Posted in Iowa May 27, 2017 by

The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Iowa

Sometimes, you just need to get out of town for the day. Here are 11 day trips that represent some of the best sights our awesome state has to offer.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
1. Head to Okoboji for a day of fishing.
Iowa Guide Service/Facebook
Go on your own, or hire Iowa Guide Service to help make sure you have an awesome (and successful) day.
2. Go Flyboarding on Lake Okoboji.
Extreme Water Sports Website
You can rent equipment from Extreme Water Sports. Zero commitment. Unlimited thrills.
3. Drive over to Corning and see Johnny Carson's birthplace.
Johnny Carson's Birthplace Website
The house is open from Memorial Day until Labor Day on weekends between 10 and 2. At other times, you'll have to call ahead for a tour, (641-322-3212 or 641-322-5229) but if you're a fan of the late comedian, it's well worth it. Not too much farther down the road, in Clarinda, is Glenn Miller's birthplace, which is also open for tours.
4. Enjoy a glass of wine at the floating tasting room at Corning Winery and Vineyard.
Corning Winery and Vineyards/Facebook
They also have a nice selection of beers. This winery grows grapes on site and specializes in dry, and sweet wines. If you are still looking for more to do, head over to the 650-acre Lake Icaria area, where you can spend the day enjoying nature's beauty.
5. Stop by the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City for an afternoon of hiking.
Woodbury Parks Website
Hungry? Try Main + Abbey or the Hard Rock Cafe. Both are highly recommended by visitors and locals.
6. Visit Winterset and its famous bridges.
Madison County Chamber Website
While you are exploring the area, be sure to check out the expansive Madison County Historical Complex. It includes 14 historical building situated on 18 acres.
7. Spend the day in the New Bo neighborhood.
R. Flynn
Cedar Rapids came back strong after the flood of 2008. Head over to New Bo City Market for a bit of shopping, have lunch at the new (and fabulous) locally owned Caucho just across the street. Or, stop in for coffee and a sweet treat at nearby Brewhemia.
8. Visit the Czech Village in Cedar Rapids for more dining, a top-notch brewery, and the world-class Czech and Slovak Museum in Czech Village.
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library/Facebook
It's just a short walk from the New Bo area in Cedar Rapids, and you could easily spend the day touring the museum, dining at the amazing locally owned brewery, The Lion's Bridge, across the street, and walking along the river on one of the beautiful paved trails.
9. See the beautiful Seed Savers Exchange Heritage farm near Decorah.
Seedsavers.org Website
Wander the gardens, visit the large gift shop, and see the Ancient White Park cattle. Head into town for the famous Mabe's Pizza, and spend some time wandering through the shops throughout Decorah's downtown area.
10. Spend the day in Des Moines' Historic East Village.
Jason Mrachina/Flickr
Tour the amazing state capital building, shop at the stores in the same neighborhood, and enjoy some of the finest restaurants in the state. Don't miss Streetcar 209's open patio seating. If you just want coffee and a snack, try Plain Talk Books & Coffee.
11. Enjoy the Mississippi River from Lindsay Park in Davenport.
Farragutful/Wikimedia
Take a break at the locally-owned Great River Brewery, and the set out for shopping and entertainment at The Village of East Davenport.

Wondering why we didn’t cover tried-and-true options like Pike’s Peak State Park, Backbone State Park, or Mississippi Cruises? Click on the links attached to each name to find out more about those Iowa favorites.