FAQ

Iowa has some amazing waterfalls! From Dunning's Spring Park in Decorah to the Willow Creek Waterfall in Mason City  14 Wonderful Waterfalls in Iowa is Travel Iowa's complete guide to to the best waterfall's Iowa has to offer. 

Iowa is home to a little bit of everything – award-winning museums, culinary delights, farm tours, historic wonders, etc. Explore each of our Travel Areas to discover the attractions that make Iowa’s communities worth a visit.

 

The High Trestle Trail Bridge is located between Madrid and Woodward. It can be easily accessed by parking at the Flat Tire Lounge in Madrid or the Woodward trailhead (99 N Main St). The bridge is located just 2.5 miles from both locations. For visitors, you can rent an electric bike at Local Spokes in Slater for an easy and stress-free High Trestle Trail experience.
 

The Iowa State Fair is typically held the second weekend through the third weekend of August. In 2025, the fair takes place August 7-17 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

Each year’s fair brings a variety of foods on a stick, fried everything and more delicious dishes! Repeat favorites include Barksdale’s Cookies, honey lemonade, pork chop on a stick, hot beef sundaes, fried oreos and twinkies and more. Here’s an ultimate guide to the Iowa State Fair.
 

There are endless unique places to spend a night in Iowa – it simply depends on what you’re looking for! A night surrounded by history? Check out these historic hotels, or spend a night with spooky spirits at some of Iowa’s haunted spots. A night on a farm? Check out these farm stays or renovated barns and bins. A night at a winery? Check out these romantic retreats. A luxury boutique hotel? Check out these intimate weekend getaways. Find even more unique hotels that match your interests or check out Iowa’s year-round cabins.
 

The Field of Dreams Movie Site is located at 28995 Lansing Road, Dyersville, Iowa, which is about 25 miles west of Dubuque.
 

Western Iowa is rich in history, natural beauty and unique attractions. This section of the state includes communities like Sioux City, Okoboji, Fort Dodge and Council Bluffs, which offer endless exciting adventures. You can’t miss the Loess Hills, which are a geological gem that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. For more outdoor adventures, check out Stone State Park, the Iowa Great Lakes and Preparation Canyon State Park. For family fun, experience Danish culture in Elk Horn or dive into the Ice Cream Capital of the World in Le Mars. History buffs can delight in the area’s settlement history at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center or the Fort Atkinson State Preserve.
 

Southern Iowa is full of small-town charm, scenic landscapes and fascinating historical sites. This area is home to communities like Clarinda, Centerville, Burlington, Keokuk and Fort Madison, each offering its own unique blend of attractions and experiences. Outdoor lovers can explore the scenic trails and shoreline at Lake Rathbun, cast a line at Three Mile Lake or enjoy a peaceful escape to Honey Creek State Park. Families can settle in for a weekend of fun at FunCity Resort or Honey Creek Resort. History buffs can dive into the area’s past by visiting the Appanoose County Historical and Coal Mining Museum, Dragoon Trace Nature Center and more.
 

Eastern Iowa offers lots to do – cultural attractions, river recreation, historic adventures and more. This area includes vibrant communities like Dubuque, Davenport, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Muscatine and Burlington. Outdoor adventures include endless hiking and camping opportunities at Yellow River State Forest, Effigy Mounds National Monument, Pikes Peak State Park and Wildcat Den State Park. Families can enjoy hands-on interactive fun at the Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville, the Family Museum in Bettendorf and the Sawmill Museum in Clinton. History buffs can also delight in German heritage throughout the Amana Colonies, tour the historic estate of Brucemore in Cedar Rapids and learn about Iowa’s only native president at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch.
 

