10 Free Things to Do in Iowa

Iowa is an underrated midwestern state that is home to a wealth of amazing activities and attractions, many of which won’t cost you a dime. From hikes in wildlife areas to educational tours of historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Iowa. Whether you’re visiting the state or you’re an Iowa resident, here are 10 free things to do in Iowa that will keep you entertained and engaged.

Explore the Outdoors

Iowa is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse outdoor landscapes in the Midwest. Take a stroll through the Loess Hills State Forest, located in Monona County. This area is home to miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. You can also explore the Des Moines River Water Trail, which is a network of paddling routes that runs for over 200 miles in Central Iowa.

If you’re looking for something more extreme, there’s also the Backbone State Park in Delaware County. This park features 20 miles of hiking trails, as well as a lake where you can go fishing for free.

No matter what your outdoor preference, Iowa has something for you. So grab your hiking boots and explore the great outdoors.

Visit the State Capitol

The Iowa State Capitol is a great place to visit for a free tour. Located in Des Moines, this building is one of the most iconic landmarks in the state. The building was designed in the Beaux-Arts style and features a magnificent dome that rises over 250 feet. Inside, you can see the House and Senate Chambers, the Hall of Governors, and the Rotunda.

You can take a free tour of the building to learn about its history and architecture, or you can simply wander around and take in the sights. Either way, it’s a great way to spend a day in Iowa.

The Iowa State Capitol is open to the public year-round, so don’t miss your chance to visit one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in the state.

Explore Iowa’s History

Iowa is full of historical sites and attractions that are perfect for exploring. Take a trip to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch. This free museum is dedicated to the life and presidency of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States. Here, you can learn about Hoover’s life and legacy, as well as explore the museum’s interactive exhibits.

If you’re a fan of the American Civil War, you can visit the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch. This site includes the Presidential Library and Museum, as well as the gravesite of Herbert Hoover and his wife, Lou Henry Hoover. The site is open year-round and offers a variety of educational programs and events.

You can also visit the Amana Colonies, a National Historic Landmark that is home to seven villages founded by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Here, you can explore the history of the Amana Colonists and learn about their way of life.

Go for a Bike Ride

If you’re looking for a free way to get around Iowa, why not hop on a bike? Iowa has a network of over 1,000 miles of off-road trails that are perfect for a leisurely ride. The High Trestle Trail is one of the most popular trails in the state, offering stunning views of the Des Moines River Valley.

The Cedar Valley Nature Trail is another great option, running from Waterloo to Cedar Rapids. This trail is perfect for a leisurely ride or a challenging mountain bike trek.

There are also plenty of urban bike trails in Iowa, including the Great Western Trail in Des Moines and the Neal Smith Trail in Cedar Rapids. So grab your bike and hit the trails!

Tour the Wineries

Iowa is home to over 70 wineries and vineyards, many of which offer free tours. Take a tour of the Cedar Ridge Winery, located in Swisher, which produces some of the best wines in the state. Or visit the Prairie Moon Winery in Atkins, which produces a variety of wines and ciders.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can also visit the Cedar River Winery in Cedar Rapids. This winery offers free wine tastings and tours of its facility.

No matter which winery you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Iowa’s vineyards and sampling some of its best wines.

Visit the Museums

Iowa is home to a number of amazing museums that offer free admission. Take a trip to the Iowa State Historical Museum in Des Moines, which is home to a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Iowa’s past. Or visit the Figge Art Museum in Davenport, which features a wide range of art from around the world.

If you’re looking for something more interactive, you can also check out the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines. This museum features a variety of interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Don’t miss your chance to explore some of Iowa’s amazing cultural sites for free.

Take a Brewery Tour

Iowa is home to a growing craft beer scene, and many of the state’s breweries offer free tours of their facilities. Take a tour of the Toppling Goliath Brewery in Decorah, which is known for its award-winning beers. Or head to the Iowa Brewing Company in Cedar Rapids, which produces a variety of unique craft beers.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also check out the Confluence Brewing Company in Des Moines. This brewery offers free tours of its facility, as well as a variety of craft beers that are perfect for sampling.

So grab a pint and explore the craft beer scene in Iowa.

Attend a Festival

Iowa is home to a variety of festivals throughout the year. These festivals celebrate everything from music and art to food and culture. Attend the Iowa State Fair in August, which is the largest state fair in the country and features live entertainment, carnival rides, and delicious food.

Or take a trip to the Fairfield Festival of Lights, which takes place in December. This free event features a variety of holiday activities, including a parade, ice skating, and a spectacular light show.

No matter which festival you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Iowa’s culture and traditions.

Visit the Nature Centers

Iowa is home to a variety of nature centers and wildlife preserves that are perfect for exploring. Take a trip to the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, which is home to more than 300 species of wildlife. Or visit the Wapsipinicon State Park in Anamosa, which features a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

You can also visit the Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek, which is home to a variety of wildlife and native plant species. This center offers a variety of educational programs and events, as well as more than 8 miles of hiking trails.

No matter which nature center you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Iowa’s natural beauty.

Tour the Historic Buildings

Iowa is home to a variety of historic buildings and landmarks that are perfect for exploring. Take a tour of the Salisbury House in Des Moines, which is a beautiful mansion that was built in the 1920s. Or visit the Old Capitol Building in Iowa City, which is the first permanent state capitol building in Iowa.

You can also check out the Guthrie County Courthouse in Guthrie Center, which is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. This building is open to the public and offers guided tours of its interior.

No matter which building you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Iowa’s history.

Summary

Iowa is an underrated midwestern state that is home to a wealth of amazing activities and attractions, many of which won’t cost you a dime. From hikes in wildlife areas to educational tours of historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Iowa. Whether you’re visiting the state or you’re an Iowa resident, there are 10 free things to do in Iowa that will keep you entertained and engaged. Explore the outdoors, visit the state capitol, explore Iowa’s history, go for a bike ride, tour the wineries, visit the museums, take a brewery tour, attend a festival, visit the nature centers, and tour the historic buildings. So grab your hiking boots and explore Iowa – it’s a great place to have fun and make memories.