14-Day Family-Friendly Iowa Road Trip Itinerary for Kids

Day 1: Arrive in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA on July 18, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake House

Start your adventure with delicious pancakes and kid-friendly meals at The Pancake House.
Drive approximately 20 minutes from the hotel.
USD 30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Blank Park Zoo

Explore the Blank Park Zoo, which features animals from around the world, perfect for capturing the imagination of your little one.
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD 20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Famous Dave's BBQ

Enjoy some finger-licking good BBQ at Famous Dave’s, with kid-friendly options and a fun atmosphere.
5-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Adventureland Park

Let your child enjoy rides and attractions at this amusement park filled with adventure and excitement.
20-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD 60, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse

Finish the day with a family-friendly dinner at Johnny’s, featuring a menu with something for everyone.
10-minute drive from Adventureland Park.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Explore Des Moines

Des Moines, IA on July 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snookies Malt Shop

Start the day with tasty breakfast and fun treats at Snookies.
5-minute drive from hotel.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Science Center of Iowa

Stimulate curiosity at the Science Center, offering interactive exhibits perfect for young minds.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD 35, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Bait Shop

Feast on delicious tacos and satisfying sandwiches that will appeal to both kids and adults.
15-minute drive from the Science Center.
USD 50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Iowa State Capitol

Take a tour of the beautiful State Capitol, an educational experience worth seeing for the whole family.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Play at Gray's Lake Park

Let your little one enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas at this picturesque park.
10-minute drive from the Capitol.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cheese Shop

Savor gourmet grilled cheese and hearty sandwiches which kids will love.
15-minute drive from the park.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Iowa City

Iowa City, IA on July 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Maple Street Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before the journey to Iowa City at this cozy cafe.
Check out and take a 15-minute drive.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Iowa City

Drive approximately 1.5 hours to Iowa City, known for its university charm.
Highway 163 and I-80.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Iowa Children's Museum

Engage in creative play and educational exhibits designed specifically for children.
10-minute drive from hotel.
USD 25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Hamburg Inn No. 2

A classic diner with fantastic burgers and pies that will delight kids and adults alike.
15-minute drive from the museum.
USD 45, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Anticipate a gathering at the University of Iowa campus

Stroll around the historic campus and explore the art museum, including family-friendly activities.
5-minute drive from the diner.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Brick & Iron

End your day with a meal at this trendy spot, featuring a simple and delicious menu.
15-minute drive from campus.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Day in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA on July 21, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Grab a delightful breakfast at this charming local spot for a hearty start.
Short 10-minute drive.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the - Cedar Rapids Science Center

Immerse in science at this engaging facility with interactive exhibits suitable for kids.
10-minute drive from the cafe.
USD 35, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Popcorn Shop

Savor lunch at this unique spot famous for its popcorn and casual bites.
5-minute drive from the Science Center.
USD 30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Brucemore Estate Tour

Enjoy the historic Brucemore mansion with a guided tour showcasing its fascinating history.
15-minute drive from lunch spot.
USD 15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Riverside Park Playtime

Spend some time at this family-friendly park with playgrounds and trails for an outdoor break.
5-minute drive from Brucemore.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pizza Ranch

A family favorite, enjoy pizza and a hearty buffet suitable for all ages.
10-minute drive from the park.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Dubuque Adventure

Dubuque, IA on July 22, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Jalisco's

Delight in a breakfast filled with hearty options in this family-friendly restaurant.
15-minute drive to Dubuque.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Discover the wonders of the Mississippi River and see remarkable aquatic life in this fantastic museum.
10-minute drive after breakfast.
USD 25, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Port of Dubuque

Enjoy breathtaking river views as you dine on local cuisine at cafes along the waterfront.
Walk around 5 minutes from the museum.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cable Car to the Dubuque Grandview

Ride the historic cable car to observe scenic views and explore trails perfect for family walks.
15-minute drive after lunch.
USD 10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Stroll through beautiful gardens and let your child discover the wonders of nature.
10-minute drive from the cable car.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Water Street Diner

Savor delicious comfort food and sandwiches in a great dining atmosphere.
10-minute drive from the Arboretum.
USD 40, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Explore Decorah

Decorah, IA on July 23, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Whippy Dip

A local treasure known for delicious breakfast items and ice cream treats.
30-minute drive from Dubuque.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Decorah Fish Hatchery

Observe fascinating fish and enjoy the outdoors at this educational hatchery experience.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum

Explore rich cultural exhibits and hands-on activities tailor-made for children.
5-minute drive from the hatchery.
USD 15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at T-Bocks Sports Bar & Grill

Grab a casual lunch at this kid-friendly venue with a great menu for little ones.
A quick 10-minute drive.
USD 40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Decorah's Trout Run Trail

Take a stroll on a family-friendly trail that is perfect for running, walking or biking.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Oneota River Valley Food Co-op

End the day with fresh, local food available from an array of options.
10-minute drive.
USD 35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Mason City Fun

Mason City, IA on July 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Bar

Start your day right with a scrumptious breakfast at a staple in Mason City.
1-hour drive from Decorah.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Music Man Square

Discover the legacy of Meredith Willson in this charming and kid-friendly area.
5-minute drive from the breakfast bar.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Mason City Public Library

Encourage a love of books with fun activities at this welcoming community space.
15-minute drive from the square.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Olive Garden

Enjoy comforting Italian meals with enough variety to please the whole family.
15 minutes drive from the Library.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Stockman House

