I attended a work event at the Nature Lodge today. The room we used was able to access a very large…read moregroup (over 50) comfortably. Large windows brought in plenty of natural light. There was a large rolling rack for coats by the door. The entrance was welcoming with large seasonal planter. Parking was convenient and seemed to manage our group. Forgot to take pictures but will add some next time I am there.

Brand new Fairfield Inn and it's immaculate. Love the design, style and especially the level of…read morecomfort this hotel offers. The bed was super comfortable with plush pillows, The bathroom is large with an enormous shower. The water pressure could be a wee bit stronger but I got cleaned just fine. Staff is friendly and breakfast is available daily. There's ample seating for groups and an areas that appears to be a bar. If it is a bar, I don't think it's open just yet. There's a pool in the back of the hotel and a gym. The gym has a water dispenser which is cool. Treadmills have TV's attached and there are free weights for those of us who want to keep them guns polished. There's also plenty of room to do yoga or Pilates. There's a mini market for snacks and other amenities near the front desk entrance. Lots of parking and a very walkable neighborhood with a sports complex next door. Fareway grocer's is nearby along with a Kwik Start gas station that sells convenience store food and real groceries across the street. Oh yeah! Starbucks is across the street as well :)

Spent the most beautiful Wednesday summer evening at Carper Winery. I had known about this place…read moreback when I was searching for a venue for my wedding but didn't know they had more offerings outside of weddings. Hello Wine Wednesday! The location and setting is more beautiful than I imagined and the building/venue is also really nice. Like I mentioned, I was there for their Wine Wednesday when they bring in live music to perform outside, overlooking the acreage and vines. Luckily the weather was a near perfect high 70s in June. Brad & Kate were the performers (they were very talented and made the night very enjoyable). While they have indoor tables and outdoor patio furniture on the side of the building, you will want to bring your own chair if you'd like to enjoy the performance. You are able to purchase alcohol and drinks from the bar inside - no outside beverages allowed. They also offer the option to buy wine by the bottle and take out to your chairs which was convenient! And.....drumroll.......They bring in food trucks! It really is a full evening of food, drinks, and music. I highly recommended bringing your favorite people! Looking at the schedule it looks like they offer Wine Wednesday with a different live performer almost every Wednesday in the summer. Don't miss out this perfect summer activity.

This place is so classy...it has beautiful views overseeing the Vineyard and a nice manicured pond,…read morealso the a building and surrounding grounds are breathtaking with county charm. This is by far the best place to take that special someone in your life. Guys you'll knock it out of the park!!!

Stopped in for a music event on a Sunday afternoon. Wine, beer, cocktails, coffee, and charcuterie…read moreare all available. Nicely remodeled space and great service. Prices are very reasonable and there is a small retail space with wine and food items. Seating inside and outside. Very cool old school building and would definitely go back to enjoy a drink.

Met some friends for coffee. Wow! I wish I knew of this place sooner. SUPER CUTE BUILDING…read more The staff is beyond friendly. I got treated upon entering. I let the gentleman know I was waiting for some friends. I was wandering around (maybe 5 min) checking out the place, and the gentleman came out from behind the bar. He came up and offered me water while I waited. Once my friends arrived we ordered coffees. He told us to have seats and he would bring them out to us. The coffee was delicious. I had a latte. My friends both ordered americanos and raved about them. The gentleman continued to check on us the entire time we were there. Amazing service, great atmosphere and great coffee. I can't wait to come back and try the cocktails

What a gem! I brought my 10-year-old grandson here for a staycation and we had the best experience!…read moreSparkling clean and beautifully decorated, comfortable beds with cozy linens, an exceptionally friendly and welcoming staff, and little touches like a beer and wine reception, Wii gaming system, and nice pool with thick towels really elevated the experience. We got one of the simplest rooms and it was stocked with real silverware, porcelain dishes, a toaster, microwave, refrigerator, and sink, and a Keurig coffee maker. Honestly, I couldn't remember how much I had booked the room for and was pleasantly surprised by the folio. This experience was similar to staying at a luxury brand, but at a more affordable price! The hotel is nice, but it's the staff that really sets this place apart. Hats off to the management and everyone who works here for making this place so special for guests. I was already on the Element website looking for properties in other places we are visiting in 2026! Meanwhile, my grandson and I are planning our next staycation at our newfound favorite local spot.

