Unique Relaxation in the Country
"Stay a while." That's the invitation from Grain Bin Stay, where a 45-year-old working farm grain bin has been transformed into a modern countryside retreat. Standing 25 feet tall and 24 feet around with soaring 24-foot ceilings, this circular sanctuary features custom curved staircases held by posts from a 120-year-old barn, kitchen shelves salvaged from another century-old barn, and historic metal backsplash from yet another agricultural structure.
Down the white gravel road in Oakland, Iowa (population 1,500), you'll find yourself in the calm of the country—exactly 2.5 miles from town and 25 miles from Omaha Airport. Just far enough away, yet close enough to everything.
The Transformation Story
This grain bin served the family farm for over 40 years, storing harvests and serving the agricultural operation. When modern farming outgrew the bin's capacity, the owners had an idea: transform it into a unique vacation rental that honors its agricultural heritage while providing contemporary comfort.
The result is a "super unique stay" that embraces the round shape and celebrates country life with added conveniences: full tub shower, dishwasher, WiFi, and laundry—all within the iconic circular architecture.
Reclaimed Materials Tell a Story
The Custom Curved Staircase: The interior staircase following the circular walls is supported by posts from a 120-year-old barn. These weathered timbers have seen more than a century of Iowa seasons, adding authentic character to the modern space.
Kitchen Shelves: Sourced from another 100+ year old barn, these shelves bring rustic charm to the fully equipped kitchen where you can cook meals using the dishwasher and modern appliances.
Metal Backsplash: The kitchen's metal backsplash comes from yet another historic agricultural structure, creating a cohesive design that celebrates Iowa farm heritage.
The Setting: A Field in the Middle of Iowa
Your accommodation sits in an actual working farm field—surrounded by corn, soybeans, or grazing cows depending on the season. The experience is profoundly peaceful: birds chirping, cattle mooing in the distance, and the occasional friendly neighbor waving as they pass by on their tractor.
"Cozy up at the fire pit, enjoy the silence, or head to town for an ice cream." Oakland is just 2.5 miles away, offering a genuine small-town Iowa experience with local diners and shops.
Southwest Iowa Adventures
Loess Hills National Scenic Byway (20 miles): Explore Iowa's unique wind-deposited hills—some of the most extensive loess hills in North America. The landscape feels more like the American West than the Midwest.
Lake of Three Fires State Park (15 miles): Hiking trails, fishing, and a beautiful 65-acre lake perfect for kayaking or swimming. The park's name comes from a Native American legend.
Omaha's Old Market District (30 miles): Historic warehouse district with cobblestone streets, galleries, boutiques, and excellent dining. Perfect for a day trip when you want urban amenities.
Council Bluffs Historic District (25 miles): Explore the Lewis and Clark history, railroadheritage, and Victorian architecture of this Missouri River town.
Farm-to-Table & Local Flavor
You're in the heartland of American agriculture. Visit local farm stands during harvest season for fresh sweet corn, tomatoes, and Iowa-grown produce. Many farms offer U-pick opportunities for strawberries, pumpkins, and apples depending on the season.
The Grain Bin's full kitchen makes it easy to cook with local ingredients, or drive to Oakland for classic small-town diners and home cooking.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May): Fields come alive with planting season. Watch farmers work the land with massive modern equipment—a fascinating contrast to the 120-year-old barn materials in your accommodation.
Summer (June-August): Corn grows "knee-high by the Fourth of July" and eventually towers above the bin. Hot days (80s-90s°F) are perfect for relaxing in the air-conditioned circular space or star-gazing from the fire pit.
Fall (September-October): Harvest season! Experience combines working the fields, corn turning golden, and perhaps help pick pumpkins at nearby farms. Comfortable temperatures (60s-70s°F) ideal for exploring.
Winter (November-March): Snow-covered fields create peaceful solitude. Cozy up inside the bin with the modern heating and enjoy the ultimate quiet rural retreat.
Planning Your Farm Stay
What to Bring: Groceries from Omaha or Council Bluffs (Oakland has limited options), comfortable clothes for rural exploring, camera for sunset photos over endless fields, and an appreciation for agricultural life.
Getting There: 25 miles from Omaha Airport makes this surprisingly accessible. Rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive through rural Iowa to find your white gravel road.
The Experience: This isn't a luxury resort—it's an authentic connection to Iowa farm country with modern conveniences. Perfect for couples seeking unique romance, friends wanting a memorable getaway, or solo travelers craving complete peace.
Book Your Grain Bin Adventure
Visit the official website at grainbinstay.com to check availability and book your stay in this one-of-a-kind agricultural conversion.
For our complete property review: