Do Not Do These 10 Touristy Things In Iowa. Here's What To Do Instead.
Iowa isn’t a notoriously “touristy” place, but there are a few places that are either off the beaten path or just simply better than the most well-advertised options.
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LeClaire's historic downtown district offers fun stores like Aunt Hattie's Fanciful Emporium, LeCLaire Olive Oil Co., Daffodil Row, The Shameless Chocoholic, and Urban Classic Home. You'll also find Iowa's own Isabel Bloom and West End Architectural Salvage.
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There are multiple river flows and skill levels at Charles City WhiteWater. The park is open 24/7 every day of the year. There's no charge to use it and you can rent canoes and tubes from area businesses.
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This 45-acre park has a 15-acre lake, over 60 campsites, a beautiful beach with concessions, boat rentals, and several cabins.
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Bonaparte's historic Riverfront District located on the Des Moines river is a well-hidden Iowa gem. A butterfly garden, restored mills, bandshell, quaint shops, and an award-winning restaurant are all right here in southeast Iowa.
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The Cedar Rapids Kernels playoffs start September 6. Enjoy great ballpark food, easy parking, and a fan-friendly atmosphere in this first-class facility.
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They offer free shuttle service for canoe and tube renters. Enjoy a beautiful day on the river, minus the crowds.
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The Book Vault in Oskaloosa was once a bank. This historic building keeps books inside the old vaults. Author readings, cooking classes, and all the time you need to dig through stacks of books is right here.
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Located across the bridge from downtown Cedar Rapids, the McGrath Amphitheatre offers big-city sounds with a small-town vibe.
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If you'd love to relax and enjoy a scratch-made meal on a working farm, check out Three Pines Farm, just north of Cedar Falls. This fifth-generation farm supports artisans and offers visitors the opportunity to take cooking classes. They are bringing back their unique farm to table dining experiences this fall.
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This event takes place in Creston. There are more than 40 balloons participating in races all weekend long. You'll enjoy a marching band contest, flea market, balloon glow, food vendors, and a car show, as well.
What’s your favorite non-touristy thing to do in Iowa? Tell us about it in the comments.
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