Northern Iowa offers a variety of landscapes complete with charming small towns to explore. This area of the state includes Mason City, Clear Lake, Decorah, Forest City, Spencer, Sioux Center and Le Mars, each offering a unique sample of life in Iowa. Outdoor enthusiasts can take on Charles City’s and Manchester’s whitewater parks, Dolliver Memorial State Park or Pilot Knob State Park. Families will love visiting the Fossil & Prairie Park Preserve in Rockford, the Decorah Fish Hatchery and King’s Pointe Waterpark Resort in Storm Lake. History buffs can dig into the area’s roots at the Okoboji Spirit Center, Fort Dodge’s Fort Museum & Frontier Village and the Vesterheim National Norwegian-American Museum.
 

Iowa is home to several beautiful lakes that offer both thrilling recreation and relaxing escapes. The Iowa Great Lakes are the most popular summer lake destination, and boast everything from lake cruises and boat rentals to lakeside dining and lodging and more. Other Iowa lakes are perfect for family weekends, hiking trips, quiet escapes or fishing trips. Or simply enjoy a peaceful retreat to these Iowa lake resorts.
 

There are plenty of adventures to have on the Mighty Mississippi! Spend a weekend exploring the historic communities along its shores or driving along the Great River Road. Learn more about the river at these Great River Road Interpretive Centers. For boating, fishing and paddling information, visit the Iowa DNR’s website.
 

While it is less popular for recreation, there are still ways to enjoy the Missouri River. In Council Bluffs, you can enjoy scenic views of the river from Rivers Edge Park and the accompanying 3,000-foot-long Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, or find boating access at Narrows River Park and bike along the shoreline on the Iowa Riverfront Trail. For more river recreation, check out Sioux City’s Riverfront Trail for more scenic water views, Wilson Island State Recreation Area for trails, fishing and boating and Huff-Warner Access Area for boating and camping.
 

While Iowa’s fall season typically spans from late September to early November, the best time to see peak fall color is during the first two weeks of October. However, the timing can vary slightly depending on the specific region and weather conditions each year. To catch the colors at their brightest, it's a good idea to check the Iowa DNR Fall Color Report for updates.

Iowa’s culinary scene is nationally recognized. The Waukee-based establishment, LT Organic Farm Restaurant, appeared in The New York Times for “Best Restaurant Dishes We Ate Across the U.S. in 2025”. Their starter plate received rave reviews with an emphasis on farm fresh ingredients from the restaurant. In 2025, Iowa also had two James Beard Nominations. In Des Moines, Simons was nominated for Outstanding Hospitality, and in Cedar Rapids, Cobble Hill’s chef was nominated for Best Chef Midwest. Learn more rising culinary stars and their Iowa-based restaurants.

Iowa offers delicious edible souvenirs you can take back home to remember your travels! Fresh from Iowa’s farms stores, you’ll  find specialty maple syrups, local honey, cheeses, popcorn and wines. Named the best culinary gift in Iowa by People Magazine, and included in past Oscar Gift Bags, bringing home a treat from Betty Jane Candies will make you feel like a VIP. Movie lovers can bring home  great local popcorn to enjoy with your favorite movie. If you have a sweet tooth, scotcharoos are the perfect pick for you! These famous treats combine the perfect mix of chocolate, peanut butter, and butterscotch flavors. Visit a favorite local bakeries like Main Street Café & Bakery, Barn Happy, or Feedwell Kitchen and Bar to pick them up. 

Winterset is especially known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history. Learn about the community’s Hollywood connections by visiting each of the six covered Bridges of Madison County or the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum.  For scenic sights and outdoor adventures, visit the beautiful Winterset City Park, paddle the Middle River Water Trail or hike at Pammel State Park. For farm fun, visit Rusty Stars Alpacas, shop and/or glamp at PepperHarrow Farm and Speckled Hen Farms. Or go on a shopping spree, see stunning murals and catch a movie inside the historic Iowa Theater on Winterset’s town square.
 

Iowa has many unexpected attractions, unique museums, and outdoor adventures that can fit any budget and interest. Iowa State parks are all free and a great option to explore nature, no matter the season. Check out our guide for Iowa state and county parks and to sign up for the Iowa State Parks Passport as you check them all off your list!

