Seymour Iowa
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Seymour, Iowa.
1. 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.
2. Copper Creek Lake Park
NATURE & PLAY | PLEASANT HILL IA
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 short nature trails behind them while spotting geese near the water's edge. Additional amenities include soccer fields, reservable shelters, and bridges crossing scenic areas of the park. This peaceful retreat caters to both leisure seekers and active visitors looking to connect with nature.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Breakout Games
ESCAPE ROOM | URBANDALE IA
Breakout Games in Urbandale provides an adrenaline-filled escape room experience where teams solve puzzles to complete their chosen adventure within 60 minutes. Each room features unique storylines that challenge problem-solving skills while delivering excitement and teamwork opportunities. Ideal for group outings or date nights, this attraction promises immersive entertainment for participants of all ages. With high ratings from visitors, Breakout Games is a top choice for interactive fun.
8. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
PLANT PARADISE | DES MOINES IA
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a lush retreat showcasing over 1,400 plant species across themed indoor and outdoor gardens. Visitors can wander through tropical rainforests in its iconic geodesic conservatory or admire native Iowa flora in beautifully landscaped displays. The garden also hosts workshops, seasonal events, and educational programs that inspire appreciation for biodiversity and sustainability. Its tranquil setting makes it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Adventureland Park
THEME PARK | ALTOONA IA
Adventureland Park is a sprawling 180-acre theme park known for delivering thrills and family fun. With over 50 attractions, including seven roller coasters and 24 water rides, visitors can explore themed areas like County Fair, Dragon Island, and Outlaw Gulch. The park offers seasonal events, such as drone shows and coaster enthusiast gatherings, along with unique dining experiences like Oink's restaurant featuring Iowa-sourced pork. Adventureland combines nostalgia and innovation, making it a must-visit destination for amusement park enthusiasts.
12. Union Park
URBAN OASIS | DES MOINES IA
Union Park is a serene retreat in Des Moines, offering lush greenery, a tranquil lake, and recreational activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnicking by the water, or fishing in the lake's peaceful surroundings. The park also features family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and sports facilities, making it perfect for both relaxation and active outings. Its central location ensures easy accessibility for locals and tourists alike.
13. 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.
14. Outlets & Marketplace Williamsburg
SHOPPING DESTINATION | WILLIAMSBURG IA
Situated along Interstate 80, Outlets & Marketplace Williamsburg provides shoppers with access to top brands like Nike Clearance and Under Armour Factory Store at discounted prices. This shopping center blends national retailers with local businesses such as Bryant's Chill & Grill to create a unique experience for visitors. Recent redevelopment efforts aim to enhance the property with creative event programming and placemaking initiatives that attract both interstate travelers and community residents. Its convenient location makes it a must-visit stop for bargain hunters traveling across Iowa.
15. Ledges State Park
GEOLOGICAL WONDER | MADRID IA
Ledges State Park captivates visitors with its dramatic sandstone cliffs carved by glacial meltwater over thousands of years. The park's canyon drive offers breathtaking views of Pea's Creek and the Des Moines River valley, while hiking trails lead to overlooks like Inspiration Point and Crow's Nest. Structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps add historical charm to this natural haven. With camping facilities available, Ledges is ideal for both day trips and extended stays in nature.