In October 2022, @girlof10000lakes and her family spent a weekend in Fort Dodge, Iowa. “It was our first time venturing through northwest Iowa and what a gem!” It's 3ish hours from the Twin Cities & full of scenic beauty & activities for the whole fam.
Day One
You can’t miss the iconic 110-foot-tall Grain Silo Mural. Created by Australian artist Guido van Helten, the 360-degree artwork depicts locals who are part of the cultural and industrial fabric of the community.
Indulge in all-day breakfast or try Zakeer’s Family Restaurant’s daily lunch specials and freshly made-from-scratch desserts. Their pies and cheesecakes have come to be a local staple, so be sure to order a slice for yourself.
Stop by family-owned Soldier Creek Winery to sample and buy their award-winning wines made with Iowa grapes grown on property that’s been in the family for more than 50 years. The tasting room is open every weekend (except certain holidays).
Featuring the best of Korean cuisine, Gaga & Hoo’s serves everything from dumplings and tempura to sizzling Bibimbap, stir-fried squid, tofu soup, kimchi and Bubble tea.
Explore the area’s outdoor adventures at Kennedy Memorial Park. Admire the fall colors along the hiking trails, go bird watching or let the kids explore the Nature Playscape. Book at stay in one of their yurts for a fun alternative to camping.
Day Two
What originally started as a dairy farm has since transformed into Community Orchard. Open seasonally August through December, you can navigate the corn maze, purchase apples, pick-your-own pumpkins and let the kids roam the playground.
Fort Frenzy, the largest family event center in the area, offers endless fun. Outdoor attractions (generally open through October) include go-karts and mini golf. Indoors, enjoy laser tag or arcade games.
Named Fort Dodge’s best restaurant by locals, Mineral City Mill & Grill’s menu ranges from salads and sandwiches to pastas and steaks with a weekly brunch on Sundays.
Meet your daily step goal on the hiking trails at Dolliver Memorial State Park. Along the way, admire the unique sandstone formations that make up the Copperas Beds and Bone Yard Hollow landscapes.
