Spring break is coming, and while it’s tempting to escape to a warmer climate, a tropical vacation may not fit your schedule or budget. Luckily, Iowa is packed with fun family trip destinations that are easy to get to (and easy on the wallet). From ziplining in Dubuque to visiting a Children’s Museum in Sioux City, these overnight or weekend itineraries can be planned at the last minute and still provide lasting memories for kids.
Here’s five ideas for a family get away this spring in Iowa:
Spring Break Trip to Dubuque
Approximately a three-hour drive from Des Moines.
What to See:
Fenelon Place Elevator
Mines of Spain State Park
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
Sky Tours Zipline
Where to Eat:
Convivium Urban Farmstead
Copper Kettle
Yardarm Bar & Grill
Where to Stay:
Hotel Julien
Grand Harbor Resort
Spring Break Trip to Council Bluffs
Approximately a two hour drive from Des Moines.
What to See:
Hitchcock Nature Center
Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center
Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
Squirrel Cage Jail Museum
Where to Eat:
Christy Creme
Pizza King
Southside Jonesy’s Taco House
Where to Stay:
Hilton Garden Inn
Hitchcock Nature Center Cabins
Spring Break Trip to Le Claire
Approximately a two hour and 45-minute drive from Des Moines.
What to See:
Bald Eagle & Pelican Viewing on the Mississippi
Buffalo Bill Museum
Iowa Great River Road
Riverboat Twilight Cruise
Where to Eat:
Blue Iguana Mexican Cantina
Green Tree Brewery
The Crane & Pelican Cafe
Where to Stay:
Spring Break Trip to Ottumwa
Approximately an hour and a half drive from Des Moines.
What to See:
Airpower Museum
The Beach Ottumwa
Pioneer Ridge Nature Center
Where to Eat:
Appanoose Rapids
Top Hat Coffee
Second Street Cafe
Where to Stay:
Spring Break Trip to Sioux City
Approximately a three-hour drive from Des Moines.
What to See:
LaunchPAD Children’s Museum
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center
Stone State Park
Sioux City Railroad Museum
Where to Eat:
Four Brothers Grill & Bar
Jitters
Tastee Inn & Out
Where to Stay:
The Warrior Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
What are some of your family’s favorite Iowa getaways? We’d love to hear!
