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14-Day Extreme Adventure Road Trip in Iowa

Viewed by 79 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Des Moines, USA on July 19, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Club

Start your journey with pancake perfection at the Breakfast Club in Des Moines, fueling up for a day of adventure.
Head to the Adventure Park for your first thrill.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Climb & Zipline at Ledges State Park

Feel the adrenaline as you tackle the climbing walls and soar across zip lines amidst stunning landscapes.
Drive 30 minutes to Ledges State Park.
USD30, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Smokey D's BBQ

Recharge with some of Iowa's best barbecue at Smokey D's, known for its mouth-watering brisket.
Return to Des Moines for lunch.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Gray’s Lake

Experience the serenity of paddleboarding while taking in the views of the Des Moines skyline.
Drive 10 minutes to Gray's Lake.
USD25, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Zombie Burger

End your day with an adventurous meal at Zombie Burger, where they serve up undead-themed burgers.
Drive 15 minutes back.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Thrilling Des Moines

Des Moines, USA on July 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Mie Bakery

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and a strong coffee to kickstart your day.
Walk to the bakery nearby.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whitewater Rafting on the Des Moines River

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting, navigating the twists and turns of the river's rapids.
Drive 20 minutes to the rafting site.
USD50, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fong's Pizza

Treat yourself to some unique Chinese-inspired pizza in this funky establishment.
Head back to the restaurant in Des Moines.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Biking along the High Trestle Trail

Cycle the scenic High Trestle Trail with breathtaking views across the countryside.
Drive 30 minutes to the trailhead.
USD20 (bike rental), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cibo

Dine at Cibo for a taste of modern Italian cuisine to celebrate an adventurous day.
Return back to Des Moines, around 30 minutes.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Boone

Boone, USA on July 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Boone Diner

Enjoy a homestyle breakfast in a classic diner atmosphere, giving you the energy for the day ahead.
Drive to Boone (around 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bungee Jumping at Seven Oaks Recreation

Feel the rush of bungee jumping at Seven Oaks, experiencing an exhilarating free fall.
Located at Seven Oaks Recreation area.
USD100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chad's Pizza

Satisfy your hunger with a giant slice of Chad's pizza while recovering from the jump.
Drive 15 minutes to Chad's.
USD12, 1 hour

2:00PM

ATV Riding at Seven Oaks

Hit the trails for an unforgettable ATV riding experience through rugged terrains.
Head back to Seven Oaks.
USD65, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Smokehouse Grille

Unwind at The Smokehouse Grille over some delicious smoked dishes.
Located within Boone.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Adventure in Iowa City

Iowa City, USA on July 22, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Hamburg Inn No. 2

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beloved local diner known for its omelets and pancakes.
Drive to Iowa City (about 1 hour).
USD12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Skydiving at Skydive Iowa

Take the leap and skydive over stunning landscapes for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
Drive to the Skydive center (20 minutes).
USD200, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Jimmy John's

Grab a quick and tasty sub at Jimmy John's to refuel after your jump.
Return to Iowa City.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking at Hickory Hill Park

Explore scenic trails through wooded areas, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Drive 10 minutes to the park.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Orchard Green Restaurant

Savor exquisite dishes featuring farm-to-table ingredients.
Head back to downtown Iowa City.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Nature & Adventure in Galena

Galena, USA on July 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Metro Deli

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at this cozy deli known for its fresh ingredients.
Drive to Galena (around 2 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking on the Galena River

Paddle your way through the beautiful landscapes and enjoy the serene nature surrounding you.
Head to the Galena Kayak rental location.
USD30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fried Green Tomatoes

Experience a local favorite with unique dishes and warm hospitality.
Stroll to Fried Green Tomatoes.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ziplining in Galena

Soar through the treetops while ziplining and witness the stunning views from above.
Drive to the ziplining site (15 minutes).
USD75, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Galena Brewing Company

Relax at this local brewery offering delightful craft beers and hearty pub food.
Head back into Galena.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 6: Adrenaline in Dubuque

Dubuque, USA on July 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Town Clock Inn

Indulge in classic breakfast fare to prepare for an action-packed day.
Drive to Dubuque (around 30 minutes).
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Rock Climbing at Vertical Endeavors

Challenge your skills on a variety of indoor climbing routes tailored for all levels.
Head to Vertical Endeavors.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The L. May Eatery

Savor a freshly prepared meal focusing on local ingredients and flavors.
Drive to The L. May Eatery.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

High-Speed Go-Karting at 61 Kartway

Race your friends on a high-speed go-kart track for a competitive thrill.
Drive to 61 Kartway (30 minutes).
USD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at 7 Hills Brewing

Enjoy dinner in a relaxed setting with locally brewed beers and hearty meals.
Return to Dubuque.
USD25, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dubuque

Day 7: Nature Retreat in Decorah

Decorah, USA on July 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Decorah Coffee Company

Start your day right with a delicious breakfast and locally roasted coffee.
Drive to Decorah (around 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Canoeing on the Upper Iowa River

Paddle through beautiful scenic routes on a thrilling canoeing adventure.
Meet at the canoe rental place.
USD30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at T-Bock's Sports Bar & Grill

A fun sports bar atmosphere offering solid American fare.
Return to Decorah.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Mountain Biking at Decorah Trails

