Explore the Loess Hills
Everything below is within about a 45-minute drive of The Grain Bin Getaway. There is something for everyone!
Local Farms & MakersLoess Hills Lavender Farm sits practically on our same road — a working lavender farm with fields you can walk and a small shop for lavender products. Sawmill Hollow Family Farm grows aronia berries, one of the more unique crops in the area, and is worth a stop if you're curious about a farm that's a little off the beaten path.
Food & Coffee in Missouri ValleyJC's Dairy Den is one of our personal favorite guilty pleasures. A classic small-town dairy stand, great for a treat on the way back from a hike. Campo Azul is a staple for a real Mexican meal in town. Penny's Diner is a classic diner if you are craving a hearty breakfast. Chill Mezcal is a new brunch spot in town worth checking out. And Rise & Grind Coffee Co. now runs as a mobile coffee truck around town. They have an online ordering system worth checking out.
History & Local LandmarksThe Watson Steam Train & Depot Museum is a fun, low-key volunteer-run miniature railroad with a real 1948 steam train giving rides on a small track, plus a depot museum. The Harrison County Historical Village & Iowa Welcome Center, just out on Highway 30, is worth a stop for local history, goods, and area travel info.
Wildlife & NatureDeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is a genuine highlight if you're into birdwatching — it's known for massive fall waterfowl migrations, with a visitor center and easy walking trails along the old Missouri River channel.
Hiking & the Loess HillsThe Loess Hills Scenic Byway winds through the bluffs above the Missouri River valley, and Loess Hills State Forest and Preparation Canyon State Park both have trail access into that same terrain. Hitchcock Nature Center is a favorite for its ridgeline trails and views. And Brent's Trail (yes, that's really its name, no relation) is one of the more challenging, rewarding hikes in the area if you're up for it.
OmahaOmaha's Old Market is a great half-day trip featuring cobblestone streets, local shops, and a lot of fun restaurants in a historic warehouse district. The Henry Doorly Zoo is the best zoo in the country and worth the trip. The Kiewit Luminarium is a world class science-and-innovation museum for all ages.
Council BluffsJust across the river from Omaha, Council Bluffs has its own set of worthwhile stops: the Lewis and Clark Monument & Scenic Overlook for river valley views, Bayliss Park and Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park for a walk along the water, and if you're into history, the Squirrel Cage Jail, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, and RailsWest Railroad Museum are all local curiosities worth a visit.