Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Norfolk, Nebraska

Driving between Cedar Falls, Iowa and Norfolk, Nebraska takes approximately three hours. During the journey, drivers can expect to see landscapes of lush prairies, farmlands, and picturesque towns. But why not take a break and explore some top-notch destinations as you journey between the two states?

Midway Point: Sac City, IA

Located at the halfway point between Cedar Falls and Norfolk, Sac City, IA offers a perfect opportunity for travelers to stop, stretch their legs and see some unique sites. For starters, visitors can head to the Sac County's Barn Quilts - large, colorful, mounted wooden squares decorated with quilt patterns - that adorn barns' exteriors, grain bins, and businesses. There are over 60 Barn Quilts scattered throughout Sac County, offering a colorful attraction for tourists.

After exploring the Barn Quilts, visitors can head to Duncombe Park, a scenic recreation area that sits on the shores of the impressive Lower and Middle Lakes. Traversed by miles of trails for biking and hiking, visitors can enjoy fishing, bird-watching, water sports, and a picnic in this tranquil spot.

1. Carroll, IA

A forty-five-minute drive east of Sac City, Carroll, IA, located in the northwest region of the state, is worth a stop. One of the top attractions that visitors can access conveniently from the Highway is the Swan Lake State Park. Here, visitors can find three miles of shoreline and trails plus picnic spots. The park is ideal for fishing, hiking, sailing, and boating.

Carroll Bakery, rated four and a half stars by locals and visitors, is the perfect place to indulge in a variety of treats. The bakery is known for its bread, cake donuts, long johns, apple fritters, and cookies. Stop in for a cup of coffee and a snack, and you will experience its old-school, charming atmosphere.

2. Onawa, IA

Continuing on highway 175 west, travelers will come across Onawa, IA, located in the west-central part of Iowa. The town boasts an exceptional opportunity to explore the Lewis and Clark Trail Scenic Byway. Named after the famous explorers, the byway offers over 28 miles of beautiful landscapes, fishing spots, and hiking trails.

From Onawa to Decatur, the byway runs parallel to the Missouri River, presenting visitors with stunning views of the waterway. Along the way, visitors must make a stop at the Lewis & Clark State Park. One of Iowa's most extensive state parks, visitors can visit the park's lakeside and its educational center to learn more about the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Onawa's iconic coffee shop, Blackbird Coffee House, is worth a visit. It blends coffee from local producers, a wide range of pastries, biscotti, and other baked goods to head up your energy as you continue with your journey.

3. Wayne, NE

Continuing on to the west, and just west of Norfolk, visitors can discover the charming town of Wayne Nebraska. The town is home to the Wayne State College. The beautiful campus is a major attraction for visitors. The campus offers a vast collection of sculptures, murals, and a fascinating botanical garden.

On summer days, visitors may visit Skyview Lake, where they may relax, fish, or rent paddle boats. With a vast, green space, the park makes a perfect picnic spot.

If you are looking for a place to grab a burger or sandwich, Gerhardt's Kitchen and Bath offers delicious menu items with options catering to both healthy eaters and hearty appetites.

4. Neligh, NE

Twenty miles west of Wayne, slow down and take a pause to appreciate the small town of Neligh, NE, situated in the Elkhorn River valley, surrounded by scenic hills. Start by visiting the Antelope County Museum, where you can relive the town's vibrant history.

The town is also home to the Neligh Mill State Historic Site. The mill was operational for over 110 years and now offers guided tours to visitors. Take a trip up to the mill's observation deck, and you will be treated to breathtaking aerial views of the Elkhorn River.

Before hitting the road, grab a cup of coffee at Garden Cafe. It has excellent coffee, of course, plus delicious breakfast options, burgers, and desserts.

5. Pierce, NE

Located on the western end of the journey, Pierce, NE is a highlight with a blend of rural and urban attractions. First up is Pierce Downtown, where visitors can relax, browse, and shop. Pierce also offers a unique attraction in its Pierce Historical Society's Railroad Museum, which features a 100-year-old depot, a 1904 caboose, and an 1897 locomotive.

For lunch or dinner, stop by the Sun Mart. Inside the store is a diner that serves tip-top burgers that come highly recommended by regulars.

Why take this journey?

Iowa and Nebraska boast a wide range of attractions and landscapes, and this road trip lets visitors discover some of the little-known gems that scatter between the two states. Whether you are exploring new locations for the first time or rediscovering familiar places, this drive provides the opportunity to break away from your routine and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path experience. So fill the gas tank, pack some bags, and hit the highway for an adventure that you will cherish forever.