15 Best Things to Do in Iowa: Top Attractions & Fun
Iowa, the Hawkeye State, is a hidden gem in America’s Midwest. It offers diverse attractions for all interests. From historical sites to natural wonders, Iowa captivates visitors with its charm.
Iowa is more than just cornfields and farmland. The Fenelon Place Elevator in Dubuque is the world’s shortest and steepest railway. At night, the High Trestle Trail Bridge glows blue, creating a magical sight.
Iowa boasts 83 State Parks and 2,500 miles of biking trails. The Amana Colonies showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage. These attractions highlight Iowa’s unique blend of nature and history.
Let’s explore the 15 best things to do in Iowa. These activities will reveal the state’s charm, history, and natural beauty.
Explore the Historic Amana Colonies
Discover a slice of German heritage in Iowa’s heart. The Amana Colonies, seven unique villages, offer an unforgettable iowa tourism experience. These villages showcase rich traditions of German Pietists who settled here in the mid-19th century.
Discover German Heritage
The Amana Colonies boast a 300-year heritage, visible in their well-preserved architecture. Visitors can explore seven distinct towns, each with its own charm.
The Amana Heritage Museum offers insights into the community’s history. It features a 22-minute video and exhibits in three 19th-century buildings.
Local Crafts and Artisan Goods
Artisan craftsmanship thrives in the Amana Colonies. The Amana Woolen Mill, Iowa’s only working woolen mill, has operated since 1857.
Furniture lovers can admire high-quality pieces at the Amana Furniture & Clock Shop. Quilting enthusiasts will find two shops with extensive fabric collections and handmade quilts.
Tasting the Local Cuisine
The Amana Colonies’ culinary scene reflects their German roots. Family-style dining, a 75-year tradition, lets visitors savor authentic dishes.
The Ox Yoke Inn’s Family Banquet Feast offers fried chicken, roast beef, and ham. Beer lovers can visit Millstream Brewing Co., Iowa’s oldest brewery.
Millstream produces nearly 8,000 barrels annually, offering 25 different brews throughout the year.
| Attraction | Details |
|---|---|
| Amana Heritage Museum | Three 19th-century buildings, 22-minute history video |
| Amana Woolen Mill | Operating since 1857, Iowa’s only working woolen mill |
| Millstream Brewing Co. | 8,000 barrels annually, 25 different beers |
| Kolonieweg Trail | 3.1-mile trail connecting Amana and Middle Amana |
| Amana Colonies Trail | 17-mile loop connecting all seven villages |
Visit the Iowa State Capitol
The Iowa State Capitol is a crown jewel among Iowa destinations. This architectural marvel sits on a hill in Des Moines. Its 275-foot gilded dome shines brightly, visible for miles around.
Architectural Highlights
Inside, intricate details showcase Iowa’s heritage. Hand-carved wood panels and mosaic floors adorn the interior. The Law Library captivates with spiral staircases and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.
Guided Tours Offered
Explore the capitol’s secrets through guided tours, Monday to Saturday. These 75-90 minute journeys reveal the building’s history and inner workings. Tours are free, making it accessible to all.
| Day | Building Hours | Tour Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Yes |
| Saturday | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Yes |
| Sunday | Closed | No |
Observation Deck Views
The capitol’s observation deck offers stunning views of downtown Des Moines. Visitors can see for miles on clear days. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and sightseers alike.
The Iowa State Capitol offers an unforgettable experience for all. It’s perfect for history buffs and architecture fans. Visit this iconic landmark and dive into Iowa’s governmental and cultural heritage.
Experience the Adventureland Park
Adventureland Park in Altoona offers thrilling Iowa adventures for all ages. Since 1974, this Iowa recreation gem has delighted visitors with over 100 rides and attractions. From May to October, the park buzzes with excitement.
Fun Rides for All Ages
The park boasts classic rides like the Tornado, a wooden roller coaster. For daredevils, the Underground offers a rare indoor wooden coaster experience. Younger thrill-seekers can enjoy the Outlaw coaster with its 42-inch height requirement.
