Delta IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Delta, Iowa.
1. Lake Belva Deer Park
SERENE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Lake Belva Deer Park offers beautiful lakeside recreation just over 10 miles from Delta. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and picnicking in this natural setting. The park provides a peaceful retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
2. Lake Keomah State Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE GETAWAY
Lake Keomah State Park features a beautiful 84-acre lake surrounded by wooded hills near Delta. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking along scenic trails through the forest. The park also offers picnic shelters, camping facilities, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
3. Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum
HISTORIC AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE
Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum preserves Iowa's agricultural heritage through its collection of historic buildings and artifacts. Visitors can explore the original 1844 Nelson family homestead and numerous outbuildings that showcase rural Iowa life. The museum hosts educational programs and special events throughout the year.
4. Mahaska Bowl
FAMILY FUN CENTER
Mahaska Bowl provides entertainment for all ages with its modern bowling lanes and arcade. Families and friends can enjoy competitive bowling in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The facility also offers food and beverages to complete the experience.
5. Copper Creek Lake Park
TRANQUIL NATURE RETREAT
Copper Creek Lake Park features a serene pond surrounded by paved trails ideal for walking or biking amidst diverse flora. Families can enjoy shaded playgrounds and picnic areas throughout the scenic grounds. The park provides a peaceful escape with opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation.
6. Field of Dreams Movie Site
ICONIC BASEBALL LANDMARK
Field of Dreams Movie Site preserves the century-old Lansing family farm featured in the beloved 1989 film. Visitors can walk the iconic baseball diamond where the movie's famous scenes were filmed and experience the magic of this quintessential piece of Americana. The site captures the essence of traditional Iowa values and simple pleasures that made the film so enduring.
7. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVERSIDE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers interactive wildlife encounters and historical river exhibits on the Dubuque riverfront. Visitors can explore aquatic habitats, learn about river ecology, and experience virtual reality in the technology section. Admission includes a two-day pass and opportunities for riverboat tours.
8. Maquoketa Caves State Park
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Maquoketa Caves State Park features a unique system of caves and rock formations that visitors can explore through a network of trails. The park's natural limestone caves range from small crawl spaces to expansive chambers with stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors should note that parking is limited to designated spots only, with peak visitation occurring on weekends between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
9. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC INCLINE RAILWAY
Fenelon Place Elevator is a historic funicular railway that carries passengers up the steep bluffs of Dubuque. Originally built in 1882, this landmark offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River, downtown Dubuque, and the tri-state area. The elevator remains one of the shortest and steepest railways of its kind in the world.
10. Adventureland Park
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Adventureland Park offers exciting rides and attractions for visitors of all ages near Des Moines. The park features roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly entertainment options throughout its sprawling grounds. Guests can enjoy live shows, games, and various dining options during their visit.
11. Iowa State Fairgrounds
HISTORIC EXHIBITION GROUNDS
Iowa State Fairgrounds hosts the famous annual state fair and numerous events throughout the year. The historic grounds feature beautiful architecture, agricultural exhibits, and entertainment venues across its expansive campus. Visitors can explore the fairgrounds' rich heritage that dates back to 1886 when it moved to its current location.
12. DEFY Iowa City
EXTREME TRAMPOLINE PARK
DEFY Iowa City offers an indoor adventure park experience with trampolines, obstacle courses, and aerial challenges. Visitors of all ages can test their skills on ninja courses, foam pits, and extreme jumping areas. The facility provides a high-energy environment for active entertainment regardless of weather conditions.
13. William Penn University
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
William Penn University is a historic Quaker-founded institution established in 1873 with a beautiful campus near Delta. Visitors can explore the distinctive Penn Activity Center, historic buildings, and scenic grounds. The university hosts various cultural and sporting events throughout the year that are often open to the public.
14. Knight's Action Park
FAMILY WATERPARK ADVENTURE
Knight's Action Park combines water attractions with traditional amusement park rides for a complete family entertainment experience. Visitors can enjoy water slides, wave pools, and splash areas during hot summer days. The park also features mini-golf, go-karts, and batting cages for additional fun.
15. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of artwork with special emphasis on Iowa artists and Grant Wood. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions alongside permanent collections displayed in a beautiful architectural setting. The museum offers educational programs and events to engage visitors of all ages with visual arts.