This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across Iowa Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset.

What's your favorite place to greet the sunrise at the start of a brand new Iowa day? What about the best place to reflect on the adventures of the day as the sun goes down? Iowa is full of fantastic views — and this full day trip in Iowa will take you to two of the best to start and end your day, amid a tour of the state's best sights, eats, and experiences. So, pack up the car for an epic single-day adventure with this road trip itinerary that takes you from Council Bluffs to Dubuque — with some of the best places to see the scenic sunrises in Iowa

Iowa is a convenient one-day drive with some amazing sights along the way — and a stunning view awaiting you on each side of the trip.

1. Lewis and Clark Monument (Council Bluffs)

Start your journey at this historic park only a short distance from the Nebraska border. Here, you will find a stunning view of the Iowa sunrise.

2. Chuckwagon Restaurant (Adair)

You've got a long ride ahead, so fill up at this country-style Adair staple. If you get here early, you can dig into a great spread at the breakfast buffet.

3. Covered Bridges (Winterset)

It wouldn't be a road trip through Iowa without a stop at the famous bridges of Madison County — the most beautiful drive in the state.

4. Blank Park Zoo (Des Moines)

This is the largest zoo in Iowa, and you'll want to take a break from the drive to pay a visit to the giraffes, red pandas, and all of the other friendly residents.

5. Pheasant Run Farm (Belle Plaine)

This charming flower farm is always worth a stop but if you're here in August, you can witness the spectacular Sunflower Experience. (Editor's Note: The Sunflower Experience is open seasonally, so please check with Pheasant Run Farm to verify the dates it is open.)

6. Sykora Bakery (Cedar Rapids)

The last old-school Czech bakery left in Iowa, you'll want to drop in here to stock up on traditional rye bread, the meal of the day, and a whole lot of sweet kolaches.

7. The Palace Saloon Bar and Grill (Dyersville)

It's time for dinner at this western-style saloon. You can order from the menu or dig into the fan-favorite buffet with several types of meats each day.

8. Julian Dubuque Monument (Dubuque)

End your day at this memorial to the founder of Dubuque at the Mines of Spain Recreation Area — complete with Iowa's best sunset view.

Do you have other favorite spots to greet the Iowa sunrise or sunset? Let us know in the comments section. If you're looking for more day trips in Iowa, consider this exploration of the state's countryside hidden gems.