two new lunch entrees, ensuring every meal is crafted with the freshest ingredients. Sit down to a delicious salad, savory soup or a hearty meat or pasta dish. Be sure to also try one of the gourmet tea drinks and desserts. Don’t forget to peruse the on-site retail shop for tea, coffee and candy products to take home.
Get some more fresh air with a visit to Terry Moehnke Veterans Memorial Park, which makes up the northwest corner of the 400-acre Kennedy Park. This section combines outdoor adventure with community art to honor service members. Enjoy the views from the amphitheater, which overlooks Badger Lake, and stroll through the memorials and sculptures. For a fun family adventure, head to the other side of the parking lot and walk through the Children’s Forest, which will take you on a short walk through the story and accompanying wood carvings of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax characters.
For the last adventure of the day, try something new at Gaga and Hoo. It’s recognized as the only authentic Korean restaurant in Iowa and the only restaurant in Fort Dodge with a robot server. The menu includes descriptions of each dish, making it a great place to expand your taste buds. Try anything from stir-fried meat and noodle dishes to Korean barbeque and Bibimbap. If you’re not ready to hit the hay for the night, sample local brews and wines at ShinyTop Brewing, River Hops Brewing or Soldier Creek Winery.
Once you’re ready to settle down for the night, book a room at one of the community’s 11 nationally branded hotels for a luxurious night.
Start the day off right with a hearty breakfast from Zakeer’s. It’s been serving homemade meals since 1961, making it a local favorite. Order a massive portion of classics like eggs, bacon and toast, fluffy pancakes and omelets, all served with a smile.
Discover history come to life at the Fort Museum, which takes visitors through the adventures of Fort Dodge’s Dragoons (mounted infantry). They laid claim to the land in 1835 and built a military lookout. Nearly two centuries later, visitors can explore the replica frontier village, which features original buildings such as a one-room schoolhouse and an 1850s log cabin. Inside, the museum showcases thousands of artifacts from the village, including military memorabilia and Native American art and tools.
Once you’ve got your history fix, grab a table at Olde Boston’s to experience one of Fort Dodge’s most premier dining experiences. They’re especially known for the onion rings, seasonal and exotic beer choices and their endless sandwich and salad options.
Round out your art adventure and test your own creativity with a stop at Studio Fusion. This DIY art studio welcomes walk-in visitors to create their own fused glass, pottery or canvas painting to take home.
Before you hit the road, stop by Larita’s for a sweet treat. The family-owned bakery is especially known for their cookies, which has earned them the award of Reader’s Choice Best Cookie for 13 years in a row. Everything’s made with the best ingredients, including real butter, and is hand frosted with unique designs that celebrate the seasons and holidays.
Whether you're seeking rest and relaxation, outdoor exploration or family adventures, the opportunities are endless.
TAKE A RIDE
