Over the years, Jessica O’Riley has often biked and run Decorah’s scenic Trout Run Trail. (Photo: Jessica O’Riley)
By Michael Morain
Editor
If you’ve ever gone to a festival, visited a museum, explored a state park or enjoyed a hotel anywhere in Iowa over the last 18 years, there’s a good chance Jessica O’Riley helped promote it. She joined the Iowa Tourism Office in 2007 and will be leaving her post as its communications manager on Friday.
Before she goes, we asked her to share a few highlights.
What have you enjoyed the most about your role?
I’ve often said my unofficial job title is “Shameless Iowa Promoter.” It’s been my privilege to share the incredible assets Iowa has to offer with writers, reporters, editors and general travelers. Even after all my time with the tourism office, I’m still learning about places I’ve not visited, not to mention the new attractions, hotels and events that open every year. I also love that so many of the relationships I’ve built with writers and industry partners have turned into friendships.
If you had a gazillion dollars, where would you build or buy an Iowa vacation home?
I’ve been charmed by Decorah for years. It was a town I’d never heard of before joining the office, but it’s such a beautiful place. I love the Trout Run Trail (I’ve both biked it and run a half-marathon on it), the great shops along Water Street, the beautiful Hotel Winneshiek, Dunning’s Springs waterfall and, of course, the Whippy Dip. Whenever it’s open and I’m in the vicinity, I’m stopping.
What’s one of the quirkiest destinations you’ve visited?
The Iowa Funeral Museum in Marshalltown. It’s a local funeral director’s collection accumulated over 30 years and includes caskets and other artifacts related to the funeral industry. I found my visit fascinating and not at all creepy. It was remarkable to see how the industry has evolved over the years, including the size of caskets. (It’s open only by appointment; call or email to arrange a visit.)
What’s an unusual festival or event you’d recommend?
The Color the Wind Kite Festival in Clear Lake. Kite flyers from across the Midwest bring their giant kites and fly them on the frozen lake. I love that many Iowa communities embrace our four seasons and don’t hibernate in winter. But do be sure to dress for the weather – and pack sunglasses. The sun’s glare off the ice can be intense.
What’s one Iowa destination that’s on your bucket list?
Best Nest Farm in Glenwood. They have covered wagons you can stay in, complete with their own bathrooms. And there’s a pond, ducks and even alpacas you can feed. I’ve visited but have never spent the night — yet. It’s definitely on my list to go back and thoroughly enjoy.
What’s one Iowa destination you return to frequently?
Miss Effie’s Country Flowers in Donahue. When I first heard about this farm, probably 10 years or so ago, I couldn’t believe such a place existed. Someone plants flowers, does all the work to grow them and then lets you come and cut them to take home? Sign me up! I make it back at least once a year since it’s a place where I can slow down, feel my whole body relax and just appreciate the scenery. I love to pack a lunch and enjoy it in the “cornzebo,” a former corn crib.
