Iowa
Photo of AI-Livingstone
AI-Livingstone
16 Mar 2025Updated last time
ShareShare
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

Iowa Road Trip Itinerary

Welcome to Your Ultimate Iowa Road Trip Adventure!

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heartland of America with our meticulously planned Iowa Road Trip itinerary. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Iowa has something truly special to offer. From the breathtaking vistas of Pikes Peak State Park and the nostalgic charm of the Field of Dreams Movie Site to the historic allure of the Amana Colonies, every stop on this road trip promises a unique and enriching experience. You'll find adventures waiting to be discovered in the stunning caves of Maquoketa Caves State Park and endless fun at the Lost Island Waterpark. Each destination on this itinerary is carefully selected to provide a diverse array of sights, sounds, and activities that will leave lasting memories. So pack your bags, fill up the tank, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Iowa. Your adventure begins now!

Recommended Explorations

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Pikes Peak State Park

    This park offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and its surrounding bluffs, along with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks perfect for nature lovers.
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Pikes Peak State Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Field of Dreams Movie Site

    Fans of the classic 1989 film will appreciate visiting the original set, complete with the quaint baseball field where the movie was filmed, offering a nostalgic experience and a unique piece of Hollywood history.
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Field of Dreams Movie Site
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Amana Colonies

    This historic area is known for its seven picturesque villages and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of German settlers, featuring charming shops, traditional craftsmanship, and delicious local cuisine.
    Amana Colonies
    Amana Colonies
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Amana Colonies
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Amana Colonies
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Amana Colonies
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Amana Colonies
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Amana Colonies
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Amana Colonies
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Maquoketa Caves State Park

    This park is renowned for its extensive network of caves, stunning rock formations, and scenic hiking trails, offering visitors an adventurous experience and a unique opportunity to explore Iowa's natural underground beauty.
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Maquoketa Caves State Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Lost Island Waterpark

    One of the top water parks in the Midwest, it features thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for fun and relaxation on a hot summer day.
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Lost Island Waterpark
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button

Travel Gems from Reddit

Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Brantley Gilbert

    Brantley Gilbert

    The event will take place at Delaware County Fairgrounds in Manchester.
    Map IconDelaware County Fairgrounds in Manchester (6.66 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Brantley Gilbert
  • Event Icon

    Lainey Wilson

    Lainey Wilson

    The event will take place at Great Jones County Fair in Monticello.
    Map IconGreat Jones County Fair in Monticello (14.56 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Lainey Wilson
  • Event Icon

    Creed

    Creed

    The event will take place at Great Jones County Fair in Monticello.
    Map IconGreat Jones County Fair in Monticello (14.56 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Creed
  • Event Icon

    Cody Johnson

    Cody Johnson

    The event will take place at Great Jones County Fair in Monticello.
    Map IconGreat Jones County Fair in Monticello (14.56 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Cody Johnson
  • Event Icon

    The Awakening Tour

    The Awakening Tour

    *Artist Line Up Subject to Change
    Map IconAlliant Energy PowerHouse in Cedar Rapids (29.58 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Oct 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for The Awakening Tour
  • Event Icon

    Gabriel Iglesias: Don't Worry Be Fluffy

    Gabriel Iglesias: Don't Worry Be Fluffy

    The event will take place at Alliant Energy PowerHouse in Cedar Rapids.
    Map IconAlliant Energy PowerHouse in Cedar Rapids (29.58 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Oct 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Gabriel Iglesias: Don't Worry Be Fluffy
  • Event Icon

    Leonid and Friends

    Leonid and Friends

    The event will take place at Paramount Theatre-Iowa in Cedar Rapids.
    Map IconParamount Theatre-Iowa in Cedar Rapids (29.75 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Oct 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Leonid and Friends

Music for Your Journey

    Tasty Picks

    • Restaurant Icon

      The General Store Pub

      The General Store Pub

      Housed in a historic general store with rustic ambiance, it offers a unique dining experience along the scenic Wapsipinicon River.
      Picture for The General Store Pub
    • Restaurant Icon

      Hickory Park Restaurant Co.

      4.6
      $$$$

      Hickory Park Restaurant Co.

      Famous for its extensive menu and mouthwatering BBQ, complete with a nostalgic ice cream parlor.
      4.6
      $$$$
      Picture for Hickory Park Restaurant Co.
    • Restaurant Icon

      The Hotel Pattee

      4.6

      The Hotel Pattee

      Not just a restaurant, but a historic boutique hotel with themed dining rooms and a menu that highlights local and seasonal ingredients.
      4.6
      Picture for The Hotel Pattee
    • Restaurant Icon

      Zombie Burger + Drink Lab - Des Moines, IA

      4.5
      $$$$

      Zombie Burger + Drink Lab - Des Moines, IA

      A quirky and fun zombie-themed restaurant in Des Moines known for its creative burgers and cocktails.
      4.5
      $$$$
      Picture for Zombie Burger + Drink Lab - Des Moines, IA
    • Restaurant Icon

      The Lost Duck

      4.4

      The Lost Duck

      Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, this restaurant offers eclectic dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients in a cozy setting.
      4.4
      Picture for The Lost Duck

    Stay Recommendations

    • Hotel Icon

      The Blackhawk Hotel

      4.5

      The Blackhawk Hotel

      This historic boutique hotel offers charming, vintage-style accommodations with modern amenities in the heart of downtown Cedar Falls.
      4.5
      Picture for The Blackhawk Hotel
    • Hotel Icon

      Hotel Grinnell

      4.6

      Hotel Grinnell

      A chic, modern hotel located in a renovated school building, offering unique rooms and a nostalgic atmosphere.
      4.6
      Picture for Hotel Grinnell
    • Hotel Icon

      Four Mounds Inn

      4.8

      Four Mounds Inn

      Set on a historic estate with stunning views of the Mississippi River, this inn provides a tranquil retreat with beautifully decorated rooms and outdoor activities.
      4.8
      Picture for Four Mounds Inn
    • Hotel Icon

      Mont Rest Inn

      4.7

      Mont Rest Inn

      A quaint bed and breakfast located in an 1893 Victorian mansion, known for its luxurious themed rooms and personalized service.
      4.7
      Picture for Mont Rest Inn
    • Hotel Icon

      The Brown Street Inn

      4.9

      The Brown Street Inn

      A charming bed and breakfast offering elegant accommodations and a cozy atmosphere in a beautifully restored Colonial Revival home.
      4.9
      Picture for The Brown Street Inn