Of course, food enthusiasts know Iowa for its agricultural features here, yet The Hawkeye State offers more than that. From charming small towns including Pella to attractions like Grotto of the Redemption, there are unlimited activities to keep you entertained all day.
Whether you're for history discovery, a weekend escape, or for more than ordinary, here are some of the things to do in Iowa while visiting.
This luxury hotel resort in Dubuque offers unlimited things to do and see in Iowa for the winter adventure. Beginner, intermediate, or seasoned pro?
Sundown offers 21 trails cater to various skill levels, including a terrain park with jumps and rails. Extend your shredding under the stars! It offers night skiing on most weekends, letting you enjoy the slopes even after the sun sets.
Forget manicured lawns and fancy scoreboards. This field is pure Americana, nestled amidst Iowa's rolling cornfields. Imagine playing catch under the same sunset that Shoeless Joe Jackson took the field, feeling a connection to baseball's simpler past.
It's not every day you step onto the set of a beloved film. Walking onto the field, you can almost hear James Earl Jones utter his iconic line. It's a chance to connect with the movie's themes.
Iowa State Fair throws a spotlight on everything that makes Iowa, well, Iowa. Add this to your Des Moines to-do list if you're in the capital in August.
As the sun sets, the fairgrounds transform into a magical wonderland. Catch chart-topping musicians belting out tunes, cheer for daring cowboys at the rodeo, and ooh and ahh as fireworks paint the sky with dazzling colors.
Of course, the star of Iowa Speedway is its Summer NASCAR Weekend. June features three heart-pounding races; ARCA, Xfinity, and the crown jewel, the NASCAR Cup Series. Buckle up for pure adrenaline!
But the fun doesn't stop there! Iowa Speedway offers more than just the race itself. Get up close and personal with the cars and teams in the pits. See the meticulous engineering and feel the pre-race buzz firsthand. You might require special passes.
It is a tropical getaway hidden in the heart of the Midwest. They offer a wide range of attractions for all thrill levels.
You can enjoy the Wailya Kupua, the first hydromagnetic watercoasters in the country or splash around in Tsunami Bay, or race your friends down Ta'Katipo. With over 20 attractions available, this waterpark is among the places to go in Iowa for a perfect escape from the ordinary.
This botanical garden is a vibrant 12-acre oasis in the heart of Des Moines, almost a decade old. It offers several events and things in Iowa throughout the year.
The famed conservatory has been updated and the outdoor garden features a rose garden, water garden, shade tree allee, and more. It is open daily except major holidays.
Forget fancy construction crews – Father Paul Dobberstein, a Catholic priest, single-handedly built this massive grotto over 42 years!
Every stone, every detail, speaks volumes about his faith and perseverance. Grotto of The Redemption, the largest of its kind is definitely among the unique and worthy attractions in Iowa West Bend.
There are limitless places to explore in Iowa cities, including Columbus Junction. This city is well known for the 262-foot bridge swindling gently.
This is a heart-pumping, history-rich adventure that'll leave you with wobbly legs and a story to tell. Beyond the tourist appeal, the bridge holds a special place in the hearts of Columbus Junction residents.
The Spain Recreation Area is a national historic landmark waiting to be explored being rich in history and natural resources. You can learn about the history and natural features of the park and various programs are offered throughout the year with special arrangements.
Also, hike or bike through 15.1 miles of trails at the Mines of Spain, offering views of towering limestone bluffs and scenic vistas. Cross-country skiing is available during the winter through miles of trails, maintained fro classic and skate skiing.
The Ledges State Park in Boone County boasts breathtaking views of a stunning backdrop for your family meal.
While adults relax and enjoy the scenery, kids can explore the park's many trails with all levels of thrills. There's also a playground and a variety of rock formations to climb on, ensuring everyone has fun.
Capturing the sun going down the horizon from Pike Peak Recreation Park is something else. No two sunsets are ever the same. The colors, clouds, and light all come together differently each evening, creating a unique and ever-changing spectacle.
The absence of light pollution makes it a prime spot for soaking the wonders of the sky during nighttime. You can also enjoy camping with your partner or friends under the open sky.
Pells is a Dutch-heritage town outside of Des Moines. It has five windmills, including the Vermeer Windmill, designed and built in the Netherlands and then shipped to Pella. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.
To visit the Pella windmill, you can use Waze to get real-time directions based on traffic and road conditions.
Have you ever been to the Indianola during the Hot Air Balloon Festival? This nine-day extravaganza, held every year in late July and early August, is a spectacle unlike any other, and you can even take a hot-air balloon ride!
More than 100 magnificent hot air balloons paint the sky with brilliant colors. It's a breathtaking sight that will leave you awestruck.
Located in Reiman Gardens, Elwood is the world's tallest concrete gnome, one of the absolute things to see in Iowa. Not only is he the reigning gnome champion, but he's also quite the social media star.
Standing at a towering 15 feet tall, Elwood is quite the sight. Imagine posing next to him, feeling like a tiny human next to a friendly giant gnome. Talk about an Instagram-worthy moment!
Also known as the Fourth Street Elevator, this funicular railway has been called "the world's steepest, shortest scenic railway.
You can enjoy a great view of downtown Dubuque, the Mississippi, and 3 other states. This ride is open from 8 am to 10 pm daily from April 1 through November 30 and is closed on major holidays.
Looking for things to do in Iowa this fall? How about considering a pick-your-own adventure on an apple farm, that goes way beyond just filling a basket?
Iowa boasts over 40 apple varieties, each with its unique flavor and personality. Apple picking is just the beginning! It's a sensory overload of autumnal joy, perfect for families and friends.
Craving a serene escape on the water? Exploring Lake Wapello by boat sounds like a fantastic idea! It is known for its tranquility making it perfect for peaceful paddling.
Lake Wapello State Park welcomes boaters with open arms, offering a calm and scenic setting for a relaxing cruise or an adventurous fishing trip. Bring your boat or rent one on-site, extreme fun is guaranteed.
Buckle up metaphorically, because you'll be walking 13 stories above the Des Moines River valley. That's like being on the top floor of an apartment building but surrounded by beautiful vistas instead of concrete walls.
At night, a section of the bridge comes alive with blue lights, illuminating the steel cribbings and marking the location of the river below. It's like the bridge winks at you, adding a touch of magic to your walk.
This 25-foot limestone tower isn't your typical lookout. It is a three-story limestone structure hidden in Winterset City Park. The tower was built in 1926 in honor of Caleb and Ruth Clark, two early pioneers.
This tower is open from approximately April 1st through November 15th. Alternatively, you can also hike on the road which is a 2.3-mile loop. The winding staircase leads to the middle level and a steep metal ladder leads to top.
Yes, you heard it right! In the middle of rural Allamakee County, you will find a street sign labeled " Roller Coaster Road." Make sure to stop and admire these places to see in Iowa.
The road goes through rolling hills and farmland, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Its constant ups and downs will make your adrenaline pumping, making it challenging for adventurous drivers and cyclists.
