Since, sometimes, you just want to go out and have an adventure, we thought you may be interested in reading about our thoughts on some of the best day trips in Iowa. Happily, the Hawkeye State is brimming with bucket-list-worthy adventures! So before Googling "day trips near me in Iowa," check out the following list of 11 day trip ideas. Gas up the car, and let's go on some amazing one day trips in Iowa!
1. Head to Okoboji for a day of fishing.
Go on your own, or hire Iowa Guide Service to help make sure you have an awesome (and successful) day at Okoboji.
2. Go Flyboarding in Arnold's Park.
Looking for some extreme fun in the Hawkeye State? Rent equipment from Extreme Water Sports. Zero commitment. Unlimited thrills! Extreme Water Sports is just one of many epic adventures you can have at Arnold's Park.
3. Drive over to Corning and see Johnny Carson's birthplace.
The house is open seasonally, but it's definitely worth seeking out if you're a fan of the late Iowa entertainment personality. Not too much farther down the road, in Clarinda, is Glenn Miller's birthplace, which is also open for tours. How fun!
4. Enjoy a glass of wine among the vineyards at Rustic River Winery and Vineyard.
They also have a nice selection of beers. This winery grows grapes on site and specializes in dry, and sweet wines. If you are still looking for more to do, head over to the nearby Black Hawk State Park, where you can spend the day enjoying nature's beauty.
5. Spend an afternoon hiking and exploring the trails in Sioux City
The Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center is a fantastic place for an afternoon on the trails and enjoying nature. Hungry? Try Main + Abbey or the Hard Rock Cafe. Both are highly recommended by visitors and locals.
6. Visit Winterset and its famous bridges.
While you are exploring Winterset, be sure to check out the expansive Madison County Historical Complex. It includes 14 historical building situated on 18 acres.
7. Spend the day in the NewBo City Market
Head over to NewBo City Market for a bit of shopping, have lunch at the new (and fabulous) locally owned Caucho just across the street. Or, stop in for coffee and a sweet treat at nearby Brewhemia. Come hungry!
8. Visit the Czech Village in Cedar Rapids for more dining, a top-notch brewery, and the world-class Czech and Slovak Museum in Czech Village.
Czech Village is just a short walk from the NewBo area in Cedar Rapids, and you could easily spend the day touring the museum, dining at the amazing locally owned brewery, The Lion's Bridge, across the street, and walking along the river on one of the beautiful paved trails.
9. See the beautiful Seed Savers Exchange Heritage Farm near Decorah.
Wander Seed Savers' gardens, visit the large gift shop, and see the Ancient White Park cattle. Head into town for the famous Mabe's Pizza, and spend some time wandering through the shops throughout Decorah's downtown area.
10. Spend the day exploring the amazing Des Moines Historic East Village.
Travel the world without ever leaving Iowa! At Des Moines Historic East Village, you can tour the amazing state capital building, shop at the stores in the same neighborhood, and enjoy some of the finest restaurants in the state. There is so much to see and do at this only-in-Iowa destination.
11. Enjoy the Mississippi River from Lindsay Park in the Village of East Davenport.
Lindsay Park is a 31 acre park that is bordered by the Village of East Davenport and located at 2200 East 11th Street. Trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and a historic firehouse make this one of the best day trips in Iowa for families. In addition to all the fun at the park, you can also sit down at the locally owned Great River Brewery for a bite to eat, and then set out for shopping and entertainment at The Village of East Davenport.
These are just some of our picks for the best day trips in Iowa. There are plenty of others like Pike's Peak State Park, Backbone State Park, or Mississippi Cruises. What are some of your favorite Iowa day trip ideas? Let us know in the comments or nominate them to be featured!
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