Independance “America’s Fame is in our Name”
From Itineraries Midwest Spring Issue 2009
This sample itinerary can be customized for anytime of the year!
12 – 2:00 pm
Arrive in Independence, a town nestled in Northeast Iowa. Spend the first part of the afternoon at Heartland Acres Agribition Center; an exhibition of agriculture’s past, present, and future in the National Heritage Area of Northeast Iowa. Sitting on over eighty acres of land, this premiere location teaches visitors the importance of agriculture and the overall impact it has on everyone. Equipped with a theatre and various interactive displays and exhibits, including animals, a machine shed and a one room school house.
2 – 4:00 pm
Step back to an earlier, slower pace of life as you tour the Amish countryside. This is one of the largest Old Order Amish communities in the country. Visit some of the nearly 40 shops in the community if you are interested in quilts, handmade furniture or need harness supplies. Baked goods are available at the many bakeries on Fridays and Saturdays.
4 – 5:00 pm
Just over the bridge from their historic downtown is the Wapsipinicon Mill. Surrounded by several eateries, the Wapsipinicon Mill serves as a substantial tourist attraction and is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. It still resides in its original location but has since received several cosmetic reconstructions. The five-story structure is 122 feet long by 62 feet wide and was used at first as a flouring mill. As wheat production slowed down, it became more economical to produce “Wapsi” brand poultry and stock feed.
5:00 pm
Dinner tonight is at the Homestead Restaurant, built on the banks of Swan Lake, with both a front and a back porch, complete with a screen door! Enjoy a drink in the Cider House Lounge before indulging in a delicious dinner. Don’t miss the gift shop either – you’re sure to find a precious keepsake to take home.
If you want to further your adventure in Northeastern Iowa check into the cozy Country Inn & Suites. Featuring group rates, and enhanced continental breakfast served daily makes this a perfect place for any group!
For more information on this sample itinerary contact your tour operator or Heartland Acres Agribition Center, 319-332-0123.
