International Adventures in Ottumwa

Day One - Explore Latin America

Breakfast: La Esperanza

Kick off your Latin America adventures with a delicious Mexican pastry from La Esperanza. Their pan dulce, or sweet bread, is baked fresh every day. The shop also sells prepackaged Mexican goods to take home. It is cash only, so be sure to stop at an ATM before visiting.

Morning: Historic Churches Walking Tour

Set off on foot and take a self-guided tour of Ottumwa’s stunning churches. All are within walking distance of the city’s downtown, making for a relaxing morning stroll.

The tour includes the St. Mary of the Visitation Parish, whose interior reveals a traditional Latin Cross floor plan; the First Presbyterian Church, which showcases the ecclesiastical architecture of the 1800s; the Trinity Episcopal Church, which is built into the side of a hill; the First Lutheran Church, which was created by Swedish immigrants; and the St. Patrick Catholic Church, the first church to be built in south Ottumwa.

Lunch: Juanita's Pupuseria

Known by locals as Ottumwa’s best Salvadorian restaurant, Juanita’s is a must-try. The small diner serves everything from tamales, curtido (cabbage mix), horchata (a dessert drink) and of course, pupusas, which are thick griddle cakes or flatbreads stuffed with cheese, veggies or refried beans. The eatery accepts cash only, and there’s a gas station across the street with an ATM.

Afternoon: Shopping or Air Power Museum

Stop by the Cerro Grande Meat Market and grab some freshly-made tamales, carnitas, chuck roasts, sausages and more. Or visit Tortillas Lupita to shop fresh, hot tortillas, fried chicken, Guatemalan bread and fresh produce.

Evening: Garnacheria y Taqueria Ebenezer

Featuring Guatemalan food with a California spin, this small eatery is loved by locals and visitors alike. Be sure to come hungry to enjoy the massive portions of favorites like the chimichangas, steak and fry plate, burritos, al pastor and more.

Stay: Your choice!

Ottumwa boasts several chain hotels, allowing you to choose what fits your style. Book a room at the new Cobblestone Inn & Suites, which is home to the first Wissota Chophouse in Iowa. Or stay at the AmericInn, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn & Suites and more. For a more luxurious stay, snag one of the four guest rooms at the Oak Meadow Delight Bed & Breakfast or experience a piece of local history with a stay at the historic Hotel Ottumwa.

Day Two - Visit Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands

Breakfast: The Vine Coffeehouse

Prepare for the day’s global travels with a pit stop at The Vine. Sip on a delicious specialty coffee and fuel up on their breakfast sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, croissants and more.

Morning: Street Art Walking Tour

Spend the morning exploring the community’s eye-popping art scene. Take a detour down the alley between Main Street and Second Street to admire a unique array of street art. The collection is constantly expanding and now includes several vibrant murals, sculptures and interactive digital art from local and national artists. Then, head to the famous Canteen Lunch in the Alley to see the area’s artistic rainwater conveyance system and more sculptures and interactive pieces. Continue through the community and see if you can find more art displays, or get the full list here.

Lunch: Shiki Hibachi & Sushi

When you’re hungry, indulge in classic Japanese cuisine at Shiki Hibachi. Everything is crafted with the freshest ingredients to create some of the area’s best sushi, dumplings and hibachi. Locals especially love the yakisoba, Hawaiian poke bowl and seaweed salad, among other menu items.

Afternoon: Shopping or Iowa Heartland History Connection

Shop Micronesian foods and clothing at J.M Asian Market, African groceries, clothing and accessories at Agape African American Market, or an assortment of Pacific Island goods at 691 Island Mart.

For a historic experience, tour the Iowa Heartland History Connection, whose rotating exhibits tell the stories of the Vietnam War, the area’s first settlers, the Victorian area, transportation, the coal industry and more.

Dessert: Polar Xpress Frozen Yogurt

Before you head home, stop by Iowa’s #1 rated froyo shop (based on Google reviews). Polar Xpress is open seasonally and boasts 15 flavors and over 40 toppings so you can customize the perfect treat.