Burlington is packed with historic and modern adventures. You can’t miss a stroll or drive down Snake Alley, the most crooked street in the world. Then check out FunCity Resort’s endless entertainment, which includes a casino, arcade, go-karts, outdoor waterpark, bowling and more. Then catch a Burlington Bees Baseball game, watch a movie inside the historic Capitol Theater or shop around Downtown Burlington. For outdoor fun, explore Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve, Big Hollow Recreation Area, Geode State Park and the North Gorge Trails. Here’s the ultimate guide to a family getaway to Burlington.
 

Sioux City is packed with surprises. For family fun, visit the LaunchPAD Children’s Museum. For history enthusiasts, you can’t miss the Sioux City Public Museum, Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and Sergeant Floyd River Museum. For nature enthusiasts, check out the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center. For year-round outdoor thrills, stop by Cone Park. For art lovers, the Sioux City Art Center is a must-visit. For the area’s best dining and shopping, stroll thought the Fourth Street Historic District. Your planning just got easier – here’s how to spend 48 hours in Sioux City.
 

Okoboji is a laker lovers’ paradise! Take advantage of the Iowa Great Lakes by hopping aboard a sightseeing Queen II Cruise, staying at the lakeside Bridges Bay Resort, biking the Iowa Great Lakes Trail or riding the iconic Legend Roller Coaster at Arnolds Park Amusement Park. Other must do’s include the Pearson Art Lakes Center, live music events, the Okoboji Spirit Center and West O Brewing. Here’s the ultimate guide for how to experience Okoboji and the Iowa Great Lakes.
 

A vibrant college town, Ames is packed with fun activities. Attend a Cyclones sporting event at Iowa State University, admire the beautiful displays at Reiman Gardens, discover local art at the Brunnier Art Museum,  go on a shopping spree on Ames Main Street and more. Here’s the perfect way to spend 48 hours in Ames.
 

The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad offers a variety of ticketed rides that train enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy. The most popular excursion is the Fraser Train, an 11-mile round trip ride that takes you to the once bustling coal mining town of Fraser. Other rides include dinner, lunch and picnic trains, as well as seasonal rides like the Pumpkin Express and Santa Express.
 

The best time to visit Iowa largely depends on what you’re looking for, and each of Iowa’s four seasons offer endless fun.
For vibrant festivals, outdoor activities, water recreation and other warm weather adventures, summer is the perfect time to visit. For stunningly colorful foliage, scenic road trips and cool sweater weather, fall is what you’re looking for. Winter, while cold, offers its own charm with holiday festivities and winter sports, and spring boasts blooming flowers and milder weather that best suits hiking, bird watching and other outdoor adventures.
 

Des Moines is a vibrant city with a wide range of activities to enjoy! Some must-dos include visiting the Iowa State Capitol, Science Center of Iowa, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Pappajohn Sculpture Park and eating at famous restaurants like Fong’s Pizza and Zombie Burger. Here are some itineraries to jump-start your planning: Des Moines on a Budget, How to Spend 48 Hours in Des Moines and Des Moines’ hidden gems. 
 

Iowa City boasts a rich culture and historic landscape. You can’t miss the Old Capitol Museum, University of Iowa Museums like the Stanley Museum of Art, Natural History Museum, the Englert Theatre and the downtown district’s shops and restaurants. For more inspiration, see How to Spend 48 Hours in Iowa City, or dive into the city’s literary history and attractions.
 

Dubuque offers a delightful mix of history, outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Some must dos include visiting the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Fenelon Place Elevator, Mines of Spain Recreation Area and the nearby Field of Dreams Movie Site. Jump-start your planning with these itineraries: Family Fun in Dubuque and Campus Town Vacations: Dubuque.
 

