Iowa may not be at the top of any travel lovers vacation destinations, but should it be? This midwest heartland is so much more than a flyover state. Sure they have rolling expanses of cornfields but there are so many more things to do in Iowa. From the hip to the historic, Iowa is a charming destination that we think will surprise you.
Okay sure, it wasn’t as great as visiting London or California, but it was so much better than we anticipated. We loved the food, the wine and those aforementioned rolling cornfields. Iowa makes a relaxing destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle for the weekend. And with affordable airfare into Des Moines, we think it makes one great long weekend filled with unique things to do in Iowa.
Visit the State Capitol
Iowa’s state capitol, located in Des Moines, is our favorite thing to do in Iowa. This state capitol is beautiful and the free tours that are given whenever the building is open are impressive. On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the state and the architecture of the building. Don’t forget to stroll the building grounds after your tour to take in some great views of Des Moines.
Cost: FREE
Visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
This museum, located in Dubuque, is a neat stop dedicated to teaching others about the history and life of American rivers. The aquarium features critters from rivers across the USA. You’ll also learn how river ecosystems play a part in contributing to the global ecosystem. Another fun part is the museum, which focuses on the human impact on the river. Here you’ll see fun boats and find interactive exhibits. This would make a great stop for the family.
Cost: $19.95/adult
The Field of Dreams
Made famous by the movie, you can still visit the real life field of dreams in Dyersville Iowa, located just a short drive from Dubuque. In the summer, the field host “Ghost Baseball” games as players pay tribute to the movie. The park also hosts other events so check the calendar before visiting.
Cost: FREE
The Grotto of Redemption
This man-made grotto is one of the most unique things to do in Iowa. The Grotto of Redemption began construction in 1912 and continued on for 42 years. Today, it depicts scenes from the life of Jesus in the 9 grottos constructed of an amazing collection of fossils, minerals, and rare stones. The value of the raw materials that make up the grotto is estimated at around 4 million dollars. Today, you can wander the grotto and be impressed at what shear willpower and a whole lot of time can accomplish.
Cost: FREE, donations encouraged
Visit a Historical Estate
The state historic society maintains and operates several historic homes throughout Iowa. Stop in for a tour and learn more about the history of the state.
Cost: varies
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Try your hand at cave exploration in one of the best parks in Iowa. This park contains more caves than any other state park in Iowa. Here you’ll find easy to navigate and well lit caves, you’ll also find tighter caves that need to be explored by flashlight. This state park also has numerous above ground hiking trails for those that are a bit claustrophobic, including a hike to the mysterious balanced rock.
Cost: FREE
The Bridges of Madison County
Visit the small town of Winterset, just 45 minutes from Des Moines. Here you’ll get to experience the bridges (and wineries) of Madison county. These bridges were made famous by the book and then the Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep movie. Today, each bridge is located in a parks and you can still walk across them. What’s even better? The area is dotted with wineries so this makes for a great day trip filled with history and fun.
Cost: FREE, wineries charge on average $5/tasting
Visit John Wayne Birthplace Museum
While visiting Winterset, consider visiting the birth place of John Wayne and the largest John Wayne museum in the country. We preferred the bridges and wineries here to this museum, but for any fan of John Wayne, this is a must-see.
Cost: $15/adult
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
Visit the birthplace of the only US president to come from Iowa. While the tiny house demonstrates the presidents humble beginnings, most of your time will be spent in the museum that is dedicated to preserving artifacts from Hoover’s lifetime, including his service as president.
Cost: FREE
Visit the Ice Cream Capital of the World
Located in Le Mars Iowa, Blue Bunny Ice Cream has made its home. Here you can visit the Blue Bunny Ice Creamery and Museum. Then wander the small town streets to take in the ice cream themed sculptures throughout town. Okay, so we haven’t been here, but it’s on our list because who doesn’t love a town completely focused on ice cream!
Cost: FREE to wander
Stop at the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum and Truckstop
If you’re driving through Iowa along interstate 80, this is a great place to stretch your legs. Located along the interstate, you’ll find the largest truck stop in the world. And it is big. It includes a museum that houses an interesting collection of vehicles and other transportation related artifacts. Admittedly, we wouldn’t go out of our way to visit this museum, but it makes a great stop on a long road trip.
Cost: FREE, donations encouraged
We hope this list of fun and mostly FREE things to do in Iowa will help you to plan a relaxing Iowa vacation.
