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14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Road Trip in Iowa - July 2025

Viewed by 375 travelers

Day 1: Explore Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Bar

Start your adventure with hearty breakfast favorites like pancakes and omelets at this local favorite.
Located in downtown Des Moines, just a short drive from your hotel.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day at the Des Moines Adventure Park

Spend the morning conquering the ropes courses, zip lines, and climbing walls at this outdoor adventure park.
Head east for about 15 minutes to reach the park.
$30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Smokey D's BBQ

Enjoy a finger-licking lunch with their award-winning barbecue that will fuel you for more adventure.
Just a quick drive back towards downtown.
$20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Live Action Escape Room

Challenge your family with thrilling puzzles and mysteries for an exciting afternoon experience.
Located downtown, about a 10-minute drive from lunch.
$100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Bait Shop

Wind down with some craft beer and tacos at this unique local establishment.
A 5-minute drive from the escape room.
$40, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Des Moines

Day 2: Water Adventures

Des Moines, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Paul’s Pizza & Eatery

Fuel up with delicious breakfast pizzas that are perfect for energetic kids.
A convenient stop near your hotel.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking on Gray's Lake

Experience the adrenaline of kayaking while enjoying scenic views of the lake.
Located less than 10 minutes away.
$30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fong's Pizza

Try their quirky Chinese-American pizza that will delight and intrigue your tastebuds.
A short drive from the lake.
$25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Biking on the Des Moines River Trail

Rent bikes and ride the scenic river trail for an afternoon of outdoor adventure.
Head to a local rental shop just a few minutes away.
$50, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fixed Gear

Wrap up the day with savory dishes, crafting a wonderful end to a fun-filled day.
Back towards downtown, approximately a 15-minute drive.
$30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Des Moines

Day 3: Exploring Iowa City

Iowa City, Iowa

7:00AM

Breakfast at Montezuma

Head to Iowa City and enjoy fresh breakfast burritos and coffee to energize your day.
About a 1-hour drive from Des Moines to Iowa City.
$15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Skydiving Adventure

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, join a tandem skydiving experience with breathtaking views.
Meet at the local skydiving center in Iowa City.
$300, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pullman Bar & Diner

Dig into delicious burgers and classic diner fare, a perfect treat after skydiving.
A quick drive from the skydiving center.
$30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Unwind with some stand-up paddleboarding on the Iowa River for fun in the sun.
Rent boards from a shop near the river.
$40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Airliner

Top off the day with tasty wings and a relaxed vibe, a popular spot to end your day.
About 10 minutes from the river.
$25, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Iowa City

Day 4: Coralville Thrills

Coralville, Iowa

9:00AM

Breakfast at 1638 Fish House

Enjoy a delightful breakfast by the water and get ready for a thrilling day.
Drive about 15 minutes from Iowa City to Coralville.
$20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Indoor Skydiving at iFLY

Experience the sensation of freefall without jumping out of a plane in this incredible indoor facility.
Located 15 minutes from breakfast in Coralville.
$70, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Olive Garden

Savor classic Italian dishes in a family-friendly setting to refuel for the afternoon.
A short drive of approximately 10 minutes.
$40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Coral Ridge Mall Rock Climbing

Challenge your climbing skills on the indoor rock walls at Coral Ridge Mall, perfect for all ages.
Located within Coral Ridge Mall, a short drive away.
$30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Wig and Pen

Enjoy local pizza choices and a vibrant atmosphere to end your Coralville adventure.
Super close to the mall, just a 5-minute drive.
$30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Coralville

Day 5: Water Sports Fun

West Burlington, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hungry Bear

Start off with a hearty breakfast that will prepare you for a day of water sports.
Travel about 1 hour from Coralville to West Burlington.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Jet Ski Rentals on the Mississippi River

Experience the thrill of riding a jet ski through beautiful river waters, perfect for adventure seekers.
Located along the riverfront in West Burlington.
$70, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Great Western Dining

Enjoy a casual dining experience and refuel with delicious sandwiches and burgers.
Easily accessible after your water fun.
$25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Fishing Charter on the Mississippi River

Join a guided fishing charter for an afternoon of excitement and bonding with family.
Meet at the local fishing charter dock.
$150, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Boonville Inn

End your day with fried catfish and local specialties in a comfortable dining space.
A short drive from the charter's dock.
$35, 1 hour
Find Hotels in West Burlington

Day 6: Adventure in Keokuk

Keokuk, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Café

Fuel up with a delicious, hearty breakfast before embarking on another adventure.
A quick driving distance from your hotel in West Burlington.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Biking the Keokuk-Tioga Trail

Explore the scenic beauty of the area on an invigorating bike ride down this picturesque trail.
Head to the nearby trailhead just 15 minutes away.
$20, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Landing Restaurant

Enjoy riverside dining with local favorites in a casual atmosphere.
Located right along the river, about a 10-minute drive.
$30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Great River Road State Park

Spend your afternoon hiking this beautiful park, exploring trails with stunning river views.
A scenic 20-minute drive away.
$10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at All Things Sweet Bakery

Indulge in sweet treats and pastries to finish off your day on a delicious note.
Backtrack slightly to downtown Keokuk.
$20, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Keokuk

Day 7: Dubuque Adventures

Dubuque, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jumble Coffee Company

Grab a quick and energizing breakfast at this trendy coffee shop filled with local flavors.
Drive about 1 hour from Keokuk to Dubuque.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Eagle Point Park

Explore the park and its views or take part in some light adventure activities like hiking and picnicking.
Located about 10 minutes from breakfast directly on the riverfront.
$5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Port of Dubuque

Have lunch overlooking the Mississippi River, enjoying local dishes.
Just a quick hop from the park.
$30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Catch a Tour on the Mississippi River

