Indianola Iowa
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Indianola, Iowa.
1. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVERFRONT DISCOVERY | DUBUQUE IA
Located on Dubuque's riverfront, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers an immersive experience into the history and wildlife of America's rivers. The museum features over a dozen aquariums showcasing species like river otters and stingrays alongside exhibits on steamboats and wetland ecosystems. Visitors can explore outdoor attractions such as raptor aviaries and historic artifacts like the William M. Black steamboat. With interactive displays and a 3D/4D theater, this Smithsonian-affiliated institution is perfect for families and history buffs alike.
2. Maquoketa Caves State Park
CAVE EXPLORATION | MAQUOKETA IA
Maquoketa Caves State Park offers a unique adventure for nature enthusiasts with its extensive network of 13 caves, towering bluffs, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore Dancehall Cave, a lighted walkway through one of the park's most impressive solutional caves, or crawl into smaller caves like Fat Man's Misery for a more intimate experience. Above ground, the park features a six-mile trail system connecting geological wonders such as the Natural Bridge and Balanced Rock. The Interpretive Center provides educational insights into the park's geology and the preservation efforts aimed at protecting its bat population.
3. Yellow River State Forest
WILDERNESS PARADISE | HARPERS FERRY IA
Yellow River State Forest is an expansive 8,900-acre area known for its stunning hiking trails through hardwood forests and along the Yellow River. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, fishing in trout streams, horseback riding, or cross-country skiing during winter months. This forest also holds historical significance with ancient Native American burial mounds scattered throughout its terrain. It's an ideal destination for adventurers seeking both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
4. Blank Park Zoo
EXOTIC ANIMALS | DES MOINES IA
Blank Park Zoo is Iowa's only accredited zoo, home to over 800 exotic creatures from around the world. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits like the Discovery Center with birds and marine life or outdoor habitats featuring African wildlife and Australian species. The zoo's mission focuses on conservation and education while providing an engaging experience for families. Its blend of interactive displays and natural settings ensures memorable encounters with wildlife.
5. Effigy Mounds National Monument
ANCIENT EARTHWORKS | HARPERS FERRY IA
Effigy Mounds National Monument features over 200 prehistoric animal-shaped mounds built by Native Americans during the Late Woodland Period. Spanning 2,500 acres along the Mississippi River, this site offers 14 miles of hiking trails with breathtaking views and interpretive signs explaining its historical significance. Birdwatchers will appreciate its location within the Yellow River Forest Bird Conservation Area while history buffs can delve deeper into its past at the visitor center. Effigy Mounds combines natural beauty with cultural heritage for an enriching experience.
6. Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market
LOCAL FLAVOR | DES MOINES IA
Since 1976, Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market has connected urban and rural communities while showcasing Iowa's finest local produce, meats, cheeses, and artisan goods. This bustling market offers visitors a vibrant atmosphere filled with live entertainment and opportunities to meet local farmers and artists. Patrons can shop for fresh ingredients or enjoy breakfast while soaking in the lively ambiance. Open rain or shine, this nationally recognized market is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Iowa experience.
7. Reiman Gardens
HORTICULTURAL WONDERLAND | AMES IA
Located at Iowa State University, Reiman Gardens showcases stunning themed gardens like the Rose Garden and Hillside Water-wise Garden. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits in the Children's Garden or observe plant experiments in the Trial Garden. Lake Helen adds tranquility with its water lilies and aquatic wildlife. Open year-round with guided tours available, Reiman Gardens combines beauty with educational opportunities in horticulture.
8. Birdland Park
SCENIC RETREAT | DES MOINES IA
Birdland Park in Des Moines offers 46.7 acres of natural beauty with lush greenery, tranquil waterways, and well-maintained trails perfect for walking or jogging. The park provides amenities such as playgrounds, sports facilities, restrooms, and shelters to enhance visitor comfort. Whether enjoying a leisurely stroll or engaging in fitness activities, Birdland Park delivers a refreshing escape from urban life. Its picturesque landscapes make it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
9. 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.
10. Lake Ahquabi State Park
OUTDOOR ESCAPE | INDIANOLA IA
Lake Ahquabi State Park provides 770 acres of serene outdoor adventures with activities like hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating around its 117-acre man-made lake. Visitors can relax on sandy beaches or explore historic picnic shelters built during the Great Depression. The park's trails offer scenic views year-round, while its campgrounds provide modern amenities for overnight stays under the stars. It's a peaceful retreat perfect for nature lovers seeking relaxation or recreation.
11. American Gothic House Center
ICONIC ART SITE | ELDON IA
The American Gothic House Center celebrates Grant Wood's famous painting American Gothic, inspired by the small white house with its distinctive gothic window. Adjacent to the house, the center features an exhibition gallery detailing the history of the artwork and Wood's life. Visitors can enjoy photo opportunities with a gothic window-shaped selfie stand and explore a gift shop offering local crafts and souvenirs. This charming site is a cultural gem for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
12. Historic Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge
ARCHITECTURAL GEM | WINTERSET IA
The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge is a charming relic from 1870 that spans Middle River in Winterset's City Park. As one of Madison County's famous covered bridges, it offers picturesque views of surrounding landscapes, especially during autumn foliage. The bridge is surrounded by park trails and picnic areas that invite visitors to relax or explore further. Its historical significance and timeless beauty make it an essential stop for photographers and history enthusiasts.
13. The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
RAILROAD HISTORY | BOONE IA
The The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad offers scenic passenger excursions through Iowa's Des Moines River Valley on historic trains. Highlights include crossing a towering bridge over Bass Point Creek and themed rides like the Santa Express during holidays. Adjacent to the depot is the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum, showcasing thousands of artifacts such as dining car china and toy trains. This attraction combines breathtaking views with rich railroad heritage.
14. Fenelon Place Elevator Company
SCENIC FUNICULAR RIDE | DUBUQUE IA
The Fenelon Place Elevator Company offers a thrilling journey on one of the shortest and steepest funicular railways in the world. Visitors ascend 189 feet in just 296 feet of track, revealing breathtaking views of Dubuque's cityscape, the Mississippi River, and surrounding greenery. At the summit, an observation area provides the perfect spot to capture panoramic photos and enjoy the serene beauty of Iowa's landscapes. This historic attraction combines engineering marvels with scenic charm, making it a must-visit for history buffs and sightseers alike.
15. Raccoon River Park
URBAN ESCAPE | WEST DES MOINES IA
Raccoon River Park features 631 acres of diverse landscapes centered around Blue Heron Lake. Visitors can hike the 3.2-mile loop trail, relax on the sandy beach, or rent kayaks from the boathouse. The park also includes sports complexes, a dog park, an archery facility, and seasonal ice skating. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the dense woodlands and marshy areas that provide habitats for over 180 bird species.