12 Magnificent Hidden Gems to Discover in Iowa This Year

Iowa is so full of great attractions that it's easy to fall into doing the same thing year after year - but not in 2025! There are so many great hidden gems in Iowa that it can be hard to know where to start. Why not discover new Iowa hidden gems every month of the year? These day trips are designed to give you a year of adventure - from restaurants that perfectly fit the season to natural wonders when the weather is nice to holiday adventures that will end the year with a bang. There is no better way to celebrate 2025 than with all the best Iowan hidden gems.

1. January - Donna Reed Theatre (Denison)

Donna Reed, one of Iowa's most famous residents, had her birthday in January. What better way to celebrate than by visiting the Donna Reed Museum and Opera House bearing her name? It's a great way to start a year of exploring hidden gems in Iowa.

2. February - Chez Grace (Coralville)

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and this French bistro in Coralville is often called the most romantic restaurant in Iowa. You'll dine on fine cuisine in a peaceful, intimate environment.

3. March - Jameson's Public House (Waterloo)

When St. Patrick's Day rolls around, everyone is feeling Irish! This old-school pub in Iowa not only has great décor and beer, but it also has top-quality corned beef and cabbage.

4. April - Cedar Valley Fish Market (Waterloo)

If you're one of the many Iowans observing Lent, this Iowa fish market and fried fish stand is a Godsend. If not, the crispy fried fish is still a delicious treat!

5. May - Berry Patch Farm (Nevada)

May is when Strawberry season starts, and there is no better way to celebrate than by visiting a pick-your-own farm in Nevada, Iowa, for the pick of the season's crop.

6. June - St. Donatus

The "Little Luxembourg" of Iowa only has just over a hundred full-time residents, but its architecture and delicious Kalmes Restaurant are well worth a visit - especially on June 23rd, Luxembourg Independence Day.

7. July - Valle Drive-In (Newton)

There is no better way to see a movie in the summer than at a drive-in, and this old-school institution plays classic and modern films in the open air.

8. August - Briggs Woods Lake (Webster City)

As the end of summer rolls around, a peaceful lakeside retreat is just the ticket. This beautiful lake in Iowa will be crowd-free, and the nearby Legacy Learning Boone River Valley Center will teach intriguing craft classes.

9. September - Yellow River State Forest (Harpers Ferry)

September is fall foliage time, and this massive state forest in Iowa is full of colorful trees. With countless trails to explore, it's a great way to experience nature without the crowds.

10. October - Linn's Haunted House (Des Moines)

Built into one of the last family-owned supermarkets in Des Moines, this old-school haunted house will scare guests of all ages silly without being as extreme as some of the bigger haunted houses.

11. November - Ox Yoke Inn (Amana Colonies)

Where to get the best Thanksgiving dinner in Iowa? Head to Amana, where this popular family-style restaurant dishes out the state's best turkey dinner - and it's all-you-can-eat! Bring your appetite ... you'll need it.

12. December - Waverly Lights (Waverly)

Far away from the massive holiday lights events, this charming suburban light display in Iowa is put on entirely by volunteers and is free to see. All you must do is walk down the street to discover what Waverly has created this year.

Which of these hidden gems in Iowa have you visited? Do you have any other favorite things to do in Iowa? If you're looking for a place to stay during your travels, check out our listing of the best stays in Iowa for 2025.