Take a boat tour along the river to get a different perspective on Dubuque.
Boat docks are located nearby at Port of Dubuque.
$45, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Duffy's Outdoor Grill

Enjoy a casual dining experience with hearty BBQ and beers as a perfect end to the day.
About a 15-minute drive from the boat docks.
$30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Dubuque

Day 8: Caves and Trails

Maquoketa, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Daily Grind

Fuel your day with fresh coffee and breakfast bites at this cozy café.
A short drive from Dubuque to Maquoketa.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Maquoketa Caves State Park

Get ready for an adventurous exploration of the unique caves and trails at this picturesque park.
Only 15 minutes east from the café.
$10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Maquoketa Valley Pizza

Enjoy some delicious pizzas after your adventures in the caves.
A quick drive back into town.
$25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Horseback Riding at Prairie Ridge

Experience a guided horseback adventure through scenic trails in the area.
Located about a 20-minute drive from lunch.
$50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cornerstone

End your day with hearty burgers and fries at this local hangout spot.
Only 10 minutes from Prairie Ridge.
$30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Maquoketa

Day 9: Cedar Rapids Adventures

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Newbo Market

Start your day at this vibrant market enjoying local vendors and fresh breakfast options.
A drive of about 1 hour from Maquoketa to Cedar Rapids.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Oak Hill Park Kayaking

Dive into some fun kayaking experiences at this local park, perfect for a sunny summer day.
Located about 20 minutes from breakfast.
$30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Elizabeth's Cafe

Indulge in locally sourced and freshly prepared meals in a family-friendly space.
Quick drive back into Cedar Rapids.
$25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Go Ape Ziplining

Continue your adventure with ziplines and treetop challenges that will thrill your family.
Located just 10 minutes from lunch.
$50, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Parlor City Pub & Grill

Cap off your day with classic American cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere.
Just a short drive from the ziplining.
$30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Cedar Rapids

Day 10: Outdoor Thrills

Marshalltown, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Depot

Start your day with a great cup of coffee and baked goods in this quaint café.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Cedar Rapids to Marshalltown.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Paintball at Central Iowa Paintball

Join your family in a competitive paintball game for some fun and energetic thrill.
Located just 10 minutes from breakfast.
$40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fisher Diner

Refuel with delightful diner-style meals to gain energy for more activities.
A short drive back into town.
$25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Biking the Linn Creek Trail

Explore rural Iowa while biking along this scenic trail as an excellent afternoon activity.
Trailhead is very close by.
$20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The 8th Street Grill

Finish the day with delicious hamburgers served up in an inviting atmosphere.
Less than 10 minutes from the trail.
$30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Marshalltown

Day 11: Nature and Wildlife

Fort Dodge, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Downtown Diner

Start your day with classic diner food to prep for some nature activities.
Travel about 1 hour from Marshalltown to Fort Dodge.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Fort Dodge State Park

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and partake in hiking trails among a scenic setting.
A quick drive from your diner.
$10, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Shack

Savor fresh catch seafood in a casual waterfront dining location.
Conveniently located close to the state park.
$30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Horseback Trail Rides

Experience the thrill of horseback riding through the beautiful trails of Fort Dodge.
Arranged through local stables nearby.
$50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pizza Ranch

Wrap up the day with delicious pizza and friendly service in a fun environment.
Drive approximately 15 minutes from the stables.
$25, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Fort Dodge

Day 12: Lakeside Fun

Spirit Lake, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Company

Savor a great start with fresh coffee and pastries in this lakeside café.
Drive approximately 90 minutes from Fort Dodge to Spirit Lake.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Boating and Watersports on Lake Okoboji

Spend the morning boating and engaging in thrilling watersports with your family.
Rent equipment directly at Lake Okoboji, less than 10 minutes away.
$150, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Boathouse

Enjoy lakeside dining for lunch with a scenic view of Lake Okoboji.
Right near the water activities.
$30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Parasailing on Lake Okoboji

Take to the skies with an exciting parasailing adventure that everyone will love.
Book directly through local operators near Lake Okoboji.
$100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Shack

Indulge in a variety of seafood and local dishes as the sun sets on your adventure.
Conveniently located near your activity areas.
$40, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Spirit Lake

Day 13: Parks and Trails

Ames, Iowa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stomping Grounds Café

Start your day right with fresh coffee and breakfast sandwiches in a cozy café.
Travel approximately 90 minutes from Spirit Lake to Ames.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Reiman Gardens

Spend the morning exploring beautiful outdoor gardens and seasonal exhibits in an open space.
conveniently located in Ames, just a short drive.
$5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Café at Reiman Gardens

Enjoy light and refreshing meals while overlooking the gardens.
Right in the Reiman Gardens facility.
$25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Disc Golf at Ada Hayden Park

Challenge your family to a friendly disc golf competition for a fun afternoon outdoors.
Drive about 15 minutes from lunch.
$15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Lincoln Café

Conclude your road trip adventure with a delectable meal featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Only about 10 minutes from the park.
$35, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Ames

Day 14: Return to Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa

9:00AM

Breakfast at La Mie Bakery

End your journey with a delicious breakfast at this local bakery with fresh pastries and coffee.
A drive of about 45 minutes back to Des Moines.
$15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Walking the Des Moines Riverwalk

Take a nice morning stroll along the scenic riverwalk, reminiscing about your adventurous journey.
Head back to downtown Des Moines.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at A Dong

Savor some authentic Vietnamese cuisine that will transport you across the world.
A 10-minute drive to a beloved local spot.
$20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Last-minute Shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center

Explore the shopping center for souvenirs and gifts to remember your trip.
A short drive from the restaurant.
$50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Conclude your adventure with a sumptuous meal celebrating the completion of your family trip.
Just a 15-minute drive from the mall.
$70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Des Moines
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