If Iowa’s such a flyover state, why do we have so many airports? One of our small county-owned airports, just outside of Mason City, is a popular spot for general aviation. Here, you can actually walk right in to a cafe at the airport (without the hassle of a TSA scan!) and watch airplanes take off and land all day. Check it out!

Mason City Municipal Airport is a small public-use airport located in Clear Lake, Iowa.
Facebook / Mason City Municipal Airport
Many people fly in and out of this airport and all sorts of planes are landing and taking off throughout the day.
Facebook / Mason City Municipal Airport
Even if you're not a pilot or passenger, you should visit Mason City Airport to dine at "Them People at the Airport Cafe"!
Facebook / Them People At The Airport Cafe
"Them People At The Airport Cafe" is a spot where families can enjoy watching planes take off and land while they enjoy a hearty meal.
Facebook / Them People At The Airport Cafe

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This charming and cozy country restaurant is welcoming to everyone, whether you walk in, or fly in!
Facebook / Them People At The Airport Cafe
You can find classic dishes like grilled cheese and chili here, which is often a daily special.
Facebook / Them People at the Airport Cafe
Midwestern dishes like hot beef sandwiches are also available.
Facebook / Them People at the Airport Cafe
The Airport Cafe also serves a selection of homemade desserts - try the cinnamon rolls!
Facebook / Them People at the Airport Cafe
The Airport Cafe is an entertaining place ot dine. You'll be mesmerized by the various small airplanes and helicopters that fly in, and you can even hear stories from the pilots dining with you!
Facebook / Them People At The Airport Cafe

You can find the cafe at 9184 265th St Mason City Municipal Airport, Clear Lake, IA. Them People At The Airport Cafe (or, The Airport Cafe for short) is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

You might recognize the airport name, or Clear Lake, as being the site where Musicians Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, along with pilot Roger Peterson, died in a plane crash. Though the event is not noted on the airport grounds, the crash site is nearby and a private monument there is dedicated to the four men. Visiting the site is a moving experience for music fans, and it made our list of 10 Things You Never Thought Of Doing In Iowa, But Should.

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