Boone is a welcoming small city with active outdoor life and a cozy downtown — think sandstone bluffs and hiking at Ledges State Park, scenic rides on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, local breweries, farmers’ markets, and friendly Main Street amenities that make multi-week stays comfortable and interesting.
Des Moines (~30–35 miles) and Ames (~25 miles) are an easy drive for big-city dining, cultural events, and airport access, so you get small-town charm with quick access to major amenities.