Northeast Iowa is one of the state’s lesser-known regions, packed with small towns and beautiful wonders – but no major metropolitan areas as you make your way up the banks of the Mississippi. That makes it the perfect place to discover some great surprises on a one-day day trip. First, in Edgewood, you’ll find what might be the best-hidden cave in Iowa, a wonder dating back to ancient times. From there, it’s on to one of the oldest hotels in Iowa for a meal in a truly unforgettable experience. The best part is, you’ll likely have these fascinating locations all to yourself – that is, until you start telling your friends about this one-of-a-kind day trip.

Bixby State Preserve in Edgewood is one of Iowa's last natural havens - and it has a great hidden secret.
Matt Gavin/AllTrails
You can spend hours exploring the peaceful grounds here, but there's one section that stands out as a must-visit spot.
Herd_of_6/TripAdvisor
There are many hidden passages here, but only one leads where you're going.
Herd_of_6/TripAdvisor
Welcome to the historic ice cave above a network of sinkholes, which creates a unique air effect in the area.
Trina H/TripAdvisor
During winter and spring, warm air rises from the sinkholes and draws cold air to be drawn into the ice cave fissures. This creates ice along the cave walls and a unique ecosystem around the cave.
James C. Orvis/Wikipedia

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From there, it's time to head about eight miles east to the tiny town of Strawberry Point, home to the century-old Franklin Hotel.
The Franklin Restaurant Hotel and Bar/Facebook
The old-fashioned dining room is now home to a casual cafe, where guests and visitors can stop in for lunch.
The Franklin Restaurant Hotel and Bar/Facebook
The vintage feel of the location is only enhanced by the old-school dry-erase board advertising the lunch specials.
The Franklin Restaurant Hotel and Bar/Facebook
The specialty is hearty country cooking, which can be had at the restaurant or to go.
The Franklin Restaurant Hotel and Bar/Facebook
Whatever you do, you shouldn't leave without trying the restaurant's signature strawberry pie. What other dessert would you have in Strawberry Point?
The Franklin Restaurant Hotel and Bar/Facebook

Have you visited the Franklin Hotel’s restaurant or seen this hidden cave in Iowa? Tell us about your trip in the comments section. If you’re planning a meal or a stay at the Franklin Hotel, make sure to visit their website and Facebook page before you go. If you’re looking for a larger cave to explore, make sure to learn about how to explore the Maquoketa Caves safely before you go.

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Featured Addresses
Bixby State Preserve, Edgewood, IA 52042, USA
The Franklin Hotel, LLC, 102 Elkader St, Strawberry Point, IA 52076, USA