The summer is the perfect time for traveling – but sometimes it can feel like the entire state is crowded into the same popular spots. Fortunately, Iowa is full of some amazing small towns and countryside attractions with amazing opportunities for fun and exploration. Why not jump into the car and search out some of those hidden gems? This rural road trip in Iowa in Iowa will take you to some out-of-the-way locations with a hefty dose of Hawkeye State charm.

This rural road trip can be taken in a full day of travel, or spread out over two if you want to linger over some of these attractions.
rural road trip in iowa - map
Google Maps/Self-Generated
Use the Google Maps link for one of the best drives in Iowa

1. The Wallace Centers of Iowa (Orient)

The Wallace Centers of Iowa, 756 16th St, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
TravelIowa
The birthplace of Vice President Henry Wallace has now been transformed into one of Iowa's best rural museums.
Tour the original Wallace farm, the produce gardens, and the replica historic barn on a self-guided tour.
TravelIowa
Visit the official website of The Wallace Centers of Iowa for more information.

2. Jaarsma Bakery (Pella)

Jaarsma Bakery, 727 Franklin St, Pella, IA 50219, USA
Jaarsma Bakery/Facebook
Now it's on to the "Little Holland" of Iowa for a snack break at one of the state's best bakeries.
Different Dutch treats are always on offer, and almond-lovers in particular will be in small-town heaven.
Jaarsma Bakery/Facebook
Learn more about Jaarsma Bakery.

3. Berry Patch Farm (Nevada)

The Berry Patch Farm/Google Reviews
If you want another dose of sweetness, head over to this charming u-pick farm for the best summer fruits around.
The farm grows just about every berry imaginable, and you can pick up a convenient box or create your own out in the fields. It's open from June through the beginning of November, so plan this road trip accordingly.
Porchelvi Silambarasan/Google Reviews
Head to the website of Berry Patch Farm to learn more.

Take a look at this video of the Berry Patch Farm by @IowaPBS:

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4. Story City Antique Carousel (Story City)

Story City Antique Carousel, 700 Grove Ave, Story City, IA 50248, USA
TravelIowa
A hidden amusement park attraction in one of Iowa's most charming small towns? Believe it - and the price of admission is only a dollar!
First built in 1913 and restored by the local Iowa community, this old-fashioned ride will take you right back to childhood.
TravelIowa
Visit the Story City Greater Chamber Connection website to learn more about the Story City Antique Carousel.

Take a look at this video by @iowatourism:

5. Lady of the Lake (Clear Lake)

Lady of the Lake, N Lake View Dr, Clear Lake, IA 50428, USA
TravelIowa
This old-fashioned riverboat is worth a visit just to stare at its impressive construction, but you'll definitely want to jump on board for a lake cruise!
Cruises leave twice daily, and you'll have a full bar, a selection of snacks, and some amazing views as you drift over the water.
TravelIowa
Visit the Cruise Clear Lake website to learn more about the Lady of the Lake.

6. Bily Clocks Museum and Antonin Dvorak Exhibit (Spillville)

Bily Clocks Museum & Antonín Dvo?ák Exhibit, 323 S Main St, Spillville, IA 52168, USA
TravelIowa
A two-for-one museum, this building holds a tribute to the famous composer Antonin Dvorak on the upper floor.
And on the lower floor, you'll find the famous collection of intricate wooden clocks created by the Bily brothers, each depicting a key moment in history or religion.
TravelIowa
Check the Bily Clocks Museum and Antonin Dvorak Exhibit website for more information and to see when it's open during the year.

Take a look at this video by @koolbuildings7916:

7. Schera's (Elkader)

Schera's Algerian American Restaurant, 107 S Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, USA
Heres2U2/TripAdvisor
It wouldn't be a road trip finale without a great meal, so drive into Elkader for one of the only - and certainly the best - Algerian restaurants in the Midwest.
Elkader takes its name from a North African figure, and this hopping restaurant and bar is a great place to try their flavorful flatbreads, dips, and sandwiches.
Sarah W/TripAdvisor
Visit the Schera's website to learn more.

Have you been to any of these hidden gems? Do you have any picks for a rural road trip in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section. If you’re looking for another amazing road trip with a view, take this drive through Iowa’s best Great River Road towns.

Ready to hit the road on a few road trips in Iowa? Before doing so, be sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List, and don’t forget the snacks!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Rural Iowa

Melissa M. | December 08, 2023

What are some of the best rural towns to visit in Iowa?

Here are some of the best rural places to visit in Iowa:

  • Le Claire, Iowa
  • Decorah, Iowa
  • St. Donatus, Iowa
  • Pella, Iowa
  • Mount Vernon, Iowa
  • The Amana Colonies, Iowa
  • Bentonsport, Iowa
  • Winterset, Iowa
  • McGregor, Iowa
  • Elk Horn, Iowa
  • Dyersville, Iowa

Check out more information about these rural towns in Iowa.

What are some of the most interesting roadside attractions in Iowa?

Roadside attractions make road trips even more fun than they already are. Here are some of the most interesting roadside attractions in Iowa:

  • Volkswagen Beetle Spider in Avoca, Iowa
  • Jesse James Historical Site in Adair, Iowa
  • Albert the Bull in Audubon, Iowa

Check out more roadside attractions in Iowa.

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