Altoona IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Altoona, Iowa.
1. Adventureland
THRILLING THEME PARK EXPERIENCE
Adventureland is a well-maintained amusement park with over 100 rides and attractions including thrilling roller coasters. The park features Adventureland Bay water park with 20 waterslides and Iowa's longest Lazy River for family fun. From May to September, Adventureland entertains approximately 600,000 visitors annually across its 180-acre resort complete with Inn and Campground.
2. Prairie Meadows
CASINO AND RACING ENTERTAINMENT
Prairie Meadows is the premier destination for gaming and entertainment in the Midwest with over 85,000 square feet of casino action featuring 1,900 slot machines, table games, and poker. The venue offers live thoroughbred, quarter horse, and harness racing from April to October, with simulcast racing available year-round. Prairie Meadows also hosts top entertainers at The Meadows Events & Conference Center, provides sports betting at Caesars Sportsbook, and features dining options including AJ's Steakhouse and the Triple Crown Buffet.
3. Brightside Aleworks
FAMILY-OWNED CRAFT BREWERY
Brightside Aleworks is a family-owned brewery offering more than a dozen beers of varying styles. Their popular Cran-Orange Wheat provides a refreshing hoppy ending to visitors' Altoona adventures. The brewery features a welcoming patio where guests can relax and recap their day of exploration.
4. Outlets of Des Moines
PREMIUM OUTDOOR SHOPPING CENTER
The Outlets of Des Moines is Central Iowa's only outdoor shopping center featuring more than 50 premium retailers. Visitors can shop at well-known brands like Nike and Kate Spade alongside local shops such as Posey & Jets and Suzy's Kitchen & Gifts. The outlet mall offers an ideal destination for retail therapy during an Altoona visit.
5. Bass Pro Shops
OUTDOOR RETAILER AND ENTERTAINMENT
Bass Pro Shops in Altoona is a comprehensive outdoor retailer featuring a stunning 28,000-gallon freshwater aquarium home to many species of native fish. The store includes original murals featuring Iowa outdoor scenes and offers homemade fudge for visitors to enjoy. After shopping for outdoor gear, visitors can dine at Uncle Buck's Fishbowl and enjoy a few games of bowling.
6. Spring Creek Sports Complex
COMMUNITY SPORTS VENUE
Spring Creek Sports Complex offers recreational facilities for athletes and sports enthusiasts in Altoona. The complex features multiple playing fields and courts for various sports activities. It serves as a community gathering place for local sporting events and tournaments.
7. Altoona Area Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Altoona Area Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of Altoona and surrounding areas. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region's development. The society works to educate the public about Altoona's cultural heritage and historical significance.
8. Ironwood Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Ironwood Park provides a peaceful outdoor retreat for Altoona residents and visitors. The park features open green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities for family enjoyment. It serves as an ideal location for picnics, outdoor activities, and community gatherings.
9. Altoona Dog Park
CANINE RECREATION SPACE
Altoona Dog Park offers a dedicated space for dogs to exercise and socialize off-leash in a safe environment. The park features designated areas for both large and small dogs to play freely. Dog owners can enjoy watching their pets interact while connecting with other animal lovers in the community.
10. Lions Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY PARK
Lions Park is a beloved community gathering space that offers recreational opportunities for Altoona residents of all ages. The park includes playground equipment, picnic areas, and open spaces for various outdoor activities. It serves as a venue for community events and provides a relaxing natural setting within the city.
11. Adventureland Bay Water Park
SPLASH-FILLED FAMILY FUN
Adventureland Bay Water Park features 20 waterslides and Iowa's longest Lazy River for refreshing summer entertainment. The park includes Kokomo Cove, a virtual splash factory with numerous water attractions for all ages. This aquatic playground is part of the larger Adventureland Resort, providing wet and wild fun for the whole family during the warm months.
12. Quarry Springs Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Quarry Springs Park offers kayak rentals through Quarry Springs Outfitters for water-based adventures near Altoona. The park features beautiful natural scenery surrounding a former quarry that has been transformed into a recreational area. Visitors can enjoy paddling on the water while taking in the unique landscape of this outdoor destination.
13. Covered Bridges of Madison County
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL TREASURES
The Covered Bridges of Madison County are iconic structures made famous by the novel and film of the same name. These historic bridges, dating back to the late 19th century, represent remarkable examples of wooden truss bridge construction. Visitors can take personal guided tours to explore these picturesque landmarks nestled in the beautiful countryside near Des Moines.
14. Des Moines Scavenger Hunts
INTERACTIVE URBAN EXPLORATION
Des Moines offers various interactive scavenger hunts including the Des Moines Dash and Operation City Quest for visitors seeking unique exploration experiences. These adventures provide an engaging way to discover the city's landmarks, history, and hidden gems. Participants can enjoy these activities as a fun alternative to traditional sightseeing while learning about the capital city near Altoona.
15. Uncle Buck's Fishbowl and Grill
THEMED DINING AND BOWLING
Uncle Buck's Fishbowl and Grill offers a unique underwater-themed bowling and dining experience located within Bass Pro Shops. The venue features custom bowling lanes designed to make visitors feel like they're bowling underwater, complete with bowling balls that resemble aquatic creatures. After bowling, guests can enjoy tasty menu items in the restaurant surrounded by immersive oceanic decor.