Fun places to go for kids Iowa | FAMILYdaysOUTusa.com | family things to do IA

Adventureland Park

Altoona

Adventureland ParkLocated on the northeast corner of the Des Moines metro area you'll find one of the nicest family resorts in the Midwest. Adventureland provides fun and entertainment to hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Adventureland Park, Adventureland Inn, and Adventureland..

Blank Park Zoo

Des Moines

Blank Park ZooThe Blank Park Zoo manages 49 acres of land. Of that, 22 acres have been developed into animal exhibits or facilities. Currently there are 104 different animal species and 1,484 animal specimens cared for at the Blank Park Zoo.

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Dubuque

National Mississippi River Museum and AquariumPrepare to take an entertaining, informative journey and learn about the Mighty Mississippi at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. Enjoy dynamic aquariums, historical exhibits and a stroll through the wetlands and boatyard. A new adventure is waiting for you..

The Insect Zoo

Ames

The Insect ZooThe Insect Zoo in Iowa State University's Department of Entomology is an outreach program developed to foster an appreciation of insects found in Iowa and throughout the world. Participants can view and interact with live insects and other arthropods. We emphasize the..

Bluedorn Science Imaginarium

Waterloo

Bluedorn Science ImaginariumDescribed as a "playground for the imagination", this interactive science center provides fun hands-on exhibits that demonstrate how science affects everyday life. The Imaginarium is built on the belief that science can be fun and exciting. We provide opportunities for..

Science Center of Iowa

Parkway Des Moines

Science Center of Iowa Imagine. Experiment. Play! At the Science Center of Iowa, the experience is yours! From the inner workings of the human body to the outer reaches of the solar system, science surrounds you with dynamic live programs and hands-on interactive exhibits that will inspire the..

Herbert Hoover Historic Site

West Branch

Herbert Hoover Historic SiteWhether you have half an hour or half a day, there are many things to see and do at Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. The future president was born in a small, two-room cottage in 1874. Today the Birthplace Cottage, along with other historic buildings associated..

Guthrie County Historical Village

Panora

Guthrie County Historical VillageThe Guthrie County Historical Village, located on a beautiful 4-acre complex near the Middle Raccoon River and old Lenon Mill Park on the southwest side of Panora, Iowa, features ten buildings and numerous exhibits that explore the history of Guthrie County from 1850 to the..

Pella Historical Village

Pella

Pella Historical VillageWhatever your idea of a vacation is, you\'ll Experience it in Pella. Immerse yourself in the old-world charm of the Netherlands as you stroll along our brick streets visiting our Dutch storybook storefronts, the Molengracht canal, and our authentic 1850\'s working..

Brucemore

Cedar Rapids

BrucemoreYou can't experience Brucemore by looking at a screen. Grab the family, take a tour of the mansion, stroll the gardens, pack a picnic, and attend outdoor theatre. Brucemore, a National Trust Historic Site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a museum and so much more. As a community..

Grotto of the Redemption

West Bend

Grotto of the RedemptionThe Grotto is a composite of nine separate Grottos, each portraying a scene in the life of Christ. The Grotto includes the largest collection of precious stones and gems found anywhere in one location. The artistry has to be seen to be appreciated, plus the message it..

The Lost Island

Waterloo

The Lost IslandThe Lost Island Waterpark is just minutes away from everything you need if your just visiting for the day, or planning to stay a week! This waterpark features a huge pool, five water slides, Lazy River, go-cart track, 18-hole mini course and a lot more.

Kings Point Waterpark

Storm Lake

Kings Point WaterparkSituated on the shores of Storm Lake, King's Pointe Waterpark offers indoor and outdoor entertainment for all ages. Multiple waterslides, water playgrounds, water channels and lap lanes and much, much more allow everyone to have a great time.

Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark

Dubuque

Grand Harbor Resort and WaterparkLocated in the Port of Dubuque, Iowa, Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark is the perfect spot for enjoying this beautiful and exciting destination area. Gather with friends for a relaxed conversation in our Riverwalk Restaurant & Lounge, or slide into a whole new world of..

Kids Club At MacNider Museum

Mason City

Kids Club At MacNider MuseumKids' Club is an activity-based exploration of the visual arts and the treasures of the MacNider Museum for children ages 5 through 12 ! The Charles H. MacNider Museum is a non-profit, municipally owned institution conceived in 1964 and opened by 1966 in Mason City,..

Sanford Museum and Planetarium

Cherokee

Sanford Museum and Planetarium The Sanford Museum offers a variety of educational programs for groups on subjects including Astronomy, Geology, History, Natural History, and Prehistory.