Hit the trails for a thrilling mountain biking experience amidst beautiful landscapes.
Drive to the biking trails (10 minutes).
USD20 (bike rental), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Whippy Dip

End the day with ice cream and casual dining at this popular local eatery.
Return to Decorah.
USD10, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Decorah

Day 8: Adventure in Manchester

Manchester, USA on July 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 210

Delight in a fresh breakfast in a cozy cafe setting, fueling up for the day ahead.
Drive to Manchester (around 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Rock Climbing at Manchester Quarry

Scale some serious heights at Manchester Quarry known for its challenging rock faces.
Drive to the quarry.
USD30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Gathering Place

Relish a relaxed atmosphere with homemade dishes that hit the spot.
Stroll over to The Gathering Place.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Fishing at Lake Delhi

Grab a rod and take part in fishing for rainbow trout in the scenic Lake Delhi.
Drive to Lake Delhi (30 minutes).
USD10 (license), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Zeno's Pizza

End the day with pizza and wings at Zeno's, a local favorite.
Return to Manchester.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Urban Adventure in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, USA on July 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Room

Enjoy artisan pastries and coffee to fuel your day in Cedar Rapids.
Drive to Cedar Rapids (around 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Indoor Skydiving at iFLY

Get the experience of free-fall skydiving without jumping out of a plane!
Head to the indoor skydiving venue.
USD70, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cherry Building

Explore local food vendors while enjoying diverse culinary offerings.
Head to The Cherry Building.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Paddleboarding on Cedar River

Experience paddleboarding along Cedar River while taking in the city skyline views.
Drive to the river access point.
USD25, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Landings

Savor flavorful dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients in a vibrant setting.
Return to Cedar Rapids.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 10: Adventure in Fort Dodge

Fort Dodge, USA on July 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Indulge in fresh coffee and breakfast sandwiches to start your day right.
Drive to Fort Dodge (about 1 hour).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dirt Biking at Fort Dodge Dirt Park

Rev up your engines and tackle the dirt tracks for a thrilling dirt biking adventure.
Head to the Dirt Park.
USD50, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Plaza Restaurant

Enjoy classic American meals in a cozy diner setting.
Head back to Fort Dodge.
USD12, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Paintball at Fort Dodge Paintball

Bring your team and enjoy an afternoon of exhilarating paintball matches.
Drive 20 minutes to the paintball field.
USD40, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Las Palmas

Feast on delicious Mexican cuisine to unwind after an action-packed day.
Return back to Fort Dodge.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Fort Dodge

Day 11: Adventure in Ames

Ames, USA on July 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Café

Start your day with delicious breakfast options in a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive to Ames (about 1 hour).
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Trampoline Park Adventure at Sky Zone

Jump around and experience the fun of an indoor trampoline park.
Head to Sky Zone.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hickory Park Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal with some of the best BBQ in Iowa.
Drive to Hickory Park (10 minutes).
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Escape Room Challenge

Put your wits to the test with a thrilling escape room adventure.
Drive 15 minutes to the escape room venue.
USD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at El Azteca

End your day with delicious Mexican fare that satisfies your cravings.
Back to Ames.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ames

Day 12: Council Bluffs Excitement

Council Bluffs, USA on July 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The 712 Initiative

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast in a trendy local spot.
Drive to Council Bluffs (about 1 hour).
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Adventure at Surf's Up Waterpark

Enjoy exhilarating water slides and rides at this thrilling waterpark.
Head to the waterpark.
USD35, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Pizza King

Grab a quick and satisfying pizza for lunch.
Take a short trip 10 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Indoor Skydiving at iFLY

Feel the weightlessness of skydiving indoors for yet another thrill.
Return to iFLY.
USD70, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at 1890 Grille

End the day with delicious dishes that reflect the local taste.
Head to the restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Council Bluffs

Day 13: Omaha Adventure Day Trip

Omaha, NE, USA on July 31, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Streamline

Kick-off your day with gourmet breakfast items and high-quality coffee.
Drive to Omaha (about 1 hour).
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo

Witness unique wildlife and experience the world’s best zoo experience.
Head directly to the zoo.
USD45, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Drover Restaurant

Feast on the famous whiskey steak at this classic steakhouse.
Drive to The Drover.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Ziplining at Omaha’s Adventure Park

Test your courage while ziplining at this exhilarating park.
Take a short drive to the adventure park.
USD70, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Olive Garden

Savor delicious Italian dishes in a beautiful setting.
Return to Omaha.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Return & Relaxation

Des Moines, USA on August 1, 2025

9:00AM

Brunch at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a leisurely brunch to celebrate the end of your journey.
Drive back to Des Moines (about 1 hour).
USD15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Linger at Des Moines Art Center

Explore the art center for a touch of culture after a week of adventure.
A short drive to the Art Center.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Relax at Gray's Lake Park

Wind down your trip by enjoying the calm waters and beautiful parkland at Gray's Lake.
Drive to Gray's Lake.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Centro

Relish modern Italian cuisine paired with a relaxed atmosphere to close your incredible adventure.
Head to Centro.
USD35, 2 hours

6:00PM

Trip Conclusion

Reflect on the thrilling experiences while planning for the next adventure!
End of your trip.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Des Moines
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