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Ultimate Family Adventure Road Trip Through Iowa - July 2025

Viewed by 361 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa

9:00 AM

Check-In at Hotel

Settle into your family-friendly accommodation in Des Moines and get ready for a fun trip ahead.
Less than 20 minutes from downtown.
USD120, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Adventure Quest

Get the adrenaline pumping with this exciting outdoor obstacle course that the whole family can enjoy.
Located downtown, a 10-minute drive.
USD50 per person, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Fong's Pizza

Relish an unexpected twist with their unique fusion of Chinese food and pizza.
15-minute drive from Adventure Quest.
USD70, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Saylorville Lake

Engage in some water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding at this scenic spot.
30-minute drive from lunch spot.
USD30 for rental, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Centro

Enjoy a delicious variety of locally sourced Italian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
30-minute drive from Saylorville.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Des Moines

Day 2: Thrills at Adventureland

Altoona, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a thrilling day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
At the hotel, convenient and easy.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Adventureland Park

Dive into excitement with roller coasters, water rides, and family attractions at this renowned amusement park.
20-minute drive from hotel.
USD110 per person, 7 hours

5:30 PM

Late Lunch at Californo's

Grab some delicious pizza and fresh salads right inside Adventureland Park.
Conveniently located in the park.
USD60, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Jethro’s BBQ

Dig into hearty BBQ delights that will satisfy even the hungriest adventurer.
5-minute drive from the park.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Altoona

Day 3: Outdoor Fun in Iowa City

Iowa City, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe M

Enjoy outstanding American breakfasts with local ingredients to kickstart your day.
10-minute drive from hotel.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Iowa River Trail

Cycle or walk along the beautiful Iowa River Trail, offering stunning views and family-friendly pathways.
15-minute drive from breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Big Grove Tavern

Taste fresh farm-to-table dishes in a vibrant setting with a great children's menu available.
5-minute drive from the trail.
USD60, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lake Macbride State Park

Spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or hiking in this beautiful state park.
20-minute drive from lunch.
USD25 for parking and rentals, 4 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Pullman Bar & Diner

Enjoy upscale diner fare, with options to please every family member.
30-minute drive from the park.
USD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Iowa City

Day 4: Fun and Adventure at Lake Macbride

Lake Macbride, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Lake's Cafe

Start your day with a lakeside breakfast that offers classic breakfast options with a view.
Onsite, very convenient.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Challenge the family with some paddleboarding on the gorgeous lake waters.
Rented onsite.
USD40 per board, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Lake Macbride Beach

Have a picnic style lunch you brought along, enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Located at the beach area.
USD20 for supplies, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Hiking Trails at Lake Macbride

Explore the scenic trails, perfect for some light hiking and spotting wildlife.
Choose trails at the park entrance.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Kozy Eatery

Experience a cozy family dinner in a charming atmosphere with hearty meals.
10-minute drive from the park.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Macbride

Day 5: Cedar Rapids Adventures

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Republic

Savor delicious and creatively prepared breakfasts to energize your family.
15-minute drive from hotel.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Go-Kart Racing at The Track

Get your adrenaline rushing with family-friendly go-kart racing at Cedar Rapids' best track.
20-minute drive from breakfast.
USD45 per person, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at The Historic Amana Colonies

Explore local eateries within the historic area and enjoy German-style dishes.
30-minute drive from the track.
USD70, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Mountain Biking in Palisades-Kepler State Park

Hit the trails for an adventurous mountain biking experience through scenic terrain.
30-minute drive from the lunch site.
USD15 for state park entry, 4 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Cibo Fusion

Indulge in delicious dishes with a creative fusion of global flavors.
10-minute drive from the biking park.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cedar Rapids

Day 6: Caving in Maquoketa

Maquoketa, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe 215

Enjoy a cozy breakfast featuring fresh local ingredients to energize your day.
5-minute walk from your hotel.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Maquoketa Caves State Park

Explore the intriguing caves found within the park, offering adventurous trails and stunning views.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD25 for parking, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Maquoketa Caves Lodge

Treat the family to a hearty lunch at the park's lodge, refueling for more adventure.
Onsite.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Rock Climbing

Challenge yourselves with some rock climbing at the caves with guided experiences available.
Guided tours are available on-site.
USD70 per person, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Hiking Exploration

Further explore the various trails located within Maquoketa Caves State Park.
Various trails accessible from the parking area.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Corner Tap

Enjoy a local favorite with distinctive dishes showcasing Iowan hospitality.
20-minute drive from the park.
USD65, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Maquoketa

Day 7: Dubuque Exploration

Dubuque, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Silver Spoon

Start the day with delicious breakfasts featuring locally sourced ingredients.
15-minute drive from your accommodations.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Outdoor Riverboat Adventure

Spend the morning on an exciting riverboat ride along the Mississippi for beautiful views.
Located at the Dubuque riverfront.
USD80 per person, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Doolittle's Woodfire Grill

Savor grilled dishes and sandwiches that are loved by families.
5-minute walk from the river.
USD75, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Mystique Community Ice Center

