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About Olio in Iowa

Olio in Iowa is a Midwest-based travel blog inspired by offbeat destinations, roadside attractions, and “world’s largest” things. Started in 2012, Olio in Iowa focuses on unique travel destinations and the joys of roadtripping. With readers located across the country, Olio in Iowa strives to highlight the nation’s sometimes overlooked locales and showcase the people who help create and maintain them.

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Latest Posts

Finding the World’s Smallest Church in Festina, Iowa

While it’s no secret that I love “world’s largest” things, I also can’t say no to an adorably small attraction. Recently while roadtripping through northeast Iowa, I took a detour to visit the St. Anthony of Pauda Chapel, which claims to be the world’s smallest church.

The Saga of Slayton Rock in Casey, Iowa

So why, you might ask, did I drag my travel partner 20 minutes out of our way to see what is essentially just a giant rock? Great question.

World’s Largest Wooden Nickel in Iowa City, Iowa

Recently a friend of mine mentioned that she was surprised I’d never seen one of Iowa’s most well-known world’s largest seen: the wooden nickel. I’ve been to Iowa City enough times for work or to visit friends but I never tracked down the 18-foot diameter wooden nickel, located outside of Iowa City along NE Dubuque Street, just north of the Iowa River…

Experience the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa

A few weekends ago a friend and I embarked on another Iowa adventure and headed northwest to the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa. This small town is home to the world’s largest man-made grotto, a feat that took more than 40 years to complete…

Available Now: Secret Iowa

Some claim there’s nothing to see in flyover country. But take a closer look and you’ll discover that Iowa is home to more than just cornfields. In fact, across the Hawkeye State you’ll encounter hidden gems and secret spots abound. For instance, do you know where you can find the only remaining Frank Lloyd Wright designed hotel in the world? What about how much the World’s Largest Popcorn Ball weighs? And why did the Los Angeles Lakers pay to build a basketball court in the small town of Carroll?

Book cover of Secret Iowa: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful & Obscure

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