Decorah is a charming town with a rich blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experience and delightful dining. For outdoor fun, see 200-foot waterfall at Dunning’s Spring Park, bike ride the scenic 11-mile Trout Run Trail or paddle the Upper Iowa River. Immerse yourself in the community’s Norwegian heritage at the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum. Or spend your time exploring the downtown boutiques and restaurants.
 

Cedar Rapids is filled with vibrant culture. Explore the Czech Village and New Bohemian District to discover unique attractions like the National Czech & Slovak Museum and African American Museum of Iowa. Support up-and-coming local businesses at the lively NewBo City Market. Tour the historic estate of Brucemore Mansion. Learn about sustainability and the environment or go for a scenic hike at the Indian Creek Nature Center. Start planning with these itineraries: 48 Hours in Cedar Rapids and Cedar Rapids on a Budget.
 

 
With a rich history steeped in architecture and music, Mason City is a must-visit! Admire Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural ingenuity with a stay at the Historic Park Inn Hotel or a stroll through the Rock Crest – Rock Glen Historic District. Celebrate the legacy of famous composer Meredith Willson at the Music Man Square; see an impressive collection of American art inside a stunning mansion at the MacNider Art Museum; enjoy hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching at the Lime Creek Nature Center and more. Jump-start your planning: 48 Hours in Mason City, 15 Surprising Things to Do in Mason City.
 

Pella is a delightful community known that’s known for its Dutch heritage. Dive into a shopping spree throughout the charming town square, which is packed with clothing boutiques and bakeries selling Dutch treats. Learn more about its heritage and see the tallest working grain windmill in the country at the Pella Historical Society & Museums; walk or bike around the stunning Lake Red Rock and climb to the top of the Cordova Park Observation Tower for amazing views. Recreate this trip: 48 Hours in Pella.

Yes! Communities across the state come together throughout the summer (and sometimes winter!) to support local growers and artists. Here’s a list of the main Farmers’ Markets, but be sure to also check our listings and/or community websites to find smaller markets.
 

Waterloo offers a variety of attractions and activities. Visit one of the many museums that make up the Grout Museum District. For a deep-dive into the area’s agriculture roots, stop by the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum. See stunning art and learn about Haitian culture at the Waterloo Center for the Arts. During the summer, experience endless thrills at Lost Island Waterpark and Themepark. Catch a Waterloo Bucks Baseball game in the summer of Waterloo Black Hawks hockey game in the winter. And more! Here’s how to maximize a weekend in Waterloo.
 

Iowa is filled with fun camping opportunities! Discover unique camping adventures and camping paired with outdoor recreation. If glamping is more your style, check out these year-round cabin rentals and tents, cabins, covered wagons and more vacation rentals on working farms across the state.
 

A must-visit architectural marvel, the High Trestle Trail Bridge spans half a mile with 41 steel frames that highlight the area’s mining history. During the day, you can admire the sweeping views of the Des Moines River Valley. Or visit at night to see the bridge’s steel frame glow with blue LED lights under the moonlight.
 

Iowa has its fair share of spooky spots – like the Villisca Ax Murder House, where an entire family was mysteriously murdered in 1912, and the Edinburgh Manor, a former poor farm and asylum that’s now a hotspot for ghost hunters. Find more haunted attractions.
 

There are endless adventures to discover in Iowa. Find a trip that checks all your bucket list boxes here.
 

Iowa is home to a variety of festivals that celebrate its rich culture and community spirit. In the fall, visit one of the many fall festivals in Iowa. Throughout the year, discover some of the country’s best and biggest music festivals; learn about the many cultures that call Iowa home at these cultural festivals; watch innovative and inspiring independent films at Iowa’s film festivals; and discover other events across the state with the Iowa Events Calendar.

Iowa’s warm weather months are packed with live outdoor music events. Discover some of the country’s best and biggest music festivals or catch a performance at these unique music venues. Discover other music events across the state with the Iowa Events Calendar.
 

