Places To Vacation In Iowa
People love to travel, and Iowa is an amazing state for traveling. The people are friendly and the culture of the place is amazing. So it’s great if you have a chance to visit Iowa sometime. In this post, we are writing about some of the best vacation places in Iowa with pictures.
Iowa is a diverse state that offers a wide range of attractions and entertainment. With its scenic beauty, Iowa is an ideal destination for those planning to take a vacation. There are many vacation places in Iowa that will give you a wonderful experience and provide you with some of the best memories of your life.
One of the best times to visit Iowa is in the late spring or early summer when all the flowers are in bloom. This, no matter what your favorite colors are, creates an array of beautiful colors that fill the entire state. So why wait you ask? Get up and get off the couch and visit these beautiful vacation places in Iowa!
Take out time to surf through our catalog right here on Touriangle for prompt information on vacation spots in Iowa for families, cheap weekend getaways Iowa, fall weekend getaways in Iowa, weekend spa getaways in Iowa, and so much more. You don’t want to miss this!
Places To Vacation In Iowa
Everyone dreams of taking the vacation of a lifetime to an exotic location in far away lands. However, it’s not cost effective to jet set across the globe every time you want to get away. Fortunately, there are great vacation destinations surrounding Iowa that will allow you to escape without piling up your credit card bill.
There are few places in the world that can compete with the beauty of Iowa. From the charming small towns and wealthy farmland to the picturesque lakes and hiking trails, Iowa is truly a holiday destination unlike anywhere else. For those of you who have chosen to stay in Iowa after you’ve graduated from college, there’s really no need to go abroad to have a great time because Iowa has a lot to offer in terms of vacation destinations.
Iowa Getaways For Couples
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
The Dubuque Historical Society operates the National Mississippi River Museum on the far eastern side of the state. The aquarium features collections, exhibits, and live animals that reflect the cultural and geological importance of the adjacent Mississippi River, and all national rivers defining the country.
The Mississippi River makes up the eastern border of the state of Iowa and defines much of the livelihood of surrounding communities. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium showcases the important role this river and its watershed plays on the environment and people.
Featuring permanent exhibits like the Mississippi River Discovery Center and an immersive 4D Theater, the museum also features constantly rotating displays that are bound to catch the attention of adults and children alike.
The museum and aquarium also house several live animals that represent the wildlife found in and around river banks, including alligators, otters, and sturgeon. Other exhibits at the museum include a blacksmith shop, a stringray touch pool, and the historic Logsdon Sand & Gravel Barge.
If you want to stay overnight in Dubuque, the historic Hotel Julien Dubuque is only a few blocks away from the museum. The city also has some of the best resorts in Iowa, such as Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark.
University of Iowa Campus, Iowa City
The University of Iowa, founded in 1847, is the cultural backbone of Iowa City – the state’s first capital city. The sprawling campus on either side of the Iowa River offers several outlets for community attractions. Some of the largest include lively sporting events at places like Carvery Hawkeye Arena and Nile Kinnick Stadium.
The University of Iowa is also home to the world-renowned Writers’ Workshop, well regarded as the best writers’ workshop in the country. This esteemed institution helps earn Iowa City a UNESCO City of Literature designation and brings a certain literary flair to the streets.
Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies of Eastern Iowa comprises seven villages that take visitors into the past and away from the hustle and bustle. The history of the Amana Colonies dates to the mid-19th century, when German Pietists first broke soil in this isolated Iowa location. For many years, no outside influences interfered with their communal lifestyle.
Today, the Amana Colonies is listed as a National Historical Landmark, and the community encourages tourists to experience this slower pace of life. Ways to enjoy the Amana Colonies include touring their historical structures, shopping and dining in their local establishments, and exploring the scenic surroundings on bike paths and walkways.
Annual festivals at Amana Colonies also beckon tourists from across the state. From the sausage-making Wurstfest to the springtime Maifest, it’s fun to explore the German traditions at Amana Colonies.
RAGBRAI
Perhaps one of the most quintessential things to do in Iowa, RAGBRAI is a week-long bike race that spans the entire state. The route travels from east to west, and showcases Midwestern culture with friendly people, small towns, and open landscapes.
The Register’s Annual Bike Race Across Iowa has taken place for nearly 50 years, and this summer event attracts thousands of cyclists, support vehicle drivers, and racing enthusiasts every year.
Competitiveness isn’t the factor pushing cyclists across the state during RAGBRAI. Instead, it’s much about the journey along the way and the community celebrations that line the entire route. Small towns blossom with roadside attractions, including live music and fresh watermelon slices. Costumes and customized bicycles are also a big part of the event.
