12 Places In Iowa That Transform Into Stunning Winter Wonderlands Each Year
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Kim Magaraci
Author
When the temperatures dip below freezing and you’re tempted to stay inside, gather up your family and hit the road to experience winter in Iowa. You haven’t lived until you see how beautiful this state looks all wrapped in white. While we are so lucky to live in the Hawkeye State any time of year, step into some of these adventures this season.
1. Des Moines
Des Moines, IA, USA
Des Moines may be our capital, but that doesn't mean it's all business, all the time! In the winter, everything in the city seems to slow down. Cozy meals in boutique cafes become more common than quick workday lunches, and a fresh coat of snow on the capital looks straight out of a storybook.
2. DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, Missouri Valley
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, 1434 316th Ln, Missouri Valley, IA 51555, USA
One of Iowa's most underrated protected spaces is located right on the Nebraska border. This small refuge is home to wildlife and rare birds, and in the cold months, it takes on a life of its own, making it one of our favorite things to do in winter in Iowa.
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3. University of Iowa, Iowa City
The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
The UI Campus is pretty year-round, but there's nothing like walking around after a fresh snow. Hoarfrost on the trees is a rare winter phenomenon that you might be able to spot here.
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4. Marquette
Marquette, IA 52157, USA
Marquette is a tiny Iowa town that's located between impressive hills. Enjoy the charm of a small town while also spotting the scenery that makes us fall in love with our state again and again.
5. Iowa State University
Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
ISU is another gorgeous college campus, and with a fresh blanket of beautiful Iowa snow, it becomes truly magical. When class is canceled, students and faculty alike take to the open spaces on campus to enjoy the sight before them.
6. Palisades-Kepler State Park, Mount Vernon
Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA
The winter landscapes that appear at Palisades-Kepler will take your breath away. Break out the snow shoes and get out there to see it yourself.
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6. Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA
The charming town of Mount Vernon is quiet in the winter, and the surrounding farmland is absolutely stunning. See the "real" Iowa by going for a winter drive.
8. Luther College, Decorah
Luther College, 700 College Dr, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
We're convinced that Luther College is the prettiest college campus in the world. When it snows, throw on your hat and gloves and walk through the historic Decorah school's campus to see it at its best.
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9. Villages of Van Buren, Keosauqua
Villages of Van Buren, Inc, 809 1st St, Keosauqua, IA 52565, USA
The Villages of Van Buren County are the perfect places to visit Iowa in winter. Stop by the Amish shops for some home-baked goods, or just go for a sightseeing drive around these quaint communities.
10. Dubuque
Dubuque, IA, USA
There's no better view in Iowa than from the top of the Fourth Street Elevator in Dubuque after a snowfall. Look out across town and see the river in the distance, and take in the beauty that is Iowa.
11. Effigy Mounds National Monument, Harpers Ferry
Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146, USA
Effigy Mounds National Monument is the only National Park in Iowa, and it is absolutely amazing in the winter. This historic Native American burial ground is taken over by an eerie calm whenever the snow falls, and most visitors stay away. Stop by for one of the most peaceful walks you'll ever take.
12. Norwalk
Norwalk, IA, USA
Norwalk is another charming Iowa that will really make you appreciate living in the Hawkeye State. Drive out past the suburban homes into the farmland, which seems frozen in time.
Do you have a favorite memory of winter in Iowa to share? If so, please leave a comment below. Also, check out 11 of the coziest winter retreats you can find in Iowa. One featured place, Adams Street Country Lodge, has been reviewed on Tripadvisor.
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More to Explore
Winter In Iowa
What are some of the best winter attractions in Iowa?
Here is a list of 10 fun things to do in Iowa. Some of the highlights include the following.
- Skiing at Seven Oaks Recreation (Boone): The ski and snowboarding season starts in late November at this winter wonderland. If you lack the proper equipment, don't worry. The staff offers 600 ski rentals, 200 snowboard rentals, and 100 snow tubes for folks of all sizes. From beginner to pro, the slopes feature 11 runs with a space just for beginners and a four-chute snow tube park. The two triple chairlifts and two surface lifts keep the flow going. And head inside the Lodge at Seven Oaks for some hot cocoa, sandwiches, and the Coal Creek Lounge.
- Ice fishing at Storm Lake (Storm Lake): Anglers from all over visit Storm Lake, making it one of Iowa’s top ice-fishing lakes in Iowa. And if this is your first time for this frigid sport, check out the Iowa DNR’s Introduction to Ice Fishing Guide. Storm Lake is also a popular place for cross-country skiing. A trail map containing some rules and advice gives an idea of what to expect.
- A sleigh ride at Jester Park Equestrian Center (Granger): On several dates every December, the staff here hooks up their draft horse team to a wagon or sleigh for a lovely 30-minute ride through the park. The snow is critical for sleigh rides, which require at least 6 inches of packed snow. Without enough snow, the wagon rides take place that also provides a picturesque view of the wintry landscape.