Megan Bannister
Author, Secret Iowa →Hidden small towns & main street finds
✦
An Iowa Travel Publication
Discover Iowa's
Hidden Gems.
Road trip ideas, scenic drives, local favorites, unique destinations, and unforgettable adventures—all closer than you think.
- Scenic Byways
- 14
- Hidden Gems
- 120+
- Counties Covered
- 99
Scenic BywaysHidden GemsLocal EatsFreedom RocksFestivalsMain StreetsWelcome CentersWeekend TripsScenic BywaysHidden GemsLocal EatsFreedom RocksFestivalsMain StreetsWelcome CentersWeekend Trips
About the Publication
What is All in a Day's Drive?
We are delighted to introduce All in a Day's Drive — a new guide that highlights unique attractions in Iowa and unforgettable experiences that make Iowa popular with travelers and road-trippers.
The idea behind this guide was born from a simple belief: some of the best travel experiences are closer than we think. As the owners of hospitality, lodging and tourism-related businesses in Central Iowa, we have had the privilege of welcoming thousands of visitors to our state over the years. Through those conversations, we've learned that some of the most memorable experiences are often found in unexpected places.
A trusted guide. Not a coupon book.
"Like you, we crave authentic experiences, local flavors, and memorable stops along the way. This guide was created to inspire exploration and enjoy the journey as much as the destination."
Credibility
Recommendations From Iowa Explorers
Every page is shaped by people who actually drive these roads—writers, photographers, and locals who know where the best pie, the quietest overlook, and the loudest festival can be found.
Brian Abeling
Iowa Road Trip →Scenic landscapes & roadside Americana
✦
Erin Huiatt
Des Moines Parent →Festivals, food trails & family travel
✦“Mount Vernon is a charming community with a college town feel. Check out their fantastic Main Street with independent shops and restaurants...”
Inside the 2026 Edition
A field guide for the Iowa-curious.
Five chapters. Hundreds of stops. Built to live in your glovebox.
Scenic Byways
Explore Iowa's most beautiful drives, with stops worth slowing down for.
Unusual Iowa Sites
Roadside oddities, hidden treasures, and places you have to see to believe.
Festivals & Celebrations
From county fairs to hometown festivals—find the events worth planning a trip around.
Freedom Rock Locations
All 99 counties, mapped with directions and stories.
Welcome Centers and Rest Areas
Where to start your trip and pick up regional intel.
Dropped in Your Inbox
Download the Guide.
Get instant access to the digital edition, or pick up a print copy at welcome centers and advertisers' locations.
The Insider List
Iowa travel inspiration, delivered to your inbox.
We won't flood your inbox. But when we discover something genuinely worth sharing—a seasonal drive, a hidden gem, or a festival that feels like summer—we'll send it your way, because we're excited about it too.
No spam. No fluff. Just Iowa.
Help Build the Guide
Help Us Discover Iowa.
Know a place we should write about? A festival we shouldn't miss? A business that deserves a spotlight? We want to hear from you.
- Recommend a hidden gem
- Nominate a local business
- Suggest an event or festival
- Become a contributor
- Request advertising information
What's Next
This Is Just the Beginning.
All in a Day's Drive is growing into a trusted resource for Iowa travel, road trips, local discoveries, and community storytelling. Future editions, expanded regional coverage, and original features are already on the map.
Partners
Thank You to Our Partners
Thank you to the following partners for assisting with the development of the All in a Day's Drive project. Visit their sites to learn more about the services and resources they offer organizations.