Try your skills on ice with family-friendly public skate times available.
10-minute drive
USD15 per person, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Relax and enjoy the beautiful gardens, perfect for some peaceful family time.
15-minute drive from the ice center.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Lift

Dine at this chic restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
5-minute drive from the garden.
USD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dubuque

Day 8: Relaxation and Exploration

Bellevue, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bella Roma

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with Italian twists on classic morning dishes.
30-minute drive from your Dubuque accommodations.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Bellevue State Park

Engage in more outdoor activities such as hiking and scenic views of the Mississippi River.
20-minute drive from breakfast.
USD25 for parking, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Blue Dog Pub

Indulge in casual American fare with something for everyone on the menu.
10-minute drive from the park.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Kayaking in the Mississippi River

Enjoy a kayaking experience right in the Mississippi, where you can spot some wildlife.
Rented from Bellevue or nearby.
USD30 per person, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Stone Cliff

Savor excellent food paired with local wine at this wine bar and bistro.
10-minute drive from the kayak rental.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Bellevue

Day 9: Nature Explorations in Decorah

Decorah, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at T-Bock's Sports Bar & Grill

Fuel your day with hearty breakfasts that will keep everyone energized.
30-minute drive from Bellevue.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens and surrounding nature for a relaxing morning.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Decorah Fish Hatchery

Visit this family-friendly hatchery and watch the interesting life cycles of fish.
5-minute drive from the gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Whippet

Experience a menu with fantastic twists on comfort food with locally sourced ingredients.
10-minute drive from the hatchery.
USD65, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Canoeing on the Upper Iowa River

Kayak or canoe your way down this beautiful river section.
Rentals available near the river.
USD25 per person, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Pub

Finish the day with hearty pub fare in a welcoming environment.
10-minute drive from the river.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Decorah

Day 10: Adventurous Waterloo

Waterloo, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Brown Bottle

Begin your day with a vibrant breakfast menu in a comfortable atmosphere.
20-minute drive from Decorah.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Lost Island Waterpark

Beat the heat while enjoying thrilling water slides and wave pools at this family-friendly park.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD40 per person, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Brothers Restaurant

A family favorite, enjoy great burgers, fries, and more in a traditional diner setting.
5-minute drive from the waterpark.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Pine Lake Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or playground fun.
30-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at HuHot Mongolian Grill

Try Mongolian BBQ where you can customize your meal right in front of you.
30-minute drive from the park.
USD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Waterloo

Day 11: Relaxing at Clear Lake

Clear Lake, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Nook

Indulge in delicious and comforting breakfast classics to start the day right.
40-minute drive from Waterloo.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Clear Lake State Park

Settle in for a day of hiking, biking or swimming at this beautiful state park.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD25 for parking, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Surf District

Enjoy lakeside dining with seafood specialties and other local favorites.
10-minute drive from the park.
USD80, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Boating on Clear Lake

Rent a motorboat or pontoon for an unforgettable afternoon on the water.
Rental companies are located by the lake.
USD100 for rental, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Captain's Quarters

Indulge in delicious waterfront dining with breathtaking views at sunset.
10-minute drive from boat rental.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Clear Lake

Day 12: Fort Dodge Excursions

Fort Dodge, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Plaza Restaurant

Gather for a hearty family breakfast at this popular spot, famous for its pancakes.
30-minute drive from Clear Lake.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Lakeside Water Sports

Experience exciting water sports like tubing or jet skiing for some thrill.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD75 per person, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Olde Boston's Restaurant

Enjoy delicious American-style food with a warm atmosphere.
20-minute drive from the water sports.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Fort Dodge Trails

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful trails through the lush landscape.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Fish Fry

Indulge in local fish delicacies at this popular local spot.
15-minute drive from the trails.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Fort Dodge

Day 13: Family Fun in Ankeny

Ankeny, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cracker Barrel

Start the day with delightful breakfast dishes at this family-friendly locale.
30-minute drive from Fort Dodge.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Splash Landing Aquatic Park

Enjoy thrilling water slides and pools at this family-friendly aquatic park.
20-minute drive.
USD40 per person, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ankeny Diner

Experience classic American diners serving generous portions for hungry families.
15-minute drive.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Parks and Playgrounds

Spend the afternoon at local parks or playgrounds, letting off steam after lunch.
Various local parks are accessible.
Free, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Cazador's

Enjoy unique Mexican dishes in a vibrant setting with family-friendly options.
10-minute drive.
USD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ankeny

Day 14: Return to Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, reminiscing about the fun times.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Check out and travel to Des Moines

Check out of your accommodation and head back to Des Moines for your departure.
Short drive back.
Free, 30 minutes

10:30 AM

Visit Gray's Lake Park

Wrap up the trip with a stroll or bike ride around this scenic park before heading home.
15-minute drive from downtown.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Tavern

Enjoy a farewell lunch with great food in a friendly atmosphere.
10-minute drive from the park.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Departure

With beautiful memories and adventures, head home with the family!
Final travel from lunch.
Free, Duration varies
Find Hotels in Des Moines
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