Iowa is full of great playgrounds, but most of them are in the state's public parks - and those get awfully cold in the winter. If you want a place for the kids to play without having to brave the elements, head on down to Ankeny for the Playground for Kids - an indoor themed playground that might just be the best playground in Iowa. This jungle-themed adventure calls back to the popular indoor playground chains like Discovery Zone, but with a personal touch that you can only find in a local business. Part playground, part party palace, all fun - the Playground for Kids is an essential stop for any family with young children as they look to keep everyone active during the cold winter months - and it's also a great place to host an unforgettable birthday party!
The colorful writing on the front and the smiling staff make it clear - anyone who visits Ankeny's Playground for Kids is in for a fun time.
And that will probably work up an appetite! The pizzas served here have a good reputation and are another reason this is a popular spot for birthday parties.
Have you visited the Playground for Kids in Ankeny? Let us know about your visit, and tell us your pick for the best playground in Iowa in the comments section. If you're planning a visit, make sure to visit the official website and Facebook page for all the latest details on hours and pricing. And while you're planning your winter adventures, consider taking some of these memorable Iowa day trips.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Your Ultimate Guide To Fall Activities and Attractions in Iowa
Fall is a great season in Iowa, with some of the state's best festivals and activities in full swing. Here are our favorite things to do in Iowa in the fall.
Ah, fall. There's already a chill in the air, the leaves are starting to turn, and back-to-school sales have made way to Halloween candy displays. For those of us (like me) who tend to wilt when it gets too hot, this is the perfect time of year to get out and explore - and the good news is, there are so many amazing things to do in Iowa in the fall! This is when the Hawkeye State's farms and pumpkin patches really get rolling, with months of fun activities and delicious seasonal treats. Some of the state's best festivals take place around this time, and then there's the main attraction - the dazzling fall foliage that can be seen across our many state parks. Here are our fifteen favorite things to do in Iowa in the fall - but that's just scratching the surface.
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Iowa Fall Foliage: Where To Find The Best Fall Foliage In Iowa
There is no better way to celebrate the arrival of fall in Iowa than with a trip to some unique fall foliage destinations. The leaves will start to turn over the next few weeks, and Iowa's parks and forests will soon be completely transformed. Here are some of our favorite spots - state parks, county parks, and even a unique Airbnb perfect for a personal fall getaway.
Wow Factor - One of the best bike trails in Iowa to see the fall foliage.
Need to Know - The park is open from 4 AM to 10:30 PM each day.
One of the best ways to see Iowa's fall foliage is on a bike, and Pinicon Ridge Park in Central City is home to one of the best bike bridges in the state. This beautiful county park provides an incredible view of the Wapsipinicon River flanked by fall trees, as well as plenty of great opportunities for recreation on the water. The easy-to-navigate hiking trails are also a perfect way to see the foliage up close.
Wow Factor - A sprawling, rustic cabin only feet from the Mississippi River and flanked by fall foliage.
Need to Know - Plenty of dates are available in September, October, and November with nightly rates around $250 on average.
For some, a day of hiking amid the fall foliage just isn't enough. If you're looking for an amazing fall foliage getaway, we highly recommend the Mississippi Waterfront Cabin, a cozy retreat that sleeps nine and is packed with modern amenities. The Mississippi River is literally in your backyard, and there's a firepit on the grounds that makes for an incredible spot to roast marshmallows.
Wow Factor - An incredible vista with some of the best fall foliage in Iowa, amid the stunning Loess Hills.
Need to Know - Open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily.
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The Loess Hills are the most unique geographic location in Iowa, and the fascinating topography created by the windblown soil of the ice age looks especially stunning in the fall. The best way to see them is at the Hitchcock Nature Center, which is home to a small museum as well as a tower that visitors scale to see an incredible vista. This is a highly popular place to see birds, including Hawks and Eagles as they migrate.
Wow Factor - A small and isolated state park with stunning fall foliage on the banks of the Red Rock Reservoir.
Need to Know - Open from 4 AM to 10:30 PM daily.
