Gowrie Iowa
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gowrie, Iowa.
1. Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
QUIRKY DINING EXPERIENCE | DES MOINES IA
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab delivers an unforgettable dining experience with its horror-themed décor featuring zombie sculptures and gore-inspired artwork. Known for its creative burgers and spiked milkshakes, this restaurant blends humor with culinary innovation in a playful setting. Guests can choose between quick service or full-service dining options while enjoying the unique ambiance. It's a must-visit spot for foodies seeking something out of the ordinary.
2. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
SCENIC DRIVE | WESTERN IOWA
The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway stretches nearly 200 miles along Iowa's western border, showcasing rare geological formations created by windblown soil during the last ice age. Scenic overlooks provide stunning views of forested hills, grasslands, and fertile farmland in the Missouri River valley. With paved routes and optional gravel loops leading to charming towns, this byway is perfect for leisurely drives or exploring hidden gems in rural Iowa.
3. Living History Farms
TIME TRAVEL EXPERIENCE | URBANDALE IA
Living History Farms immerses visitors in Iowa's agricultural past with interactive exhibits at three working farm sites spanning 300 years of history: the Ioway Farm (1700), Pioneer Farm (1850), and Horse-Powered Farm (1900). The historic town of Walnut Hill adds another layer with interpreters showcasing life in 1876 through demonstrations and storytelling. Tractor cart rides connect sites, making it accessible for all ages while providing an engaging educational experience.
4. Pella Historical Village & Vermeer Windmill
DUTCH HERITAGE EXPERIENCE | PELLA IA
Step into Dutch culture at Pella Historical Village & Vermeer Windmill in Pella-a charming town steeped in tradition. The centerpiece is the towering Vermeer Windmill, an authentic Dutch structure rebuilt in Iowa that offers guided tours showcasing its craftsmanship and operation. Surrounding it are 21 restored historical buildings featuring exhibits on early Dutch settlers' lives alongside tulip-filled gardens that bloom seasonally. Events celebrating Dutch music, food, and art make this destination perfect for families seeking cultural enrichment year-round.
5. John Wayne Birthplace Museum
LEGENDARY ICON | WINTERSET IA
The John Wayne Birthplace Museum honors the life of the legendary actor with an extensive collection of memorabilia, including movie posters, scripts, and personal artifacts. Visitors can tour his restored childhood home to learn about his humble beginnings in Winterset. Adjacent to the home is a modern museum featuring a theater where documentaries on Wayne's career are shown. The annual John Wayne Birthday Celebration adds even more charm to this historic site for fans of American cinema.
6. Buddy Holly Crash Site
MUSICAL MEMORIAL | CLEAR LAKE IA
The Buddy Holly Crash Site honors the tragic loss of rock-and-roll legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. Richardson in 1959. Located in a quiet cornfield near Clear Lake, visitors can pay tribute at this solemn site marked by simple memorials. Nearby attractions include the Surf Ballroom where Holly performed his final show before the crash. This historical landmark offers fans a reflective journey into music history.
7. Yellow Banks Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES | PLEASANT HILL IA
Yellow Banks Park offers diverse recreational activities across its 576 acres of scenic landscapes. Visitors can fish at the pond or along the Des Moines River, hike trails leading to overlooks or Native American burial mounds, or play at its ballfields and playgrounds. Shaded picnic areas provide perfect spots for family meals amidst nature. For those wanting an extended stay, camping facilities are also available.
8. Jordan Creek Town Center
SHOPPING DESTINATION | WEST DES MOINES IA
Jordan Creek Town Center is Iowa's largest shopping mall, offering over 150 stores alongside dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants with lakefront views. The mall features attractions like a Cinemark movie theater and seasonal events such as fireworks and holiday celebrations. Its spacious layout and vibrant atmosphere make it ideal for shopping enthusiasts or families looking for entertainment in Des Moines' bustling district.
9. Pappajohn Sculpture Park
ART IN THE CITY | DES MOINES IA
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park transforms downtown Des Moines into an artistic oasis with its collection of sculptures by renowned artists from around the world. Spanning 4.4 acres in Western Gateway Park, it offers visitors an accessible space to admire contemporary art against a backdrop of urban landscapes. Guided tours provide deeper insights into each artwork's significance while allowing guests to appreciate the park's thoughtful design. Open daily until midnight, it's an ideal spot for picnics or leisurely strolls amidst inspiring creativity.
10. Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
CULTURAL LANDMARK | DES MOINES IA
Situated along the Des Moines River downtown, Robert D. Ray Asian Garden celebrates diversity through its peaceful landscaping and cultural symbolism. Features include a 37-foot-tall Chinese pavilion, stone pagodas, sculptural rock formations, and a flowing water feature. Informative signs highlight the contributions of Asian Americans to Iowa's history. Visitors can enjoy serene views while walking through small trails or relaxing by the river.
11. NorthPark Mall
QUAD CITIES SHOPPING | DAVENPORT IA
NorthPark Mall in Davenport serves as a premier shopping destination for residents of Iowa's Quad Cities area. Housing over 160 stores, including anchors like JCPenney and Von Maur, this mall caters to diverse shopping needs. Beyond retail therapy, NorthPark offers family-friendly events such as live music performances and educational activities for children. With its convenient location near major highways, it's an ideal stop for travelers seeking entertainment or relaxation during their journey through Iowa.
12. Dunning's Spring Park
SCENIC WATERFALL | DECORAH IA
Dunning's Spring Park in Decorah is home to a stunning 200-foot waterfall accessible via a short hike from Ice Cave Road's parking lot. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, picnic areas with grills, and additional trails leading to attractions like the Ice Cave nearby. This peaceful park is perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure or individuals looking to relax amidst nature's beauty. Its secluded waterfall makes it one of Iowa's hidden gems worth exploring.
13. Driftless Area Scenic Byway
NATURAL BEAUTY | NORTHEASTERN IA
The Driftless Area Scenic Byway winds through northeastern Iowa's rugged terrain untouched by glaciers, showcasing limestone bluffs, forested valleys, and winding rivers carved by nature's forces. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike forest trails, fish in cold-water streams, or explore rivers by boat while enjoying panoramic vistas of this distinctive landscape. The byway also features historic sites like Effigy Mounds National Monument and charming towns offering local cuisine and cultural experiences. Fall foliage adds extra charm to this already breathtaking drive.
14. Science Center of Iowa
HANDS-ON LEARNING | DES MOINES IA
The Science Center of Iowa inspires visitors with interactive exhibits focused on STEM education in its downtown facility. From space exploration to dinosaur displays, SCI engages children and adults alike through dynamic programming and special-format theaters. It also serves as a community hub with outreach programs that promote cultural awareness statewide. A visit here promises fun-filled learning experiences for families and science enthusiasts.
15. Coral Ridge Mall
SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT | CORALVILLE IA
Coral Ridge Mall is a bustling retail hub offering over 100 specialty stores, making it a favorite destination for shopping enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including ice skating on the regulation-size rink or catching the latest blockbuster at the 10-screen movie theater. The mall also features a diverse selection of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. With its clean and spacious layout, Coral Ridge Mall is perfect for families and individuals seeking a fun and convenient outing.