Some unexpected but appreciated downtime

Today's plan called for leaving South Dakota and getting half-way through Iowa with a stop in Sioux City, IA. As we approached Sioux City, with an expected stop at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, it was painfully obvious that our planned stop was not meant to be. The exit ramp was basically a boat ramp. The Missouri river flooding had affected the Sioux river and the Interpretive Center and other buildings on the riverfront were closed due to flooding. We proceeded to the historic district, had some lunch and proceeded to Ames, IA.

Thus far, Iowa takes the prize for being the most odiferous state. Farms + Cows = Oh my! Iowa scenery is truly corn fields upon corn fields. But we cranked up some tunes provided by our good friend Jen Kline Clark and the next thing you know, we were in Ames.

Having arrived earlier than planned, we had a little downtime in the hotel before venturing out for dinner. Dinner at the Hickory Park Restaurant Company was exceptional. Smoked meats and ice cream sundaes for dessert... hard to beat that. If you're ever passing anywhere near Iowa, take a detour to Ames and go to the Hickory Park Restaurant... it's worth the extra mileage! Following dinner, we had a nice swim in the heated indoor pool and spent some time in the whirlpool spa as well. Given the weather has been rainy since yesterday's visit to Mount Rushmore, the gloomy weather made it the downtime all the more enjoyable. Apart for the rain over the last 24 hours, the weather since day one has been spectacular... sunny and 65-75 on most days!

Tomorrow's destination - Chicago... home of Mike Ditka and Da Bears.