4.5Pappajohn Sculpture Park(727 reviews) - Pleasant Stop on Road Trip Thursday: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Parks
Open to visitors since September 2009, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork by 22 of the world's most celebrated artists. The 4.4 Acre park, located within a major crossroads of the urban grid, creates a pedestrian friendly entranceway to downtown Des Moines. This accessible setting, coupled with the skilled landscape design and caliber of the art, makes it unlike any other sculpture park in the United States. The Pappajohns' contribution of 28 works for the park is the most significant donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center.See more..
4.0Adventureland(707 reviews) - Water park Issues Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks
Adventureland Amusement Park and Adventure Bay Waterpark contain over 100 rides, shows, and attractions including some of the country's most exciting roller coasters and thrill rides that can challenge the most avid amusement park enthusiasts. There are also plenty of rides for less adventurous guests including great water rides as well as a full compliment of children's rides spread throughout the park. But the entertainment doesn't stop with rides - Adventureland presents a full array of shows in the park - from thrilling circus acts and magic shows to live music and juggling - there's always something to suit everyone's taste. Simply the most fun you will have all year!See more..
4.5Eagle Point Park(578 reviews) - Lovely park, but… Thursday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Parks
Gorgeous historic park with stunning views of the river and surrounding vistas. Be forewarned that they charge $1 (cash only) per carload to enter the park. They actually pay someone to stand in a booth and collect your $1. Hardly seems worth it but whatever. Also, the park is not pet friendly. Your dog or cat must remain in your vehicle or you risk getting fined. We drove 2 hours to picnic at this park with our dog. We were very disappointed that our small pup could not get out of the car. He was very anxious to get out. There were tons of people traipsing all over their precious grounds and yet dogs aren’t allowed. Very weird. We drive through and left to go to nearby A.Y. McDonald park where we picnicked at a table in a sunny spot with our dog for free!See more..
The park lived up to its billing as a fall color must do in NE Iowa! Even though we visited on a Thursday there were a lot of visitors. It was a beautiful fall day and we took advantage of a well placed table on the bluff to enjoy lunch prior to a hike. We took a couple of back loops off the parking lot to work our way to the main attractions; the Bridal Falls Overlook and the Crows Nest Overlook. The hiking was moderate with some elevation. Fall colors were prime and we thoroughly enjoyed the exercise, fall color and the views. After a few requisite pictures we were off to our next adventure, the Effigy Mounds National Monument. See more..
4.5Gray's Lake Park(326 reviews) - Great family recreation Thursday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Parks
Gray's lake has so much to do! walking trails, fishing, and paddle boating are just a few options for the whole family. With the new underpass walk trail opening up to Waterworks Park, this is the place to enjoy the outdoors in the greater Des Moines Area. "Like" their Facebook page for details on night events at Gray's lake.See more..
4.5Effigy Mounds National Monument(250 reviews) - Totally worth it Thursday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites • Parks • Monuments & Statues
29 Of This Park's 191 Mounds Are In The Shape Of Animals.See more..
4.5Lost Island Water Park(249 reviews) - Life guard on duty Closed now - 10:30 AM - 6:30 PM Water Parks
I am a life guard at lost island water park. I have the joy of coming to work everyday, with a smile on my face. It is awesome, people love it. The new slides added this year make it a must see when in Iowa. Also new slides will be added throughout the next few years, so keep coming, and enjoy the day... ;)See more..
Historic Amusement Park and Museum. Celebrated over 125 years of operations.See more..
4.5Mines of Spain Recreation Area(242 reviews) - The museum and castle a must see Thursday: 4:00 AM - 10:30 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
At first I wasn’t sure what to expect but I did know I wanted a good view of the Mississippi. There was a lot to see at museum about the settling of Dubuque so glad we stopped there first and then went on a nice drive over to the “ mines of Spain” site. Very interesting area and some great view of the RiverSee more..
