Best Places to Visit in Iowa
Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in Iowa with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore Iowa sites or check out the sites in another state.
You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in Iowa that have become local favorites easily with our site.
We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in Iowa whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.
Des Moines Art Center
Des Moines, IA
West Lake Park
Davenport, IA
West Lake Park is a 620 acre facility offering four lakes for fishing and/or swimming. A boat dock, parking lot, handicap fishing dock, beach area, and paddle boat rentals are available for the water enthusiast. For the landlubbers, the park offers picnic facilities, playground areas, modern restrooms and two campground areas with electrical, water, and/or sewer hook-ups. Both camping areas have handicap accessible comfort stations.
African American Museum of Iowa
Cedar Rapids, IA
Ushers Ferry Historic Village
Cedar Rapids, IA
Ushers Ferry Historic Village provides the citizens of Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa with a venue for family friendly activities, events and programs that build community from the historical perspective of a small Iowa town at the turn of the 20th century. Ushers Ferry features 20 historic buildings that depict life in a small Iowa town between the years of 1890 and 1910.
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Des Moines, IA
The internationally renowned World Food Prize Foundation invites you to explore the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates. A public museum, educational facility and place of inspiration for all Iowans. It is a magnificent setting where visitors can explore the awe-inspiring stories of some of Iowa’s greatest heroes, as well as the achievements of world-renowned scientists and leaders who are helping to feed the world.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Des Moines, IA
At Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, it is where exploring, explaining and celebrating the world of plants is their mission. Tropical and temperate gardens make them an oasis in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Whether you visit on your own or explore with a group, you will find the Botanical Garden a place where you can learn about fascinating plants, hone your gardening skills or immerse yourself in beautiful gardens.
Sioux City Public Museum
Sioux City, IA
The Grout Museum District
Waterloo, IA
Established in 1932, the Grout Museum District is widely acknowledged as one of the cornerstones of culture in Northeast Iowa. The current building at 503 South Street was completed in 1956 and opened to the public as a not-for-profit museum. The Grout’s many attractions have drawn visitors from all over the state of Iowa and surrounding states, and its educational programs involve students from Waterloo, Cedar Falls and surrounding areas.
Figge Art Museum
Davenport, IA
The Figge Art Museum is the premier art exhibition and education facility between Chicago and Des Moines. With soaring glass walls reflecting the constantly changing sky, the museum’s expansive galleries and intimate rooms are home to some of the Midwest’s finest art collections. Studio-style classrooms allow young and old to participate in the creative process.
Blank Park Zoo
Des Moines, IA
Enjoy the wonderful park atmosphere as you and your family view over 800 furry, finned and feathered exotic creatures at the Zoo. You’ll find a surprise around every corner as you follow the winding path and manicured gardens! Experience the wonders of nature found in the Wilds of Africa and the Australian Outback. The indoor Discovery Center will amaze you with its mountainous and tropical habitats filled with exotic plants, birds, fish and animals.