Looking for a fun way to spend the day without traveling far? As I explored Iowa, I found day trips filled with rolling farmland, quaint Main Streets, and hidden natural gems—each one offering a peaceful escape and a taste of the Midwest’s quiet charm. "These day trips in Iowa uncover scenic byways, historic treasures, and small-town gems that offer a fresh perspective on the Midwest."
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Day Trips in Iowa:
1. Altoona
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Location:
Altoona, IAHighlights:
Looking for a Midwest getaway that mixes family fun, food, and entertainment? We’d gladly recommend Altoona, a vibrant community just outside Des Moines that blends amusement parks, outdoor beauty, and exciting nightlife in one friendly package.Recommended For:
Families, thrill-seekers, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys a mix of fun and relaxation just minutes from a major city.What I Love: ♥
The mix of Adventureland’s roller coasters and water slides, the round-the-clock casino action, and the comfort of a welcoming small-town atmosphere.- Ride and splash through Adventureland, one of the Midwest’s top amusement parks with over 100 rides and a massive waterpark for kids and adults alike.
- Play at Altoona’s 24-hour casino, which also features live horse racing from May to October for a dose of high-energy entertainment.
- Dine on hearty Midwestern favorites, from steak dinners to finger-licking barbecue—perfect after a day of exploring.
- Relax in one of Altoona’s many parks and playgrounds, offering picnic spaces, walking trails, and peaceful green areas for a break from the action.
Distance from Des Moines:
About 15 minutes by car.How to Get to Altoona:
Take I-80 East from downtown Des Moines and exit at Altoona. Everything from Adventureland to the casino is easily accessible and well-signposted.2. Amana Colonies
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Location:
Amana, IAHighlights:
Looking to slow down and experience a slice of living history? We highly recommend visiting the Amana Colonies, a cluster of charming villages founded by German settlers where heritage, craftsmanship, and warm hospitality come together.Recommended For:
History lovers, culture seekers, road trippers, foodies, and anyone interested in unique community lifestyles and artisan traditions.What I Love: ♥
The preserved architecture, amazing handmade goods, hearty German-style food, and the story of a self-sufficient community that thrived for decades.- Visit seven historic villages established in 1855 by German Pietists—now recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
- Explore the streets of the Colonies at your own pace, taking in unique shops, bakeries, and beautifully preserved buildings.
- Dine in beloved local restaurants serving traditional German fare like schnitzel, sausages, and hearty stews.
- Shop for handwoven goods, woodworking, art, and other handmade treasures in artisan shops throughout the villages.
- Take a guided tour from May to October if you want deeper insight into the Colonies’ communal past and unique culture.
Distance from Cedar Rapids:
About 30 minutes by car.How to Get to the Amana Colonies:
From Cedar Rapids, head south on I-380, then west on US-151. The main village of Amana is well-signed and easy to explore once you arrive.3. Ames
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Location:
Ames, IAHighlights:
If you're into college town energy with a creative twist, Ames is calling. This progressive city in the heart of Iowa blends arts, academics, and outdoor fun into one vibrant, welcoming destination.Recommended For:
College town explorers, art and garden lovers, cyclists, and anyone looking for an upbeat, culture-filled weekend escape.What I Love: ♥
The stunning Reiman Gardens, the city's artistic vibe, and the 50 miles of scenic trails that wind through town.- Visit Iowa State University, the city's pride and home to top attractions like the Brunnier Art Museum and Reiman Gardens, with seasonal blooms and interactive exhibits.
- Explore local cultural hubs like the Octagon Center for the Arts, which hosts exhibits, workshops, and community events year-round.
- Sample local craft beer at one of several laid-back breweries that give the city its social, small-town flavor.
- Enjoy the outdoors in more than three dozen parks, ideal for picnics, play, or just soaking up some Iowa sun.
- Move through the city on foot or two wheels along 50 miles of paved multi-use trails—perfect for walking, cycling, or jogging.
