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August 10th, 2009
On Highway 92 just within the city limits of Columbus Junction, Iowa, is an unassuming blue sign labeled “Swinging Bridge” with an arrow pointing north. This fun and quick attraction was originally constructed in 1886 and then rebuilt in 1904 and 1922. Now nearly 90 years old, there’s no doubt many kids, teens, and families have enjoyed the trip across this 262 feet long bridge.
When you visit, park your car on the side of the road, and be sure to read the marker at the east end of the bridge. You’ll learn the bridge was originally constructed from barrel staves and wire, and the collapse of the second bridge in 1920. Finally, grab your camera when you venture across the bridge and snap some photos (or take some video) as you venture across this entertaining, wobbly bridge.
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Brian McMillin |
Eastern Iowa |
August 3rd, 2009
Though Iowa is home to many one-screen movie theatres, few have a more compelling story than the Windsor Theatre in Hampton, Iowa. Located on the northwest corner of Hampton’s picturesque courthouse, the theatre plays first-run movies nightly, with extra shows on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Windsor Theatre was constructed in 1913 and in continuous operation through May 1996. When the theatre ceased operation, the community took action. A group of students and adults banded together to form a non-profit organization dedicated to reopening the theatre. Over a quarter-million dollars was invested to purchase and renovate the facility, which re-opened in mid-1999.
The beautifully-remodeled theatre features a large screen, plush seating, and sound and picture far superior to most small Iowa theatres. Arrive a few minutes early to peruse the cozy lobby and grab a glass of soda and bag of popcorn to enjoy during the film. Movie tickets are $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for youth; seniors may want to check out the Sunday matinees for the $2.00 special.
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Brian McMillin |
Central Iowa, Entertainment, Places |
April 27th, 2009
Located in the heart of Marshalltown, Iowa, is Zeno’s Pizza, an established restaurant serving well-prepared, thin crust pizza at a reasonable price. Zeno’s keeps things simple with their menu, featuring garlic bread and lettuce salads as the only options besides their classic pizza pies.
When ordering, choose from a handful of specialty pizzas (including an intriguing bacon-sauerkraut option), or opt to build your own pizza from a number of standard toppings. The pizza begins with a thin, perfectly crispy crust, followed by a layer of tomato sauce, your choice of toppings, and an ample amount of cheese.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere satisfies the “old-fashioned pizza house” requirements, complete with textured mustard-yellow walls and padded wooden booths. We found the wait-staff to be incredibly friendly and efficient, turning around the salad, pizza, and refills in an extraordinarily prompt manner. If you’re in the Marshalltown area, Zeno’s is a worthy dinner destination.
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Brian McMillin |
Central Iowa, Food, Minnesota |
March 26th, 2009
Much like the Midwestern chain restaurant of similar name, the Jes-Rite Sandwich Shop in Fairfield, Iowa, specializes in loose-meat hamburgers. With a menu that also includes tenderloins, chicken strips, and fries, at first glance it may seem like just another run-of-the-mill greasy spoon.
Yet, there’s a charm at Jes-Rite that’s not always found at local restaurants and is especially devoid at most chains. At the counter, the wait staff is particularly helpful and courteous when taking your order. And, while you’re waiting for the food to be brought to your table, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with one of the friendly townspeople.
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Brian McMillin |
Places |
February 14th, 2009
Once bustling with many shops and businesses, Martinsburg, Nebraksa, has suffered the fate of many small communities. The town mill closed in the 1920s. The dance hall where Lawrence Welk’s big band performed was destroyed by fire and never rebuilt. The school was consolidated, and the post office left the town in the 1980s.
While the population’s dwindled and stores have closed, there’s still one major attraction in the northeast Nebraska community. It’s Bob’s Bar, a popular gathering place serving locals and out-of-towners alike. The bar features huge hamburgers, tenderloins, and giant portions of greasy (but extremely tasty) appetizers.
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Brian McMillin |
Food, Nebraska, Places |
February 9th, 2009
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, there’s no better place to turn for flowers than Stejskal Florists in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They’ll cheerfully answer your questions and provide useful tips and recommendations, whether you’re purchasing a single wrapped rose or a giant bouquet. Their top-notch customer service is complemented by the consistently excellent quality of flower arrangements they sell. As a regular customer when I lived in eastern Iowa, I was never once disappointed with my purchase.
You may pay a little more for your arrangements than you would at a big box store, but the difference in quality outweighs any difference in price. Plus, by shopping at Stejskal’s, you’ll be supporting a family-owned business that has been part of the Cedar Rapids community for over 60 years. Located in a bright pink building near the intersection of Wilson and Bowling Avenues, it’s a hard place to miss – and one you won’t want to miss anytime you’re buying flowers.
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Brian McMillin |
Eastern Iowa, Places |
January 26th, 2009
There are times when nothing sounds more tasty than a simple, well-prepared steak: a thick-cut, juicy piece of meat without the fancy marinades, seasonings or sauces. If so, your taste buds can be satisfied with a stop at Piccolo Pete’s, an old-fashioned Omaha steakhouse that has been in business for over 75 years.
Meals are served with a traditional set of sides. The main course is preceded by bread and real butter, along with a shredded lettuce salad served with your choice of thick, but flavorful dressing. Our bacon-wrapped steaks were complemented by a hot baked potato and small serving of the featured vegetable.
The steaks stand out and the service shines at this traditional Omaha establishment. If you’re in the area, Piccolo Pete’s is open for lunch Monday through Friday and dinner Monday through Saturday.
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Brian McMillin |
Food, Nebraska, Places |
December 25th, 2008
Most residents of southeast Iowa are familiar with the villages of Van Buren county. The small community of Cantril features the Dutchman’s Store, a block-long store selling dry goods, frozen foods, and more. An old grist mill in Bonaparte is home to a popular restaurant, while a new creamery in Milton specializes in specialty cheese curds.
The largest town in the county is Keosauqua, with just over 1,000 residents. Being the second-smallest county seat in the state, you won’t find a single big box discount or dollar store in the city limits. Instead, you’ll enjoy a refreshingly simple downtown district with a local grocer, pharmacy and other small businesses.
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Brian McMillin |
Eastern Iowa, Food, Places |
December 18th, 2008
Though the building facade and drug store sign have changed over the years, the tenets of a great drug store are still in tact. An underwhelming atmosphere is made up for by a long tradition of great drinks and ice cream snacks, plus some of the friendliest service you’ll ever find at a soda fountain.
Beyond the traditional pops, sodas and sundaes, you’ll want to try their special salad sandwiches. Choose between homemade ham or chicken salad, served with a slice of lettuce on plain or toasted bread. Add a drink, and your lunch will run just over $5.
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Brian McMillin |
Food, Places, Western Iowa |
November 25th, 2008
You won’t find any big box stores or urban sprawl along the outskirts of Corning, Iowa. Instead you’ll find a quiet, caring community home to one of the best downtown districts in the state. With a variety of local restaurants, retailers, and even a movie theatre, there’s plenty to do for a day trip or weekend getaway.
With the holiday shopping season in full swing, you’re bound to find some great gifts at the downtown boutiques and shops. Purchase Iowa-made soy candles at Something Special, or peruse the Fickle Frog art gallery and gift store. Peterson Floral is worth a stop if you’re looking for fresh flowers or holiday decor.
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Brian McMillin |
Cities, Places, Western Iowa |
