Grant Wood Country Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to try, food to taste, and things to buy in Grant Wood Country. Learn about local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Grant Wood Country

Grant Wood Country is a scenic region in Eastern Iowa that captures the vibrant culture and beauty of the Midwest. This region is known for its rolling hills, fertile farms, and historic small towns that are steeped in rich art, literature, and history. The area is named after Grant Wood, a famous artist and local son who created iconic paintings like “American Gothic” and “Stone City, Iowa.”

List of Places to Visit in Grant Wood Country

Grant Wood Country has plenty of sights to explore and landmarks to see. Here are some of the best places to visit in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Grant Wood Studio (Cedar Rapids)
  • Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (Cedar Rapids)
  • Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum (West Branch)
  • National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (Cedar Rapids)
  • Amana Colonies (Amana)

Natural Attractions of Grant Wood Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Maquoketa Caves State Park (Maquoketa)
  • Palisades-Kepler State Park (Mount Vernon)
  • Indian Creek Nature Center (Cedar Rapids)
  • Cedar River Trail (Cedar Rapids-Marion)
  • Wapsipinicon State Park (Anamosa)

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grant Wood Country

Grant Wood Country offers some scenic trails perfect for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best options:

  • Grant Wood Trail (Cedar Rapids to Ely, 15.5 miles)
  • Hoover Nature Trail (Cedar Rapids to Ely, 16 miles)
  • Wapsi-Great Western Line Trail (Center Point to Dike, 63 miles)
  • Sac and Fox Trail (Cedar Rapids to Hiawatha, 6.8 miles)

Best Things to Do in Grant Wood Country: Activities and Tours

Grant Wood Country is home to some fun activities and tours. Here are some ideas:

  • Breweries and Wineries Tours (various locations)
  • Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market (Cedar Rapids, Saturdays, May-September)
  • Iowa City Summer of the Arts Festival (Iowa City, July)
  • Amana Colonies Oktoberfest (Amana, October)
  • Cedar Rapids Ice Arena (Cedar Rapids)

Week-Long Itinerary for Grant Wood Country

Here’s a week-long itinerary to make the most of your Grant Wood Country visit:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the Grant Wood Studio, and NewBo City Market
Day 2 Explore the Amana Colonies and sample some local wines and beers
Day 3 Hike or bike the Hoover Nature Trail before visiting the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library
Day 4 Head to Maquoketa Caves State Park for a day of hiking and cave exploring
Day 5 Go golfing or visit one of the local museums in Iowa City
Day 6 Discover Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village and explore the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Day 7 Take a relaxing stroll at Indian Creek Nature Center before dining at a local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Grant Wood Country

Grant Wood Country has a delicious food and drink scene that showcases Midwest cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
  • Maid-Rites
  • Sweet Corn
  • Kolaches
  • Amana Bratwurst

Local Beverages

  • Cedar Ridge Bourbon
  • Lion Bridge Brewing Beer
  • Cedar Ridge Winery Wines
  • Millstream Brewing Beer
  • Foundry Distilling Spirits

Where to Stay in Grant Wood Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Grant Wood Country has plenty of options for accommodation, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels:

  • The Hotel at Kirkwood Center (Cedar Rapids)
  • The Brown Street Inn (Iowa City)
  • Mont Rest Inn (Bellevue)
  • Ramada by Wyndham Williamsburg and Wasserbahn Waterpark (Williamsburg)
  • Budget Inn & Suites (Maquoketa)

What to Buy in Grant Wood Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home some local flavors and crafts, here are some things to buy in Grant Wood Country:

  • Amana Woolen Mill Blankets
  • Kalona Chocolates
  • Hansen’s Dairy Products
  • John C. Campbell Folk School crafts
  • Iowa Honey

Local Culture and Customs of Grant Wood Country

Grant Wood Country is a region with deep roots in art, culture, and history. The locals here are proud of their heritage and traditions, and visitors can expect to be immersed in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Grant Wood Country

The best time to visit Grant Wood Country is in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-November). During these seasons, you can enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant foliage. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be snowy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grant Wood Country

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Grant Wood Country:

Do:

  • Take part in local festivals and events
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try local food and drinks
  • Explore the outdoor activities and natural attractions
  • Visit museums and historical places

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Disrespect private property
  • Ignore safety warnings and regulations
  • Underestimate the weather conditions

Safety and Health

Grant Wood Country is a safe region to visit, but it’s important to take some precautions to ensure your health and safety during your trip.

Safety in Grant Wood Country

  • Be aware of the weather conditions and pack accordingly.
  • Follow trail rules and regulations while hiking or exploring caves.
  • Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Be cautious while driving on rural roads, especially at night.

Health in Grant Wood Country

  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during outdoor activities.
  • Watch out for ticks and mosquitoes, especially during the summer months.
  • Bring a first-aid kit and necessary medications.

Getting to Grant Wood Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Grant Wood Country is accessible by several transportation options:

Airports Near Grant Wood Country

  • Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids)
  • The Eastern Iowa Airport is the main airport in the region, offering flights to major US cities like Chicago, Dallas, and Minneapolis.

Bus Stations Near Grant Wood Country

  • Greyhound Bus Station (Cedar Rapids)
  • Megabus Stop (Iowa City)

Other Options

  • Rental cars are available at the airport and in major cities.
  • Amtrak trains stop in nearby cities like Davenport and Ottumwa.

How to Get Around in Grant Wood Country

The best way to get around Grant Wood Country is by car. The region is quite spread out, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, some cities like Cedar Rapids and Iowa City have public transportation options like buses and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Grant Wood Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time to explore neighboring areas, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Dubuque, Iowa
  • Galena, Illinois
  • Des Moines, Iowa
  • The Great River Road
  • The Quad Cities (Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, East Moline, and Rock Island)

Conclusion

Grant Wood Country is an exciting, vibrant region that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, nature, and cuisine. Visit Grant Wood Country to immerse yourself in the art and history of the Midwest, explore its natural beauty, and enjoy local delicacies. By following our comprehensive guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Grant Wood Country.



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