Distance from Des Moines:
About 35 minutes by car.How to Get to Ames:
From Des Moines, take I-35 North to Exit 111B. Iowa State University and downtown Ames are just a few minutes west of the highway.4. Backbone State Park
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Location:
Dundee, IAHighlights:
If you’re looking for a true Iowa adventure, you’ve got to explore Backbone State Park—the state’s very first park and still one of its best. With stunning bluffs, clear waters, and miles of trails, this place packs a punch for outdoor lovers.Recommended For:
Hikers, climbers, nature photographers, families, and anyone craving fresh air and scenic views in the heart of Iowa.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic limestone ridge known as Devil’s Backbone, the peaceful lake, and the variety of trails and rock faces to climb or wander.- Swim or cast a line in the park’s refreshing lake—perfect for fishing and cooling off on warm days.
- Hike more than 21 miles of forested trails, many of which are open to cyclists as well.
- Climb the park’s iconic feature—the Devil’s Backbone—a rugged limestone spine reached via a rocky staircase that rewards you with panoramic views.
- Scale cliffs and practice your rappel skills on designated rock climbing walls (don’t forget to register at the park office first!).
Distance from Cedar Rapids:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.How to Get to Backbone State Park:
From Cedar Rapids, take IA-13 North to IA-3 West. Turn onto 129th Street to enter the park near Dundee. Signage is clear and parking is available at multiple access points.Address:
1347 129th St, Dundee, IA 52038Phone: 563-924-2527
Romantic Day Trips in Iowa:
5. Boone
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Location:
Boone, IAHighlights:
Looking for a small-town escape with a little bit of everything? Boone is a welcoming Iowa gem where scenic train rides, skiing adventures, and rich local history come together in one charming spot.Recommended For:
Families, outdoor adventurers, history buffs, train lovers, and anyone wanting a mix of relaxation and activity just outside Des Moines.What I Love: ♥
The historic train rides through the countryside, year-round fun at Seven Oaks, and the chance to enjoy Iowa-grown wine and craft beer in a laid-back setting.- Learn about Boone’s local heritage at the Boone History Center, a great downtown stop filled with stories of the town’s past.
- Ride the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, where vintage trains wind through river valleys and open farmland—a favorite for families and rail enthusiasts alike.
- Play at Seven Oaks, a year-round adventure spot offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, and river tubing, canoeing, and kayaking in summer.
- Toast your visit with a glass of locally made wine or craft beer, available at area wineries and breweries.
Distance from Des Moines:
About 50 minutes by car.How to Get to Boone:
From Des Moines, head north on I-35, then west on US-30. Boone is well-marked and easy to navigate, with most attractions just a short drive from one another.Address:
Boone, IA6. Cedar Rapids
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Location:
Cedar Rapids, IAHighlights:
Looking for a city that blends European heritage with Midwest charm? We highly recommend Cedar Rapids, a culturally rich destination known for its Czech and Slovak roots, vibrant art scene, and walkable neighborhoods filled with food, history, and creativity.Recommended For:
Culture seekers, art lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a unique, international-feeling city in the heart of Iowa.What I Love: ♥
The authentic Bohemian vibe, Grant Wood’s personal art studio, and the colorful New Bohemia district where the city’s heart truly beats.- Experience real-time culture in the New Bohemia Main Street District, a hip neighborhood packed with boutiques, breweries, galleries, and restaurants.
- Explore the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library, where you’ll discover the stories, artifacts, and immigrant history that shaped Cedar Rapids.
- Visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art to see a collection of over 7,000 works, including pieces by American Gothic painter Grant Wood—plus a tour of his delightfully quirky studio.
Distance from Des Moines:
Around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Cedar Rapids:
From Des Moines, take I-80 East to I-380 North. Once you reach downtown Cedar Rapids, both the New Bohemia District and major museums are easy to find and explore on foot.Address:
Cedar Rapids, IAFamily Day Trips in Iowa:
7. Clear Lake
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Location:
Clear Lake, IAHighlights:
Need a getaway with water views, music history, and small-town charm? Clear Lake delivers it all—this scenic lake town is perfect for a weekend escape any time of year.Recommended For:
Lake lovers, music fans, antique hunters, and anyone looking to unwind with great food, local culture, and water views.What I Love: ♥
The nostalgic vibes of the Surf Ballroom, relaxing paddlewheel cruises, and the walkable downtown filled with charming shops and cafés.- Visit the legendary Surf Ballroom, where Buddy Holly played his final show—now a must-see venue for music history buffs.