4.5Vander Veer Botanical Park(176 reviews) - A Must-Return-Often Attraction Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Parks
Vander Veer Botanical Park is a Davenport treasure that is free to visit & fun to explore. It's a great public place to wander & linger no matter what time of year. Their Conservatory always has a surprise (or two or more) inside & out; for the latest visit by my wife & me, it was a collection of whimsical topiary animals scattered around the interior spaces. The botanical collections throughout the park are maintained & attractive - with the Municipal Rose Garden & the Hosta Glade being our favorites - while the green spaces & the Lagoon & the central tree-lined Grand Allee are great places to stroll and relax and enjoy the outdoors. The addition of a modern playground has made the park even more "kid friendly" than before, and the fountain at the south end of the grounds is a special treat for all ages at night (May through October) when it features a colorful light show.See more..
4 adults and 2 children spent 1 night at Grand Harbor, and we really enjoyed our stay. I can't say enough about everything including front desk, wait staff, and house keeping. Everyone was pleasant and helpful. The resort has several room types, but we picked a nice 7th floor room with an amazing view of the Mississippi River. The bar/restaurant (Tony Romas)has a large deck that extends right up to the river walk. There is waterpark attached and our grandkids had a blast.This was such an enjoyable experience we will return for next summer.See more..
4.5Eagle Point Park(127 reviews) - Beautiful City Park! Thursday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks
Picnic, hike or cross-country ski in one of the Clinton's most treasured assets, Eagle Point Park, a 200 acre park set atop bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River at the widest part of the river. Attractions- a 1937 Stone Tower, Prairie Pastures Dog Park, a disc golf course, a rental facility- Eagle Point Lodge, 3 rentable shelters, playgrounds, sand volleyball court, basketball courts, 2 overlooks, walking path and winding road.See more..
Cedar Rock State Park is the home to the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Lowell and Agnes Walter Estate. The property is a complete and beautiful example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian design meaning that Wright is as much the interior designer as he was the architect. Those that tour the home experience it almost as if the homeowners stepped out in 1950. The estate is comprised of four Wright designed structures which include the house, council fire, river pavilion, and formal entrance gate. Seasonal guided tours of the property depart the visitor center hourly from 10:00 am-3:00 pm Thursday to Sunday's from late May to mid-October.See more..
4.5Backbone State Park(93 reviews) - Nice Trails and Fall Foliage State Parks
Driving in from the West Gate Entrance, park and hike East Lake Trail, then connect with Bluebird Trail and return to auto. This is about 4.6 miles. East Lake Trail hugs the lake and is a bit steep and rocky in places. Bluebird Trail is wide, grassy and nicely mown. Picnic at South Flats or North Flats picnic areas, then take a drive to Stone Arch Bridge, the cave and Richmond Springs. This is a quieter area than the East Gate Entrance where the beach and playground are. See more..
3.5Kings Pointe(87 reviews) - Pretty nice stay Water Parks
With both indoor and outdoor waterparks, King’s Pointe Resort offers exciting aquatic adventures all year round! Race down our high-speed slides; let your imagination run wild in our virtual slide; leap from lily pad to lily pad; climb through water playgrounds and enjoy a relaxing float down the lazy river. We’re the perfect vacation destination with fun for all ages! After you work up an appetite from all of the action, head to the Sara Lee Snack Shack to refuel on icy drinks and tasty snacks!See more..
4.0Lake Macbride State Park(82 reviews) - Sunday morning hike around the beautiful lake 08/16 State Parks
My wife and I were visiting our out-doorsy hiking type son who lives in North Liberty last week, and he brought us here to hike around the beautiful lake. Unfortunately, there were many large trees and branches across the trails from the recent storms in the area. These were not too difficult to negotiate, and we made about 3.5 miles round trip around the lake. Two pictures of the lake from different spots along the lake perimeter trail are attached.See more..
4.5Stone State Park(71 reviews) - Beautiful woods and great hiking State Parks
On a warm day, this is a great park to hike or relax among the beautiful woods here. Incredibly tall trees everywhere and lush plants along the trails make for peaceful hiking. Bring bug spray and water to ensure a good time!See more..
4.5Bellevue State Park(63 reviews) - Bellevue State Park, Nelson Unit State Parks • Parks
The Bellevue state park, Nelson unit, was an awesome experience. Good trails and amazing views. The Butterfly Garden was amazing. The paved path from the parking lot to the garden is handicapped accessible. The garden area maybe hard to navigate but you will still get good views. Along the path are tons of wildflowers. Upon arrival at the garden area is a picnic pavilion. The garden has a frog pond and many different types of flowers. They are in the process of rebuilding after Covid, but it worth the stop. It was so peaceful and relaxing.See more..
