From March 17-25, the MSPT will be in Tama, Iowa for first of three Season 9 events at Meskwaki Casino. The $1,100 buy-in, $300K GTD Main Event will take place the weekend of March 23-25, and while we hope you’re busy playing poker, we thought we’d offer you a list of five things to do off the felt.

Rock and Roll with Exit 185

On Friday and Saturday, March 23 & 24, Exit 185 will be playing on stage at The Lounge inside Meskwaki Casino. Based out of nearby Marshalltown, Iowa, the band is a fun, high energy cover band playing a wide variety of current and classic pop and rock hits with a splash of country mixed in Band members include Matt Downey, Mike Smith, Jeremy Lindsenemeyer, Samantha Vance, Matt Hagedon and Mitch Downey.

Play in a Treehouse

Ten miles away in Marshalltown is the Big Treehouse. What began as a hobby for Mick Jurgensen and his family in 1983 has evolved into a 12-level, 55-feet plus high Treehouse with over 5,000 square feet of floor space, complete with music, electricity, telephone, microwave oven, refrigerator, running water, grill, 13 porch swings, Shady Oaks Museum, a spiral stairway, and much more.

Visits are by appointment only, so either call (641) 752-2946 or email marygift@mchsi.com to set one up.

Do a Tasting at John Ernest Vineyard & Winery

It may be the offseason, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying some delicious wine. Located in Tama, the Kopsa family vineyard and winery is nestled in the picturesque rolling hills of central Iowa above the beautiful Iowa River Valley and located along the historic Lincoln Highway. JEV produces wonderful grape and fruit wines. Wine tasting, access to the gift shop and touring are offered year-round. Call (641) 484-8048 for more information.

Grill Your Own Steak at Rube’s

Just down the road from Meskwaki Casino in Montour, Iowa is Rube’s Steakhouse & Lounge.

It all started in 1973 when Glen Rubenbauer "Rube" opened a tavern in tiny Montour, Iowa. His philosophy was to allow guests the experience of grilling generously-portioned, hand-cut premium steaks over an indoor, open-hearth grill. It’s the original grill your own steakhouse.

This is a favorite dining experience among the poker crowd. The restaurant is open 5-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 5-8:30 p.m. on Sunday. The rest of the week their hours are 5-9:30 p.m.

Have a Slice of Americana

Tama, Iowa is a small town, but it has some hidden gems including Bumblebees, a bar and pizzeria located at 112 N Broadway Street. It’s clean, comfortable, and community minded. In addition to pizza, you can choose from sandwiches, fries, and margaritas. Call (641) 484-5007 for more information.