Experience Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in this kid-friendly historic home.
A 10-minute drive.
USD 10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Mason City Parks

Enjoy the afternoon at the city's parks, with playgrounds and fun activities.
5-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sport Page Bar & Grill

Conclude the day at a local favorite spot with a relaxed atmosphere and good food.
15-minute drive.
USD 55, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Day at Clear Lake

Clear Lake, IA on July 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Main Street Cafe

Indulge in a tasty breakfast at this cozy lakeside spot.
Short 10-minute drive.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Clear Lake State Park

Spend a delightful morning at the park with opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
5-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Blue Bay Inn & Suites

Refuel with a hearty lunch while enjoying views of Clear Lake.
5-minute drive.
USD 35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Play at the Clear Lake City Park

Let your child explore the playground and enjoy the swings at this local favorite.
10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Surf Ballroom

Take a quick visit to this iconic venue that hosts live music and events throughout the summer.
10-minute drive from the park.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Lake Side Inn

Dine with beautiful views at this well-loved restaurant featuring a family-friendly menu.
5-minute drive.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Ames Exploration

Ames, IA on July 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Diem

Enjoy refreshing breakfast options at this comfortable cafe in Ames.
Drive the 30 minutes from Clear Lake.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Iowa State University

Explore the campus of Iowa State University, with various kid-friendly activities on and around campus.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hickory Park Restaurant

Have a delicious lunch at this famous Iowa barbecue spot known for its extensive menu.
5-minute drive from campus.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Ames Public Library

Take your kiddo to their fantastic children's section for reading and storytelling.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Reiman Gardens

Venture through these beautiful gardens filled with plants and butterflies, a treat for the senses.
15-minute drive from the library.
USD 10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Old Chicago

Enjoy a variety of pizzas and pastas at this family-friendly chain restaurant.
10-minute drive from the gardens.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Waterloo Visit

Waterloo, IA on July 27, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Coffee & Donuts

Start off the day with scrumptious donuts and coffee at this local shop.
Drive 30 minutes to Waterloo.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Grout Museum of History & Science

Learn and have fun at this interactive museum that is perfect for children and their families.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the City Park

Let your little one play at the city park, enjoying the playground and fresh air.
5-minute drive from Grout Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Taco Tico

Savor tasty Mexican cuisine in a kid-friendly fast-casual atmosphere.
5-minute drive.
USD 35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Waterloo Center for the Arts

Enjoy a visit to this center with exhibitions that can spark creativity in kids.
5-minute drive.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Take a walk at George Wyth State Park

Enjoy some fresh air and nature trails in this family-friendly state park.
15-minute drive from the arts center.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at 43rd Street Pub & Grill

Conclude the day with a tasty meal at this family-friendly American pub.
10-minute drive.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Cedar Falls day

Cedar Falls, IA on July 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at 5 & Diner

Stop by this classic diner serving breakfast all day long.
Short 15-minute drive from Waterloo.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Hartman Reserve Nature Center

Explore nature trails and educational exhibits that encourage outdoor play.
5-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Cedar Falls Public Library

Enjoy the children's section and a fun, cozy atmosphere for storytime.
10-minute drive from the nature center.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Pizzeria

Enjoy delicious pizza options from this family-friendly establishment.
15-minute drive from the library.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Cedar Falls Community Center

Let your child play at the Community Center, featuring activities designed for kids.
5-minute drive.
USD 10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at KFC

Enjoy comfort food with a quick meal at this family favorite.
10-minute drive.
USD 30, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Marshalltown Visit

Marshalltown, IA on July 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big 8 Restaurant

Begin your day in Marshalltown at this local favorite known for hearty breakfasts.
Drive 30 minutes from Cedar Falls.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Marshall County Historical Museum

Experience a fun and educational visit to a museum filled with interesting exhibits for kids.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Play at Grimes Farm and Conservation Center

Explore nature, trails, and play areas designed for children.
10-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery

Savor a wide selection of lunch options at this family-friendly chain.
15-minute drive.
USD 55, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Central Iowa Fair

Experience agricultural fun with rides, games, and food at this lively fair.
10-minute drive.
USD 20, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Chili's

Stay for a casual dining experience at this well-known chain with delightful options.
5-minute drive.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Relax in Ankeny

Ankeny, IA on July 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Indulge in a great breakfast selection as you prepare for the final leg of your trip.
Drive 40 minutes to Ankeny.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ankeny Farmers Market

Browse through local vendors selling fresh produce and fun snacks.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Play at Ankeny Parks

Let your 5-year-old enjoy some time at one of Ankeny's delightful parks with playgrounds and space to run.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cazador Mexican Grill

Relish flavorful Mexican cuisine in a family-oriented environment.
5-minute drive.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit to High Trestle Trail

Enjoy stunning views of the trail and bridge, perfect for strolling and exploring.
15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Olive Garden

End your trip with a comforting meal at the always popular Olive Garden in Ankeny.
10-minute drive.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Return to Des Moines

Des Moines, IA on July 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at the hotel to fuel your journey home.
On-site.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Living History Farms

Immerse your family in the Iowa history experience, an interactive outdoor museum with farm activities.
20-minute drive from the hotel.
USD 25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Iowa Taproom

Enjoy locally sourced dishes with many options for children.
10-minute drive.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Saylorville Lake

Spend the afternoon at Saylorville Lake for outdoor activities and relaxation.
A quick 20-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ruby Tuesday

Conclude your Iowa adventure with a visit to Ruby Tuesday offering a family-friendly menu.
15-minute drive.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability