THINGS TO DO - Iowa Starting Line

Feb 2026 3

Protests and rallies around Iowa: Feb 3-10, 2026

By Amie Rivers | THINGS TO DO, NEWSLETTER, Amie Rivers

Protests and rallies around Iowa for Feb 3-10, 2026:

Iowa Democrat Jennifer Konfrst speaks to protesters rallying at the Iowa Capitol rotunda in opposition to the new ban on abortion after roughly six weeks of pregnancy introduced by Republican lawmakers in a special session on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. (AP Photo/Hannah Fingerhut)

Jan 2026 28

Iowa protests and candidate events: Jan. 28-Feb. 3, 2026

By Amie Rivers | THINGS TO DO, NEWSLETTER, Amie Rivers

Iowa protests and candidate events for the week of Jan. 28-Feb. 3, 2026

People wave signs protesting the Trump administration and DOGE and in support of democracy during a Day of Action rally along a stretch of Greenhill Road in Cedar Falls on Saturday, April 19, 2025. (Amie Rivers/Iowa Starting Line)

Jan 2026 26

The 6 best Iowa truck stops for fueling up & grabbing a meal

By Dorothy Scott | THINGS TO DO, EVERGREEN, Dorothy Scott

We scoured reviews and amenities to find the best Iowa truck stops. Check out these options for food, fuel, and more to get you through your travels.

We’re looking into some of the best Iowa truck stops that offer convenient but delicious food in addition to plenty of gas pumps.

Jan 2026 23

6 Iowa waterfalls that are even more stunning in winter

By Cassidy Grubisic | THINGS TO DO, EVERGREEN, Cassidy Grubisic

Discover the natural beauty of winter waterfalls across Iowa. Find locations, hike details, and essential safety tips for winter exploration in this guide.

While some of Iowa’s waterfalls transform into solid walls of ice, others are unique “warm” springs that continue to flow even in the coldest months.

Dec 2025 3

12 best cut-your-own Christmas tree farms in Iowa

By Britteny Dee | THINGS TO DO, EVERGREEN, Britteny Dee

Get in the holiday spirit at one of these tree farms in Iowa where you can chop down your very own Christmas tree.

There’s nothing more festive than going to a tree farm, picking the perfect live tree, and cutting it down yourself.

Nov 2025 27

How to stretch your paycheck when grocery prices are high, according to an expert

By Cassidy Grubisic | THINGS TO DO, EVERGREEN, Cassidy Grubisic

Learn how to stretch your grocery budget amid rising prices with these seven tips from a Registered Dietitian. Including meal planning, strategic coupon clipping, unit pricing, and more.