Grout Museum of History and Science

Waterloo

Grout Museum of History and Science Unearth the treasures of the past and gaze into the future at the Grout Museum District. You'll be surrounded by history and astounded by what is yet to come as you explore the world through interactive displays and hands-on exhibits.

Sioux City Public Museum

Sioux City

Sioux City Public Museum The Sioux City Public Museum preserves and shares the heritage of Sioux City through a variety of exhibitions, programs and historic structures. We tell the stories of our community through exhibitions, educational programs and events.

Family Museum of Arts and Science

Bettendorf

Family Museum of Arts and Sciencehe Mission of the Family Museum is to inspire life-long learning in children through interactive arts and science activities and exhibits. Great idea if you're looking for fun places for kids in Iowa

Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science and Imax Theatre

Davenport

Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science and Imax TheatreFounded in 1867, the Putnam is home to over 150,000 artifacts and specimens, the Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science offers permanent and changing exhibits,and houses Iowa's only 3D IMAX Theatre.

National Farm Toy Museum

Dyersville

National Farm Toy MuseumThe National Farm Toy Museum welcomes kids of all ages to explore the thousands of tractors, implements, farm dioramas, toy-manufacturing displays, and pedal tractors on exhibit around the museum. Open seven days a week, plan today to visit the number one experience for..

Danish Windmill Museum and Welcome Center

Elk Horn

Danish Windmill Museum and Welcome CenterThe Danish Windmill Museum is for all people interested in Denmark, Danish Customs, Scandinavian traditions and, of course, windmills. Elk Horn's Danish Windmill is America's only authentic working Danish Windmill. The Mill, originally built in Norre Snede, Denmark in..

Iowa Aviation Museum

Greenfield

Iowa Aviation MuseumThe Iowa Aviation Museum celebrates Iowa's remarkable aviation heritage, from the state's first recorded flight in 1910 to its native sons and daughters exploring the universe. Great idea if you're looking for fun places for kids in Iowa

Old Capitol Museum

Iowa City

Old Capitol Museum A national historic landmark located in the center of Iowa City, Old Capitol served as the first state capitol from 1846-1857 and the University of Iowa's founding building. In 1976, Old Capitol became a museum restored to the 1840s-1850s time period and dedicated to..

Nelson Pioneer Farm and Museum

Oskaloosa

Nelson Pioneer Farm and Museum Founded in 1844, the Nelson homestead is one of the premier historic attractions in Mahaska County. The property now features historic buildings from all over Mahaska County, providing visitors a glimpse of what life was like for Iowans in 19th century America.

Railswest Railroad Museum

Council Bluffs

Railswest Railroad MuseumThe construction of the transcontinental railroad played a major role in the development of southwest Iowa, and vice versa. The history of this era is well preserved in the former 1899 Rock lsland Depot located at South Main Street and Sixteenth Avenue in Council Bluffs.

Arnolds Park

Arnolds ParkBuilt in 1889 - during the golden age of amusement parks - Historic Arnolds Park is one of the longest operating amusement parks in the world. It features classic rides and attractions like a wooden roller coaster named The Legend, the Queen II excursion boat, live..

Tokens Family Fun Center

West Des Moines

Tokens Family Fun CenterJoin Us at TOKENS Family Fun Center in West Des Moines for Video Games,Glow-in-the-dark Mini-Golf,Laser Tag,Dance Dance Revolution,In The Groove,Birthday Parties,Group Events,Pizza,Food,Indoor Family FUN

Planet Fun Family Fun Center

Cedar Rapids

Planet Fun Family Fun CenterWe offer the largest selection of activities in the area from our under water adventure mini golf course to our 2500 ft laster tag arena we are able to entertain all ages. Great idea if you're looking for fun places for kids in Iowa

Pirates Cove Mini Golf

Arnolds Park

Pirates Cove Mini GolfPutt your way through the world of 18th century pirates-- under cascading waterfalls, across a natural stream and past pirate ship ruins! Nestled in a naturally beautiful landscape, this 18-hole course will delight your family. With our elaborate pirate theming, natural..

Pzazz Fun City

Burlington

Pzazz Fun CityA 70,000 square foot water park, full-service restaurants, award-winning bowling center, large indoor speedway, golf course, laser tag arena. Great idea if you're looking for fun places for kids in Iowa

Fort Custer Maze

Clear Lake

Fort Custer MazeGet lost! Visit Fort Custer Maze! Fort Custer Maze was designed by the "World's Leading Maze Consultant" - Adrienne Fisher. Fisher, based out of Portsmouth, England, has written several maze books and designed well over 200 mazes worldwide.

Airline Amusement Park

Waterloo

Airline Amusement Park Bumper cars, goofy golf, a driving range and batting cages are all on offer at this fun family park.