- Stroll through downtown Clear Lake, home to antique shops, boutique stores, and cozy local restaurants.
- Cruise the lake aboard a scenic paddlewheel boat tour for panoramic views and relaxing breezes.
- Swim, sunbathe, or walk along the lake’s shoreline at one of several peaceful city parks and public beaches.
Distance from Des Moines:
About 2 hours by car.How to Get to Clear Lake:
From Des Moines, take I-35 North directly to Clear Lake. The downtown and lakefront areas are easy to explore on foot once you arrive.Address:
Clear Lake, IA8. Dubuque
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Location:
Dubuque, IAHighlights:
Looking for river views, art, and a bit of history? Dubuque is perched on the Mississippi and delivers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern attractions that make it perfect for a weekend escape.Recommended For:
History lovers, river explorers, families, art fans, and travelers looking to experience one of Iowa’s most scenic and culturally rich cities.What I Love: ♥
The thrilling ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, fascinating river history at the museum, and the chance to cruise the Mississippi in a military-style boat.- Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s shortest and steepest railway, to take in sweeping views of downtown Dubuque and the Mississippi River.
- Explore the Dubuque Museum of Art and discover rotating exhibits featuring regional artists and curated collections.
- Visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium for hands-on exhibits and live aquatic creatures native to America’s great rivers.
- Step aboard the historic William M. Black steamboat, docked as part of the museum experience and full of 20th-century river lore.
- Cruise the river in an inflatable military-style boat for a high-energy tour of the Mississippi’s scenic waterways and bluffs.
Distance from Cedar Rapids:
About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car.How to Get to Dubuque:
From Cedar Rapids, take US-151 North through rolling hills and farmland until you reach the riverfront heart of Dubuque. Most downtown attractions are walkable once you arrive.Address:
Dubuque, IA9. Dyersville
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Location:
Dyersville, IAHighlights:
Calling all baseball fans and movie lovers—Dyersville is where cinematic dreams come to life. This small Iowa town is home to the beloved Field of Dreams movie site, but it also surprises visitors with charming attractions, from antique malls to beautiful basilicas.Recommended For:
Baseball lovers, film buffs, families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a heartfelt day trip with a nostalgic twist.What I Love: ♥
Stepping onto the Field of Dreams diamond, exploring a museum entirely about farm toys, and finding hidden treasures in a classic antique mall.- Tour the legendary Field of Dreams movie site, including the original farmhouse, baseball field, and on-site shop filled with memorabilia from the film.
- Explore the National Farm Toy Museum, home to an impressive collection of miniature tractors, farm equipment, and rural Americana.
- Admire the stunning Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, a striking example of historic architecture and spiritual heritage in the heart of Dyersville.
- Hunt for antiques at the Plaza Antique Mall, a spacious and fun destination for vintage collectors and curious shoppers alike.
Distance from Dubuque:
About 30 minutes by car.How to Get to Dyersville:
From Dubuque, take US-20 West to Dyersville. The Field of Dreams is just a short drive outside of downtown, with clear signage and plenty of parking.Address:
Dyersville, IA📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What comes to mind when thinking about Iowa?
- Iowa typically brings to mind rolling fields of farmland, and while there's no shortage of this kind of terrain, the state has so much more to offer.
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Is Iowa a good destination for a day trip?
- Yes! It’s a wonderful place for a day trip no matter your age or interests.
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What are some family-friendly activities in Iowa?
- Families with children can explore the caves in the spectacular Maquoketa Caves State Park.
- History lovers can visit the Amana Colonies, which provide a rich historical experience.
- Photography enthusiasts will find no shortage of stunning scenery to capture.
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Where can visitors cool off during the summer in Iowa?
- If you're looking for somewhere to cool off in the summer, try the beautiful lakes around Okoboji or the charming town of Clear Lake.
Best Time for Day Trips in Iowa
- April to June – Ideal for mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and outdoor adventures.
- September to October – Perfect for vibrant fall foliage, scenic drives, and harvest festivals.
- July & August – Warm summer days great for exploring state parks, lakes, and charming towns.
- November – Enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds at historical and cultural sites.
- December to March – Cold but great for cozy retreats, indoor museums, and winter festivals.
Plan Your Trip