Day 1: Kansas City to Des Moines
Kansas City Airport to Lamoni (1.75 hours, 115 miles)
As you make your way north from Kansas City, stop and enjoy a taste of the Amish life in Lamoni. Nestled just off I-35, the family-run Amish Country Store & Maid-Rite Diner in Lamoni, Iowa is a beloved roadside oasis. Discover the iconic Iowa loose meat sandwich, buy homemade candies or candles while planning your trip at one of Iowa's busiest welcome centers.
Lamoni to Urbandale (1 hour, 70 miles)
Iowa's capital is filled with hidden gems, nationally recognized attractions and award-winning restaurants. Start your Des Moines adventure in the suburb of Urbandale.
Living History Farms
Travel back in time with a visit to Living History Farms. This interactive 500-acre outdoor museum has four different farms that tell the story of Iowa's 300-year-old history. You'll find everyday old town activities from milking cows to a blacksmith shop to old-timey baseball games. Each site is hosted and worked by historical interpreters for an informative and hands-on experience.
Dinner - Machine Shed (3 minute walk)
Immerse yourself in an easy-going, farm-themed dinner experience at the Machine Shed Restaurant. Before you leave, be sure to shop in their huge country chic gift shop or take home a larger-than-your-face cinnamon roll.
Overnight: Hotel Renovo
Experience Midwest culture like you never have before with Hotel Renovo’s modern farmhouse architecture. The hotel offers 102 guestrooms featuring natural, simplistic materials including Carrera marble floor tile and vanities, glass barn shower doors, Beekman 1802 amenities, and modern farm artwork.
Day 2: Des Moines
Urbandale to Downtown Des Moines (20 minutes, 12 miles)
Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Farmers’ Market, held May-October in Downtown Des Moines' Historic Court District, supports farmers, growers and artisan food entrepreneurs from all around the state of Iowa. Visitors can explore a vibrant array of offerings, including fresh produce, eggs, meats, and more, alongside unique attractions and activities.
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork by more than two dozen of the world’s most celebrated artists. The 4.4 acre park, located within a major crossroads of the urban grid, creates a pedestrian-friendly entryway to downtown Des Moines.
Iowa State Fair
Nothing Compares to the Iowa State Fair, Iowa's single largest event featuring food, entertainment, livestock shows and contests. Don't miss the famous butter cow and trying all the food you can manage during a visit to this iconic event.
Overnight: Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotels
Listed on the National Registry for Historic Hotels, the Savery offers a luxurious stay in Downtown Des Moines. It’s also located within walking distance of the East Village, Court Avenue restaurants and shops, and accessible from the downtown skywalk.
Day 3: Des Moines to Kansas City
Des Moines to Winterset (140 minutes, 36 miles)
Start your day exploring downtown Winterset – a bustling square that includes Petite Café, known for its decadent bakery items and coffee. Or stop by The Bakery Unlimited, loved for its old fashioned baked goods including its iconic apple fritter.
The John Wayne Birthplace & Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to John Wayne, the iconic American actor who starred in over 170 films during Hollywood’s Golden Age. The museum offers an astounding collection of artifacts and memorabilia from Wayne’s career plus a movie theater with seating originally from Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood where you can watch a documentary on Duke’s phenomenal film career. Take a guided tour of Wayne’s birthplace home to complete your visit.
Lunch: Urban Taproom and Grill
Urban Taproom and Grill offers a casual and lively atmosphere. Try its popular smash burgers, an Iowa specialty pork tenderloin or a John Wayne casserole!Bridges of Madison County
Stop at the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center and book your Bridges of Madison County guided tour! Visit the world-famous covered bridges, the inspiration behind and setting of "The Bridges of Madison County" movie. Or pick up a map and drive yourself to the six remaining covered bridges..
Continue your Midwest adventure back to Kansas City (2 hours 40 minutes, 175 miles) or head east toward the Mississippi River to visit the Great River Road and more starting in Muscatine (190 miles, 3 hours)
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