We’ve put together a list of 100 fantastic family day trips that are just a short drive away from Cedar Rapids. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, quirky local spots, or fun-filled attractions, there’s something here to make every family outing memorable. Buckle up and get ready to explore the best of what’s close to home!
Mt Vernon, IA (17 miles)
American Gothic Barn
If you haven’t seen the painting “American Gothic” by Cedar Rapids native, it’s time to check it out! Someone recreated this famous artwork on an entire barn side! In the middle of nowhere, it’s a stunning surprise!
Palisades-Kepler State Park
Beautiful park offering diverse recreational activities and a historic lodge perfect for event bookings.
Amana, IA (19 miles)
Amana Colonies
A region of seven historic German villages, featuring traditional shops, dining spots, and artisan workshops.
Iowa City, IA (27 miles)
Old Capitol Museum
A distinguished landmark and former government seat, featuring a gilded dome and exhibits on local history.
University of Iowa: Museum of Natural History
It’s a massive place filled with all kinds of animals, birds, and more. A fun outing for everyone, especially on a rainy day.
The Iowa Children’s Museum
Inside Coral Ridge Mall, this lively museum educates children about their surroundings through fun activities and play.
University of Iowa: Athletics Hall of Fame
This is paradise for the sports fans in the family.
Devonian Fossil Gorge
Explore a dried-out riverbed filled with fascinating fossils to discover.
Macbride State Park near Solon, IA
Visit the raptor center to see a variety of raptors, including owls, hawks, kestrels, and eagles, that are here due to injury or human imprinting.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
Covering 187 acres, this historic site features President Hoover’s birthplace, his final resting place, and several other significant attractions.
World’s Largest Wooden Nickel
Made from Southern Yellow Pine, the World’s Largest Wooden Nickel spans 16 feet across. Jim Glasgow built this massive landmark in 2006, despite local protests against the nearby highway expansion and redevelopment.
Antique Car Museum of Iowa
Exhibit featuring transportation displays and classic cars from the 1890s to the 1970s.
Riverside, IA (38 miles)
The Voyage Home Museum
The Voyage Home History Center showcases Riverside’s past, present, and future with a blend of historical exhibits and a unique collection of Star Trek memorabilia.
Riverside Casino & Golf Resort
A top-notch entertainment spot with a variety of amenities.
Waterloo, IA (55 miles)
John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum
This museum showcases the evolution of John Deere tractors and engines, offering a hands-on experience with interactive exhibits and beautifully restored machinery. It’s a great spot to learn about the innovation and heritage of one of America’s iconic brands.
Waterloo Center for the Arts
A vibrant hub for creativity and culture, showcasing diverse exhibits and offering hands-on art experiences.
Bluedorn Science Imaginarium
Hands-on science center that’s perfect for curious minds of all ages. It offers interactive exhibits and engaging activities that make learning about science fun and accessible. Whether you’re into physics, biology, or chemistry, there’s something here to spark your imagination and inspire a love for discovery.
Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
A vibrant oasis where you can explore beautifully curated gardens, peaceful walking paths, and a variety of seasonal displays. Perfect for a relaxing day out where you can enjoy hands-on learning and the serene beauty of the landscape.
Lost Island Waterpark
Thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, there’s something fun for everyone. The tropical-themed park also offers plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the sun, making it a favorite destination for a refreshing and exciting day out.
Palmer’s Family Fun
Mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, and arcade games; Palmer’s guarantees a good time for all ages.
Tankman Statue
Honors the bravery of the unknown soldier who famously stood in front of a tank during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. Erected to commemorate his act of defiance, the statue serves as a powerful symbol of resistance and courage in the face of oppression.
Cedar Falls, IA (62 miles)
Hartman Reserve Nature Center
A peaceful spot where you can hike through forests, explore wetlands, and enjoy hands-on programs and events that make learning about the environment fun for all ages.
Escapology Escape Rooms
If you’re up for an adventure, Escapology Escape Rooms in Cedar Falls is the place to be. It’s got a reputation for thrilling, challenging escape rooms that are perfect for a fun outing.
Ice House Museum
Displays and activities showcasing the history of ice harvesting in a circular, riverfront ice house built in 1921.
Columbus Junction, IA (60 miles)
Swinging Bridge Park
Built to provide a shortcut from Fourth Street to Third, avoiding the need to trek around the 80-foot ravine on foot.
Chinkapin Bluffs Park
Discover Chinkapin Park year-round: hike, bike, picnic, and take in the stunning Iowa River valley view from the overlook.