4.5Lake Red Rock(62 reviews) - Beautiful and peaceful setting Bodies of Water • Parks
Iowa’s largest lake is a beautiful setting for bird watching, sailing, and bike-riding. I’ve visited a few times with family to enjoy the views and outdoors. Wonderful sunset views as well!See more..
We stayed at Bridges Bay Resort and spent much of the weekend in the water park. It was perfect for all of the kids (from 2 to 13) and we had a great time. It would have been nice if grandma and grandpa could've sat and watched the kids without paying (the sitting fee was $5) but we understood and they were very polite about it. See more..
4.5Mosquito Park(61 reviews) - Spectacular view of Ol Muddy Spent < 1 hour Bodies of Water • Parks
Have lived in Burlington for 30 years and still get excited going to this outstanding overlook park. Impressive, neat and tidy with up and down river views of the mighty Mississippi. A must place to take visitors friends and family.See more..
This lake is so awesome. It looks so amazing and It feels so safe. You should go there. There is not very many people that go there so it is very quiet. See more..
Beautiful trails and lake. Max rentals offers kayaks and canoes. Hoping he gets some paddleboards this year!!! He will meet you right at the lake. Reasonable prices. Nice fella. See more..
5.0Hitchcock Nature Center(50 reviews) - Best kept secret north of Omaha Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
Three day 2 night girls (sisters) camping trip. Stayed in Burr Oak cabin. Was beautiful and rustic and surprisingly quiet and private from the other two cabins. Could not believe how great the mattress was - slept like a baby! Great trails and unbelievable views! So close to Omaha. Stopped at Stanley's Snack Shack on the way there and had a really great lunch. I guess the only downer was on Monday they were weed wacking about 100 yards from our cabin and this went on all morning, but I guess it has to be done at some point, but it did ruin our quiet morning. Rest room was clean and within easy walking distance to cabin. Did not use showers since we were only there for a couple days. The lodge was nice and we got a sticker for the car and a t-shirt. View from the lodge was amazing and so was the observation tower. Overall, highly recommend!!See more..
This may be each year on the third Saturday of February, I’m not sure. We heard about it last year as it was on the today show and wanted to go and fly a kite on the ice there were literally hundreds of colorful kites being flown see the pictures attached. We took beanbag style water toys that made nice chairs that were insulated to sit on the ice with. It was a nice day because the temperature had come up from the previous day by about 25°. We parked at the high school and took the shuttle to the kite flying area (on frozen Clear Lake). The downtown area was doing it’s best to handle the crowds but the lines were long wherever we went for food you might want to consider taking food with you if you went to this event next year! We ended up spending about three hours flying the kite and watching the other kites and had a great time!See more..
We loved Palisades-Kepler State Park. We stopped for a hike on the Cliffside Trail. We found parking close to trail. The trail was very pretty. The only negative part was we could not find a restroom. Since we were not camping, we did not know if we could use the campers’ facilities.See more..
This was a TripAdvisor find! The lake has a ~ 5 mile trail around the perimeter to run or walk. There are areas to rent boats, canoes or SUPs as well as lots of fishing areas. There is an open swim area and lots of parking and picnic areas for families and events. See more..
4.5Lewis and Clark State Park(42 reviews) - Incredibly nice staffer went the extra mile for me State Parks • Parks
I arrived at the visitor center and found it closed, forgetting it was a federal holiday. As I turned away, a staffer ran to the door and opened it up. We talked for a moment and when she found out I only had that day to see the area, she invited me in to see the exhibits and the boats “downstairs.” It is a wonderful little museum, I learned new things, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. When I was leaving, she even gave me “a special stamp” for my National Park Passport Book. She is exceptional. Oh, I also saw my first two Trumpeter Swans (yay!) gliding down the River, making it an even greater experience.See more..
