Food Tour of the Iowa State Fair

Food Tour of the Iowa State Fair

Everyone has their own reasons for visiting the Iowa State Fair! For some its the livestock, for others its the grandstand shows, but for me, it is definitely, the Iowa State Fair FOOD!

Visiting the Iowa State Fair

It’s a tradition for T and I to attend the Iowa State Fair at least one day each year! It’s our date day or weekend and something we look forward to sharing with each other!  We often do the same things at the fair…see the same things, and even eat the same fair foods, our favorites of course  We’re creatures of habit and honestly ok with that!

The Varied Industries Building, Pioneer Hall, and the Shoppers Mart underneath the Grandstand are always a must for us.  We also enjoy watching the FFA Parade of Champions and the Governor’s Charity Steer Show.  

But, really…the Iowa State Fair is all about the food, right?!  So, what do we eat?  Well, it’s usually a lot of the classics, but I also try to taste one new item each year.  It’s usually new to me, but not necessarily the fair.  So, what do we love?!

Grab our Tips for Visiting the Iowa State Fair!

Continue “Food Tour of the Iowa State Fair”

The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

Ready to travel? We’ve gathered up this list of the very best in Midwest Weekend Getaways to help make your planning easier! You’ll find them grouped by state, but I’ve also noted which ones are the best for families, couples, girlfriends getaway, and more! I hope you’re excited to get exploring!

Continue “The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest”

4 “Must Do” Things in Dubuque, IA

4 “Must Do” Things in Dubuque, IA

Did you know that Dubuque, Iowa is “where Iowa started”? It’s true, back in 1785, Julien Dubuque landed here and established a colony. Ever since then it’s grown and bloomed into an important part of Iowa’s tourism and commerce systems. Whether you’re looking to spend a day or a weekend here, there is lots to do. To help you navigate it all, I’ve put together our 4 things that are the “must do’s” while visiting this river town!

1. Stay at the Hotel Julien Dubuque

Continue “4 “Must Do” Things in Dubuque, IA”

Grab Your Girlfriends & Visit Pella, IA: 5 Ways to Have a Great Trip

Grab Your Girlfriends & Visit Pella, IA: 5 Ways to Have a Great Trip

Nothing benefits a woman’s mental health like a good girlfriends trip! Because of this having a girlfriends trip to Pella, Iowa, should be at the top of your list!  A Visit to Pella, Iowa is proof that you don’t have to head to the big city to have lots of options for things to do!  They have a vibrant downtown area and boast loads of locally owned businesses serving up the very best food, merchandise, and service! 

Visit Pella

While portions of our trip were hosted by Visit Pella, Iowa and other establishments, all thoughts and opinions of this post are 100% accurate and my own. For more information, please see the Disclosure Tab.

Continue “Grab Your Girlfriends & Visit Pella, IA: 5 Ways to Have a Great Trip”

Plan a Day Trip to Fort Dodge, Iowa

When you’re looking for a day trip that includes art, history, fun, and food, plan your visit to Fort Dodge, Iowa.  You’ll be surprised at the great finds in this community in Central Iowa!   

Fort Dodge

Thank you to the Fort Dodge Conventions & Visitors Bureau for hosting parts of our trip! Although this occurred, all thoughts and opinions are 100% authentic and our own. Please see the disclosure tab for more information!

Day Trip Plans – Getting There

When you’re ready to head to Fort Dodge, you’ll find it conveniently located in West Central Iowa! It is also easily accessible thanks to being located right off Highway 20, which is a 4-lane road that intersects both Interstate 35 and the Avenue of the Saints (US Highway 218).

If you’re traveling by car…

  • Des Moines, IA – 99 miles, 1 hour 30 minute drive time
    • Minneapolis, MN – 219 miles, 3 hours 10 minutes drive time
      • Kansas City, MO – 266 miles, 3 hours 50 minutes drive time
        • Chicago, IL – 367 miles, 5 hours 50 minutes drive time

There are so many options of great things to do once you arrive in Fort Dodge that it might be difficult to narrow it down. For your convenience I’ve grouped our ideas into historical, creative, and foods! I’m sure you’ll find something on this list that appeases to you and your trip buddies!

Continue “Plan a Day Trip to Fort Dodge, Iowa”