Maquoketa, IA (60 miles)
Maquoketa Caves
Maquoketa Caves boasts more caves than any state park, plus towering bluffs that rise majestically throughout the area.
Hurstville Interpretative Center
The Hurstville Interpretive Center is a great spot for individuals and families to explore nature, learn about the environment, and understand the importance of conservation in preserving our local resources.
61 Drive-In
Outdoor movie theater – one of the few in the area.
Muscatine, IA (68 miles)
Discovery Park
Tucked away in Muscatine, this 100-acre park combines natural beauty with an urban backdrop. With walking trails, fishing ponds, and the friendly Environmental Learning Center, it’s the perfect spot for all ages to explore and appreciate nature.
World’s Largest Watermelon Sculpture
Built in autumn 2023 along the Muscatine riverfront, this structure stands 40 feet long, 16 feet high, towers at 26 feet, and weighs 16,000 pounds!
Muscatine Art Center
Explore masterpieces by world-famous artists, fascinating historical artifacts from Muscatine, beautifully crafted decorative arts, charming period rooms, and a century-old Japanese Garden. Spark curiosity with rotating exhibits, educational classes, and engaging events for all ages.
Weed Park
A 72-acre park with an aquatic center, a picturesque lagoon, ten lit tennis courts, beautiful rose gardens, and large playing fields.
Muscatine Arboretum
Known as a “living tree museum,” this 13-acre area in Discovery Park showcases a wide variety of native and ornamental trees and shrubs. The arboretum features demonstration gardens with hostas and ornamental grasses and surrounds a reconstructed prairie wetland.
The National Pearl Button Museum
Producing over 1.5 billion mother-of-pearl buttons each year, the town’s rise to fame is thanks to immigrant entrepreneurs, dedicated laborers, and the mussels central to the industry. The National Pearl Button Museum tells the story of these crucial factors that put Muscatine on the global stage.
Wildcat Den State Park
Hiking trails featuring scenic bluffs and creeks, a historic grist mill, plus picnic shelters and basic campgrounds.
Walcott, IA (68 miles)
I-80 Truckstop
Large freeway rest area with a cozy restaurant serving homestyle dishes and several fast-food options.
Iowa 80 Trucking Museum
A museum dedicated to trucking history, with antique models, vintage memorabilia, and a gift shop—all for free admission.
Marshalltown, IA (70 miles)
Marshalltown Speedway
Marshalltown Speedway is a thrilling hub for racing enthusiasts, featuring high-speed action and exhilarating races on its well-maintained track. Known for its exciting atmosphere and competitive events, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about motorsports.
Iowa River’s Edge Trail
The Iowa River’s Edge Trail offers a scenic escape along the river, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. With picturesque views, lush greenery, and peaceful surroundings, it’s an ideal spot for enjoying nature and outdoor activities.
Mega-10 Park
A sprawling recreational haven perfect for family fun. With its expansive playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, it’s an ideal spot for enjoying outdoor activities and making lasting memories.
Glick-Sower Historical House
The Glick-Sower Historical House is a beautifully preserved example of 19th-century architecture, reflecting the charm and craftsmanship of its era. Visitors can explore its historic rooms and learn about local history through exhibits and artifacts that capture the essence of the time.
Dubuque, IA (72 miles)
Crystal Lake Cave
Pathways and lighting make cave exploration safer and more enjoyable for tourists. Guided tours offer a deep dive into the cave’s history, geology, and stunning formations. Crystal Lake Cave is both a natural wonder and an important historical site.
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Aquatic environment, shipyard, movie theater, and exhibits exploring the river ecosystems of America.
Grand Harbor Resort and Water Park
The Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark shines as the Midwest’s top spot for meetings, group events, and family getaways, combining exceptional service, amenities, and entertainment.
Dubuque Museum of Art
A charming museum showcasing 20th-century American art, with a special emphasis on the Midwest.
Creative Adventure Lab
Creative Adventure Lab offers hands-on, play-based activities that spark creativity and equip the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and change-makers.
Davenport, IA (82 miles)
Vander Veer Botanical Park
The Grand Allée, with its lush trees and gardens, leads to the lively Stone Fountain with its dancing water and lights. Vander Veer is a favorite spot for walking, offering a .9-mile lap around the busy perimeter. The Conservatory, known for its century-old tradition, showcases rotating garden displays under glass.
Putnam Museum and Science Center
The Putnam Museum and Science Center engages over 140,000 visitors annually with hands-on, immersive experiences. We preserve local treasures, educate through science, history, and culture, and connect people to the world, inspiring curiosity and care for our planet.
