Looking for Iowa Vacation Ideas

[nb06]

Do a vacation with two other couples every summer. Wed-Sun. Usually rent a VRBO/AirBnb. Pretty laid back, like to center around a lake or a cool area that has lots to do.

We were in Galena (I know, not Iowa) this year, have done Clear Lake, Lake Cornelia, Harpers Ferry, in the past.

It’s our turn to book for 2024. Looking for some suggestions if anyone has any. Usually shoot for within 3 to 4 hrs of DM.

 

[madguy30]

Decorah.

 

[Gonzo]

Villisca Axe Murder House.

You're welcome

 

[NWICY]

The Okoboji area.

 

[Al_4_State]

Driftless Area (Decorah, Harper’s, Lansing, McGregor, Elkader) or Okoboji area. By a landslide.

 

[nfrine]

Villisca Axe Murder House.

You're welcome

How about IC then?

 

[isufbcurt]

Decorah.

We did a weekend in Decorah a couple summers ago it was nice.

 

[mynameisjonas]

The best iowa vacation idea is to leave Iowa.

 

[ClonesFTW]

Honey Creek Resort near Lake Rathbun. The cabins down there provide an off the grid feel while being within walking distance of the lake to rent boat/jet skis and the golf course.

 

[Dr.bannedman]

council bluffs and or fort dodge

 

[madguy30]

We did a weekend in Decorah a couple summers ago it was nice.

Some cool spots downtown then like 5 minutes from very cool scenery.

 

[CoachHines3]

Decorah.

going mid Sept for a few days!

 

[madguy30]

going mid Sept for a few days!

I'd guess as dry as it's been that mid-late September will be some good fall colors and that's obviously a great area for it.

I REALLY liked it once when I was there in late April.

 

[KnappShack]

Is that Boone train still a thing?

 

[JP4CY]

Is that Boone train still a thing?

It is. Saw them at Varied Industries at the Fair this week.

 

[NWICY]

Is that Boone train still a thing?

Yes, did it last yr it's OK. Kids would enjoy it probably. Maybe the supper train if adults only. Some nice views on the bridges but a lot of going through a green tunnel. It was a good experience once.

 

[CyPhallus]

AirBNB in Ottumwa with a view of the river.

 

[isufbcurt]

Some cool spots downtown then like 5 minutes from very cool scenery.

We happened to be there when they were having their Nordic days. Rode the bike trails, went in the ice cave, hiked some trails, kayaked down the river, etc.

 

[JimmyChitwood]

I've got a place on Osage Beach. I would recommend the Ozarks once a year. Plenty of food and beverages for all

 

[AgronAlum]

Is that Boone train still a thing?

I’ve had some friends do the pedal carts over the bridge and they said it was pretty cool. We’ve taken the kids on the train a couple times.