Events Happening in Western Iowa

Itching to get out this weekend? Plan a day trip on Saturday, October 10, and explore Western Iowa - a full morning-to-evening itinerary of food, shopping, and art set against the scenic Loess Hills.

Start your day at the Missouri Valley Fire Station (223 E Erie) with a hearty pancake feed from 7:30 a.m. to noon - a neighborly way to fuel up before a day of wandering. Then head a block over to St. Paul Lutheran Church (201 N 2nd St) for the Craft & Vendor Fair, 9 am to 1 pm, where you’ll find handmade goods, seasonal décor, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

After that, drive north for the 1st Annual Hills, Art & More - a self-guided art tour through the beautiful Loess Hills of Woodbury and Monona Counties. The tour runs Saturday 10 am to 4 pm (and continues Sunday noon to 4 pm if you can’t make every stop on Saturday). The route flows through Moorhead, Soldier, Ute, Mapleton, Smithland, Oto, Anthon, Correctionville and Pierson, featuring painting, sculpture, fiber art, original jewelry, pottery, live music, food and more. Pick up maps and event details at the tour website, hillsartandmore.com, before you go.

If your travels put you in Ute after 5 pm, stop in at Ada J’s Steakhouse for dinner and a welcoming local atmosphere to close out the day.

Plan your route now to make the most of the day — breakfast, local crafts, and an inspiring self-guided drive through the Loess Hills all await on Saturday, October 10.