Best Things to Do in Iowa
I found Iowa to be full of heartland charm, scenic beauty, and unique surprises. After a whirlwind city week, slipping into the Hawkeye State’s slower rhythm feels like a breath of fresh air. I’m sharing my favorite ways to spend a a vacation in the Hawkeye State, whether you prefer a scenic road trip, a romantic weekend getaway, or peacefulness of lakes and state parks.
Des Moines
Chris and I both absolutely love Des Moines, and have been many times. We couldn’t have picked a better place in Iowa for a city-meets-nature escape to kick off our road trip.
On our last visit, July's long, sunny days made it perfect for exploring this city's scenic riverfront trails, browsing the colorful farmers markets, and enjoying outdoor art and live music.
We flew into Des Moines International Airport and spent an easy-going week downtown in a Standard King room at the sleek Surety Hotel (around $236/night).
We stopped in Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market first, which was my favorite place for people watching and cheap eats.
Our next stop was Pappajohn Sculpture Park, then spent a few relaxing hours having a picnic on Gray’s Lake.
For dinner, we enjoyed Centro downtown, and next day my son especially liked Zombie Burger with its humorous horror theme and both counter & table service.
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was a sunset stroll along the Principal Riverwalk.
Dubuque
Second on my list of the best weekend getaways in Iowa, this city made an unexpectedly charming summer escape and I loved how the warm Midwest sunshine set the scene for exploring its riverfront and rolling bluffs. We drove 3 hours on our road trip from our last stop in Des Moines.
I instantly noticed how The Key City’s historic downtown buzzed with art, live music, and outdoor dining, while the mighty Mississippi added a serene, scenic backdrop to every stroll. We were just in time for the Dubuque County Fair with its classic Americana vibe which added extra excitement to our road trip.
We spent 48 hours based at the cozy 3-star Hotel Julien Dubuque (around $159 per night), a beautifully restored landmark with old-world charm. Our time was filled with scenic rides on the Fenelon Place Elevator (the world’s shortest, steepest railway), wandering through the restored warehouses of the Historic Millwork District, and sipping a local craft beer at 7 Hills Brewing Company.
What I loved best:
My favorite was lunch at Fork, a creative, farm-to-table restaurant where we enjoyed American dishes (like Huevos Rancheros Stack and Sausage Biscuit Sammy) in a romantic brick-&-wood space.
A downside? In the winter, you have to plan for cold, snowy, and possibly icy weather so it's not ideal for a road trip.
Sioux City
This was one of my favorite places to visit in Iowa in the summer because it meant long days, a lively arts scene, and a friendly local energy. We drove about 4 hours and 40 minutes from our last stop Dubuque on this part of our road trip.
I immediately loved the way Sioux City came alive during seasonal events like Saturday in the Park (one of the Midwest’s best free music festivals!) and ArtSplash with its open-air galleries.
We stayed at the Warrior Hotel, an Art Deco gem. I recommend visiting the Promenade Sculpture Park first, then browsing local art at the Sioux City Art Center. We also loved walking past the boutiques and cafés of Historic Fourth Street, and watching the sun set over the Missouri Riverwalk.
What I loved best:
A personal highlight was catching live jazz at Vangarde Arts.
Davenport
When I first set foot in this city, I instantly felt the charm of a river city that balances history with a lively cultural scene. Located along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, Davenport is part of the Quad Cities and makes for an exciting stop with so much to see and do.
We drove 2 hours 30 minutes from Des Moines on our road trip, and spent a two days based at Hotel Blackhawk. My days were filled with riverside bike rides on the Mississippi River Trail, exploring the collections at the Figge Art Museum, and browsing the quirky shops of Downtown Davenport.
What I loved best:
One of my favorite discoveries was Vander Veer Botanical Park, a hidden gem with colorful gardens and greenhouse.
Iowa City
This city, just an hour from our previous stop in Davenport, drew me in right away with its lively mix of history, culture, and college-town energy on our road trip. Situated in eastern Iowa along the Iowa River, we admired this city's youthful spirit while still holding onto its literary and historic roots.
I instantly loved how the warm weather brought people outdoors — cafés spilling onto sidewalks, live music in the Pedestrian Mall, and festivals lighting up the evenings. Summer in Iowa City means Iowa Arts Festival weekends, Jazz Fest under the stars, and open-air readings that celebrate its status as a UNESCO City of Literature.
We spent two days at the artsy Graduate Iowa City hotel right downtown.
First we checked out the Ped Mall, then explored the historic Old Capitol Museum, and checked out the tree-lined campus of the University of Iowa.
What I loved best:
One evening, I caught live music at Gabe’s which was my personal highlight.
Living History Farms
Immersive, educational, and full of charm, Living History Farms offers a journey back in time through Iowa’s agricultural past.
From the 1700 Ioway Indian Farm to the 1850 Pioneer Farm and 1900 Horse-Powered Farm, I felt like I was walking through living chapters of history. At Living History Farms costumed interpreters brought each era to life with tending crops, cooking over open fires, and sharing stories of daily farm life long before modern technology.
Just a short 20-minute drive west of Des Moines, Living History Farms is a fantastic Iowa day trip from the city. It really sprawls across rolling countryside, complete with heritage livestock, historic buildings, and a recreated 1875 town called Walnut Hill.
Reiman Gardens
With its awesome seasonal displays and whimsical outdoor sculptures, this is a must-visit place on your road trip! We found the butterfly wing especially enchanting and a beautiful stop for our family.
We drove less than an hour on a day trip from Des Moines. You can stay nearby at Iowa House and visit Iowa State University nearby.
What I loved best:
My personal highlight were the tropical butterflies and tranquil ponds framed by native plants.
Mason City
This is one of my favorite places to visit in Iowa because it's a hidden gem of architectural charm. I loved how summer here felt unhurried, with tree-lined streets, art deco buildings, and the soft hum of the Winnebago River running through town.
We drove 90 minutes north from Ames and settled in at the stunning 3-star Historic Park Inn Hotel, the last remaining hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. First I recommend exploring the Stockman House and the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, which hides a delightful puppet collection by Bil Baird (of The Sound of Music fame).
The city’s creative summer spirit shone in its Band Festival Parade (a local tradition since 1936), open-air concerts in Central Park, and the lively North Iowa Fair.
What I loved best:
For me, Mason City is one of the best places to visit in Iowa. It's romantic, peaceful, and a wonderful historic escape I can’t wait to return to!
I loved wandering along the Downtown Riverwalk (my favorite highlight), stopping for a snack at State Street Deli, and spent lazy afternoons browsing vintage shops before an evening show at the Music Man Square.
Wow! Congratulations for reading through all my Best Things to Do in Iowa. I hope that our experiences inspire you to go on your own road trip to one (or more!) of my favorite Midwest destinations!
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
