Woodburn Iowa
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Woodburn, Iowa.
1. 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.
2. Inis Grove Park
NATURAL RETREAT | AMES IA
Inis Grove Park is a serene green space offering over 40 acres of walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and lush landscapes in Ames. Families can enjoy leisurely picnics under towering trees or let children explore its well-equipped play areas. The park's tranquil ambiance also attracts birdwatchers and those seeking quiet moments amidst nature. With its accessibility and year-round appeal, Inis Grove Park is an ideal spot for relaxation or outdoor recreation in central 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. 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.
5. Ewing Park
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES | DES MOINES IA
Ewing Park in Des Moines offers diverse recreational options including playgrounds, nature trails, BMX tracks, disc golf courses, and even a soapbox derby track. Families can explore shaded shelters or visit Ashley Okland Star Playground across the street for inclusive play areas designed for children of all abilities. The park's Lilac Arboretum adds a touch of floral beauty to its expansive grounds featuring ponds and streams perfect for relaxation or picnicking. Ewing Park provides something enjoyable for everyone amidst its picturesque setting.
6. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL LEGACY | WEST BRANCH IA
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site celebrates the life of America's 31st president with exhibits on his early years, humanitarian efforts, and presidency. Visitors can tour his birthplace cottage, a Quaker meeting house, and beautifully maintained grounds that reflect Hoover's Midwestern roots. The museum offers interactive exhibits that provide deep insights into Hoover's contributions to history. This serene site combines education with reflection in a picturesque setting.
7. 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.
8. Great River Road National Scenic Byway
MISSISSIPPI VISTAS | EASTERN IOWA
The Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the Mississippi River through Iowa's picturesque landscapes, offering stunning views of limestone bluffs and charming river towns. Stretching 328 miles within Iowa, this segment is part of a larger 3,000-mile route along the river from Minnesota to Louisiana. Travelers can explore interpretive centers, historical landmarks, and parks like Pikes Peak State Park while learning about the cultural significance of the river. This scenic drive is perfect for those seeking a mix of natural beauty and historical exploration.
9. Winterset City Park
HISTORIC CHARM | WINTERSET IA
Winterset City Park spans 76 acres of historical landmarks and recreational amenities. Highlights include the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, a hedge maze, Clark Tower with panoramic views, and picnic areas surrounded by natural beauty. The park's rich history earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2021. Whether exploring its trails or relaxing at its shelters, visitors will find plenty to admire in this charming setting.
10. Des Moines Water Works Park
NATURE & RECREATION | DES MOINES IA
Des Moines Water Works Park spans over 1,500 acres of lush greenery and scenic trails along the Raccoon River. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing amidst beautifully designed gardens. The park also hosts community events like farmers' markets and concerts in its open amphitheater throughout the year. With its serene environment and accessibility for all ages, this urban oasis offers an ideal escape in the heart of Des Moines.
11. Amana Colonies
HISTORIC VILLAGES | MIDDLE AMANA IA
The Amana Colonies consist of seven picturesque villages steeped in history and communal heritage. Originally settled by German Pietists in the mid-1800s, these villages showcase preserved architecture, cultural traditions, and tri-lingual residents who speak English, High German, and Amana German. Visitors can explore over 450 historic buildings, scenic landscapes, and enjoy locally crafted goods. Designated as a National Historic Landmark District, the Amana Colonies offer a unique glimpse into Iowa's utopian past.
12. Merle Hay Mall
SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT | DES MOINES IA
Merle Hay Mall combines shopping, dining, and entertainment in one convenient location, making it a family-friendly destination in Des Moines. With over 60 stores and restaurants, visitors can shop at popular retailers like Old Navy and Target or enjoy unique experiences like SmashRoom Iowa and RockTop Boxing. The mall is undergoing redevelopment to include attractions such as CombatLive! Laser Tag and the Des Moines Buccaneers Arena. Dining options range from fast food to sit-down restaurants, ensuring something for every taste while exploring this historic shopping center.
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.