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Zigzagging for over 100 miles through Allamakee County, the Driftless Area Scenic Byway is known as one of the most scenic routes in the state. Its panoramic vistas, majestic limestone bluffs, forested valleys and other scenic sites are complimented by relaxing fun along the way – here’s a list of some of the best places to stop to see the sights, sample local flavors and more.
A New Albin staple since 1882, the City Meat Market is known as the first and now oldest smokehouse in Iowa. The family-owned establishment still uses old-fashioned techniques to create its wood-smoked meats like summer sausage, bacon and beef products, which draw regular customers from Chicago and Minneapolis. Stop by to stock up your own freezer or grab a road trip snack – their beef jerky is a must-try.
A hidden gem for dairy lovers, this family-run farm is known as the “Cheese Curd Capital of Iowa.” Their legendary cheese curds are expertly crafted from milk that’s produced without antibiotics and growth hormones. They even grow and harvest all their own cattle feed to ensure their cheese products are as natural as possible. Visit the Waukon farm to see (and sample!) the magic for yourself at the farm’s store (which also sells grilled cheese sandwiches) or taste test their 16 ice cream flavors at the ice cream parlor. Orders for cheese curds can also be placed online to be shipped directly to your door.
There are few better pairings than cheese and wine. Family-owned and -operated in the beautiful hills between Waukon and Decorah, Empty Nest Winery offers a collection of handcrafted wines made with berries that are handpicked on the surrounding farm. Visit the tasting room to sample up to 13 wines (and beers for brew lovers), or plan accordingly to catch year-round events like murder mystery dinners, art shows, art parties and more.
A beloved Lansing destination for craft beer enthusiasts and pizza aficionados alike, Safe House Saloon offers the perfect pitstop. Grab a seat in the cozy, red-curtained booths or a stool at the bar and make a selection from the huge list of craft beers. Pair it with a homemade thin crust pizza – they have all the classics plus mouthwatering specials – or the famous wings and appetizers.
Stretch your legs by taking a stroll through the massive Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center, which highlights the cultural history of the Driftless Area, which was untouched by glaciers. Featuring three levels and 10,000 square feet, the interactive Lansing center is packed with engaging exhibits about local ecosystems, geology, wildlife, Native American history and more. Step outside onto the patios to admire breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and limestone bluffs.
For more stunning views, plan a stop at Mount Hosmer Lookout and Park. This scenic overlook sits 450 feet above the Mississippi River and is named after Harriet Hosmer, a famous 19th-century sculptor who won a footrace to the top during a steamboat layover in the 1850s. Today, the Lansing park features walking trails, a large pavilion, BBQ stations and telescopes, making it a favorite spot for hikers, sightseers and photographers.
Get your daily steps in while exploring one of the most iconic attractions in Iowa. Effigy Mounds National Monument near Harpers Ferry features over 14 miles of trails that wind around over 200 prehistoric American Indian burial mounds as well as through scenic bluffs and forests and past scenic overlooks. Many of the mounds are formed in the shapes of animals – stop into the visitor center to learn more about their history and see aerial photos to better understand their shapes and significance. For an easy hike, set off on the boardwalk trail that passes through the scenic wetlands for the chance to see the area’s diverse wildlife.
Another popular outdoor recreation destination, Yellow River State Forest boasts nearly 9,000 acres of public land throughout several units near Harpers Ferry. The area features rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems to explore, including 48 miles of hiking trails where you can admire the picturesque bluffs, valley and forest and see a wide range of wildlife.
The trails cater to a variety of skill/endurance levels ranging from casual strolls through the trees to backcountry hiking and camping experiences. For example, the South Mississippi Overlook Trail (Luster Heights Unit) offers an easy one-mile out-and-back trail that ends at a stunning overlook, while the Paint Creek Unit Loop stretches for 13 miles and includes challenging elevation and switchbacks. The area also includes 141 rustic camps sites and six miles of trout stream access.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at this charming Mexican bakery in Postville. Owned by lifelong baker Maria Camarillo, who still uses recipes she learned from her mother, Mi Dulce Elena offers authentic Mexican treats like freshly made pan bread, rice empanadas, flan and tres leches cakes as well as classic treats like cheesecake cups, donuts, cupcakes, cake pops, chocolate-covered strawberries and more. No matter what you sample, you’ll be amazed by the vibrant flavors and eye-catching designs.
Plan ahead and schedule visits at these attractions for some exclusive fun along your route.
Stop by the Allamakee County Veterans Museum in Waukon, which is open Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings (or by appointment). Inside, you’ll find a wall display that honors fallen Veterans, a WWII bunker replica, a Vietnam War display and rotating exhibits. For more history fun, plan an outing to the Allamakee County Historical Society Museum (located inside the county courthouse) to see rooms furnished to reflect the 19th and early 20th centuries, displays of farm tools, military memorabilia, medical items and more.
Learn all about Harpers Ferry history by paying a visit to the Oil Springs School, which shares the stories of the critical role one-room schoolhouses played in Iowa. Call the Harpers Ferry Area Heritage Society to schedule a visit for the chance to see amazing artifacts like desks, writing tools, toys, pull-down maps, wash basins and more.
Extend the road trip by booking a stay at these scenic lodging options.
For a resort experience paired with endless amenities, book a cabin or campsite at the Upper Iowa Resort. Located between Waukon and Dorchester along the Upper Iowa River, its five cabins offer a variety of options to fit your needs. Three of the cabins are pet-friendly, and all cabins include a bathroom, kitchen or kitchenette, AC/heat and a grill and picnic tables outside. During your stay, take advantage of the kayak, canoe and tube rentals to enjoy the river, take a dip in the spring-fed outdoor pool or play sand volleyball and basketball.
Surrounded by prairies, woodlands, flower gardens and hiking trails, Point of View B&B near Harpers Ferry offers the best of relaxing retreats. Its location near Yellow River State Forest and Effigy Mounds National Monument makes it convenient for outdoor enthusiasts. Book one of the four rooms, each of which has its own bathroom, and enjoy the complimentary full breakfast.
Add these locations to your customized itinerary!
No matter the season, Iowa offers endless possibilities. Whether it’s a family getaway, an outdoor adventure, or anything in between, we know a place.
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