One of the smallest state parks in Iowa, Elk Rock State Park might only be 850 acres, but it's full of trails and waterfront views. When fall arrives, the whole park is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors that look especially gorgeous from the water. This is a popular spot for picnics and hiking, and the canopy of trees is very welcome on sunny days. The North Loop Trail is an easy 2.5-mile trail that is an amazing way to see the trees up close.
Best Pumpkin Patches In Iowa
Is there anything that says fall more than a freshly carved Jack-o-Lantern? This is the time of year that many of Iowa's best farms turn into spectacular pumpkin patches, and we've picked four of the best to help you get your fall off to a festive start.
5. Scarecrow Farm
Loved the pumpkin patch on this beautiful day in Iowa.
Location - Lawton, Iowa
Wow Factor - The largest pumpkin patch in the state, with a wide selection of pumpkins and fall activities.
Need to Know - Scarecrow Farms is open for its fall festival September 28th to October 27th. Tickets for the fall festival are $15.94 online.
Pumpkin picking at Scarecrow Farm is a full-fledged event, with a host of fall activities including wagon rides, a thrilling slide, and a massive corn maze. The pumpkin field is almost overwhelmingly large when you first see it, with gourds of every shape and size waiting for you. The on-site farm market is a great place to pick up delicious farm-fresh goodies before you leave.
Wow Factor - An amazing selection of pumpkins and apples on a rustic family-owned farm.
Need to Know - Deal's Orchard is open 9 AM to 6 PM seven days a week, and holds an annual fall festival on October 12th.
Deal's Orchard is one of the best farms in Iowa for apple picking, but it deserves just as much attention for its pumpkin patch. This is a great laid-back spot to get your jack-o-lantern for Halloween before having some fall fun - the kids will love leaping into the giant bounce, while adults can indulge in apple cider donuts and a huge variety of hard cider.
7. Harvestville Farm
Farm raised decorative vegetables
Location - Donnellson, Iowa
Wow Factor - Not only does this large farm have a massive pumpkin patch with a big variety, but it has a huge selection of seasonal snacks.
Need to Know - Open 10 AM to 5 PM seven days a week. Fall admission is $13.
Harvestville Farm is another massive pumpkin patch in Iowa, and this Donnellson farm is really more like a full-fledged farm attraction. Its country store is acclaimed around the whole state, but during the fall festival, the entire place is transformed into a fun destination with more than 40+ family-friendly activities and delicious treats. The variety of pumpkins and gourds is one of the biggest in the state.
Wow Factor - A charming, family-friendly farm with a u-pick pumpkin patch and amazing fall activities.
Need to Know - General admission is $13 on weekends and $11 on weekdays, with fall activities running from September 21st to November 3rd. The farm is open Wednesday to Sunday 10 AM to 8 PM.
One of the smaller pumpkin patches we've profiled, Colony Acres Family Farm is getting a reputation for being one of the best fall destinations in the Hawkeye State thanks to its rustic appeal. A giant pumpkin bounce pad, a barrel train, and a corn maze are there along with a huge selection of all-season activities and a massive PYO pumpkin patch. On weekends, some additional attractions like a corn cannon join the fun, while the adults will enjoy sampling delicious seasonal treats and old favorites like kettle corn.
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Best Fall Festivals In Iowa
Nothing says fall like a great festival, and Iowa is full of them - from raucous Oktoberfest events to charming farm festivals. The best fall festivals in Iowa are a diverse bunch, but all make a fantastic way to celebrate the spirit of the season.
Wow Factor - The largest pumpkin-themed festival in Iowa takes over the town's main street every year.
Need to Know - Held October 5th, 2024 all day, with no admission fee.
Anamosa Pumpkinfest is an event that Iowans look forward to all year, and this whimsical celebration of all things fall is known for its beloved parades, fall treats, a massive selection of pumpkins to take home, and of course, the headliner event - the Ryan Norlan Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, where farmers from around Iowa gather to see who has the biggest pumpkin, with the winner sometimes weighing over 2,000 pounds.
Wow Factor - The most authentic Oktoberfest in Iowa, with all the trappings of Munich.
