At Tycoga Winery & Distillery, it’s more than just about the drinks; their pizza is pretty good, too. Thirty minutes from our door to theirs, we stepped into a place buzzing with life. Despite the crowd, the manager spotted us right away, treating us like VIPs and ushering us to the bar. That warm welcome set the stage for an experience we won’t forget, savoring standout pizza and wine in the heart of Iowa.
Tag: midwest travel
Midwest travel reveals charm in every direction. Drive scenic byways through rolling farmland, relax by the Great Lakes, or join lively town festivals. Taste regional dishes from barbecue to cheese curds, and explore museums or historic trails. The Midwest blends tradition, hospitality, and natural beauty into memorable journeys.
CULINARY TRAVEL
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Breakfast at QC Coffee & Pancake House Surprised Us in the Best Way
As the snow fades, and determined to brave the chilly morning weather, we decided to explore QC Coffee & Pancake House—a cherished spot in Rock Island. Renowned for its hearty diner-style breakfast and lunch, it promises an inviting aroma of coffee and classic comfort food fare. Furthermore, the warm ambiance adds to the overall dining experience.
CULINARY TRAVEL
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How to Make The Market the Best Part of Your St. Joseph Road Trip
This blog post takes you to the charming village of St. Joseph. It’s a beautiful stop between New York and Illinois. The Market isn’t just a food hall; it’s a mix of different food spots, a brewery, wine shop, farmers market, and coffee shops. Here, the thrill of finding new tastes blends with the peace and beauty of the surroundings. Food halls aren’t just making the dining scene better every day; they’re also expanding our choices on the road.
DESTINATIONS
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How to Experience the 83rd Tulip Festival in Orange City
Next week marks the 83rd Annual Tulip Festival in Orange City, Iowa. Since its humble origins in 1936, this annual event has attracted thousands of attendees from across the Midwest, gathering to honor and celebrate Dutch heritage. Wander the quaint streets, alive with the colors of thousands of tulips and the iconic silhouette of windmills. Experience the joy of parades, the rhythm of Dutch music, and the tantalizing aroma of traditional delicacies.
MILITARY RELATED
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Island Life: Living on the Rock Island Arsenal
Have you ever dreamed of living on an island? For me, that dream recently became a reality, albeit in an unexpected way. Our new home isn’t the typical tropical paradise one might envision. Instead, we’ve relocated to the Rock Island Arsenal, nestled in the heart of the Mississippi River between Rock Island, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa.
DESTINATIONS
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How to Spend a Fun Weekend in Waterloo, Iowa
Cottonwood Canyon truly stood out as the gem of our entire journey. Nestled in a cozy neighborhood, this cafe welcomed us with open arms, offering a delightful array of specialty roasted coffee, mouthwatering desserts, and authentic Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken and savory meat pies. But what makes this place truly remarkable is Brian.
DESTINATIONS
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How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Peoria, Illinois
In Peoria, the Illinois River isn’t merely a waterway; it serves as the central thread weaving together a tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re soaring high in the parks, gazing into the cosmos from an observatory, exploring the city’s rich history in museums, or leisurely drifting along the river on a cruise.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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How to Enjoy a Road Trip Across America: 30 Days in Marriott Hotels
Come along on our big trip across the U.S.! We’re hitting the road after living in South Korea for three years. For the next month, we’re crashing at Marriott Hotels everywhere. We’ll be checking out incredible landmarks, catching up with family, and finally settling down in the cornfields of Illinois. Please stick around for 30 days of stories from our journey, where Marriott is our home away from home at every pit stop.