There were 2 yurts to rent when we arrived. “Oak” had a small bit of land for kids to play in. “Hickory” (where the 6 of us stayed) was on a big piece of manicured lawn. My boys played baseball, football, & soccer on the grounds. During a campfire, we were visited by a raccoon. The mosquitos were pretty bad in the woods, but not in the grassy area. A negative was that there was no sink in the yurt. We used a well pump just outside the door. The nearest bathroom took 1 minute to walk to. Restrooms were clean, but small. (Only 1 toilet in the men’s’ room. Our group alone had 5 males.). In the yurt, There were 3 queen beds and two twins. (Sleeps 8). Two picnic tables. One inside, one outside. The ac was very strong & we kept very cool on hot days. I totally recommend staying in a yurt. See more..
4.5Wanatee Park(37 reviews) - Wedding and reception Spent More than 3 hours Parks
I recently attended a wedding and reception there. Beautiful building - quite spacious and a nice outdoor area too.See more..
I really enjoy coming to this park both alone and with friends. The 3 mile trail loop is especially nice, covered by overhanging trees and along both the River and lake. The beach, pavilions, nature center, huge dog park and archery range are also highlights.See more..
4.5Rand Park(36 reviews) - Beautiful park in Keokuk on the Mississippi River Parks
Found this park while walking down Grand Avenue and wow! Such a pretty little park! There were many little gardens all adopted by families with flowers for the summer. One example of the big heart this town has! There were a lot of shade trees and park benches to sit and a big fountain also. Would be nice for a picnic although there are not any tables. If in Keokuk definitely go visit! See more..
This is by far the best state park in Iowa! Located just across the Des Moines River from Keosauqua the park is lovely and open for business all 4 seasons. Lake Lacey located inside the park has a free beach for swimming. 4 mile long Lake Sugema is just outside the park and has great fishing and boating. Try Lazy Bee Log Cabin Rental which adjoins the park at the south entry and is walking distance to the main boat ramp of lake Sugema. It sits alone on 40 acres and has a full kitchen and bath. The park has miles and miles of hiking trails. The hunting is excellent in the area and wildlife abounds. Come prepared to step back in time to an easier and more relaxing pace. There isn't one stop light or franchise in the entire county----Enjoy !See more..
5.0Center Grove Orchard(31 reviews) - Best day ever!! Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Center Grove Orchard was an instant favorite for our family and a new tradition for sure. The orchard and facilities were very nice, clean, unique and each area we visited was fun for our 10 year old, 7 year old and 4 year old. Because most everything was outside and given ample space, we never felt crowded and we never stood in line for an activity. The corn pool was fun and the kids loved sliding down the old grain truck slide. The jumping pillows were a blast and so was the super slide! We loved the little animal showcase at the barn too. Hay pyramid, corn maze, hay maze, discovery barn, bottle feeding baby goats, hay ride- we thought two hours would be plenty of time but we spent nearly three hours and had to leave because they were closing. We could’ve made it a whole day! For everything we did, the money was well spent and wonderful memories were made! You save $3/ticket if you buy online in advance.See more..
4.0Scott County Park(30 reviews) - Beautiful, serene county park Parks
Take a drive to this beauty of a county park. You might see deer. Walk the trails. Enjoy nature. Have a picnic. Swim in the pool. Play at the playgrounds. It is lovely in the fall with the changing colors. It is a good place to visit in any season. There are campgrounds, golf course, pioneer village. I recommend a visit to Scott County Park. It is well maintained for your enjoyment.See more..
5.0Mount Hosmer Park(29 reviews) - Scary drive up - don't go up in a large RV Parks
Luckily I had someone local to direct me up to this park and the FABULOUS overlook of the Mississippi River. There are a couple hairpins turns that large RVs will have an issue with. It's steep. But once you're up here you could spend hours just watching the river or bird watching. Picnic tables at the top - plan to stay a while. See more..
Beautiful park! However, don’t plan on swimming here. The water is very green and the bottom is very silty/full of algae. I grew up swimming in plenty of northwoods lakes and wouldn’t consider myself squeamish but this lake gets a “nope” from me. Fun spot to take the grill and the family, do some fishing from one of the many docks, and walk the dog along the trails. Be sure to take the trail down to the bottom of the dam! It’s the prettiest spot in the park.See more..
