Do you need a vacation? The good news is that here in Iowa, you don’t have to go far to get away from it all.
1. Field of Dreams, Dyersville
Whether you are a baseball fan or not, there’s something awe-inspiring about standing on this carefully manicured baseball field in the middle of so much Iowa corn. It’s where the iconic movie was filmed, of course.
2. The Villages of Van Buren, southeast Iowa
The Villages of Van Buren was one of the first settled areas in the state of Iowa. Don’t miss the Bonaparte Historic Riverfront District and the Bentonsport Historic Bridge. There’s a lot to see and do in this amazing place.
3. Effigy Mounds, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry
The Effigy Mounds National Monument in the Upper Mississippi River Valley is a peaceful place with miles of relaxing hiking on well-maintained trails. Here, there are ancient burial mounds sacred to 20 culturally associated American Indian Tribes.
4. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, western Iowa
Running north-south 200 miles along the Missouri River, this area of Iowa is one of the most picturesque. The hills rise over 200 feet above the surrounding plains. The hills begin in Westfield, Iowa and run to Mound City, Missouri.
5. Maquoketa Caves, 10970 98th St., Maquoketa
Exploring the caves at this amazing park is an epic experience. Enjoy a picnic here on one of Iowa’s last warm days of fall. Six miles of trails offer a fun afternoon of exploration.
6. Okoboji Lake
Iowa doesn’t have an ocean, but we have the next best thing. Okoboji is a classic resort town in northern Iowa that’s an outdoor paradise. It’s part of the Iowa Great Lakes region, and you must see it. Visit the amazing amusement park, enjoy great food, and spend quality time on the water.
7. Pella, southeastern Iowa
This little Dutch town has an amazing history, a real working windmill, and an actual canal running through their downtown area. Visit any time of the year, but be sure to come back in the spring for their annual "Tulip Time" celebration.
8. Amana Colonies, 20 miles southwest of Cedar Rapids
The Amana Colonies are one of the longest-lived communal societies in the nation. Feeling persecuted for their religious choices, a group of Germans fled their home country in 1843 and settled in Iowa. Today, the seven villages of the Amana Colonies represent a slice of history. Beautiful buildings, quaint shops, excellent restaurants, and captivating museums offer a great way to spend a beautiful fall day.
9. Surf Ballroom, 460 North Shore Drive, Clear Lake
Step back in time and onto the hardwood floors of the Surf Ballroom. Ocean-front murals, rock-and-roll, milkshakes; it’s all right here. There’s always something amazing going on. See a comedy show, a band, or stop by and visit the museum.
10. Elkader, northeast Iowa
This scenic town, surrounded by farmland, streams, rivers, and wooded hills is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing afternoon. The downtown area is full of interesting places to stop. Don’t miss the Carter House Museum and the amazing Keystone Bridge.
Where is your favorite place to get away from it all? Tell us about it in the comments.
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