Drive winding roads, and see a scenic river, gently rolling farm fields, Mesquakie Native American Indian Settlement, and a glimpse of farm life in the 1800s.
The next time you find yourself traveling in Central Iowa, get off the interstate and pamper yourself to a beautiful scenic drive through America’s Heartland. Begin in Marshalltown, Iowa and take Route 30 east to County Road T47. Drive south, and you’ll be following the winding road along the Iowa River. Take pleasure in the scenic river on one side, and the gently rolling farm fields on the other, as you wind your way to the tiny town of Montour.
Take County Road E49 east on the way to Tama. Just before arriving at Tama, stop off at the Mesquakie Native American Indian Settlement. Go east to Tama. Just off Route 30 near Tama is the only remaining Lincoln Route Bridge in existence. Head southeast on County Road E64 to County Road V18, which intersects the Iowa River to Chelsea, where you follow County Road E66 east to Route 21. Drive south to Iowa Route 212 to Marengo. From there, take Route 6 east to Route 220, which will take you on a circle of the seven Amana Colonies and a trip back in time. You’ll pass by the lovely Lily Lake and get to view the fertile country landscape that captivated the founders of these communal colonies.
A National Historic Landmark, the Amana Colonies, was founded in the mid-1800s. Today, visitors are treated to a glimpse of farm life in the 1800s while strolling through a series of shops and museums where you can buy Amana woolens, hand-woven baskets, clocks, handmade quilts, and heirloom furniture. Stay at the Die Heimat Country Inn (888/613-5463), which was originally a stagecoach stop, and delight at the ambiance of the Colonies and the many family-style restaurants in the area.
Starting Point:
Marshalltown, IA
Distance of Drive:
74.5 miles
Must Eat:
Stones (in business over 100 years)
507 S. 3rd Ave., Marshalltown, IA 50158
Phone: 641-753-3626
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring through fall is a good time to drive, but mid-summer is best.
Points of Interest on Drive:
7 Amana Colonies
Die Heimat Country Inn
Mesquakie Native American Indian Settlement
Filed under: Best Road Trips