Iowa, often overlooked as a travel destination, is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering a rich tapestry of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Fall is an especially magical time to visit, with the state’s landscapes transforming into a vibrant display of autumn colors. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Iowa has something to offer. Here are 15+ of the best places to visit in Iowa this fall.
1. Pikes Peak State Park
Pikes Peak State Park, located in northeastern Iowa, offers some of the most breathtaking views in the state. The park sits high atop a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, providing stunning panoramic views of the river and the surrounding valleys. During the fall, the park’s dense forests explode with color, making it a prime location for leaf-peeping.
Hiking trails wind through the park, leading to various scenic overlooks and natural wonders such as Bridal Veil Falls. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the view, Pikes Peak State Park is a must-visit in the fall.
2. Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies, a group of seven villages located in eastern Iowa, offer a unique glimpse into the state’s cultural heritage. Founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century, the colonies have preserved their traditional way of life, making them a living museum of sorts.
In the fall, the Amana Colonies come alive with harvest festivals, craft fairs, and other seasonal events. Visitors can explore charming shops, sample local wines and beers, and enjoy hearty German-inspired meals. The vibrant fall foliage adds to the charm of the villages, making it a perfect destination for a fall weekend getaway.
3. Ledges State Park
Ledges State Park, located in central Iowa, is a nature lover’s paradise. The park is known for its unique sandstone cliffs and deep, forested canyons, which are particularly striking in the fall when the leaves change color. The Des Moines River runs through the park, adding to its scenic beauty.
There are several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that take you through the canyons and up to scenic overlooks. One of the park’s most popular features is the Ledges Trail, which offers stunning views of the cliffs and the river below. Ledges State Park is also a great spot for camping, with several campgrounds available for those who want to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.
4. Effigy Mounds National Monument
Effigy Mounds National Monument, located in northeastern Iowa, is one of the most significant Native American sites in the Midwest. The monument preserves over 200 prehistoric mounds, many of which are shaped like animals such as bears and birds. These mounds were built by indigenous peoples between 800 and 1,600 years ago and are considered sacred by many Native American tribes.
Visiting Effigy Mounds in the fall is a truly special experience. The park’s forested bluffs are covered in a blanket of red, orange, and yellow leaves, providing a stunning backdrop for exploring the mounds. Several hiking trails wind through the park, offering visitors a chance to see the mounds up close and learn about their history and significance.
5. Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa Caves State Park, located in eastern Iowa, is one of the state’s most unique natural attractions. The park is home to more caves than any other park in Iowa, ranging from small crawlspaces to large caverns. Exploring these caves is an adventure that the whole family can enjoy.
In addition to its caves, Maquoketa Caves State Park features beautiful woodlands, rugged bluffs, and scenic trails. The fall foliage adds a touch of magic to the park, making it a great time to visit. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight for your cave explorations, and be sure to wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain.
6. Iowa City
Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, is a vibrant cultural hub in eastern Iowa. The city is known for its lively arts scene, historic architecture, and beautiful parks. In the fall, the city takes on a new level of charm, with tree-lined streets and parks ablaze with color.
One of the best ways to experience Iowa City in the fall is to take a stroll through the University of Iowa campus, where you’ll find a mix of historic buildings and modern art installations. Be sure to visit the Old Capitol Building, a National Historic Landmark that once served as the state capitol. Iowa City is also home to numerous bookstores, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to spend a leisurely day.
7. Backbone State Park
Backbone State Park, located in northeastern Iowa, is the state’s oldest state park and one of its most scenic. The park is named for the “Devil’s Backbone,” a narrow ridge of bedrock that offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. In the fall, the park’s forests are transformed into a sea of color, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. There are also several campgrounds and cabins available for those who want to extend their stay. Backbone State Park is a true natural treasure and a must-visit in the fall.
8. Des Moines
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is a vibrant metropolis with a lot to offer visitors in the fall. The city’s numerous parks and gardens are at their best during this season, with colorful foliage and pleasant weather making it a great time to explore.
One of the top attractions in Des Moines is the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, where you can see a wide variety of plants and flowers in full autumn bloom. The city’s many public art installations and historic sites are also worth exploring. For a unique experience, visit the Des Moines Farmers’ Market, one of the largest and most popular in the country, where you can sample local produce and enjoy live entertainment.
9. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, located in West Branch, Iowa, is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 31st President of the United States. The site includes Hoover’s birthplace cottage, a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, and his presidential library and museum.
Visiting the site in the fall is a special experience, as the surrounding landscape is blanketed in colorful foliage. The site offers a peaceful and reflective atmosphere, making it a great place to learn about Hoover’s life and the history of the early 20th century. The nearby West Branch Commercial Historic District is also worth exploring, with its charming shops and cafes.
10. Loess Hills Scenic Byway
The Loess Hills Scenic Byway, located in western Iowa, is one of the most unique landscapes in the state. The byway winds through the Loess Hills, a formation of wind-deposited silt that is found in only two places in the world: western Iowa and northern China.
Driving the byway in the fall is a breathtaking experience, as the hills are covered in vibrant autumn colors. There are several scenic overlooks along the route where you can stop and take in the views. The Loess Hills are also home to several state parks and nature preserves, where you can hike, birdwatch, and explore the area’s unique flora and fauna.
11. Madison County
Madison County, located in south-central Iowa, is famous for its covered bridges, which were made famous by the novel and movie “The Bridges of Madison County.” There are six historic covered bridges in the county, each with its own unique charm and history.
Visiting Madison County in the fall is like stepping back in time. The bridges are surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, all ablaze with fall colors. In addition to the bridges, the county is home to several wineries, antique shops, and scenic byways, making it a great destination for a leisurely fall drive.
12. Dubuque
Dubuque, located on the banks of the Mississippi River in northeastern Iowa, is one of the oldest cities in the state. The city is known for its historic architecture, scenic river views, and vibrant arts scene.
In the fall, Dubuque’s riverfront and downtown area are especially picturesque, with the trees along the riverbanks turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. One of the top attractions in Dubuque is the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s shortest and steepest railway, which offers stunning views of the city and the river from the top. Dubuque is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, making it a great destination for a fall cultural getaway.
13. Decorah
Decorah, located in northeastern Iowa, is a charming small town known for its Norwegian heritage and beautiful natural surroundings. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Norwegian immigrants in the Midwest.
Fall is a particularly lovely time to visit Decorah, as the town’s parks and surrounding countryside are ablaze with color. One of the best ways to experience the area’s natural beauty is to hike or bike the Trout Run Trail, which offers stunning views of the Decorah countryside. Decorah is also home to several local breweries and wineries, where you can sample regional craft beverages.
14. Clear Lake
Clear Lake, located in northern Iowa, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake itself is a beautiful natural feature, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming
. The town of Clear Lake, which sits on the shores of the lake, is a charming community with a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
In the fall, Clear Lake takes on a special charm as the surrounding trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The lake’s calm waters reflect the stunning fall colors, making it a photographer’s paradise. Be sure to visit the Clear Lake State Park, where you can hike along the lakeshore and enjoy the crisp fall air.
15. Indianola
Indianola, located just south of Des Moines, is known for its annual National Balloon Classic, but there’s much more to this small town than hot air balloons. In the fall, Indianola’s parks and countryside are particularly beautiful, with colorful foliage and clear skies making it a great destination for outdoor activities.
One of the top attractions in Indianola is the Buxton Park Arboretum, a beautifully landscaped park that features a wide variety of trees, flowers, and other plants. The park is especially stunning in the fall, when the trees are ablaze with color. Indianola is also home to the National Balloon Museum, where you can learn about the history of ballooning and see historic balloons up close.
16. Sioux City
Sioux City, located in western Iowa, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a lively cultural scene. The city is situated along the Missouri River, offering beautiful river views and a variety of outdoor activities.
In the fall, Sioux City’s parks and riverfront are especially lovely, with the changing leaves adding a splash of color to the landscape. One of the top attractions in Sioux City is the Sergeant Floyd Monument, a National Historic Landmark that commemorates the only member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to die during the journey. The city’s downtown area is also worth exploring, with its historic buildings, art galleries, and restaurants.
Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a fall getaway, but as this list shows, the state is full of hidden gems and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the scenic byways, hiking through state parks, or enjoying the charm of small towns, Iowa has something to offer everyone in the fall. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of Iowa this autumn!