Who says you have to go out of state to enjoy a great vacation?
If you want to leave the daily grind behind for a week or a weekend, Iowa has many memorable attractions. Here are some ideas to help you start looking for your next great getaway.
Field of Dreams, Dyersville
The rural property where the beloved baseball movie “Field of Dreams” was filmed is located outside Dyersville in northeast Iowa. The field and farm shown in the film are open to guided tours.
In recent years, the site has grown and will host its first Major League Baseball game in 2021. In the coming years, developers plan to build a permanent 3,000-seat stadium, surrounded by youth sports fields, an amphitheater, a hotel and other amenities.
Further:Visiting the field of dreams? Here are things to do and restaurants to try in Dyersville.
River Cruises and National Mississippi River Museum
Iowa’s history has always been closely linked to the Mississippi River, the second longest in North America. Today, there are many opportunities to experience these famous waterways for yourself on a variety of cruises, ranging from short excursions to multi-day tours.
Of particular interest to history buffs will be those offered on two paddle-wheel steamboats. Celebration Belle sails from Dubuque and Moline, Illinois, and LeClaire in the Quad Cities with a combination of lunch, dinner and day cruises. Riverboat Twilight offers two-day cruises from LeClaire to Dubuque and back, as well as a one-day cruise from Dubuque and a 90-minute excursion from LeClaire.
While you’re in Dubuque, you can also visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, which combines history and biology to tell the story of the great river’s past, present, and future.
Camping at Maquoketa Caves State Park
From old growth forests to lakeside views, Iowa has many scenic places for outdoor lovers to go camping. One particularly memorable location is Maquoketa Caves State Park, where visitors can explore the park’s famous cave systems.
Other popular campgrounds include Ledges State Park near Boone and Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Keosauqua, all operated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, as well as other private and county-owned campgrounds throughout the state.
Further:7 Super Fun Campgrounds in Iowa
Check out Iowa’s many trails
Whether it’s mountain biking, strenuous hiking, or just a nice evening stroll, Iowa has plenty of options for hitting the trails.
Some of the top-rated trails, according to AllTrails.com, include the 1.7-mile Maquoketa Caves Loop, the 4.2-mile Wildcat Den Trail at Wildcat Den State Park, and the 6.3-mile loop through Dozer Cut, Bunker Hill, and Badger. Ridge trails at the Hitchcock Nature Center.
Explore the Okoboji Lakes
Iowa has many scenic lakes, but few attract as many visitors as Iowa’s Great Lakes, primarily Big Spirit Lake and East and West Okoboji Lakes.
In addition to the beaches and scenery, visitors can check out Arnolds Park amusement park, several concert venues, and Friday night fireworks throughout the summer.
Further:Summer is coming and the time is right for Okoboji. Here are 7 things to do at the lake.
William Morris writes for the Des Moines Register. He can be reached at wrmorris2@registermedia.com or 715-573-8166.
Keynote USA
For the Latest Local News, Follow Keynote USA Local on Twitter.