1. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dubuque
The Dubuque Arboretum is an award-winning arboretum and garden that offers a breathtakingly beautiful variety of all types of flora. For an extra dose of serenity, visit the arboretum’s Japanese Garden and listen to the rush of the waterfall. 3800 Arboretum Dr., Dubuque, IA.
2. Little House on the Farm & Guest Barn Bed & Breakfast
This charming and peaceful bed and breakfast is located a few miles outside the small town of Postville, and it will make you feel like you’re miles and miles away from everyone and everything. This unique B&B is geared toward giving people the opportunity to feel what life in the country is really like, and that’s what you’ll get. You’ll have privacy, peace and quiet, plenty of nature and a warm breakfast brought to you every morning. Address: 892 Pole Line Rd., Postville, IA
3. St. Anthony of Padua Chapel, Festina
Known as the world’s smallest chapel, this tiny building measures a mere 12 by 16 feet in size, with an ability to seat only eight people. The church sits on a property aptly named "Smallest Church Park," and it is the perfect place to come in for a moment of quiet reflection.
4. Five Ridge Prairie Cabin, Westfield
This small, rugged camping cabin is literally in the middle of nowhere. The cabin comes with a few modern conveniences, but is chock full of peace and quiet, not to mention gorgeous scenery. 15561 260th St. (east entrance), 7 miles south of Westfield, IA.
5. Pikes Peak State Park
Pikes Peak State Park looks like an enchanted forest, and it is a place of great natural beauty. While you may run across other people while wandering the trails, it’s easy to get lost while you soak in the peaceful serenity of the scenery. 32264 Pikes Peak Rd., McGregor, IA.
6. Reiman Gardens, Ames
The Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa covers 14 acres and offers 26 unique garden areas to get lost in. The garden features two glass houses: the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, which has one of the most diverse collections of live, exotic butterflies in the country, and the indoor Conservatory, which is open year-round. This is a great place to soak in nature and totally recharge. 1407 S University Blvd., Ames, IA.
7. St. Donatus, Iowa
This like a tiny little slice of Europe is tucked away in eastern-central Iowa and is absolutely breathtaking. St. Donatus is known as a Luxembourger village, and it offers all of the peace and quiet of a sleepy little village, as well as incredible historic architecture.
8. Little Swan Winery and B&B, Estherville
It’s so nice to get away from everyday life and head to a peaceful and scenic spot where you can just unplug and unwind. The Little Swan Lake Winery Bed and Breakfast provides a perfect country respite where you can hide away, recharge and just enjoy the scenery. 1350 320th Ave., Estherville, IA.
9. Dunning's Spring Falls, Decorah
Also located in Winneshiek County, Dunning's Spring Falls in Decorah is like something out of a fairy tale. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery and the sound of falling water, you’ll be totally at peace.
10. Grotto of the Redemption, West Bend
The Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend is a magical place where you can get lost amongst the massive amount of gems. If that's not magical, then I don't know what is. 300 N Broadway Ave., West Bend, IA.
11. Maquoketa Caves State Park, Maquoketa
If you love hiking, exploring caves or just want to get away from the daily grind and experience something totally out of the ordinary, Maquoketa Caves State Park is the place to go. 10970 98th St., Maquoketa, IA.
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