4.5West Lake Park(28 reviews) - Gate 1 Camping at West Lake Park, IA Spent 2-3 hours Parks
Nice spacious campground with pull level paved through sites. Camped in a 33 foot 5th wheel. Site just long enough for camper and truck. Has parking lot for extra car(s) if needed. This site has water and electric, 30 AMP and 50 AMP. No sewer but does have a dump station with potable water. There will be a lake at the end of the road so will eventually be very nice - is currently under construction. Nice clean bathrooms with flush toilets and good sized showers. Nice playground for kids. We did drive through the full service site at Gate 5. It was very crowed and the sites were tight with very narrow roads. All of these sites were back in. We opted to stay at the campground at Gate 1 instead with the pull through sites and bigger spaces. Park rangers do a good job patrolling the grounds. Very friendly. Will definitely return again in the future to see it with the lakes completed.See more..
4.5Bever Park(25 reviews) - Mini vacation Spent 1-2 hours Zoos • Parks
Small hidden gem in a nice neighborhood. The animals looked well cared for. Perfect for kids to run off energy after riding in the car so long.See more..
This is a great little state park. We stayed three nights in tent area in October The staff was very friendly. Nice lake. We hiked all the 7 miles of trails and they were very nice. I was pleasantly surprised how pretty western Iowa is with its rolling hills, farm fields, woods and prairies Did see a lot of wildlifeSee more..
Right near the Harrah's casino and golf course, it's a nice riverside park with great views of the water and of Omaha. Plenty of parking and the place was clean and well maintained.See more..
4.5F.W. Kent Park(21 reviews) - A Gem of a County Park Parks
What a beautiful park! Although there is no water or sewer, the park does have 30/50 amp. Sites are spread apart with many pull throughs and back ins. Most sites are large. Bathrooms is close to the playground. Take a walk around the pond. Each crossing has a trestle with its history. Lots of flowers and trees too.See more..
If you want your child learn to swim - this is the place. You could have a group or private lessons , all will pay back quickly!See more..
4.5Furman Aquatic Center(21 reviews) - Love this center! Spent 1-2 hours Water Parks
We moved here from a somewhat smaller town that had a great pool. I was so relieved to see this was the center that Ames has available. I have three boys grades 4-7. We get a family pass and go in the evenings 2-4 times a week on average. I'm very impressed with their lifeguards, the staff is friendly. Even when it's busy it doesn't feel crowded, I can always find a chair to sit and relax while the kids play. The slides are a lot of fun and I love that we have a lazy river.See more..
4.5Discovery Park(21 reviews) - Best location in town for daytime walk Parks
Best location in town for daytime walks, including walking dog. Nice pond for fishing- have had some luck with blue gills and small bass.See more..
4.0Lake Manawa State Park(21 reviews) - Beautiful and peaceful. Spent 2-3 hours State Parks
Always a beautiful, peaceful place to visit. There are birds and waterfowl here all year round. Lots of eagles in the wintertime. Love to watch them sit on the ice waiting for fish. Pelicans migrate thru here in the spring and fall. Always lots of geese and different kinds of ducks. Seeing deer along the roadway is common. We drive around the lake every couple of weeks to see the wildlife and enjoy nature. We don't fish, boat, swim, camp or picnic but if you do this is a great place for it. See more..
4.5Cordova Park Observation Tower(20 reviews) - Fun and beautiful sights Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks • Observation Decks & Towers
We spend a lot on time at lake Red Rock with our boat and going fishing. But some days we like to climb the tower and see how far we can. Today was one of those days. It was clear and I had 4 kids with me...5, 4, and two 2 year olds and they all climbed it! It is quite the climb and usually I'm winded by the time we get to the top, but the views at the top are worth the climb. Remember it is50 cents a person. Quarters only! There is also a nice little trail in the woods at the same spot. It ends at some logs high on the rocks that are good for sitting on and watching the water.See more..
Campground with a lake view. Campground has tight/narrow roads which made it difficult getting into our site. No staff or station was available upon check-in. Small town grocery store and gas station nearby, within 5 miles. Campground about 10 mins from freeway. DirecTV (free standing satellite) had no issue. Verizon phone was able to get 4g signal. Boat ramp and fishing available within the park. Many of the campsites are covered by full tree that produce shade. Our site had full service at a good price.See more..
