MomSkoop
Iowa might surprise you with its incredible variety of family-friendly adventures waiting to be discovered. From thrilling theme parks to peaceful nature trails, the Hawkeye State offers something special for every member of your family. Whether you’re seeking educational experiences, outdoor fun, or unique attractions, Iowa delivers unforgettable memories that will have your kids asking to return. Pack your bags and get ready to explore these amazing destinations that make Iowa a hidden gem for family vacations.
1. Hiking Trails of Iowa
Adventure awaits on Iowa’s spectacular hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes your family will absolutely love exploring together. Ledges State Park offers easy walking paths perfect for little legs, while older kids can tackle the more challenging terrain at Maquoketa Caves State Park.
Many trails feature wooden bridges, limestone formations, and wildlife viewing opportunities that keep children engaged throughout the journey. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers shaded canopies, and fall displays stunning colors that create picture-perfect family moments.
Most state parks provide picnic areas and restrooms, making day-long adventures comfortable for families with young children.
2. Blank Park Zoo
Roaring lions, playful penguins, and gentle giraffes create magical moments at Des Moines’ beloved Blank Park Zoo, where animal encounters spark curiosity in young minds. Interactive exhibits allow children to feed goats, touch stingrays, and watch sea lions perform incredible acrobatics during daily shows.
The zoo’s train ride circles the entire facility, giving tired little feet a fun break while spotting animals from a different perspective. Educational programs teach kids about conservation while keeping them entertained with hands-on activities.
Special events throughout the year, including Zoo Lights during winter holidays, transform regular visits into extraordinary family celebrations.
3. National Mississippi River Museum
Step aboard historic riverboats and explore fascinating aquariums at Dubuque’s National Mississippi River Museum, where history comes alive through interactive displays. Children become river pilots in the steamboat simulator, learning how massive vessels navigated the mighty Mississippi decades ago.
Freshwater aquariums showcase native fish species, while outdoor exhibits feature restored boats and equipment used by early river workers. The museum’s hands-on approach keeps kids engaged as they discover how rivers shaped American history and continue influencing modern life.
Special demonstrations throughout the day show traditional river skills like knot tying and steam engine operation, creating educational entertainment for all ages.
4. The Science Center of Iowa
Curiosity explodes into excitement at Des Moines’ Science Center, where hands-on experiments turn learning into thrilling adventures for inquisitive young minds. Interactive exhibits covering space exploration, human biology, and physics principles encourage kids to touch, build, and discover scientific concepts through play.
The center’s planetarium transports families on cosmic journeys to distant galaxies, while the IMAX theater presents nature documentaries on massive screens. Live demonstrations featuring electricity, chemistry reactions, and robotics happen throughout the day.
Birthday party packages and summer camps extend the fun beyond single visits, making science education an ongoing adventure for curious children.
5. Downtown Des Moines
Urban exploration becomes family fun in downtown Des Moines, where walkable streets connect parks, museums, and entertainment venues perfect for all ages. The vibrant Farmers Market on Saturday mornings offers fresh treats, live music, and local crafts that create memorable experiences.
Sculpture gardens and public art installations provide Instagram-worthy backdrops while teaching children about creativity and artistic expression. Many downtown restaurants feature kid-friendly menus and outdoor patios ideal for family dining.
Seasonal festivals, outdoor concerts, and holiday celebrations transform downtown streets into community gathering spaces where families create lasting memories together while exploring Iowa’s capital city culture.
6. Iowa State Fair
Nothing beats the excitement of Iowa’s legendary State Fair, where corn dogs, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits create the ultimate family summer experience. Children marvel at giant pumpkins, pet baby farm animals, and watch butter cow sculptures being carved by skilled artists.
Thrilling rides range from gentle carousels for toddlers to exciting roller coasters for brave teenagers, ensuring every family member finds their perfect adventure. Live entertainment includes concerts, magic shows, and educational demonstrations happening throughout the fairgrounds.
Food vendors serve everything from classic funnel cakes to unique Iowa specialties, making meal times part of the overall adventure and cultural experience.
7. Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Tropical paradise awaits inside the stunning glass dome of Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens, where exotic plants transport families to far-off destinations without leaving Iowa. Children discover banana trees, colorful orchids, and cascading waterfalls while learning about plant life from around the world.
Outdoor gardens showcase native Iowa plants and seasonal displays that change throughout the year, creating new experiences with each visit. Educational programs teach kids about gardening, conservation, and the important role plants play in our ecosystem.
Special events like butterfly releases and holiday light displays add extra magic to regular visits, making the gardens a year-round family destination.
8. Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Massive outdoor sculptures create an amazing playground for imagination at Des Moines’ Pappajohn Sculpture Park, where art appreciation begins with simple wonder and exploration. Children run between towering installations, discovering how shadows, shapes, and colors change throughout the day.
Free admission makes this cultural experience accessible to all families, while the park’s central location connects easily to other downtown attractions. Interactive elements encourage kids to touch certain sculptures, breaking down barriers between art and audience.
Photography opportunities abound as families pose with unique installations, creating artistic memories while introducing children to contemporary art in an approachable, outdoor setting that feels like play.
9. Scenic Valley Railroad
All aboard for unforgettable family adventures on the Scenic Valley Railroad, where vintage train cars carry passengers through Iowa’s beautiful countryside on authentic steam-powered journeys. Children press faces against windows watching farms, forests, and rivers roll past during leisurely rides.
Special themed excursions include Halloween ghost trains, Christmas polar express experiences, and summer ice cream socials that add extra excitement to regular trips. Conductors share historical stories about railroads while punching tickets in traditional style.
The restored depot serves as both starting point and museum, displaying railroad artifacts and memorabilia that help children understand transportation history before boarding their own adventure.
10. Adventureland Park
Screams of delight echo through Iowa’s premier amusement park, where Adventureland delivers heart-pounding thrills and gentle rides perfect for every family member’s comfort level. Roller coasters twist and turn while kiddie rides provide safe excitement for the youngest adventurers.
Water attractions offer cooling relief during hot summer days, with splash pads designed specifically for toddlers and water slides challenging older kids. Live entertainment, games, and prize booths create carnival atmosphere throughout the park.
Season passes and group packages make multiple visits affordable, while on-site restaurants and snack stands keep families fueled for full days of non-stop entertainment and adventure.
11. Field of Dreams Movie Site
Baseball magic lives on at the famous Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, where families recreate iconic scenes from the beloved film on the actual diamond. Children who have never seen the movie still feel the wonder of this perfectly maintained baseball field surrounded by Iowa cornfields.
Visitors can run the bases, play catch, and take photos at home plate while learning about the movie’s production and lasting cultural impact. The adjacent gift shop offers souvenirs and movie memorabilia.
Free admission makes this unique attraction accessible to all families, while the peaceful rural setting provides a refreshing break from typical tourist destinations and busy schedules.