There's few things better than hitting the road to follow the waves of changing leaves during autumn. Pair your fall-chasing adventure with a glass of wine for the ultimate relaxing getaway - these wineries boast some of the best fall views around.
Sign up for the Iowa Wine Passport to earn your way to prizes and track which wineries you've visited.
1. Park Farm Winery - Durango
Photo Courtesy Park Farm Winery Facebook
Located near Durango, this family owned and operated winery sits atop the rolling hills of Iowa's Driftless Region, just 20 minutes away from Dubuque. From the wood-fired pizza menu to the cozy tasting room, handcrafted artisan wines and amazing views of the farm's 11 acres and beyond, Park Farm Winery makes for a perfect fall destination.
2. PromiseLand Winery - Guttenberg
With complementary wine samples, live music events and five boutiques, PromiseLand Winery will fulfill your wine-tasting, entertainment-seeking and shopping needs. Grab a seat on the patio to admire the the Guttenberg property's gorgeous courtyards and listen to live music, or take a walk or drive to the scenic vineyard for a more intimate setting. When the weather turns cooler, warm up by the cozy fire inside.
3. Wide River Winery - Clinton
Photo Courtesy Wide River Winery Facebook
With three locations along the Mississippi River, including Clinton, Le Claire and the Village of East Davenport, it's hard to miss this popular winery. Each location offers good times and great wines through comfortable tasting rooms, scenic outdoor decks and courtyards. The Clinton location offers especially scenic views, with a view of the river visible between a wall of trees that transform into stunning shades in the fall.
4. TYCOGA Winery - De Witt
Photo Courtesy TYCOGA Winery & Distillery Facebook
What started as a small, family owned winery with only 50 plants has since grown into 26 acres of paradise in De Witt. Choose from TYCOGA Winery's selection of over 20 types of wines for novice and experienced wine enthusiasts and experience award-winning flavors. Claim a seat on the patio and pair the views of the expansive vineyard and surrounding hills with an artisanal wood fired pizza and a glass of wine.
5. Calico Skies Vineyard & Winery - Inwood
Photo Courtesy Calico Skies Vineyard & Winery Facebook
Calico Skies Vineyard & Winery near Inwood uses a cold-hardy French-American hybrid of grapes to craft their varied flavors that ranged from fresh fruity wines to dry oak aged reds. Enjoy their wines and views in their large and elegant banquet hall or have a more intimate gathering in the Barrel Room. Bring your family on the weekends to enjoy fresh wood-fired pizzas.
6. Bodega Victoriana Winery - Glenwood
Photo Courtesy Bodega Victoriana Winery Facebook
Recognized as one of the largest vineyards in western Iowa, Bodega Victoriana Winery's meticulously maintained vineyard produces delicious Spain-inspired wines. Nestled in the Loess Hills near Glenwood, this winery merges savory flavors, gorgeous Iowa views and vintage decor to create an amazing winery experience that feels that much more perfect during the fall.
7. Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery - Swisher
Photo Courtesy Cedar Ridge Iowa Instagram
Located in the rolling hills near Swisher, just outside of Cedar Rapids, the famous Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery offers the best of Iowa flavors and views. Order a glass of one of their award-winning wines, then claim your spot on the patio that overlooks the vineyard and surrounding timber, which boasts dazzling colors in the fall. Add a woodfired pizza and you’re all set for a perfectly relaxing evening.
8. Twin Vines - Panora
Photo Courtesy Twin Vines Facebook
Owned and operated by twin brothers (hence the name), Twin Vines shows off all the perks of farm life and the beauty of Iowa’s countryside. It’s located on a working farm tucked between the hills outside of Panora and boasts a vineyard that features panoramic views. Sip and savor on the patio or wander through the vineyard to the gazebo for a closer look of the beautiful setting.
9. Madison County Winery - Saint Charles
Situated in the countryside between Saint Charles and Winterset, the Madison County Winery has been introducing visitors to Iowa flavors for over 20 years. The first vines were planted in 2021 and their first wines were crafted in 2005. Since then, the winery has expanded to include partnerships with local breweries, a scenic tasting room and amphitheater terraces for special events. Stop by for a wine tasting, then relax around the fire pit, beneath the Pergola or on the stadium seating grass to admire the breathtaking views. Pair your wine with a delectable treat like a cheese and meat or chocolate platter to complete the experience.
10. Winneshiek Wildberry Winery - Decorah
Photo Courtesy Winneshiek Wildberry Winery Facebook
With an impressive menu of award-winning wines, Winneshiek Wildberry Winery is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The winery is located on a 160-year-old family farm outside of Decorah, and specializes in fruit and Midwestern grape table wines. Sample the savory flavors on the patio and pair it with an appetizer, salad, flatbread pizza or ciabatta sandwich and picturesque views for an unforgettable outing.