Sunderbruch Park
A 134-acre park with horse trails, nature areas, scenic trails, and off-road biking.
Ferjervary Park and Learning Center
Tucked away in the park is a beloved local gem, The Fejervary Learning Center. This center features nature-themed play areas and nursery rhyme-inspired play elements, alongside a variety of nature education classes and events for all ages.
Figge Art Musem
A vibrant cultural hub in Davenport, offering a diverse collection of artwork that spans centuries and styles. With its engaging exhibitions and dynamic community programs, the museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts
Elevate Trampoline Park
Wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, and foam pits, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike looking to bounce off some energy and have a blast.
Eldridge, IA (83 miles)
Fun Station
This lively venue offers a mix of attractions, including arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, and a ropes course, ensuring there’s something fun for everyone.
Clinton, IA (85 miles)
Eagle Point Park Castle
The tower boasts a winding stone staircase that spirals up to an observation deck at the top. Kids especially love it for its fairy tale adventures and imaginative play.
Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area
Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area, tucked along the Mississippi River, is a hidden gem. Whether you’re into camping, fishing, boating, or just soaking in nature’s beauty, this spot is perfect for all.
Mississippi River Eco Tourism Center
Discover a vast aquarium showcasing local fish species here. Whether you’re interested in renting a kayak or taking a guided tour with a naturalist, this spot has you covered.
Sawmill Museum
The Sawmill Museum is committed to preserving, exploring, and sharing the rich history of America’s sawmill, lumber, and forestry industries.
Clinton Area Showboat Theater
Catch seasonal musicals and children’s shows on a showboat with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Felix Adler Children’s Discovery Center
A vibrant place where families can dive into arts, culture, and science through interactive and educational exhibits.
Bickelhaupt Arboretum
Explore a 14-acre outdoor museum celebrated nationally, featuring a diverse collection of labeled trees, shrubs, ground covers, perennials, and vibrant annual flowers. Don’t miss one of the nation’s top garden conifer collections with over 600 cultivars.
River Arts Center
The River Arts Center boasts an art gallery and gift shop with a wide variety of options. We offer art classes, Rainbow Pottery, a permanent art collection, a unique artisan gift shop, rotating art exhibits, a clay studio, and classes for all ages.
Bettendorf, IA (85 miles)
Family Musem
A fantastic spot where kids can explore, play, and learn through interactive exhibits that make education fun. With everything from hands-on activities to engaging displays, it’s a great place for families.
TBK Bank Sports Complex & Entertainment Center
Explore over 60,000 square feet of entertainment spread across two levels. Enjoy 32 bowling lanes, the largest arcade in the QC, a two-story laser tag arena, two uniquely themed escape rooms, and a virtual reality zone.
Malibu Jack’s
A fun-filled entertainment experience with a ton of indoor attractions. Visitors can enjoy everything from mini-golf and go-kart racing to arcade games and laser tag, making it a popular destination for family outings.
Sabula, IA (85 miles)
Great River Road National Scenic Byway
Breathtaking views, charming river towns, stunning limestone bluffs, and more captivating features.
Island City Harbor
Enjoy scenic river views, easy lakefront access, sandy relaxation spots, and a variety of unique gifts at our Harbor Store.
Havencrest Castle
Havencrest Castle is the creative masterpiece of Mr. and Mrs. Alan St. George, crafted over 31 years of collaboration. Every detail, big and small, was designed by them, without the help of an architect or designer.
Rock Island, IL (87 miles)
Quad City Botanical Center
A local treasure, the beautifully designed gardens and vibrant plant collections is a great spot for families, providing a place to explore and enjoy nature throughout the seasons.
Augustana’s Fryxell Geology Museum
A treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the Earth. With an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, and rocks, offering a hands-on experience that makes learning about geology both engaging and accessible.
Rock Island Arsenal Museum
A fascinating spot for history buffs, featuring a large collection of military artifacts and weapons.
Black Hawk State Historic Site
Scenic trails and the historic Sinnissippi Mounds, giving a glimpse into the area’s Native American heritage and natural beauty.
Andalusia, IL (89 miles)
Snowstar
A charming spot where you can experience a touch of snowy wonderland amidst Andalusia’s typically warm climate, making it a unique destination.
LeClaire, IA (90 miles)
Buffalo Bill Museum
Located along the Mississippi River, it’s a treasure trove of artifacts, exhibits, and stories that bring the Wild West to life, making it a must-visit for history buffs and families alike.
Antique Archaeology
A haven for vintage treasure hunters, founded by Mike Wolfe of the hit TV show “American Pickers”, offering a unique collection of carefully curated antiques, collectibles, and one-of-a-kind finds.
