You Must Try These 8 Iowa Attractions on Your Next Trip

If it never occurred to you to take a trip to Iowa, it's probably because you don't know what this vibrant Midwestern US state has to offer. While a trip to Iowa can satisfy a variety of preferences, culture buffs and outdoorsy travelers will feel right at home. The state has a diverse selection of natural landscapes, and cultural heritage is woven into many of the best Iowa attractions.

Intrigued? Keep reading to discover 8 Iowa attractions you must try on your next trip.

For those new to Iowa, this list is by no means exhaustive. There are so many more fun things to do. Consider the attractions listed below a starting point for your journey getting to know the state.

Discover and have a quick browse around popular Iowa Attraction.

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Iowa Attractions: African American Museum of Iowa

The African American Museum of Iowa, located in Cedar Rapids, is an essential stop. Immerse yourself in a very rich part of the American story you may or may not have been familiar with. The museum offers tours, temporary exhibits, research services and more. The permanent exhibit takes visitors right into the past through colorful visual storytelling. Not only does it outline a tumultuous past, but it tells a story of hope, change, and culture. A fulfilling Iowa activity to enrich any cultural vacation.

A nearby hotel visitors may enjoy is the Hampton Inn Cedar Rapids. It's comfortable, offers a wide variety of room types, and is a short 6-minute drive from the museum and many other Cedar Rapids Iowa attractions.

Iowa Attractions: Clear Lake State Park

Those traveling to become one with nature will love Clear Lake State Park. Located on the southeast corner of the popular Clear Lake, it is part of Northern Iowa. The park has everything you may need for the perfect picnic with your family or travel companions. Plenty of space, tables in the shade, and even grills that are ready to use! For those who love camping, Clear Lake State Park is the perfect place to visit. Modern sanitary facilities are available to campers, and the park features a wide range of amenities too! Kayaking, bird watching, jet skiing and more, there's a little something for everyone.

If you love the outdoors but camping is not your thing, why not stay at a nearby hotel? The Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clear Lake is a short 10-minute drive from the park.

Iowa Attractions: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium located in Dubuque combines the wondrous educational elements of a museum with the adorable underwater world of an aquarium. Talk about the best of both worlds! Come see the North American river otters or pay the Mexican red-knee tarantula a visit. Next, have a look inside the Blacksmith Shop or check out the National Rivers Hall of Fame. There is so much to see here!

Want to find a hotel nearby? Try the Hotel Julien Dubuque, it is right across the street!

Iowa Attractions: The Mid America Museum of Aviation & Transportation

Travelers will love this one, the Mid America Museum of Aviation & Transportation! Located in Sioux City, the museum invites visitors to take a step back in time and explore unique artifacts and exhibits that recount tales of how air travel and other forms of transportation came to be. The museum has 30,000 square feet (2,8000 sq meters) of exhibits and displays. There's enough to see to spend an entire day there!

Once you're all done, you can return to your nearby hotel to unwind. New Victorian Inn - Sioux City is a great option in the area.

Iowa Attractions: Finkbine Golf Course

Golf anyone? Fans of the sport will have a great time at the Finkbine Golf Course on Melrose Avenue. The 18-hole course takes up over 200 acres. If you don't feel like traveling with all your golf gear, you don't have to! The Finkbine Golf Course features a state-of-the-art golf shop. When it's time for a bite to eat, be sure to stop by Bump's Restaurant on property. The lunch and dinner menus are extensive. Happy hour is from 4pm to 6pm, so don't be late!

After hours on the green, you'll want to return to your hotel for a well-deserved break. The Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights is a smart and comfortable choice.

Iowa Attractions: Lost Island Water Park

If you're looking for a fun adventure, you're absolutely certain to have a blast at the Lost Island Water Park in Waterloo. The family-owned theme park features a variety of slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and you can even go go-karting! Just be sure to wait about 20 minutes after grabbing a snack at the Castaway Cafe before you get back to the action. Not only is the park dedicated to providing fun times to all, but they have also made a commitment to the environment.

Also -no more single use plastics! Food and beverages are served in reusable and compostable containers and there will be recycling containers available throughout the park.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Waterloo Cedar Falls is just a 4-minute drive away for those who want to lodge nearby!

Iowa Attractions: Adventureland Park

If you're looking for even more family fun, why not pay the Adventureland Park in Altoona a visit next? There's a little something for every adventurer, from thrill rides to family rides and kiddie rides too. The Adventure Bay also features a nice selection of water attractions. Be sure to keep an eye on their calendar of events so you'll know if there are any special activities happening during your trip!

For an extra dose of adventure, you can camp right on Adventureland and save on travel time!

Iowa Attractions: Grant Wood Bike Trail

Bikers among us should definitely pay the Grant Wood Bike Trail a visit. Become one with nature and practice those healthy habits!

There are quite a few hotels nearby, but the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Cedar Rapids Marion is a great choice.

Now that you have the inside scoop on all the best Iowa attractions, it's time to plan your trip! As always, Trip.com is here to help you plan an unforgettable getaway. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information!

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