Exploring Iowa “Hidden Gems” Sutliff Farm and Cider House

After a day of hiking it's always good to rehydrate and fill up on some good food. While you're at it, you might as well enjoy some live music and a lively atmosphere. You know what they say, when you're in the area do as the Sutliff-ites do... Sutliff-ians? Which ever it is, I and the family made the short trip from the Palisades-Kepler State Park to Sutliff Farm and Cider House. If you were to head there from our neck of the woods, it would take you a bit longer.

Once you arrive a large grass covered field provides plenty of parking, especially on weekends when there's live music.

They really can pack in the people; despite the busy nature of Sutliff Farm and Cider House, service was fast, efficient, and friendly!

There are seating areas both inside and outside. Music can be heard clearly no matter where you decide to sit.

There are loads of arts, crafts, drinks, and more that you can take home!

Time to eat and drink. Fresh apple cider donuts, loaded nachos and fries, sparkling apple cider for the kids, a strawberry cider for the wife, and a mixture of me that's super good; they take the original Sutliff Cider and mix it half and half with Exile Brewing's go to pilsner "Ruthie." BTW, it's super good like that.

Confession, we did start with dessert... but soon all the food came! The loaded nachos and fries featured, pulled pork, house-made cheese, green onions, and tomatoes.

Just outside of the main dining area, outdoor seating and another small drink station are set up to serve ice cold drinks.

Live music that day(7/17) was provided by Pinicon Drift. They did an awesome job and played loads of your favorite tunes.

Some people even ride horses in to the area to enjoy the fun. My kids were excited to pet them.

Just behind the cidery, this gazebo provides some nice shade and a place for kids to let out a little energy.

This final shot is directly above the downstairs area pictured above. This beautiful open space can provide space to families hosting weddings and celebrating life’s milestones. The floor is intricately pieced together with edge chopped pieces of wood. I believe they have also recently put in a sunflower field that guests will be able to eventually pick from. And so ended another awesome experience at another Iowa, we'll say "Hidden Gem," but trust me, everyone around the area knows about Sutliff Farm and Cider House!

Check out the day of hiking we did before hand at Palisades-Kepler State Park...