3 Exciting Places in Iowa Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026

As we get ready to usher in a new year, I’m looking ahead to see what’s in store for Iowa in 2026. Many fun events are happening year-round, but I’m honing in on a few small towns broadcasting a little extra oomph on the upcoming calendar. Tune in below for the return of Major League Baseball, the 40th birthday of one of our most iconic outdoor events, and a brand new attraction begging all of us to head out on a scenic road trip for the most exciting places to visit next year in Iowa.

1. Dyserville - Field of Dreams

There’s no doubt about it, the Field of Dreams is one of Iowa’s top tourist attractions, but it’s been a little quiet in recent years, implementing a complete overhaul of the Kevin Costner movie site, 36 years after the film debuted in 1989. I visited last summer to see the shiny new digs, and it does indeed look ready to welcome Major League Baseball back.  Everyone will be talking about Dyersville and the big game between the Minnesota Twins and the Philadelphia Phillies, which will be livestreamed on Netflix on August 11. If you're curious why the Field of Dreams required a 4-year renovation, it’s summed up by an $80 million expansion that includes a new stadium, new shops and concessions, and a new youth sports complex with 10 baseball and softball diamonds. An RV Park and a boutique hotel are also planned, although no opening dates have been publicized yet.

2. Ames - 40th Annual Iowa Games

Next on the line-up is Ames, the annual host for Iowa’s Olympic-style summer games. 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the season-long series, which typically runs from May through the end of August, with prime events happening in mid-July. It hosts events for over 60 different sports for all ages and ability levels, including atmospheric special events such as a torch-lighting ceremony. Specific details haven’t been listed yet, but with its 40th anniversary coinciding with the America 250 celebration, extra emblematic events are expected this summer. Additional key points of interest in Ames include Stephens Auditorium, where you can see a Broadway musical, Reiman Gardens (17 acres of indoor botanical gardens), and, of course, Iowa State University. Surely Ames, Iowa, will be an exciting place to visit next year.

3. Moravia - Bale Trail

After mentioning an Iowa-famous small town and a legendary Iowa small city, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t close with a hidden gem. Hailing from the tiny town of Moravia, population hovering around 600 residents, we’ll find a fun way to embrace our Iowa roots in 2026. It’s called the Bale Trail, and it's the Sixth edition of free-to-see hay-bale and scarecrow art installations along the Historic Hills Scenic Byway. This year, it will have a patriotic theme to coincide with the United States' 250th birthday. The 100-mile route runs through rural south-central Iowa, home to 20 traditional Amish and Mennonite communities. You won’t find many gas stations or fast food spots, but bring some cash for squeaky cheese curds along the way. Other places to look for on the route include Iowa’s oldest courthouse, the historic town of Bentonsport, the Hershler Winery, and Honey Creek Resort.

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