Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Amana Colonies
Historic 7-village community showcasing 20th-century craftsmanship and architecture.
- Craftsmanship: Visit working craft shops for a glimpse into traditional trades.
- Architecture: Discover unique, German Settler-style buildings.
- History: Learn about the German immigrant experience in Iowa.
2. Okoboji Summer
Popular lake resort area offering water sports, dining, and entertainment.
- Water Sports: Enjoy boating, jet-skiing, or paddleboarding on the lakes.
- Dining: Savor tasty treats at local eateries and ice cream shops.
- Entertainment: Experience live music performances and festivals.
3. Field of Dreams
Baseball field made famous by the movie 'Field of Dreams'.
- Movie Location: Visit the iconic location and take a tour.
- Baseball Games: Catch a game or practice with a local team.
- Dinner Events: Enjoy a unique dining experience under the stars.
4. Decorah
Home to Vesterheim Museum and trout fishing in the Whitewater River.
- Vesterheim Museum: Learn about Norwegian-American culture and history.
- Trout Fishing: Cast a line in the pristine waters of the Whitewater River.
- Outdoor Adventure: Explore the many hiking and biking trails.
5. Dubuque Arboretum
120-acre park with walking paths, gardens, and a restored prairie.
- Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll through various landscapes.
- Gardens: Explore the themed gardens, such as the Japanese Garden.
- Restored Prairie: Learn about Iowa's native prairie ecosystem.
6. Cedar Rapids Museum District
Home to several museums including the National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library.
- Museums: Explore a variety of art, history, and culture.
- Natural History Museum: Discover the natural wonders of the region.
- Art Galleries: Appreciate contemporary and classic works.
7. Mason City
Gateway to the North Iowa Welcome Center and home to the Music Man Square.
- Music Man Square: Learn about the life of Meredith Willson, composer of The Music Man.
- Welcome Center: Start your North Iowa adventure with helpful information and gifts.
- Historic Buildings: Discover the architecture of the Historic Park Inn Hotel.
8. Pella
Home to Vermeer Manufacturing and Dutch heritage sites.
- Dutch Heritage: Experience the rich history and culture of the Netherlands.
- Windmill Factory: Visit the Vermeer Corporation to see their famous windmills.
- Historic District: Stroll through the charming streets of the Historic District.
9. Dunn's Springs Park
Nature preserve offering hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the diverse landscapes of the park.
- Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
- Picnic Spots: Relax and enjoy lunch amidst beautiful surroundings.
10. Madcap's Meadowlark Trail
Bike trail connecting Des Moines with Pella.
- Biking: Enjoy a leisurely or challenging biking experience.
- Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking views of Iowa's landscapes.
- Historic Sites: Discover the region's rich history along the trail.
11. Lake Red Rock
Large recreational lake offering boating, fishing, and camping.
- Boating: Explore the lake by boat, kayak, or canoe.
- Fishing: Cast a line for bass, catfish, and crappie.
- Camping: Spend the night under the stars at one of the campgrounds.
12. Ottumwa's Bridgeview Park
Park featuring a covered bridge, splash pad, and mini-golf.
- Covered Bridge: Capture the perfect photo by this iconic landmark.
- Splash Pad: Cool off and have fun at the interactive water feature.
- Mini-Golf: Enjoy a friendly game of mini-golf with family or friends.
13. Knoxville Raceway
Auto racing track hosting events throughout the summer.
- Auto Racing: Experience the thrill of live auto racing events.
- Concessions: Grab a bite to eat at the trackside concessions.
- Events: Check out special events, such as demolition derbies and tractor races.
14. Chariton's Lucas County Museum
Local history museum showcasing exhibits on the Underground Railroad.
- Underground Railroad: Learn about the history and impact of the Underground Railroad.
- Local History: Discover the rich history of Lucas County.
- Exhibits: View a variety of artifacts and photographs.
15. Indianola's Simon Estes Amphitheatre
Outdoor venue hosting concerts and performances during the summer.
- Concerts: Enjoy live music from popular artists.
- Performances: Watch plays, musicals, and dance performances.
- Outdoor Experience: Take in a performance under the stars in a beautiful setting.