The route changes every year, and the cities and small towns selected for overnight stops transform into a major block party. The entire RAGBRAI route and experience are fun for the whole family, with younger kids (and adults) often opting to ride less than then the average 60 miles the route covers every day.
State Capitol
The Iowa State Capitol is located on Grand Avenue atop a hill, with excellent views of downtown Des Moines. It houses the Iowa House of Representatives; the Iowa Supreme Court; and many offices of the state’s top elected officials, including the governor. But it’s much more than just a gold-domed symbol of the city, it’s a portal into Iowa’s history.
Besides being the central location for much of Iowa’s government, the State Capitol also stands as an impressive display of architecture and design. It also features many historical artifacts and interesting Iowa exhibits that you can explore on a self-guided sightseeing tour.
Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair occurs for 10 days in the first half of August every year, attracting over a million annual visitors from the Midwest and beyond. This massive agricultural expo and community celebration is Iowa’s largest event and is easily touted as the best state fair in the county.
Countless attractions are found throughout the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Take some time to check out the world-famous Butter Cow and other homegrown fascinations, including barnyard yoga and countless livestock viewing opportunities. Other iconic attractions include a Sky Glider, live music events, and agricultural demonstrations.
The Iowa State Fair also tends to be a dining experience. From several deep-fried concoctions skewered on a stick to meat cuts the size of a dinner plate, the delicacies at the fair tend to be high-calorie options. But, with all the walking to be done in a single day, those calories are put to good use.
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
The National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids is a large institute dedicated to sharing the stories and culture of Czech & Slovak people. It also strives to help the public better understand their own freedoms and how history has led to our present point as a society.
The National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library meets these goals through its permanent exhibits, educational traveling displays, and plenty of special events for the whole family.
Across the 12th Avenue bridge, the African American Museum of Iowa offers more cultural intrigue.
The downtown district of Cedar Rapids is less than a mile to the north, featuring other attractions like the Paramount Theater to round out a day trip. South of the city, The Hotel at Kirkwood Center offers the best place to stay for weekend visits.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
For a unique natural side of Iowa, Maquoketa Caves State Park offers a look into the world beneath your feet. This popular state park has numerous above-ground hiking trails that explore bluffs, woodlands, and an interesting natural wonder known as Balanced Rock. But the main reason to explore this park in Eastern Iowa is the caves.
For claustrophobes, the Dancehall Cave is a lighted cave with high ceilings and a walkway. And for those that don’t mind squeezing into tight spaces, Maquoketa Caves State Park also lends access to more than a dozen other caves that require a flashlight to explore and probably a change of clothes. A large campsite in the park is set up for RVs and tents.
Iowa Weekend Getaways For Families
With outdoor adventures, water parks and historic colonies, Iowa bursts with fun family vacation ideas.
Whether your family is fond of the outdoors or cultural wonders, you’ll find a plethora of pleasurable experiences in this state.
And, even better, it’s a cheaper destination, compared to other states.
So, the next time you’re planning a getaway, check out our roundup of the best family vacations in Iowa.
1. Dubuque
With a bevy of family-friendly activities, Dubuque is surely one of the most exciting places to visit in Iowa with kids.
Who should vacation here
Dubuque is a dream come true for families looking for a mixture of historic sites and nature-based attractions.
In Dubuque, you can fill your vacation days exploring natural and cultural wonders, like the Crystal Lake Cave and Mines of Spain Recreation Area.
2. Decorah
Escape your city grind and urban woes by enjoying a refreshing family getaway in Decorah.
Who should vacation here
Families aching for stunning scenery and a breath of fresh air will love Decorah.
From fishing and canoeing to hiking and hunting, Decorah offers a smorgasbord of age-friendly outdoor adventures.
Plus, it has a year-round lineup of colorful festivals and events.
Expert tip
Learn more about the city’s history and culture by visiting the Versterhein Norwegian-American Museum.
Not only does it host interactive exhibits, but it also has educational tours for the entire family.
Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decorah, IA
3. Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids features some of the best fun things to do in Iowa with kids.
Who should vacation here
Cedar Rapids has a bevy of outdoor and indoor attractions, to give your family a memorable vacation.
From Cedar Rapids, you’ll be literally minutes away from the numerous outdoor activities of 4 county parks and 3 state parks.
To learn more about the region’s history, drop by Ushers Ferry Historic Village.
Trust me, you’ll enjoy this recreation of a small town in Iowa from the early 20th century.
