Kick-start your Fort Dodge adventure with one of Stella’s tasty specialty drinks and breakfasts. Their seasonal lattes feature fresh ingredients, including fruits, lavender and honey and the food menu includes everything from avocado toast and breakfast bagels to acai bowls.
Located in the historic Oak Hill District, the Blanden Memorial Art Museum is housed inside a stunning 1932 Neo-Classical building. Step inside to admire special exhibitions and collections which include American, European and Japanese paintings, sculptures, prints and photography. Once you’ve toured the museum, head back outside and admire the community’s public art. Crane your neck to take in the 110-foot-tall Fort Dodge Grain Silo Mural (the tallest in Iowa), then stop by the 14-foot-tall Floyd of Rosedale statue, which depicts a prize-winning hog and a unique community story.
Take a break at Tea Thyme for an upscale dining experience. Each day features two local favorites and two new lunch entrees, ensuring every meal is crafted with the freshest ingredients. Sit down to a delicious salad, savory soup or a hearty meat or pasta dish. Be sure to also try one of the gourmet tea drinks and desserts. Don’t forget to peruse the on-site retail shop for tea, coffee and candy products to take home.
Get some more fresh air with a visit to Terry Moehnke Veterans Memorial Park, which makes up the northwest corner of the 400-acre Kennedy Park. This section combines outdoor adventure with community art to honor service members. Enjoy the views from the amphitheater, which overlooks Badger Lake, and stroll through the memorials and sculptures. For a fun family adventure, head to the other side of the parking lot and walk through the Children’s Forest, which will take you on a short walk through the story and accompanying wood carvings of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax characters.
For the last adventure of the day, try something new at Gaga and Hoo. It’s recognized as the only authentic Korean restaurant in Iowa and the only restaurant in Fort Dodge with a robot server. The menu includes descriptions of each dish, making it a great place to expand your taste buds. Try anything from stir-fried meat and noodle dishes to Korean barbeque and Bibimbap. If you’re not ready to hit the hay for the night, sample local brews and wines at ShinyTop Brewing, River Hops Brewing or Soldier Creek Winery.
Stay: Your choice!
Once you’re ready to settle down for the night, book a room at one of the community’s 11 nationally branded hotels for a luxurious night.