Don’t miss the carousel or the train station for a nostalgic touch. These attractions add a charming touch to your park visit.
Water Park Attractions
Adventure Bay, the park’s water area, features over 10 attractions including Iowa’s largest wave pool. It’s perfect for cooling off during hot summer days. The River Rapids Log Flume adds an extra splash of excitement.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Adventureland keeps the fun going year-round with special events. The Summer Concert Series brings acts every Friday and Saturday in June. For extended stays, the Adventureland Inn offers 175 rooms.
A full-service campground caters to outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a great option for those who love nature and adventure.
The new Speedy Pass offers quick access to seven popular rides. The upcoming Storm Chaser is set to open in June 2023. Adventureland Park promises unforgettable memories for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Discover the Beauty of the Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center is a treasure trove of creativity. Since 1948, it has been a cornerstone of iowa events. The center offers diverse artistic experiences for locals and visitors.
Modern and Contemporary Art
The Art Center’s permanent collection features works by renowned artists. You’ll find pieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
The center hosts rotating exhibitions of photography, sculpture, and painting. There’s always something new to explore and admire.
Admission and Visiting Hours
Visiting the Des Moines Art Center is one of the best things to do in iowa. Best of all, admission is completely free! This makes world-class art accessible to everyone.
The center is open Tuesday through Sunday. You’ll have plenty of chances to immerse yourself in its artistic wonders.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1948 |
| Collection Highlights | Works by O’Keeffe, Hopper, Warhol, Basquiat |
| Admission | Free |
| Opening Days | Tuesday – Sunday |
The Des Moines Art Center is one of many art venues in Greater Des Moines. It showcases both established masters and emerging talents. Each visit promises a fresh and exciting experience.
Explore the Field of Dreams Movie Site
The Field of Dreams Movie Site in Dyersville, Iowa is a must-see attraction. This cornfield-turned-baseball diamond draws over 300,000 visitors yearly from around the world. It’s often called the “world’s most famous cornfield.”
Movie Memorabilia
Walk on the same ground where “Shoeless” Joe Jackson appeared from the corn. The site keeps the movie’s magic alive for fans to enjoy. A secured home plate stops souvenir hunters from taking pieces home.
The on-site house welcomes up to 180 visitors on busy days. It offers a peek into the film’s production during the hot summer of 1988.
Tour Opportunities
The Field of Dreams site keeps growing as a major Iowa tourist spot. It hosted Major League Baseball games in 2021 and 2022. Future plans include adding a boutique hotel and youth baseball facilities by 2025.
Can’t visit in person? The “If You Build It” exhibit brings the experience to fans nationwide. This ensures the movie’s magic continues to inspire future generations.
Tour the State Historical Museum of Iowa
The State Historical Museum of Iowa in Des Moines is a must-visit attraction. This free museum offers a deep dive into Iowa’s rich heritage and culture. It’s a perfect stop for anyone exploring the state.
Interactive Exhibits
The museum’s engaging exhibits bring Iowa’s past to life. Wildlife dioramas showcase the state’s natural history with elk, bison, and turkeys. Historical displays feature old dolls and a coal mine, offering glimpses into Iowa’s cultural past.
The Hands-On History area is a hit with young visitors. It features LEGOs, a kitchen setup, and a large train table. Kids can explore and learn through play.
Special Events
The museum hosts various youth and family programs throughout the year. Goldie’s Kids Club, free for members, provides newsletters with fun facts and games. It also offers exclusive event invitations.
Other popular events include Junior Curator Day Camp and Young Writers Workshop. These programs engage children in hands-on learning experiences.
- Open Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Free admission for all visitors
- Bathrooms and drinking fountains on every floor
The State Historical Museum offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Its large staircase provides a fun physical activity for kids on cold days. This makes it an ideal year-round attraction for families.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Lake McBride State Park
Lake McBride State Park is a top spot for Iowa recreation. It’s the state’s largest park, covering 2,180 acres. The park offers many activities for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Hiking Trails
The park has many hiking trails to explore. A five-mile crushed limestone trail connects to nearby Solon. It’s great for easy walks or challenging hikes.
