Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Newton, Iowa

The drive from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Newton, Iowa, may seem like a straightforward trip, but there are plenty of hidden gems that are worth making a pit stop for. This scenic drive takes about two hours and can be broken up into five stops, each with its unique atmosphere and delicious food options.

The Halfway Point: Belle Plaine, IA

Belle Plaine, IA is the perfect halfway point between Cedar Rapids and Newton, and it is worth spending some time here. They have a small but vibrant downtown area with charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Belle Plaine is also home to the oldest operating cinema house in Iowa, the Belle Plaine Community Center, Theatre, and Library. Catch a movie in this beautifully restored theater or attend one of their cultural events.

Favorite Food at Belle Plaine: Smokey's BBQ. If you're a fan of BBQ, then you won't want to miss Smokey's BBQ. Their pulled pork sandwiches and beef brisket are slow-cooked and served with a house-made sauce.

Stop #1: Tama, IA

Tama, IA, is a small town with a lot of history. Home to the Meskwaki Nation, Tama is a cultural hub, and it is celebrated for its unique heritage. There are multiple sites to visit, such as the Meskwaki Cultural Center and Meskwaki Bingo & Casino, where you can learn about Native American history and culture.

Favorite Food in Tama: John Ernest Vineyard & Winery. Located on a scenic hilltop southeast of Tama is John Ernest Vineyard & Winery. They offer delicious wines made from Iowa-grown grapes, and their outdoor deck is the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine.

Stop #2: Marshalltown, IA

Marshalltown, IA, is another charming town worth visiting. It has a beautiful historic district with picturesque architecture and unique shops. You can take a stroll through the Fisher Community Center Art Gallery, which has over 100 pieces of original art from local artists.

Favorite Food in Marshalltown: Maid-Rite Sandwich Shop. No trip through Iowa is complete without trying a Maid-Rite sandwich. This local chain of sandwich shops originated in Iowa and has been serving them since 1926. Don't forget to add a side of their delicious onion rings!

Stop #3: Grinnell, IA

Grinnell, IA, is a quintessential college town with a beautiful campus and a vibrant downtown area. You can explore the Iowa Transportation Museum, which features a vast collection of vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles. There is also the Faulconer Gallery, which hosts rotating art exhibits throughout the year.

Favorite Food in Grinnell: Prairie Canary. This farm-to-table restaurant features an ever-changing menu that showcases the best of Iowa's local ingredients. Try one of their artisan pizzas or their famous mac and cheese.

Stop #4: Pella, IA

Pella, IA, is a charming Dutch town that celebrates its heritage with unique attractions. You can visit the Vermeer Mill, a working Dutch windmill that produces flour, or take a walk through the beautiful gardens at the Pella Historical Village & Museums.

Favorite Food in Pella: Jaarsma Bakery. No trip to Pella is complete without a stop at Jaarsma Bakery. Their Dutch letters, a flaky pastry filled with almond paste, are legendary.

Conclusion

While the drive from Cedar Rapids to Newton may seem like a straightforward route, there are plenty of hidden gems along the way. From charming small towns to unique cultural attractions, this trip has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore Iowa's rich history and culture.