Need to Know - Held October 4th to 6th in 2024. Admission tickets range from $15 to $20.
For those who want to celebrate fall Bavarian style, Amana Oktoberfest is the charming German town's most popular festival. The sleepy little town transforms into a spectacular party with beer flowing freely and dining halls alive with polka music and traditional dance. The town's many German food stores get into the act, too - with seasonal treats available at the bakery, the chocolate shop, and the meat store. Don't miss the town's charming Oktoberfest parade.
Wow Factor - The largest selection of barbecue you'll find at a festival in Iowa, plus plenty of live music and activities.
Need to Know - Held September 20th and 21st in 2024. Admission to the festival and concerts is free!
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If you love smoked meats, this is the event for you! Denison hosts the Tri City BBQ Fest every year, bringing restauranteurs and pitmasters from around Iowa to offer a taste of their signature items. The festival is free, but you'll definitely want to budget for quite a few plates of 'Q before settling in for nightly live entertainment. This year's festival will include a car show featuring a massive collection of vintage cars.
Wow Factor - A massive, activity-filled fall festival on Iowa's most beloved family farm.
Need to Know - Held from September 13th to October 27th, plus November 2nd. Tickets are $14 online and $22 at the gate.
The most famous fall festival in Iowa, Bloomsbury Farm is once again hosting a massive celebration of everything Autumn with a massive 18-acre u-pick pumpkin patch, a 10-acre corn maze, and 30+ additional activities for families. Almost as exciting are the seasonal food offerings, which range from sweet treats to spirited beverages from the grown-ups. More daring guests can test their bravery at Scream Acres, the night-time haunted house event.
Free & Cheap Fall Activities In Iowa
Do you have a budget crunch during the fall (after a summer of fun, perhaps)? No worries - some of the best fall adventures in Iowa are budget-friendly, ranging from completely free state parks to a botanical garden with a reasonable admission and some incredible views.
Wow Factor - Iowa's most famous botanical garden is taken over by fall colors, plus regular Autumn events.
Need to Know - Reiman Gardens is open from 10 AM to 6 PM daily, with admission being $12 with reduced rates for seniors and children. Members and Iowa State students are free.
Reiman Gardens is an institution in Iowa - a massive botanical garden that is home to some of the year's most beautiful events and dozens of unique gardens, sculptures, and peaceful nooks that are perfect for a quiet day out. There's no better time to enjoy this little corner of heaven than in the fall, when many of the plants are showing off new colors. In fact, visiting the gardens in every season will provide a slightly different experience each time.
Wow Factor - Some of the best fishing, hiking, and fall foliage in an Iowa county park, in a truly isolated and peaceful location.
Need to Know - Open 6 AM to 10 PM daily. Admission to the park is free.
Silp Bluff County Park is one of those perfect little hidden havens that not many people know about, and as the weather gets cool, it's the ideal time to explore. Tucked away in one of the most rural corners of Iowa, it's home to incredible fall foliage and a peaceful lake that's well-stocked with bass, walleye, and catfish for anglers. The park is best seen from an easy 1.4-mile loop trail that takes you under perfect canopies of trees alive with fall colors.
Wow Factor - In addition to amazing fall foliage, this park has one of Iowa's most famous buildings.
Need to Know - Open 4 AM to 10:30 PM seven days a week. Admission is free.
Pilot Knob State Park is one of the best spots in Iowa for a view of fall foliage, thanks to its famous lookout tower. This building looks a lot like a miniature castle, but you don't have to be royalty to visit here. You just have to take on a moderately-challenging hike of about 5.2 miles, which will take you thought a dense forest that fills up with stunning colors during this time of year. It's an ideal all-day adventure on a cool fall day.
What are your favorite things to do in Iowa in the fall? Do you have any special Autumn traditions? Let us know in the comments section! If you're looking for some more unique fall adventures, why not seek out some of the best waterfalls in Iowa? If you're planning a lot of fall hikes, we recommend a subscription to AllTrails +, which is invaluable in off-the-grid areas thanks to its downloadable step-by-step trail directions.
