Take a Trip: Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway (North)

In our third episode of Road Trip Iowa, we took a trip along the northern part of the Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway. From time-honored architecture in Mason City to an agricultural oasis in Cambridge, explore the history, culture and landscapes along the way.

Want to take this journey with us on your next road trip? Use Travel Iowa's itinerary tool to send yourself a fantastic route along this byway to experience most of our episode in person (please note that the itinerary tool doesn't always have every stop featured in our show so you may need to add a couple of stops along the way if you want the full experience).

Prairie School Architecture in Mason City

Frank Lloyd Wright put Mason City on the map as a Midwestern architectural mecca.

 

Music Man Square

Music Man Square honors the life and legacy of Mason City native Meredith Willson.

 

Franklin County Courthouse and the REA Power Plant Museum

Rural history comes alive at the Franklin County Courthouse and REA Power Plant Museum.

 

Beeds Lake State Park

Camp, fish or hike at the unassuming Beeds Lake State Park outside of Hampton.

 

Scenic City Empress Riverboat

Take a cruise down the scenic Iowa River on a double-decker pontoon in Iowa Falls.

 

Iowa Falls Swinging Bridge

Swaying over the Iowa River, this swinging bridge provides a walking path with a view.

 

Hubbard Prairie and Meier Wildlife Refuge

Wade through the prairie grass at the Hubbard Prairie and Meier Wildlife Refuge.

 

Niland's Cafe

Rich in tradition and flavor, Niland’s Cafe serves cafe classics to hungry commuters.

 

Center Grove Orchard

Center Grove Orchard in Cambridge is an agricultural playground honoring life on the farm.