A Treehouse Retreat on an Iowa Lavender Farm

Opened in 2024 after an Iowa family fell in love with a lavender farm they discovered while living in the Pacific Northwest, Calyx Creek introduces visitors to the versatile wonders of lavender through a variety of experiences.
 

Unique lodging: 

Choose between four stunning treehouses for a one-of-a-kind lavender lodging experience. Each treehouse features a modern kitchen, full bathroom(s) and spacious decks, and some even include luxurious amenities like fireplaces, heated floors and private saunas.
 

Farm fun: 

During your stay (or free visit!), the farm features a variety of activities that allow you to peacefully explore and/or learn everything there is to know about lavender. Immerse yourself in the lavender fields and enjoy a relaxing stroll among the aromatic ambiance that fills the air on quiet days.
 

When you’re in need of a snack, stop by the on-farm café to sample lavender-infused drinks and treats, including lavender lemonade, homemade lavender baked goods and even ice cream. Once you’ve fallen in love with the plant’s aroma and flavor, visit the farm store to take a piece of the experience home with you. Potential souvenirs include everything from lavender lotions, oils, soaps and scrubs to culinary items like syrups, brownie mixes, sugar and even diffusers and wall hangings.
 

Learn all about how these products make it from the soil to the shelf by booking a farm tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the harvesting and drying processes. For additional experiences, check out the farm’s events calendar to discover classes and workshops.

Since the farm is conveniently located just a short drive away from Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, there are plenty of nearby attractions and eateries that make it easy to extend the adventure.
 

Deja Brew Coffee House & Bakery: (10-minute drive)

Start your day off right with a tasty signature latte, matcha, cold brew or energy drink paired with an ooey, gooey jumbo cinnamon roll, breakfast burrito, avocado toast, breakfast bowl and more. They also offer gluten-free options to ensure everyone leaves satisfied.

Wilson’s Orchard & Farm: (25-minute drive)

Discover more farm fun at Wilson’s Orchard, located just north of Iowa City. Wander through the orchard and hand-pick your own apples, pumpkins, berries, or flowers depending on the season. Shop at the farm market that’s stocked with fresh produce and homemade bakery treats like cider donuts and pies. Kids (and the kid in all of us) love the seasonal corn maze, playground areas, and the chance to explore the fields, while photo-ops abound in the rolling rows of fruit trees. On weekends you might even catch tractor rides out into the orchard and special seasonal events.
 

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom: (25-minute drive)

Find more laid-back vibes and local flavor at Big Grove Brewery & Taproom, which is the place to be in Iowa City. It’s not just a brewery — it’s a huge, casual hangout with award-winning craft beers on tap, a menu of street-food inspired bites and sandwiches and plenty of space to kick back with friends. You can grab a pint, play ping-pong or foosball, catch some live music or simply chill on the outdoor patio.
 

Cobble Hill: (30-minute drive)

Farm-to-table dining is the backbone of this upscale, fine dining culinary experience in downtown Cedar Rapids. The ever-evolving menu at Cobble Hill highlights the best seasonal ingredients from local producers, which are transformed into refined dishes that have earned the restaurant prestigious James Beard Award nominations. Diners also enjoy thoughtful wine pairings, craft cocktails, and an intimate, polished atmosphere to round out the experience.
 

Lion Bridge Brewing Co.: (30-minute drive)

If you’re after a casual, welcoming spot in Cedar Rapids to sample local brews and unwind, Lion Bridge Brewing Co. is a great stop. This neighborhood brewery and taproom in the Historic Main Street District pours a rotating lineup of craft beers made on-site and often has cider and canned wine too. The taproom vibe is relaxed and social, with views into the brewing space, tasty beer-centric snacks to pair with your pint and plenty of space to lounge.