Maple Ridge Farm

Marion

Maple Ridge FarmAt Maple Ridge Farm we have a history of community and family fun with our feature hayrides! Our hayrides will culminate your day, but they are only one part of the personal experience our customers have grown to expect. We have something for everyone in our..

Viking Lake State Park Hiking Trails

Stanton

Viking Lake State Park Hiking TrailsViking Parks Hiking trails totaling six miles provide visitors an excellent look at the park's natural features. The Bur Oak Nature Trail and its accompanying booklet provide insight on many of the important shrubs, plants and trees found at Viking Lake. The one mile trail..

Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad

Boone

Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad The Iowa Railroad Historical Society is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization which is dedicated to the preservation of, and educating the public about, the history of Iowa's railroads. Enjoy learning about the history of railroading at the Iowa Railway Museum. Our..

Des Moines Botanical Center

Des Moines

Des Moines Botanical Centerhe Des Moines Botanical Center is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Iowa, providing educational, recreational, and community resources to thousands. Its goal is to provide botanical displays and educational services for its visitors. It is located on 14 acres..

Iowa Arboretum

Madrid

Iowa ArboretumA visit to the Iowa Arboretum's 378-acre facility located in scenic, rural Boone County is an experience you won't want to miss. This site offers 40 acres developed as a 'Library of Living Plants' showcasing hundreds of species of trees, shrubs and flowers in a tranquil..

Prairie Learning Center

Prairie City

Prairie Learning Center Experience the breathtaking beauty of over 5,000 acres of tallgrass prairie and native Midwest wildlife. The Refuge reconstructs the native plant and animal communities that greeted Iowa\'s earliest settlers in the mid 1800\'s

Amboy Trail Ranch

Newton

Amboy Trail RanchThe Amboy Trail Ranch is located just outside of Newton, Iowa on over 100 acres of beautiful woodland. Come spend a day with us in the woods!

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Harpers Ferry

Effigy Mounds National MonumentThere are numerous opportunities for you to enjoy a self-guided tour or join a ranger for a hike, walk, talk or historic demonstration. Most trails are moderately strenuous, however, there are some trails accessible to mobility impaired visitors.

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

Sioux City

Dorothy Pecaut Nature CenterA visit to Stone Park would not be complete without a visit to the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center. The center features a variety of interpretive displays, including a "walk-under" prairie, a 400-gallon aquarium of native fish, and natural history dioramas. A children's..

Marble Beach State Recreation Area

Spirit Lake

Marble Beach State Recreation AreaMarble Beach\'s campground is the largest in the Iowa Great Lakes region.Spirit Lake is the largest natural lake in Iowa and provides some of the best fishing in the state. Crandall\'s Beach provides a fine place for young and old to sunbathe and spash in the clear water of..

Wilson Island State Park

Missouri Valley

Wilson Island State ParkWilson Island, named after former Governor George Wilson, came into existence as an island sandbar around 1900. Today, Wilson Island State Recreation Area encompasses 544 acres of dense cottonwood stands. Seclusion is one of the area's greatest assets and spacious shady..

Grimes Conservation Farm

Marshalltown

Grimes Conservation FarmPartly a nature preserve, partly a farm, partly an education center, and partly a recreation area, Grimes Farm is an unusual public space that combines a working agricultural operation with the natural environment to show how, through effective conservation techniques,..

Woodbury Conservation Area

Sioux City

Woodbury Conservation AreaWelcome The Woodbury County Conservation Board invites you to explore nearly 5,000 acres of unique conservation lands. You will find a tremendous variety of outdoor recreational opportunities ranging from lake fishing to river canoeing, from swimming to picnicking, and..

Crystal Lake Cave

Dubuque

Crystal Lake CaveA living natural cave. You are invited to visit and witness the ongoing miracle that created this natural masterpiece of underground panorama. Great idea if you're looking for fun places for kids in Iowa

Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitor Center

Le Mars

Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitor CenterExperience the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Iowa Cream Capital of the World, home of Blue Bunny Ice Cream, in Le Mars, IA. Staff will provide a family-friendly experience at the museum.

Living History Farms

Urbandale

Living History FarmsBring your family out to learn how farmers in the past harvested a hay crop. Experience first-hand the processes used to cut, rake and store the hay that will feed our livestock all winter. Walk through the hay field where a hay stacker and machinery of many eras will be..

Field of Dreams Movie Site

Dyersville

Field of Dreams Movie SiteIs this Heaven? No, it's Iowa. A place of fertile soil, traditional values and simple pleasure. And in Dyersville, Iowa, at the century-old Lansing family farm with its quaint, and oh so recognizable house, baseball still ranks as a favorite pastime for all ages. What..