Story City is conveniently located off I-35, one hour North of Des Moines, 3 ½ hours south of the Twin Cities, 3 ½ hours north of Kansas City and 2 1/2 hours east of Omaha.  It is a prime location for a Motor coach tour stop with a full or half day of activities (see sample tour “A Touch of Story City” ), a great Comfort Stop for travelers who need to stretch their legs, or a delightful Mystery Stop.

Story City is also a great place to plan a fun and educational tour for preschool through elementary age students.  Even middle and high school students enjoy rides on the Antique Carousel.

Contact the Story City Greater Chamber at 515-733-4214 or chamber@storycity.net to set up a customized tour for your group.  Story City is an ideal destination full of historic treasures, heritage and good eats.  Whether you are here for a full day, a ride on the carousel, or just for a quick break off of the interstate, we’re sure you’ll be back to enjoy the local hospitality.

Stop at the GCC Office (602 Broad St) to pick up your visitor packets and step on guide (optional with fee).  Begin your day at one of Story City’s dining stops for breakfast, choose to be served coffee and kringla (a Scandinavian pastry) at the Carousel or a museum. Price to be determined.

You may shop either our Downtown shops or visit the Factory Stores of America Outlet Mall or the Carousel Antique Mall.

Either sit down in a local restaurant.  If you prefer, you can have a catered meal at the Bartlett Museum or the Fairview Lodge next to the Antique Carousel. We offer a broad variety of luncheon specials including traditional Scandinavian menus.  Available upon request.  Prices vary with each selection to be determined upon booking.

Rosemaling Demonstration or Kringla Making Demonstration*

Tour 3,000 feet of wide trials in a natural Iowa prairie setting right in Story City. Popular site to see a variety of butterflies.  Self guided tours.  No bathroom facilities. 

Find reminders of what Story County was like prior to pioneer settlement at one of Iowa’s finest prairies.  Tours led by Story County Conservation staff.  No bathroom facilities. 

All above tours are offered year round with few exceptions and by appointment only. 
Prices subject to change. Let us customize a tour for your group!

Comfort Stop   up

Stretch your legs at the Story City North Park, take a restroom break in the heat/air conditioned Fairview Lodge, enjoy rides on the Antique Carousel, and have coffee and kringla (Scandinavian pastry).  Stay for a slide show presentation on the carousel if time allows.  This stop can be arranged from May through September at the carousel or any time of year at the Fairview Lodge.  $3.00 per person, $5.00 per person with slide show.

Lunch Stop   up

With Story City located just off of exit 124 on I-35, it is the perfect place to stop and grab some lunch.  Enjoy tea room style lunches at the Cottage on Broad or choose from a family-style restaurant at Happy Chef or Royal Café.  Order pizza and sandwiches from Alley's Pizza, Pizza Ranch or Casey’s General Store or lunch from The Bistro, all to be picked up and eaten at a location you choose.  Short on time?  Story City boasts three fast food restaurants:  Dairy Queen, McDonald’s and Subway.  Story City is also home to two Kum & Go convenience stores as well as Casey’s General Store for buses that need refueled.  Or contact the GCC office for information on catering options in Story City.

A Fun Field Day (Children's Tour)   up

Visit the one-room 1859 Sheldahl Schoolhouse.  $1.50 per person**

Eat lunch in the Carousel building, Fairview Lodge next door, or have a picnic at the playground.
 Either pack your sack lunch (no additional charge), or have a McDonald's Hamburger Happy Meal with milk delivered to you ($4.00 per person).**

Tours are offered year-round, but some options are subject to seasonal openings and closings. 
Prices subject to change.  Let us create a fun and educational tour day or half-day for your group!