Bankston IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bankston, Iowa.
1. Bankston Park
WOODLAND & TROUT STREAM
Bankston Park is a 140-acre woodland retreat featuring hilly landscapes, a spring-fed stream stocked with trout, and a grassy meadow. The park provides rustic camping, picnicking spots, and opportunities for nature study with its unique algific slopes. Primitive campers and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate its peaceful setting and public hunting during designated seasons.
2. Park Farm Winery
SCENIC WINERY EXPERIENCE
Park Farm Winery offers guests stunning bluff-top views paired with a variety of locally produced wines in a rural setting. Visitors can relax on the patio, explore the winery's architecture, or enjoy a wine tasting experience. The winery is praised for its peaceful environment and regular live music events.
3. Heritage Trail
HIKING & BIKING TRAIL
Heritage Trail stretches for 26 miles, offering a scenic route for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers through the rolling countryside between Dubuque and Dyersville. The trail features multiple access points, including the Graf Trailhead near Bankston. Its crushed limestone path and picturesque bridges make it a favorite for outdoor recreation.
4. Field of Dreams Movie Site
ICONIC FILM LOCATION
The Field of Dreams Movie Site lets fans visit the famous baseball field from the classic 1989 film. Tours, games, and special events allow visitors to experience the magic of this tranquil spot surrounded by Iowa cornfields. The site welcomes thousands annually who want to step onto the legendary diamond.
5. Heritage Trail - Graf Trailhead
TRAILHEAD ACCESS POINT
The Heritage Trail - Graf Trailhead serves as a convenient entry point to the 26-mile Heritage Trail, providing parking and trail information. Cyclists, runners, and walkers can explore the scenic landscapes starting from this small community hub. It's an ideal launching spot for both short walks and longer adventures.
6. Epworth Freedom Rock
PATRIOTIC PAINTED BOULDER
The Epworth Freedom Rock is a vibrantly painted boulder honoring veterans and the military, part of the Iowa Freedom Rock Tour. Local artists annually update its artwork to reflect community pride and American patriotism. Visitors often stop for photos and reflection at this meaningful public landmark.
7. Great River Road National Scenic Byway
SCENIC DRIVING ROUTE
The Great River Road National Scenic Byway traces the Mississippi River, passing through Dubuque County and offering breathtaking river views, historic sites, and natural beauty. Travelers enjoy car trips amid bluffs, river towns, and numerous overlooks. The route is especially popular with photographers and sightseers seeking to experience Iowa's river landscape.
8. Sundown Mountain Resort
SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
Sundown Mountain Resort is a winter recreation center offering skiing, snowboarding, and lessons on well-maintained slopes. The resort features a variety of terrain, two mountain lodges, and a friendly atmosphere for both families and experienced enthusiasts. It's a top destination for winter sports in eastern Iowa.
9. Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
GARDENS & NATURE TRAILS
The Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens spans over 56 acres with themed gardens, walking paths, and tranquil ponds. Visitors enjoy exploring rose gardens, Japanese gardens, and a children's play area. Seasonal events and peaceful settings make it a must-see for plant lovers and families.
10. Crystal Lake Cave
UNDERGROUND CAVE TOURS
Crystal Lake Cave offers guided underground tours revealing intricate rock formations and sparkling crystals. Discovered in 1868, the cave provides adventurous exploration for all ages with well-lit pathways. Educational displays at the entrance enhance the experience for geology enthusiasts and families alike.
11. Pikes Peak State Park
RIVER BLUFF OVERLOOKS
Pikes Peak State Park features dramatic 500-foot bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers, offering panoramic views. Visitors can hike scenic trails, enjoy picnic areas, and spot migrating birds. The park is especially popular for its sweeping vistas and outdoor recreation.
12. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVER HISTORY & WILDLIFE
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium combines history, science, and interactive exhibits about America's rivers and their role in shaping the nation. It features live animals, hands-on displays, and immersive experiences for all ages. The museum is a major attraction in Dubuque for families and history buffs.
13. Eagle Point Park
PARK WITH RIVER VIEWS
Eagle Point Park is a scenic city park perched high above the Mississippi River, providing spectacular overlooks, picnic sites, and flower gardens. Its picturesque pavilions and historic stonework attract both locals and tourists. The park is known for its peaceful ambience and panoramic vistas.
14. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC CABLE CAR RIDE
The Fenelon Place Elevator, also known as the Fourth Street Elevator, is a funicular railway offering a quick climb up Dubuque's bluff for commanding city and river views. The short but steep ride is a favorite for visitors seeking a unique local experience. Built in 1882, it is one of the world's shortest and steepest scenic railways.
15. Mathias Ham House
VICTORIAN MANSION TOURS
The Mathias Ham House is a restored 19th-century Italianate mansion operated as a museum by the Dubuque County Historical Society. Guided tours highlight period furnishings, local history, and stories of Mississippi River steamboat culture. Its beautiful grounds and architecture draw history fans and curious travelers.