Coal Valley, IL (92 miles)
Niabi Zoo
A hidden gem that’s perfect for a day out with the family. It’s home to a diverse range of animals and offers a chance to learn about wildlife conservation in a relaxed, natural setting.
McGregor, IA (93 miles)
Effigy Mounds National Monument
Explore an archaeological site with 14 miles of trails, exhibits, and ranger-led talks, all dedicated to Native American history.
Pikes Peak State Park
Scenic landmarks, hiking and biking trails, and campgrounds with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Yellow River State Forest
A wooded area with streams perfect for fishing, a campsite, and options for hiking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling.
Spook Cave & Campground
Enjoy mornings on the charming porch with a coffee in hand, watching the sunrise over the trout stream. Relax in your private backyard, toasting marshmallows for a peaceful escape.
Burlington, IA (103 miles)
FunCity Resort
FunCity Resort is the Midwest’s top spot for fun and relaxation. From suites and family rooms to fantastic dining, a spa, exciting gaming, a water park, an arcade, and a bowling alley, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Snake Alley
A street in Burlington, Iowa, built in 1894, was named “Unbelievably Crooked” and the #1 Odd Spot in Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 2017 Odd Spots Across America Campaign.
Catfish Bend Casino & Resort
Try your luck at a variety of table games like blackjack and craps. Dive into 643+ interactive slot machines, or place your bets while enjoying a drink at our Points Bet Sportsbook.
Crapo Park
A city park featuring an arboretum and botanical garden, nestled along the Mississippi River.
Starr’s Cave Nature Center
The region features miles of scenic hiking trails, including a portion of the Flint River Trail, and is rich in both natural beauty and cultural history.
Ames, IA (107 miles)
World’s Largest Concrete Gnome
In Ames, Iowa, you’ll find the World’s Largest Concrete Gnome standing proudly at 15 feet tall. This whimsical giant is a beloved local landmark, drawing visitors with its quirky charm and oversized presence.
Anderson Sculpture Garden
Winding paths lined with perennials and shrubs lead visitors through a collection of American 20th and 21st century sculptures. Showcasing a variety of sizes and materials, this collection highlights the diversity of modern and contemporary art in a serene, accessible setting.
Reiman Gardens
Every year, the outdoor gardens, Hughes Conservatory, and Garden Room showcase sculptures and artwork that align with the annual theme. Reiman Gardens has also gathered a diverse collection of art displayed throughout the grounds.
Inis Grove Park
Inis Grove Park offers a range of amenities including basketball courts, pickleball courts (with lines on the tennis courts), and sand volleyball courts. The park also features covered shelters for rent, a playground, picnic tables, grills, and family changing rooms, all within a beautiful nature area. Additional conveniences include a drinking fountain, electrical outlets, restrooms, and off-street parking.
Altoona, IA (118 miles)
Adventureland Park
Known for its wide range of rides and attractions suited for all ages; from exhilarating roller coasters to family-friendly amusements and water attractions.
Enabling Garden
Thoughtfully planned pathways and raised garden beds, providing a welcoming environment where individuals of all abilities can engage in gardening and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature.
Des Moines, IA (128 miles)
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
A vibrant collection of plants from around the world. Its beautifully designed gardens and conservatory provide a serene escape and a range of educational programs.
Science Center of Iowa
An interactive museum dedicated to sparking curiosity and excitement about science and technology. It offers a range of hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and live demonstrations designed to engage visitors of all ages in the wonders of science.
South Des Moines Sculpture Park
A vibrant public space showcasing an array of contemporary sculptures by both local and international artists. The park provides a unique outdoor gallery experience, inviting visitors to explore and engage with art in a tranquil, landscaped setting.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Outdoor gallery showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures. Spanning over four acres, the park features works by renowned artists.
Blank Park Zoo
The zoo features diverse exhibits, interactive experiences, and conservation-focused programs, making it a popular destination for families.
Des Moines Sky Walks
An extensive network of elevated walkways that connect various buildings and attractions in downtown Des Moines. Offering a convenient and weather-protected route, they provide a seamless way to explore the city’s vibrant urban core, linking offices, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Union Park
A public park featuring a vintage carousel, water play zone, BBQ grills, and sports courts.
Rotary Riverwalk Park
The park is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying local events, making it a central hub for outdoor activities and community gatherings in the city.
Terrace Hill Historic Site
This historic mansion, which has been hosting guided tours, has served as the residence of Iowa’s governors since 1971.