Expert tip
For a cheap family vacation, stay at the AmericInn of Cedar Rapids. With its “Kids Stay Free program”, you’ll save a few bucks as you stay at this hotel.
There’s also a daily breakfast as well as microwaves and kitchenettes in some rooms to help you save money on food.
Recommended Hotel: AmericInn of Cedar Rapids
4. Des Moines
Looking for more urban kid-friendly weekend getaways in Iowa?
Home to first-class museums and historic buildings, Des Moines is truly an excellent choice if you’re in the mood for an urban exploration.
Who should vacation here
Des Moines is a fascinating urban escape perfect for families longing for some big city fun.
From the State Capitol Building to the Science Center of Iowa, the city has a number of attractions that will both entertain and educate the little ones.
Your Instagram-loving teens will also find their bliss at Des Moines Art Center and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
Expert tip
Spend some time exploring the state’s only accredited zoo: the Blank Park Zoo.
Dedicated to education and conservation, this zoo houses numerous interesting exhibits, like the African Boardwalk.
Recommended Hotel: Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown
5. Sioux City
With a host of outstanding museums, Sioux City is definitely one of the top Iowa vacations for families who are into educational experiences.
Who should vacation here
Sioux City is renowned locally for its history and art museums, making it a terrific stop for culture vultures.
Of course, the city teems with kid-approved attractions too.
A family favorite in this city is the Children’s Museum, home to several educational exhibits and interactive attractions.
As a bonus, the city is also the gateway to many enthralling family vacations near Iowa.
Expert tip
Don’t forget to drop to drop by the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
A family-friendly museum, this educational facility covers the early 19th-century expedition that helped the early United States expand.
Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Sioux City Riverfront
6. Grand Harbor Resort
They don’t call the Grand Harbor one of the best and most enticing family resorts in Iowa for nothing.
Who should vacation here
Grand Harbor Resort is a kiddie wonderland, famous for its massive indoor water park.
From lazy rivers to splash pads, this sprawling playground teems with water features suitable for all ages.
Moreover, it has other kid-friendly amenities, such as an arcade and the Kidz Club, which is also suitable for toddlers.
Expert tip
Check out their on-site restaurant, Tony Roma’s.
With a casual atmosphere and a decent selection of seafood and ribs, this restaurant is a great place to eat and chill with the gang.
7. Burlington
From a water park to kid-approved museums, Burlington is filled with amazing family-friendly places to go.
Who should vacation here
If you’re looking for an action-packed vacation in Iowa, look no further than Burlington. Treat your little ones to a day of splashy fun at Huck’s Harbor Waterpark. Then, enjoy the educational tours at the Burlington Fire Department Museum and Garrett Phelps House Museum.
Expert tip
Add a dose of adventure to your family vacation by exploring the Starr’s Cave Nature Center and Preserve. Alternatively, you may also experience a zipline ride with your gang at SkyTrail.
8. Bridges Bay Resort
630 Linden Dr
Arnolds Park, IA 51331
(712) 332-2202
Experience a fun-filled family vacation in a rather comfortable way at Bridges Bay Resort.
Who should vacation here
Bridges Bay Resort takes family fun into a whole new level with exhilarating facilities and activities.
There’s a high-flying zipline and an indoor water park that everyone will love.
Moms and dads will also enjoy the private fishing pond and 3 waterfront restaurants.
Expert tip
We recommend the resort’s deluxe suite.
With a king bed and 2 sofa beds, the suite can fit in up to 4 adult guests.
There’s also a separate living room in case you need some privacy.
9. Okoboji
Okoboji is filled with pleasant surprises, especially if you’re fond of splashy fun and relaxing family trips.
Who should vacation here
Okoboji is a haven of fun for families who are into water-based activities.
From lakeshore dining and boating to swimming, Okoboji brims with water fun during the warmer months.
In winter, families may enjoy cross-country skiing, ice-skating and ice fishing.
Expert tip
Take a break from the water or icy experiences and explore the kid-approved attractions.
Families will surely love the Dickinson County Nature Center, Arnolds Park Amusement Park and Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum.
Recommended Hotel: Okoboji Inn & Suites
10. Iowa City
Iowa City has a wide variety of fun diversions to entertain everyone.
Who should vacation here
Iowa City offers a cornucopia of entertainment and fun for the entire family.
The exhibitions at the Iowa Children’s Museum are educational and rich with hands-on components that encourage discovery and problem solving.
You can also discover the bird and mammal halls at the Museum of Natural History and explore Hickory Hill Park.