The Iowa State Fair offers endless activities. Iconic adventures include racing down the giant slide, visiting the famous Butter Cow, sampling Iowa brews at the Craft Beer Tent, catching big name live music performances at the Grandstand. Visitors can also stop by Thrill Park to experience carnival rides and games, meet farm animals, admire agricultural equipment, catch magic shows and other live music events and more throughout the fair. Here’s an ultimate guide to the Iowa State Fair.

Iowa boasts a plethora of outdoor activities that cater to adventurers and nature lovers alike. Did you know Iowa is the World Capital of Trails? Discover bike trails for every adventure. There’s also plenty of places for mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing and paddling, plus endless opportunities for lake fun. For nature lovers, enjoy these stargazing and birding spots, or check out these nature centers, caves and waterfalls. Iowa offers especially stunning views during the fall – here are 20 ways to experience the stunning fall foliage. During the winter, be sure to check out Iowa’s ski slopes and ice fishing hot spots, plus other winter recreation.
 

Iowa is home to some fantastic farm-to-table dining experiences. You can’t miss Primrose in Corning, all the Big Grove Brewery locations, Brazen Open Kitchen and Bar in Dubuque and more! Here’s a more extensive list, and be sure to also check out Iowa’s farm-to-table dining events and farmers’ markets.
 

Wildlife is abundant in Iowa, which makes for great birdwatching opportunities. At Hendrickson Marsh, you can view birds across the 850 acres of wetlands, forests and prairies from the comfort of your car. Coon Creek in Decorah offers dirt paths and winding roads where you can encounter a variety of birds and other wildlife. Maynes Grove is a great spot to look for northern saw-whet and long-eared owls in its woods and evergreen forests. Wanatee Park is home to the state’s largest lek site for greater prairie chickens and the Riverton Wildlife Area is a popular spot for birders to catch unique species, especially during migration season. Discover more in the complete beginner's guide to birding in Iowa.

Iowa offers plenty of you-pick pumpkin patches for fall fun! Some popular locations include Deal’s Orchard, Harvestville Farm, Bloomsbury Farm and more.

If you’re looking to enjoy some apple picking fun in Iowa, check out this list of delightful pick-your-own apple orchards across the state. Some of the top spots include the Center Grove Orchard, Deal’s Orchard, Ditmars Orchard, Little Sioux Orchard and more.

Whether you are looking to tap into your artistic side or brush up on history, Iowa has a variety of interactive and family-friendly museums! At the Science Center of Iowa, you can watch live science demonstrations and enjoy a show at the 50-foot planetarium. The Family Museum is a great place for kids to experience some hands-on activities including operating a crane, shopping for groceries, and climbing a treehouse. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium offers animal exhibits and immersive experiences including a 4D theatre, barge pilot simulation and water play area. Explore our A-Z guide for recommended Iowa Museums for more ideas.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor escapes, there’s plenty of exciting activities to enjoy during the winter season. Admire the snow-covered landscape on a scenic winter hike, test your skills on Iowa’s slopes or try a new winter activity like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. For fun inside, check out these tropical waterparks and thrilling indoor playgrounds.
 

Summer in Iowa is such a vibrant time! Here’s a summer bucket list to get your planning started, and here’s one specifically for summer events. Otherwise, there’s plenty of other warm-weather must-dos. From Iowa’s theme parks, water parks and splash pads to farmers’ markets, county fairs and baseball games, your weekends will quickly fill up. For outdoor recreation, cool down on Iowa’s water trails or lakes or pedal for sights, scenery and sips. Be sure to also check out these pet-friendly patios.
 

Fall in Iowa is a magical time filled with vibrant colors, festive events and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Kickstart your fall planning with this list of 20 ways to see fall colors or this autumn bingo card. Relax and admire the stunning fall views at these 10 wineries or by taking a scenic drive. For the best of family fun, check out Iowa’s pumpkin patches and apple orchards, or plan a campus town vacation when school is back in session. Embrace spooky season with a visit to Iowa’s most haunted attractions or merge both kinds of spirits with haunted spots and distillery stops.  
 

