Who wants a weekend getaway with a big-city feel, but not the big city crowds or traffic?! Well, we think a weekend in Mason City, Iowa, is just what you are wanting then. We have 6 stops that will make for a great weekend with your special someone. Check them out.
** Special thanks to Visit Mason City, Iowa for hosting us during our visit. All thoughts & opinions are 100% authentic and our own. Please see the Disclosure Tab for full details.
Mason City, Iowa
Getting There
Mason City is located in north central Iowa and is know as the River City. This nickname came from “The Music Man” which was written by Meredith Willson, who was born in Mason City. This fun fact is just scratching the surface of the history of Mason City.
The community of about 27,000 people offers history, art, high class food, a nightlife, and shopping. It’s also easily accessible by car or plane. If you’re flying, the Mason City Airport is accessible by United Airlines or a private plane. It’s also located along Interstate 35 and 4-lane highway, 218.
If you’re traveling by car….
- Des Moines, Iowa – 1 hour, 47 minute drive
- Minneapolis, Minnesota – 2 hour, 5 minute drive
- Chicago, Illinois – 5 hour, 37 minute drive
- Kansas City, Missouri – 4 hour, 27 minute drive
Things to Do
Mason City offers so many great things to do, but here are the things that we think you should plan on doing to make your trip the very best!
Charles H. MacNider Art Museum
Located in a historic neighborhood along a creek is located the Charles H MacNider Art Museum. This beautiful & unique museum is home to world class art like my personal favorite, glass artist Dale Chihuly. Another unique and iconic collection is that of Bill Baird (also originally from Mason City) and a collection of his marionettes, including those from the musical, Sound of Music. The Museum also offers several kids art classes along with adult & teen classes. How fun to sign up for a class with your loved one?! Check out their calendar of events HERE!
The Music Man Footbridge
Located near the MacNider Art Museum is the Music Man Footbridge that was built to honor Meredith Willson. It spans Willow Creek and is a great place to snag a great and romantic view of the creek or the beautiful homes in the neighborhood! Find it at the corner of 2nd St. SE and York Ave.
North Iowa Bulls Hockey
A great way to spend a night during your weekend getaway in Mason City is by catching a North Iowa Bulls hockey game at the new Mason City Arena. The Bulls are an NAHL Hockey team. Tickets are affordable, the energy of the area and the game are high, and you can relax with a snack or a drink. In case you visit while the Bulls are out of town, head to the arena for open ice skating!
Three on the Tree Coffee & Cafe
No weekend getaway is complete without a locally owned coffee shop, at least in our opinion. Thankfully, Mason City has that covered too! Three on the Tree Coffee & Cafe offers fresh quiche, baked goods (cinnamon rolls, scones, and more), and a variety of hot coffee and teas. Combine that offering with a super cool vibe giving a nod to an old school car garage full of light and fresh touches makes a great spot to spend some time relaxing and enjoying a treat! (And yes, they do have a couple different offerings of gluten-free goods too! Double win!)
Markley & Blythe
If you know me, you know I love food, I love trying new foods, and trying locally owned restaurants. Mason City is full of them, but one of the best is is Markley & Blythe located inside the Historic Park Inn. The interior sets the tone for your meal which provides a romantic and cozy backdrop for a delicious dinner.
The menu changes based on the season, but what you will find is a variety of unique appetizers like squash ravioli, beet tartare, and potato rolls. Entrees include a choice from high class sandwiches and a simple variety of fish, beef, and pasta, but all created with the highest quality ingredients. We highly recommend the ribeye (complete with charred onion & whiskey butter) and the Rainbow Trout with cranberry & mushroom wild rice pilaf, rainbow carrots, and maple balsamic glaze.
Historic Park Inn Hotel
Of course, no weekend getaway in Mason City is complete without a great stay and there is no better place to stay than the Historic Park Inn Hotel. The hotel is known for being the last remaining hotel designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The original hotel opened in 1910 and then was operated for many years as a hotel, housed several different restaurants, and a private apartment building. In 2010, it underwent an extensive renovation and re-opened in its current glory in 2011.
Now, you’ll find a gorgeous hotel, re-done tastefully to fit its design, with several seating areas tucked all over. They offer 27 rooms that are each unique, but no matter which one you pick, it won’t disappoint. The sheets were some of the most comfortable I’ve ever enjoyed and the bed provided a great nights sleep! Top it off with the best service by its employees and it lives up to the hype!
During your visit, don’t miss out from grabbing an Old Fashioned from The Draftsman (the bar in the basement) or snagging some of their complimentary treats like chocolates and cookies!
Plan a Weekend Getaway in Mason City, Iowa
We are always looking for great weekend getaways here in the Midwest and with all that Mason City, Iowa has to offer, they are a great destination for just that. From art to hockey, history, delicious food, hot coffee, and a great hotel stay, a visit to Mason City is a must. When will you plan your getaway?!
