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Tours

1. My-owa Tours

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     1. Downtown Des Moines

        Downtown Des Moines, Des Moines, IA, USA
        
        As the fastest growing metro area in the Midwest, Des Moines is an exciting hotspot of business, culture, and economic growth. Check out the Des Moines Art Center, a plethora of fantastic restaurants, and coming soon... a city-wide Adventure Park featuring downtown zip-lining and whitewater rafting!

        
        Des Moines Visitor Information

     2. Tulip Time Festival

        Pella, IA, USA
        
        Stop to smell the flowers at the annual Tulip Time Festival in Pella! Founded in 1847 by immigrants from the Netherlands, Pella is a slice of Dutch culture in the Iowa heartland. Be sure to check out Jaarsma Bakery, Lake Red Rock, and the largest working grain windmill in the United States.

     3. Christkindlmarket Des Moines

        Principal Park Des Moines, Iowa
        
        Grinnell students visit Christkindlmarket Des Moines, a German-inspired Christmas market featuring various European-style foods, products, and activities.

     4. Dari Barn

        Dari Barn, 6th Avenue, Grinnell, IA, USA
        
        Grinnellians enjoy a milkshake after an improv show at the iconic, delicious Dari Barn. In walking distance from campus, and some of the best ice cream (and pulled pork) in town!

        
        Dari Barn Menu

     5. Des Moines Farmers Market

        Farmers Market, Water Street, Des Moines, IA, USA
        
        Every Saturday from April through October, hundreds of vendors converge downtown for the Des Moines Farmers Market. Come see why it was ranked No. 2 among all farmers markets nationwide!

     6. Flying Mango

        4345 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310, USA
        
        Do you love BBQ? So do we. Check out the Flying Mango for stellar catfish cakes, pulled pork, brisket and live music. Fun fact: This restaurant was featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives in 2015!

     7. NewBo City Market

        1100 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401, USA
        
        “NewBo City Market is a dynamic public space promoting health, happiness, and well-being in the heart of the New Bohemia District near downtown Cedar Rapids. As a gathering place, business incubator, and event center, NewBo City Market services many different needs for a wide spectrum of people and organizations.

        This remarkable nonprofit organization is home to unique food and retail business start-ups; farmers and artisans markets; and numerous community arts, entertainment, and educational events.”

        —NewBo City Market

        NewBo City Market

     8. Mahalo’s Coffee & Mini Donuts

        4800 Mills Civic Pkwy #105, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA
        
        THE BEST DONUTS IN IOWA, HANDS DOWN. And they are mini and come in a dozen different flavors!

     9. The Peppertree at the Depot Crossing

        1014 3rd Ave, Grinnell, IA 50112, USA
        
        Located inside a historic train station that once welcomed students from around the world to  Grinnell, today the Peppertree boasts an extensive menu, a spacious outdoor patio, and the coziest atmosphere around. It’s a great restaurant to consider for a special night out, or when family comes to town!

        
        The Peppertree

     10. Rube’s Steakhouse & Lounge

         118 E Elm St, Montour, IA 50173, USA
         
         Diners from around the world have stopped at Rube’s Steakhouse in Montour, where you grill your own steak and garlic bread in a cozy dining space. Only a 25-minute drive from Grinnell!

     11. Saints Rest Coffee House

         917 Broad St, Grinnell, IA 50112, USA
         
         A Grinnell institution for coffee, conversation, beautiful sunrise views, and a warm and cozy atmosphere. A short walk from campus, and an excellent choice for your afternoon reading or writing.