Hey Iowa, are you ready for fall? The most scenic season in the Hawkeye State is upon us, and it’s time to get out and enjoy it! Check out a few of our favorite fall destinations in Iowa below.
1. Hitchcock Nature Center, Honey Creek
The Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek is worth a visit any time of year, but in the fall, it shows off the best views of foliage in the state. Visit to get a breath of fresh air and truly explore the beauty of fall in Iowa.
2. Dubuque & the Port of Dubuque
Catch stunning views of the Mississippi River with a backdrop of autumn color when you explore Dubuque in the fall. Both the Port of Dubuque and the Mines of Spain are top fall destinations in Iowa.
3. Palisades State Park, Mt. Vernon
Palisades State Park offers breathtaking views of the Cedar River. This beautiful, lightly trafficked park is the perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet hike.
4. Stone State Park, Sioux City
Take a scenic drive through Stone State Park to see some of the most beautiful fall foliage near Sioux City. You can even enjoy a breezy hike here!
5. Thomas Mitchell Park, Mitchellville (Polk County)
This sprawling 175-acre park is a hidden gem and one of the best fall destinations in Iowa for anyone snapping photos of autumn scenery. Take a walk and take in the colors and scents of the season.
6. Effigy Mounds National Monument
Effigy Mounds National Monument and the neighboring Yellow River State Forest are two of the best places to see the colors change in Iowa. Each park is bursting with the bright reds, oranges, and yellows of fall, and Effigy Mounds in particular offers unparalleled views of the region from up high.
7. Lake MacBride
Take a boat out on Lake MacBride before the weather gets too chilly and you'll get to be surrounded by gorgeous colors. From the shoreline, you can walk around and spot the trees reflecting their new look in the water below.
8. Iowa City
Iowa City is a historic and charming place to visit in Iowa when the leaves change. Enjoy a book and a cup of coffee at Prairie Lights, or just relax and walk through the city, taking in the sights.
9. Pikes Peak State Park
Pikes Peak State Park in MacGregor shows off the best views of the Mississippi all year round, but it's truly a special spot for hiking during fall.
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Featured Addresses
Hitchcock Nature Center, 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 51542, USA
Stone State Park Drive, Stone State Park Dr, Sioux City, IA, USA
Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA
Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa 76, Harpers Ferry, IA, USA
4250 NE 108th St, Mitchellville, IA 50169, USA