A long winter lies ahead, and for some people that makes them want to curl up at home with a warm cup of cocoa. For others, winter is the perfect time to travel – and Iowa has some towns that absolutely come alive in the wintertime! One of those towns is Bellevue, Iowa, a small city of a little over two thousand people with gorgeous river views and a rich cultural and culinary scene. When you explore Bellevue, you’ll find beautiful natural sites and isolated byways that look stunningly peaceful in the winter. You’ll also find some of the best food and drink in the Hawkeye State, all the better to warm yourself up after a day of exploring. After a day in Bellevue during this season, it won’t be hard to see why people call it the best winter town in Iowa.
Bellevue State Park is always a haven in the middle of the city, but it’s especially peaceful this time of year.
Iowa DNR
The park has become a popular destination for snowshoers and cross-country skiers, offering easy terrain in the bracing cold.
TravelIowa
For those looking for a longer-distance adventure, Bellevue is known for its scenic byways - including the Grant Wood Scenic Byway, a popular place for driving and bicycling.
Grant Wood Scenic Byway/Facebook
Along the way, you’ll pass fields and farmhouses that look like they were taken directly from a painting.
Grant Wood Scenic Byway/Facebook
Getting out in the open air during the day is great - and it makes finding a relaxing place to spend the night even better. Welcome to River Ridge Brewing, Bellevue’s crown jewel.
River Ridge Brewing/Facebook
This microbrewery always has something new on tap, and their tastings are a popular highlight.
River Ridge Brewing/Facebook
During the winter, you can even choose to have your flight in a heated igloo, offering a beautiful riverside view.
River Ridge Brewing/Facebook
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, head to Flatted Fifth Blues & BBQ, a popular live-music venue featuring amazing southern food.
Flatted Fifths Blues & BBQ/Facebook
Their barbecue sampler platter is a lot of food - but it feels right after a day of winter exploring in beautiful Bellevue.
Flatted Fifths Blues & BBQ/Facebook
Have you explored Bellevue before? Let us know about your trip, and tell us about your pick for the best winter town in Iowa! If you’re planning your own visit, make sure to check the websites for River Ridge Brewing and Flatted Fifth Blues & BBQ for all the details. For another memorable Iowa winter getaway, check out this Mason City Adventure.
Iowa DNR
TravelIowa
Grant Wood Scenic Byway/Facebook
River Ridge Brewing/Facebook
Flatted Fifths Blues & BBQ/Facebook
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Address: Bellevue, IA 52031, USAAddress: Flatted Fifth Blues & BBQ, 300 Potter Dr, Bellevue, IA 52031, USAAddress: River Ridge Brewing, 303 S Riverview St, Bellevue, IA 52031, USA
