Sipping Through the Heartland: Exploring Iowa’s Wine and Wineries

Itinerary for a Wine Tour in Iowa

Iowa Beers and Breweries

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Eastern Iowa

Morning: Arrival in Clinton, IA

• Check-in: Settle into your accommodation in Clinton or nearby. The Holiday Inn Express Clinton offers a comfortable stay with convenient access to local attractions.
• Brunch: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Bakery on Main, a charming spot known for its fresh pastries and breakfast fare.

Late Morning: Wide River Winery

• Address: 103 W. Main St., Clinton, IA 52732
• Website: Wide River Winery
• Activity: Visit Wide River Winery, located along the picturesque Mississippi River. Enjoy a tasting of their estate-grown wines and take in the scenic views of the river. Explore the winery’s history and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.

Lunch: Wide River Winery’s Tasting Room

• Activity: Have lunch at the winery’s tasting room, which often features local and seasonal dishes paired with their wines. Enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the vineyard views.

Afternoon: Travel to Leighton, IA

• Drive: Head to Leighton, IA, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from Clinton. The scenic drive through Iowa’s countryside offers beautiful landscapes.

Evening: Tassel Ridge Winery

• Address: 1681 220th St, Leighton, IA 50143
• Website: Tassel Ridge Winery
• Activity: Arrive at Tassel Ridge Winery, one of Iowa’s largest and most acclaimed wineries. Participate in a tasting of their award-winning wines and explore their facilities. Take a stroll through their vineyards if time allows.

Dinner: Local Dining in Leighton

• Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant like The Leighton Café, which offers a range of American cuisine in a cozy setting.

Day 2: Discovering Central Iowa

Morning: Travel to Adel, IA

• Drive: After breakfast, head to Adel, IA, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Leighton.

Late Morning: Penoach Winery

• Address: 25141 320th St, Adel, IA 50003
• Website: Penoach Winery
• Activity: Visit Penoach Winery for a tasting of their handcrafted wines. Enjoy a tour of their facilities and learn about their winemaking process. The winery’s welcoming environment and unique varietals make for a memorable experience.

Lunch: Local Bistro

• Restaurant: Have lunch at The Adel Family Restaurant, which offers a variety of hearty and comforting dishes.

Afternoon: Travel to Swisher, IA

• Drive: Head to Swisher, IA, which is about a 2-hour drive from Adel.

Late Afternoon: Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery

• Address: 1441 Marak Rd, Swisher, IA 52338
• Website: Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery
• Activity: Explore Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery, known for its wines and spirits. Take a tour of their facilities, enjoy a tasting session, and explore their outdoor space. Their innovative approach to winemaking and distillation provides a unique experience.

Evening: Dinner in Swisher

• Restaurant: Dine at The Longbranch Café in nearby Iowa City for a delightful meal featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Day 3: Relaxing and Departure

Morning: Brunch in Iowa City

• Restaurant: Enjoy brunch at The Bread Garden Market, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and delicious baked goods.

Late Morning: Optional Activities

• Activity: If time permits, explore some local attractions in Iowa City, such as the Iowa City Downtown District or the Old Capitol Museum. These sites offer a glimpse into the region’s history and culture.

Early Afternoon: Departure

• Activity: After a relaxing brunch and any additional sightseeing, prepare for your departure. Reflect on your wine tour experience and savor the memories of Iowa’s diverse and charming wineries.

Positive Things in Iowa

This itinerary provides a comprehensive exploration of Iowa’s wine country, from the scenic Mississippi River Valley to the innovative wineries of Central Iowa. Each day offers a blend of wine tastings, local dining, and scenic drives, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable wine tour experience in the Hawkeye State. Cheers to discovering Iowa’s hidden gems and exceptional wines!

Iowa offers a range of fun activities and attractions that can complement your wine tour. From vibrant city experiences to outdoor adventures and cultural sites, here’s a guide to some exciting things to do in Iowa:

1. Explore Des Moines

Iowa State Capitol: Visit this stunning building with its golden dome and impressive architecture. Free guided tours offer insights into Iowa’s history and government.

• Website: Iowa State Capitol

Pappajohn Sculpture Park: Located in downtown Des Moines, this park features a collection of large-scale sculptures by renowned artists. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and art appreciation.

• Website: Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Des Moines Art Center: Enjoy contemporary art exhibits and a collection of works by notable artists. The museum also features a beautiful sculpture garden.

• Website: Des Moines Art Center

2. Outdoor Adventures

Lake Red Rock: Iowa’s largest lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. The surrounding area includes scenic trails and picnic spots.

• Website: Lake Red Rock

High Trestle Trail: This 25.5-mile trail features a spectacular bridge with a unique design that’s illuminated at night. It’s ideal for biking, walking, or enjoying the scenic views.

• Website: High Trestle Trail

Ledges State Park: Located near Boone, this park offers picturesque trails, rock formations, and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife viewing.

• Website: Ledges State Park

3. Historical and Cultural Sites

Amana Colonies: Explore these historic villages, which are known for their preserved German heritage, unique shops, and traditional foods.

• Website: Amana Colonies

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium: Located in Dubuque, this museum offers exhibits on river history, wildlife, and interactive displays for all ages.

• Website: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum: In West Branch, this site offers a look at the life and legacy of President Herbert Hoover, including exhibits and historical artifacts.

• Website: Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum

4. Local Festivals and Events

Iowa State Fair: Held annually in Des Moines, this fair is a celebration of Iowa’s agriculture, with food, entertainment, rides, and exhibits.

• Website: Iowa State Fair

RAGBRAI: The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa is a week-long bike ride that traverses the state and features fun stops, local culture, and festivities.

• Website: RAGBRAI

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates: In Des Moines, this building honors the achievements in the field of food security and global agriculture, with informative exhibits and events.

• Website: World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

5. Unique Local Attractions

The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum: Located in Walcott, this museum is dedicated to the history of trucking, with exhibits on vintage trucks and trucking memorabilia.

• Website: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

The Field of Dreams Movie Site: Visit the famous baseball field from the iconic 1989 film “Field of Dreams” in Dyersville. You can walk on the field and explore the site.

• Website: Field of Dreams

Grotto of the Redemption: Located in West Bend, this religious shrine is considered one of the largest grottos in the world, featuring intricate stonework and religious art.

• Website: Grotto of the Redemption

Iowa Weddings

While exploring Iowa’s wine regions, you have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of fun and engaging activities. From vibrant city life and outdoor adventures to historical sites and unique local attractions, Iowa offers something for everyone. Whether you’re strolling through art parks, hiking scenic trails, or delving into local history, you’ll find plenty of ways to enrich your visit and create lasting memories in the Hawkeye State.