Most Scenic Road Trips in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

All Topics about Des Moines All Cities in United States

1. Des Moines to Pella Scenic Byway

A drive through picturesque rural landscapes and charming small towns, showcasing the rich Dutch heritage of Pella.

Historic Dutch Architecture: Enjoy the unique Dutch colonial-style buildings in Pella.
Windmill Views: Don't miss the iconic windmills that define Pella's skyline.
Rural Landscapes: Experience the tranquility of the Iowa countryside along this route.

Travel through dramatic limestone bluffs and valleys to the town of Winterset, famous for being the birthplace of John Wayne.

Natural Beauty: Marvel at the natural beauty of the Bridges of Madison County.
Historic Town: Discover Winterset's rich history, including the birthplace of John Wayne.
Hiking and Biking Trails: Explore the area's numerous trails for outdoor adventure.

An awe-inspiring pedestrian bridge crossing the Des Moines River, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Architectural Wonder: Admire the innovative design and lighting effects of this unique bridge.
Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking views of the Des Moines River valley.
Biking and Walking: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or walk along the trail leading to the bridge.

A drive through rolling hills and small towns, featuring a picturesque covered bridge and the stunning Rathbun Lake.

Covered Bridge: Experience the charm of the historic Red Covered Bridge.
Lake Rathbun: Enjoy scenic views of the largest lake in Iowa, Rathbun Lake.
Small Town Charm: Explore the quaint small towns along this route, like Kellerton and Greenfield.

A drive through rugged hills and valleys that showcase the unique Loess Hills geology, offering panoramic views of the Missouri River valley.

Loess Hills Geology: Learn about the unique geological formation of the Loess Hills.
Scenic Overlooks: Stop at scenic overlooks for stunning views of the Missouri River valley.
Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: Explore trails for hiking and wildlife viewing in the Loess Hills.

A drive through scenic farmland and rolling hills, culminating in the hometown of President Herbert Hoover.

Presidential History: Visit the birthplace and museum dedicated to President Herbert Hoover.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland.
Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Indianola.

A drive through the heart of central Iowa, showcasing picturesque farmland, rolling hills, and the historic town of Boone.

Small Town Charm: Explore the quaint charm of the historic town of Boone.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the John Wayne Birthplace Museum in Winterset and the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad.

A scenic drive through a park featuring beautiful wooded areas, lakes, and the historic Jester Mansion.

Historic Mansion: Tour the historic Jester Mansion, built in the early 20th century.
Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the park's wooded areas and lakes.
Recreational Opportunities: Take advantage of the park's numerous recreational opportunities, such as fishing, hiking, and biking.

A drive through the dramatic landscape of the Des Moines River valley, featuring scenic overlooks and historic sites.

Scenic Overlooks: Stop at scenic overlooks for breathtaking views of the Des Moines River valley.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Knoxville Mill and the Knoxville Covered Bridge.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.

A drive through the beautiful Iowa countryside, featuring scenic farmland, rolling hills, and historic sites.

Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Redfield.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Redfield Carnegie Library and the Red Rock River Valley.

A drive through the rural landscapes of central Iowa, showcasing picturesque farmland, rolling hills, and historic sites.

Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Adel.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Adel Carnegie Library and the Madison County Courthouse.

A drive through the beautiful Iowa countryside, featuring scenic farmland, rolling hills, and historic sites.

Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Stuart.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Stuart Public Library and the Stuart Carnegie Park.

A drive through the rolling hills and picturesque farmland of central Iowa, culminating in the charming town of Woodward.

Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Woodward.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Woodward Opera House and the Carnegie Library.

A drive through scenic farmland and rolling hills, featuring picturesque rural landscapes and the charming town of Panora.

Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Panora.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Panora Carnegie Library and the Sacred Heart Church.

A drive through scenic farmland and rolling hills, culminating in the charming town of Granger with its historic charm.

Small Town Charm: Discover the charm of the historic town of Granger.
Scenic Farmland: Enjoy the picturesque views of Iowa farmland along this route.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Granger Mill and the Granger Public Library.