Conway IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Conway, Iowa.
1. Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption
SPIRITUAL STONE MASTERPIECE
The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is one of the largest religious grottos in the world, featuring an impressive collection of minerals, fossils, and stones. Visitors can explore nine grottos depicting scenes from the life of Christ, all handcrafted by Father Paul Dobberstein over a 42-year period. The site attracts thousands of visitors annually who come to admire both the religious significance and the artistic craftsmanship of this unique Iowa landmark.
2. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
URBAN TROPICAL OASIS
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a lush escape with its stunning collection of tropical plants housed in a geodesic dome conservatory. Visitors can wander through themed outdoor gardens that showcase native Iowa plants and seasonal displays throughout the year. The garden hosts educational programs, special exhibitions, and events that celebrate botanical diversity and provide a tranquil retreat in Iowa's capital city.
3. Merle Hay Mall
HISTORIC SHOPPING DESTINATION
Merle Hay Mall stands as one of Iowa's first major shopping centers, offering a diverse retail experience with national chains and local boutiques. The mall features entertainment options including a movie theater, arcade, and various dining establishments to satisfy shoppers. Having evolved over decades, it remains a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking retail therapy in the Des Moines area.
4. Lake Ahquabi State Park
SERENE LAKESIDE RECREATION
Lake Ahquabi State Park centers around a beautiful 115-acre lake that offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike the scenic trails that wind through oak-hickory forests and restored prairie areas, observing diverse wildlife along the way. The park provides camping facilities, picnic areas, and rental cabins, making it a perfect destination for day trips or extended nature retreats near Conway.
5. Ledges State Park
DRAMATIC SANDSTONE CANYONS
Ledges State Park features dramatic sandstone formations and deep canyon walls that rise up to 100 feet above Pease Creek. Visitors can explore hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and across scenic overlooks offering spectacular views of the Des Moines River valley. The park's unique geological features, combined with opportunities for camping, picnicking, and wildlife observation, make it a popular natural retreat for Iowans.
6. Field of Dreams Movie Site
ICONIC BASEBALL LANDMARK
The Field of Dreams Movie Site preserves the iconic baseball diamond where the 1989 film starring Kevin Costner was shot, allowing visitors to step into cinematic history. Guests can play catch on the same field, walk through the cornfields, and tour the white farmhouse that featured prominently in the movie. The site captures the nostalgic essence of America's pastime with its famous tagline, "If you build it, they will come," drawing baseball fans and movie enthusiasts from around the country.
7. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVER HISTORY SHOWCASE
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers an immersive exploration of America's most iconic river through interactive exhibits, live animal displays, and historical artifacts. Visitors can observe river otters, alligators, and various fish species while learning about the ecological and cultural significance of the Mississippi River system. The museum complex, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, combines entertainment and education through its aquariums, 4D theater, and steamboat exhibits.
8. Iowa State Fairgrounds
HISTORIC CULTURAL CENTER
The Iowa State Fairgrounds hosts the famous annual Iowa State Fair, one of the oldest and largest agricultural expositions in the United States. Throughout the year, the grounds serve as a venue for auto shows, livestock exhibitions, flea markets, antique shows, concerts, and trade events. The historic fairgrounds feature iconic structures including the Agricultural Building, Grandstand, and Butter Cow sculpture display that have become symbols of Iowa's rich agricultural heritage.
9. Horseshoe Council Bluffs
PREMIER GAMING EXPERIENCE
Horseshoe Council Bluffs offers a comprehensive gaming experience with thousands of slot machines and numerous table games in a vibrant casino atmosphere. The venue features multiple dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, satisfying various culinary preferences. Beyond gambling, visitors can enjoy live entertainment performances and comfortable accommodations at the attached hotel, making it a complete entertainment destination in western Iowa.
10. Adventureland
THRILLING FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Adventureland is Iowa's premier amusement park featuring over 100 rides, shows, and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park includes a water park with a lazy river, wave pool, and water slides, providing cooling entertainment during hot summer months. Adventureland's well-maintained grounds, diverse selection of thrill rides, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular destination for Iowans seeking excitement close to home.
11. Pappajohn Sculpture Park
URBAN OUTDOOR GALLERY
Pappajohn Sculpture Park displays an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures from renowned artists in a 4.4-acre downtown green space. Visitors can wander through the open-air gallery featuring more than 20 thought-provoking artworks valued at over $40 million, with self-guided audio tours available via smartphone. The park serves as both a cultural landmark and community gathering space, bringing art into the daily lives of Des Moines residents and visitors.
12. Mines of Spain Recreation Area
HISTORIC NATURAL PRESERVE
The Mines of Spain Recreation Area encompasses 1,380 acres of woodland, prairie, and wetland habitats along the Mississippi River. Visitors can explore over 15 miles of hiking trails, including the spectacular Horseshoe Bluff Trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area preserves the site of early lead mining operations and Native American settlements, combining natural beauty with historical significance in eastern Iowa.
13. Belva Deer Lake & Recreation Area
OUTDOOR SPORTING PARADISE
Belva Deer Lake & Recreation Area features a 260-acre lake that offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, bluegill, and catfish. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, hiking, and hunting across more than 1,500 acres of diverse natural habitat. The recreation area provides modern camping facilities, picnic shelters, and playground equipment, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation in Keokuk County.
14. Wooden Wheel Vineyards
RURAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Wooden Wheel Vineyards produces a variety of Iowa wines in a picturesque rural setting near Conway. Visitors can sample award-winning wines in the tasting room while enjoying views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. The winery hosts special events throughout the year, including live music performances, food pairings, and seasonal festivals that celebrate Iowa's growing wine culture.
15. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC INCLINE RAILWAY
The Fenelon Place Elevator is recognized as the shortest, steepest railway in the world, elevating passengers almost 200 feet in the length of one city block. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views spanning three states: Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, overlooking the historic downtown and Mississippi River. The elevator, originally built in 1882 for a wealthy banker's commute, now serves as a unique tourist attraction that combines historical engineering with spectacular vistas.