Recognized as one of America’s best small towns, Fairfield boasts diverse flavors, an eclectic arts scene and endless adventures. So, it’s a must-stop on your next Iowa road trip.
FLY THROUGH MUST-TRY RESTAURANTS IN FAIRFIELD
Day One
Do: Maasdam Barns
Enjoy a historical introduction to Fairfield at the Maasdam Barns. The former 20th century draft horses breeding business is now a recreational, historical and educational center. Through exploring three historic barns and the museum, you can experience the legacy of the farm, marvel at its ingenious agricultural inventions and more. (The barns are open on the second Saturday of each month 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from mid-May through October, so be sure to plan accordingly or call to schedule a private tour.)
Do: ICON Gallery
Admire another kind of art at the ICON art gallery. Its gallery space is filled with stunning works in various media, from paintings and photographs to quilts, video installations and more. The exhibits rotate by the month, so every visit ensures you’ll see something new.
Eat: Fishback & Stephenson Cider House
Next, enjoy lunch with a view at Fishback & Stephenson Cider House, which overlooks 33 acres of beautiful land. The cidery features rotating local food trucks Tuesday through Saturday starting at 4 p.m., providing the perfect place to refuel while sampling their carefully crafted ciders. Keep an eye on their events calendar to catch live music.
Stay: Luxury Downtown Loft
When you’re ready to call it a night, retreat to Fairfield's luxury downtown vacation rental. Located within steps of Fairfield’s downtown, it boasts 1,500 square feet complete with two bedrooms and a full bathroom, all exquisitely decorated. Spend your evening relaxing on the rooftop patio, which includes a hot tub and grass turf. Or settle in for a movie night with the loft's projector screen TV.
Day Two
Eat: Cafe Paradiso
Kickstart your morning with a steaming cup of coffee from Café Paradiso. The café specializes in serving organic espresso-based drinks alongside freshly made pastries, scones, cookies, biscotti and made-to-order breakfast burritos. While you’re enjoying breakfast, admire the local artwork that lines the café’s walls.
Do: Carnegie Museum
Step inside this former Carnegie Library to discover a treasure trove of local artifacts and stories. The collection dates to 1867, making it one of the oldest museums in Iowa. Its most famous exhibits include a collection of Native American pottery, Civil War artifacts and Roman antiquities. The first floor is dedicated to the community’s historical artifacts, a collection that grows by the week and covers everything from area schools and neighboring towns to industries and businesses.
Do: Main Street Shopping
Then, spend the afternoon shopping throughout Fairfield’s charming square. Shop colorful pairs of roller skates at Volition Skate, the only store of its kind in Iowa (read more about their story here). Or peruse gifts and home décor at Adela’s, kitchen and knitting goods at the At Home Store, sheepskin and leather goods at Overland and more.
Eat: Due South
Before heading home, refuel for the road trip at Due South. The result of combining two beloved local eateries, Due South merges South American comfort food with quintessential Southeast Asian flavors. Lunch is operated as a casual counter service to cater to the rush, while dinner is run as a typical table service with reservations recommended. No matter when you dine, local favorites include the Smashburger, cobb salad and the hot chicken sandwich as well as the French fries.
