Quilting Fever - Group Travel

This quilting tour will have you "stitchin’ and patchin’" all year long!  

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DAY 1  

Start off your day by exploring quilting shops galore in Historic Valley Junction! Have the Historic Valley Junction staff welcome you with a step-on guide as well as set up a free behind the scenes, hands-on experience with the store owners! Past activities have included a fashion show, wine and chocolate tastings or antique appraisal classes. (515) 274-8407 

Catch Iowa’s past through its people, its issues, and events at the State Historical Museum of Iowa. The museum's Mary Barton Quilt Collection is a stunning collection. Barton, a native of Iowa, became one of the world's foremost experts on quilts, patterns, and other issues that impacted women in the 19th and 20th centuries. (515) 281-5111

Enjoy the afternoon outdoors by exploring the nationally recognized John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Recognized by the New York Times, catch more than 30 sculptures on 4.4 acres in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Want to learn even more? There are guided tours available as well. (515) 271-0344

The east side of Des Moines is bustling like never before! Shop til you drop at The Outlets of Des Moines. This is an outdoor shopping center featuring more than 70 outlet stores with more to come. Groups of 15 or more will receive complimentary coupon books and a special parking area. (515) 380-7216

Do you have a love for the outdoors? If you do, continue your day by travelling 30 minutes to the small town of Madrid – home to the Iowa Arboretum. Visit the 378 acres of trees and woodland trails. See beautiful flowers and outdoor shrubbery stretched over the plains. (515) 795-3216 

DAY 2  

Start your day by heading just minutes outside Des Moines, towards Perry. Take in a personal tour by the Perry Chamber of Commerce of this unique and quaint downtown. Formerly a major railroad junction, Perry is also home to the historic Hotel Pattee, with themed rooms including many related to the railroad. (515) 465-4601 

While in Perry, catch the Carnegie Library Museum, a museum on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour the basement that served as the city’s courtroom in the 1900s. (515) 465-7713  

Recently renovated and expanded, catch all of the new blooming flowers, exotic plants, and more in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden tropical dome. Have a master gardener talk with your group or give a demonstration. (515) 323-6290

While there, dine at Trellis Café where they use fresh, local ingredients to sew together the perfect meal! (515) 323-6288

The Des Moines Art Center is a nationally known gallery with an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture, modern art, and mixed media. A must-see for art lovers! Plus, if you head directly behind the Art Center, you’ll stumble upon Greenwood Park. This beautiful area also features a Rose Garden, the perfect way to continue your art journey. (515) 277-4405  

A stately Victorian home of Italianate Gothic design, the Historic Jordan House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a member of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. Catch one of the oldest structures in Polk Country. (515) 225-1286

DAY 3  

Start out your morning by heading to the Birthplace of John Wayne! Catch where it all began for the legendary actor by visiting his home in Winterset, Iowa. Embark on a “History with a Roof Tour” where you will see covered bridges and take a Barn Quilt tour, thanks to the Madison County Chamber of Commerce(515) 462-1185 

While in Winterset, visit The Iowa Quilt Museum. Located on the town’s historic square, this museum will change exhibits three to four times a year and display both vintage and new American quilts. Contact director@iowaquiltmuseum.org for more information. 

On your way out of town, stop by Covered Bridge Winery. Take in a sampling and learn the history behind this locally owned business. All of their wine is made with 100% Iowa grown grapes.  

End your day by experiencing a tasty one-hour gelato experience at Chocolaterie Stam. Savor flavors like pistachio, salted caramel, crème brûlée, and more. Learn the history of the establishment and the owners who brought their delicious chocolate recipe over from Europe. (515) 282-9575 

For more information, contact:
Chris Baker
Director of Event Experience
(515) 699-3456
chris@catchdesmoines.com