Traveling from Donnellson, Iowa to Audubon, Iowa offers a refreshing road trip through the scenic landscapes of the Midwest. The approximately two-hour drive covers roughly 120 miles and showcases a blend of small towns, rural charm, and striking views. This trip leads travelers through some fascinating locations that reveal Iowa's hidden gems. While the journey itself provides a delightful escape, it's the unexpected stops along the way that transform this drive into a memorable adventure.
As the midpoint in this journey, Pella, IA stands out as a picturesque town with a Dutch heritage. Nestled around Lake Red Rock, it offers unique experiences for visitors. Pella’s charming streets and vibrant tulip gardens make it an ideal place to take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy a bite before continuing toward Audubon.
1. The April in Pella Festival Pella hosts the annual April in Pella Festival, a vibrant celebration of its Dutch roots. This festival features colorful parades, traditional foods, and cultural performances. Even if the festival isn't happening during your visit, the town itself is worth exploring, showcasing lovely architecture and fresh-cut flowers in the springtime. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the canals and appreciate the intricate designs of the windmills, a signature of the town.
In Pella, the must-try dish is the Dutch letters, flaky pastry filled with almond paste, often shaped into a letter or a decorative symbol. Pair this delightful treat with a cup of freshly brewed coffee from one of Pella’s local cafes to satisfy your sweet tooth.
2. Des Moines Just a short detour from the main route, Des Moines represents Iowa's vibrant capital city, blending modern city life with rich history. Whether for a quick visit to one of the many museums or a stroll through the historic East Village, Des Moines offers a bustling atmosphere. Key attractions include the Iowa State Capitol, where stunning architecture and expansive grounds invite exploration, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, which features incredible outdoor artwork that captivates visitors of all ages.
While in Des Moines, indulging in a juicy pork tenderloin sandwich is a must. This local favorite showcases tender, breaded pork served on a bun, often loaded with garnishes and sides, reflecting true Iowa cuisine.
3. Winterset A short diversion to Winterset brings travelers to a town celebrated for its covered bridges and as the birthplace of John Wayne. Known for its captivating history and picturesque scenery, Winterset offers visitors the chance to explore the famous Covered Bridge Festival along with the chance to visit the John Wayne Birthplace Museum. Walking across the bridges that inspired the movie "The Bridges of Madison County" adds a romantic charm to the visit.
For a culinary treat, visitors should try the local genius known as the "Winterset Corn Dog" made with an unmistakably Iowa-style corn dog on a stick. It's a fun and casual way to enjoy great flavors while soaking in the small-town atmosphere.
4. Greenfield In Greenfield, travelers can uncover a slice of Iowa's agricultural history as they explore the long-standing traditions of farming. The town's annual Sweet Corn Festival highlights its community spirit, while the art and culture found in the local shops showcase the creativity of its residents. Don't miss taking a stroll along the local trails, where you'll find scenic views of the countryside.
Be sure to enjoy a hearty serving of sweet corn, celebrated during the festival and often served at local diners. The simplicity of buttered, sweet corn on the cob perfectly captures the essence of Greenfield's agricultural bounty.
5. Audubon County Historical Museum As the drive draws closer to Audubon, the Audubon County Historical Museum offers a glimpse into local heritage. The museum’s exhibits feature artifacts that trace the history of the area, including the famous Audubon birds named after the naturalist John James Audubon. This charming museum provides an insightful break before arriving at your final destination.
While exploring the museum, treat yourself to a slice of pie from a local diner—their fruit pies are particularly noted for their homemade taste and flaky crust that evokes the warmth of traditional Midwestern cooking.
The drive from Donnellson to Audubon seamlessly combines leisure and adventure. Stopping at these five unexpected locations enriches the experience, offering unique sights and local flavors that create lasting memories. The journey not only showcases the beauty of the Iowa landscape but also the warmth of its communities. This road trip proves to be more than just a way to get from one point to another; it transforms into an exploration of hidden gems worth discovering. Taking the time to visit these stops will leave you with stories to share and a greater appreciation for the heart of Iowa.