The location was very convenient for us and we needed a place that we could bring our dog. This…read morehotel had good reviews and our room was $320 a night. For the price point, we were expecting something higher quality. We messaged beforehand to have a pack n play for our son and when we got to the room, there was black, fuzzy mold growing on multiple bars on the crib. The staff did not seem to think it was a big deal. Aside from that, the room was pretty beat up with scuffs all over and chips out of the cups. The walls were also paper thin. We definitely won't be staying here again and will look for a different Marriott property in the area.

Our daughter's wedding and reception was at Happy Apple Celebrations and we can't stop raving about…read morethe perfect weekend! The new owners, Ryan and Sara went above and beyond to provide a beautiful venue with so many amenities!! Many perks included with the rental of the venue,like lights, centerpieces, bar service, full kitchen, flexibility with vendor options, a nice bride's room and a spacious man cave for the guys! The grounds are lovely, too! Near the metro but out in the country with so much green space! Check it out!

This venue is absolutely beautiful, the outside area is gorgeous and perfect for weddings. The bar…read moreand bartenders are phenomenal and hold great conversation. Will recommend to others

Iowa Distilling Company in Cumming has become one of our favorite stops when we ride our bicycles…read moredown from Ankeny. It is small, quaint, local, and always worth the stop for a libation or two. The handcrafted drinks are excellent, the prices are very reasonable, and it is hard to beat enjoying cocktails made with Iowa-made spirits. This trip I had the Revolver for $9, and Kim had the Porch Swing for $8, I believe. Both were great. The people working there are honestly fantastic. They are attentive, friendly, and somehow keep smiling even when the place is slammed and the occasional loud customer is barking at them. That takes skill, patience, and maybe a little magic. It is a great local business with a fun vibe, good drinks, fair prices, and staff who make the stop even better. We will absolutely keep coming back when we ride through Cumming, and in the meantime we will keep buying their products from local stores in Ankeny too. Great job, Iowa Distilling Company.

Whisky Club was a great experience!!!! What a fun time to gather, enjoy local food and local…read morespirits!!! The plethora of cocktail options was quite impressive, but if neat is your thing you won't be disappointed. The atmosphere is great, and designed to foster hours of entertainment., even accommodating to families. Now the staff...truly phenomenal, absolutely top notch!!!!! Make your way to Cumming, and check out the Iowa Distilling Company website for all the awesome organized events they've got planned.

We had an amazing time relaxing & catching up with family. We drove up from Kansas & they drove…read moredown from Wisconsin. Must do again!!!

Summer Concert Series is a must if you're in the Des Moines area!! Pricing for wine, beer, and…read moreciders are similar to most other places but the atmosphere is pretty special! Once you're nestled behind their grape vines you forget that you're so close to downtown Des Moines. As for the concert, it was AMAZING! So much fun, so much space for people to spread out and enjoy the music, drinks, and food! You can also bring your own food if you'd like but the food options they have amongst the food trucks and vendors was really well balanced. Jasper staff was friendly and they had a nice selection of wines. Well done Jasper Winery! We'll be back for sure!

I have been to many wedding receptions and country clubs and the manager (older gentleman, I think…read morehis name was Dave) needs to be fired. He had the worst customer service I've seen from a manager. Do not have your reception here or you will regret it. #1 he treats his staff like garbage #2 he ended our reception EARLY! #3 he kept yelling at members of our family DO NOT go here until management has changed

Nice setup and in good condition in early October. Range needs to be on grass and remove all mats…read morewhich are terrible. Sadly the range setup leaves lots to be desired. Staff and course were good but having just come from the Ryder Cup my grading is likely off. Facilities are good and proved to be a good place to host a work event.