Spring in Iowa is a delightful time – the weather warms up, and the landscape comes alive with budding trees and blooming flowers. This season is the perfect time to explore Iowa’s hiking trails (more hiking!) and bike trails, and see the state’s beautiful waterfalls. This time of year is also perfect for bird watching (migrating season) and stargazing (shorter days). If you’re especially interested in wildflowers, subscribe to the Iowa DNR’s Wildflowers Bloom report to see what’s bloom where and when.
 

Commonly referred to as the Driftless Area, a region that escaped the Ice Age’s glaciers, Northeast Iowa’s dramatic bluffs and valleys make it an exciting place to visit. Must-dos include visiting the Field of Dreams Movie Site, Lost Island Themepark and Waterpark, Dunning’s Spring Park, Fenelon Place Elevator, Charles City Whitewater Park, Cedar Falls Main Street and the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. Some hidden gems include Heaven Boutique Winery, New Day Dairy GuestBarn, Bily Clocks Museum and Cedar Rock State Park.
 

Also known as Capital Country, Central Iowa offers a variety of attractions. Can’t-miss highlights include Adventureland Park in Altoona, Reiman Gardens in Ames, Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, the Bridges of Madison County in Winterset, the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and the Rail Explorers, the Iowa Speedway in Newton and the High Trestle Trail in Madrid. Some hidden gems include the National Balloon Museum, National Sprint Car Museum, Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge and Speckled Hen Farms.
 

Otherwise known as Iowa’s Lakes and Land travel area, Northwest Iowa offers a variety of adventures. This area offers the best of lake life – from Okoboji’s resorts and lakeside amusement park and Clear Lake’s iconic lakeside music events to Storm Lake’s famous walleye fishing and Lake View’s water surrounded by lush landscapes. Land fun includes seeing iconic Frankl Lloyd Wright architecture throughout Mason City, learning the living story of land of water at the River’s Edge Discovery Center in Fort Dodge and enjoying year-round outdoor thrills at Cone Park in Sioux City. Some hidden gems include the Sioux City Railroad Museum, Sanford Museum & Planetarium, Vermeer Glass Art Studio and Okoboji Classic Cars.
 

Also known as Loess Hills and Beyond, Southwest Iowa offers a beautiful landscape that’s just begging to be explored – did you know Iowa’s Loess Hills are the only landscape of its kind in the world? Enjoy easy access to the hills at the Hitchcock Nature Center or along the Loess Hills Scenic Byway. Other must-dos include visiting the one-of-a-kind Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs, the Clarinda Carnegie Art Museum, Atlantic’s endless antique shops and the Danish Windmill in Elk Horn or biking along Carroll’s 30-mile Sauk Rail Trail. The area’s hidden gems include the Art Church Iowa, Iowa Aviation Museum, Hitchcock House and Fremont County History Center & Iowa’s Championship Rodeo Museum.

Commonly referred to as the Storied & Scenic travel area, Southeast Iowa boasts a rich history and culture. Some cultural highlights include Iowa City, a UNESCO City of Literature, the American Gothic House in Eldon, the Czech Village & New Bohemia District in Cedar Rapids, Figge Art Museum in Davenport and Snake Alley in Burlington. Some hidden gems include the Anne Frank Connection, Hotel Rea, Video Game Capital of the World Museum, Swinging Bridge Park, Blue Grass Drive-In Theater and Wilton Candy Kitchen.
 

There are five major travel areas in Iowa: Lakes & Land in the northwest portion of the state, Loess Hills & Beyond in the southwest, Capital Country in central Iowa, Driftless Area in the northeast and Stories & Scenic in the southeast. 

The Lakes & Land travel area is the northwest section of Iowa. This region is especially known for its lake resorts and year-round water adventures, music history and unique architecture. Some of the most popular lake spots include Okoboji, Clear Lake, Storm Lake and Lake View. All are known for their excellent boating in the summer and ice fishing in the winter.