Summer isn’t quite over, and there’s still time to check a few things off of your Iowa summer bucket list! Whether you want to find a natural oasis, try a new thrilling sport, or just relax in or around the water, these suggestions will have you wishing you were on a permanent vacation.

1. Spend some time at Lost Island Waterpark
Facebook / Lost Island KOA
Lost Island Waterpark is the perfect place to spend a hot summer's day. Relax in the lazy river or get your thrills on the sides. If you want to make an extended trip out of your adventure, plan to book a campsite at the adjacent Lost Island KOA.

Read more about it right here.
2. Give Whitewater Kayaking a shot.
Tripadvisor / Delaware County Tourism
Are you a bit of an adrenaline junkie? Give Whitewater kayaking a try. Iowa is home to three different whitewater parks and they're each perfect for anyone looking to try out a brand new sport.

Read more about one of them right here.
3. Dine on the banks of the Wapsi
Google Local / Knight Hawkfan
Summertime is the most beautiful season along the Wapsipinicon River. Plan a trip to visit Stone city, where you'll find a historic General Store that was once featured in a Grant Woods painting, and then enjoy dinner right on the banks of the river.

Read more about it right here.
4. Explore Maquoketa Caves
Flickr / Phil Roeder
Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of the natural wonders of the Midwest. You could spend hours hiking here and exploring the enormous caves and winding trails that make this place seem like heaven on Earth.

Read more about it right here.

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5. Plan a day at Arnold's Park
Flickr / Sam Klein
Arnold's Park is the place to go for old fashioned fun! Ride a wooden coaster, enjoy some Dole Whip, and spend some time on the water for the best summertime day ever.

Read more about it right here.
6. Enjoy a waterfront meal at Bluff Lake Catfish Farm
Google Local / Jeremy Murphy
Bluff Lake started off as a small private fishing hole, but over the years it has become one of Iowa's most stunning restaurants. You'll likely have to wait for your table, but that's okay, because you can spend your time wandering around this beautiful property. Check out the waterfall!

Read more about it right here.
7. Cruise the river on the American Lady
Facebook / American Lady Cruises
The Mighty Mississippi River is a huge part of Iowa's history and culture, and you can check it out up close on an American Lady riverboat tour. Join the crew for dinner or a relaxing sunset cruise.

Read more about it right here.
8. Fall in love with the Loess Hills
Facebook / Hitchcock Nature Center
The Loess Hills are absolutely underrated wonders. See what's hiding out West when you visit parks, small towns, a dairy and even a lavender farm. This region is amazing in the summer months.

Read more about it right here.
9. Relax all day long on a lazy river float trip
Facebook / Rubber Duck Outfitters
Sometimes, the only thing you want to do is to not do anything at all. Luckily, Iowa's calm waterways are perfect for tubing trips!

Read more about your next relaxing river adventure right here.

If you’ve simply run out of time, be sure to add a few of these suggestions to your list for next year. You’ll really fall in love with your home state if you take the time to explore.

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