• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Reiman Gardens, Iowa State University with Kids ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Jinying/stock.adobe.com

2. American Gothic House & Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© American Gothic House & Center

3. Arnolds Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Arnolds Park

4. Blank Park Zoo, Iowa

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Nadine Haase/stock.adobe.com

5. Carl A. and Peggy J. Bluedorn Science Imaginarium

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Arkady Chubykin/stock.adobe.com

6. Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum

7. Brucemore, Iowa

© Brucemore

8. Charles H MacNider Art Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Charles H MacNider Art Museum

9. Crystal Lake Cave, Iowa

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Crystal Lake Cave

10. Adventureland Park

Tours in the Area
© Adventureland Park

11. Danish Windmill Museum and Welcome Center

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© Henryk Sadura/stock.adobe.com

12. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Center with Kids

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© The Greater Des Moines Botanical Center

13. Effigy Mounds National Monument

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

14. Field of Dreams Movie Site

© Field of Dreams Movie Site

15. Gray's Lake Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© ArmadilloGrafix/stock.adobe.com

16. Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum & Grout Museum of History & Science

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Grout Museum District

17. Guthrie County Historical Village and Museum

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© Guthrie County Historical Village and Museum

18. Indian Creek Nature Center, Iowa

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Manuel Capellari/stock.adobe.com

19. Iowa Children’s Museum

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Iowa Children’s Museum

20. Jester Park Natural Playscape

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Oliver/stock.adobe.com

21. Living History Farms

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Living History Farms

22. National Balloon Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© National Balloon Museum

23. National Farm Toy Museum, Iowa

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© National Farm Toy Museum

24. Sanford Museum and Planetarium, Iowa

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Sanford Museum and Planetarium

25. Science Center of Iowa with Kids

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Science Center of Iowa

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • The rural state of Iowa is charming, quaint, and beautiful and offers a plethora of fun things to do with kids.
  • Bordered entirely by rivers to the east and the west and home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the country, the Hawkeye State boasts an array of outdoor recreational activities such as the historic Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Spook Cave, and the secluded Wilson Island State Park.
  • The state has a rich history that dates back to the 1600s, which can be explored in interesting museums, art galleries, and historical sites, while outdoor fun can be enjoyed at places like Reiman Gardens and Arnolds Park.
  • Here are some of the best things to do with kids in Iowa.

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