There are over seven more miles of trails in the park. Hikers can enjoy Iowa’s natural beauty all year long.
Water Recreation Opportunities
Lake McBride is an 812-acre artificial lake full of fish. Anglers can use the accessible fishing pier and dozen jetties. The lake has Kentucky spotted bass, rare in Iowa.
Boat rentals are available from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can rent pontoons, motorboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats.
Lake McBride State Park has something for everyone. You can camp, picnic, or enjoy playgrounds. It’s a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for all ages.
Visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Dubuque’s National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers an unforgettable Iowa sightseeing experience. This world-class facility takes you on a journey through America’s most iconic river. Nature lovers and history buffs will find it one of Iowa’s top attractions.
Educational Exhibits
The museum’s campus takes visitors on a captivating trip through time. You’ll explore the river’s rich history, from prehistoric creatures to modern-day challenges. Hands-on exhibits let you pilot a virtual towboat or step aboard a recreated steamboat.
Marine Life Encounters
The aquarium section is a highlight of any visit. Get up close with diverse aquatic life, from playful river otters to ancient-looking sturgeon. These living exhibits showcase the Mississippi’s incredible biodiversity.
For a unique experience, try touching a live sturgeon. It’s not every day you can feel a living fossil!
The museum sits right on the Mississippi’s banks, offering both indoor and outdoor experiences. After exploring the exhibits, step outside to view the majestic river itself.
This attraction provides an enriching dive into America’s heartland. It’s perfect for those passionate about history, nature, or anyone who enjoys a well-told story.
Attend the Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is the state’s largest event and a top Midwest attraction. It runs from August 8 to 18, 2024, in Des Moines. This 11-day festival attracts over a million visitors each year.
Food and Entertainment Highlights
The fair offers a wide range of tasty treats, including 55 different foods on a stick. This year, 84 new foods and 47 new drinks were introduced. Three finalists compete for the People’s Choice Best New Food award.
Don’t miss the famous Butter Cow, a 600-pound sculpture made from pure Iowa butter. For a refreshing drink, try the honey lemonade at the Iowa Honey Producers booth for $3.
Cultural Exhibits
The Ralph H. Deets Historical Museum showcases the fair’s rich history. Visitors can relax in cozy rocking chairs while learning about the past. For a unique view, take the Sky Glider ride for $4 one-way or $7 round trip.
The fairgrounds are open from 8 a.m. to midnight daily. Buildings are open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. This gives plenty of time to explore all the events.
Adult tickets cost $16, while children aged 6-11 pay $10. For easy travel, use the DART shuttle service. The Iowa State Fair offers a mix of tradition and innovation that keeps visitors coming back.
FAQ
What are the best times to visit Iowa for outdoor activities?
Late spring and early fall are ideal for outdoor fun in Iowa. May to June and September to October offer mild weather and gorgeous scenery. These months are perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring state parks like Lake McBride.
Are there any unique food experiences I shouldn’t miss in Iowa?
Iowa’s food scene is a must-try! Don’t skip the famous pork tenderloin sandwich or local craft beers. Farm-to-table cuisine is also popular here. For a wild treat, visit the Iowa State Fair in August. You can even try deep-fried butter on a stick!
What are some family-friendly attractions in Iowa?
Iowa has plenty of fun for families. Adventureland Park in Altoona is great for thrill-seekers of all ages. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque offers educational entertainment. Baseball fans will love the Field of Dreams Movie Site in Dyersville.
Is Iowa a good destination for history enthusiasts?
History buffs will find lots to explore in Iowa. The State Historical Museum in Des Moines showcases Iowa’s rich past. The Amana Colonies offer a glimpse into 19th-century German Pietist communities. Native American historical sites are scattered throughout the state.
What are some must-see natural attractions in Iowa?
Iowa’s natural beauty is stunning. The Loess Hills along the Missouri River offer unique landforms and scenic drives. Maquoketa Caves State Park boasts amazing cave systems. For water lovers, the Upper Iowa River is perfect for canoeing and kayaking.
