Weekend Getaway in Iowa

Head to the city's 49-acre Blank Park Zoo, whose indoor and outdoor exhibits house red pandas, emperor scorpions, grey crowned cranes, reticulated giraffes, and more. There's also Raccoon River Park in Des Moines, where you can relax at the picnic shelters, fish, and swim.

Check out the Amana Colonies to shop and dine in traditional German villages. The Old Capitol Museum beckons history lovers with its variety of exhibits. Afterward, consider going to the Devonian Fossil Gorge to see the ocean floor remains, which date back to 375 million years ago.

In Ames, visit the Reiman Gardens to view the beautiful seasonal flowerbeds and sculptures. The 17-acre park also has a gift shop, where you can buy souvenirs and gifts for people at home. From there, visit Prairie Moon Winery to learn about winemaking.

In this Black Hawk County city, families will want to cool off at the Lost Island waterpark, where you can zoom down slides and bask in the sun. There's also a mini-golf course. Shopping enthusiasts can head to Crossroads Mall, which covers more than 50 miles.

Iowa's second-largest city, Cedar Rapids is home to the Prairie Park Fishery, where you can try your hand at angling or ice-skate during winter. Check out the Indian Creek Nature Center’s hiking trails, fishing, and skiing.

During your weekend getaway in Iowa, visit this performing arts center in Nevada for comedy shows, live music, and events featuring hypnotists, illusionists, and psychics. It was ranked as Iowa’s fourth-best comedy venue in its first five years of operation. Head to nearby Mi Casita, a Mexican restaurant, to dine on tasty fajitas.

Head here to see a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and other modern art. You'll find the works of great artists such as Jasper Johns, Claude Monet, Deborah Butterfield, Eva Hesse, and Takashi Murakami. Stop at the eatery for a bite after touring the center.

Settle into this Altoona theater's comfortable seats on a rainy day. You can order your tickets online.

If you're in Iowa City, stop here for delectable seafood, steak, and other American dishes, washed down with a cold beer. Larger groups of eight or more should make reservations.

At Pella's Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake, you can fish and boat while enjoying fantastic sunset views. Play a few holes at Bos Landen Golf Club, ranked among the United States' 75 most affordable golf courses.

If you're planning on renting a car in Iowa, you'll need a driver's license. Driving yourself between attractions saves time and lets you travel off the beaten track.

Pack according to what season you're heading to Iowa. For instance, shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses are great for summer visits. Should you go in winter, heavier coats, scarves, and gloves will be useful.

Great hiking awaits in Iowa, especially in Maquoketa and Decorah. Remember to bring a backpack, sturdy shoes, and a first aid kit.

Big Spirit Lake and Lake Rathbun offer excellent fishing. Anglers will want to bring nets, hooks, and rods.

Pack sunscreen, especially when if you're going to Iowa in summer. Make sure it has an SPF of at least 30.