Nearby Travel

Why Aren’t We All Hanging Out in Duluth?

Less than six hours away, it’s a terrific gateway to Lake Superior. And it’s going to be much cooler up there than here (in a few days).

Jul 13 • Wini Moranville

Cedar Falls: An Easygoing Getaway That Delivers

The effort-to-enjoyment ratio is in your favor. Just a two-hour drive from DSM, you’ll find a vibrant downtown, an engaging arts scene, destination…

Jul 3 • Christine Riccelli

I Tried That James Beard-Nominated Bakery in Iowa City. Then Things Got Really Interesting.

What started with a croissant turned into an exceptional run of dining wins in Iowa City.

Jun 19 • Wini Moranville

How Come You Never Told Me About La Crosse, Wisconsin?

Bluffs, history, a vibrant city—and that mighty river. Here’s a terrific three-day itinerary.

Mar 30 • Wini Moranville

So Long, Colorado—It’s the Black Hills for Me

This region ties with Door County, Wisconsin, as my new favorite nearby vacation destination. Here’s the perfect itinerary.

Mar 5 • Wini Moranville

The Five Best Restaurants within a Two-Hour Drive of Des Moines.

All are standouts and worth the drive—or at least a detour.

Jan 7 • Wini Moranville

Headed Decorah-Way? Here Are Two Recommended Restaurants + an Also-Ran

If you're headed up this way, I've got your top dining choices right here. Plus, news of a farm-to-table event on November 1.

Oct 11, 2025 • Wini Moranville

Three New Reasons to Go to Decorah + Where to Eat

Plus, the five enduring draws that have long made this Bluff Country hub a perfect long-weekend getaway.

Oct 7, 2025 • Wini Moranville

Is Sioux Falls Worth a Trip from DSM?

With two James Beard-nominated venues, a beautiful downtown, and captivating waterfalls—there's plenty to enjoy here. Is it worth a stand-alone trip…

Sep 5, 2025 • Wini Moranville

Is This Paris? No, It's Omaha.

Yes, I exaggerate, but great pleasures await in this utterly transformed city—perfect for an autumn getaway. While you're at it, take in the Loess Hills…

Sep 3, 2025 • Wini Moranville

One of the Best Day Trips from DSM. And It's Only 40 Minutes Away

Have you been to Winterset lately? Honestly, I can't think of a better day trip this close to DSM. And yes, I'll tell you where to eat. Here's a great…

Aug 4, 2025 • Wini Moranville

I Tried Iowa's Only Restaurant to Receive a James Beard “Best Chef” Nomination This Year. Here’s What I Thought.

Did it measure up? I’ll tell you.

Jun 9, 2025 • Wini Moranville

#nojs-banner { position: fixed; bottom: 0; left: 0; padding: 16px 16px 16px 32px; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box; background: red; color: white; font-family: -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol"; font-size: 13px; line-height: 13px; } #nojs-banner a { color: inherit; text-decoration: underline; } This site requires JavaScript to run correctly. Please turn on JavaScript or unblock scripts