Iowa is a place of fertile soil, traditional values, and simple pleasures. With the Mississippi River forming the state's eastern border and the Missouri River on the west, you'll find no shortage of options for adventure. And between the rivers enjoy the rolling hills, expansive farmland, and tranquil towns that provide a scenic, restful place to reconnect with nature. If you collect the biggest, smallest, tallest, widest, and weirdest, you're going to love Iowa--the land of roadside attractions! Take a selfie with the world’s largest concrete bull, tallest corn stalk, biggest Swedish coffee pot, most enormous strawberry, a massive popcorn ball, and a gigantic concrete gnome. With so much to experience, you and your pet are sure to have a memorable time in Iowa.
Best Time To Visit
No matter what time of year you and your pet visit Iowa, you won't find it crowded. If you're shooting for the best weather, plan your trip for fall. When the summer rains move out, temperatures are lovely, and the humidity lets up. This weather lasts through the end of October, and sometimes even into the first half of November. The fall foliage and the farm harvest season add plenty of scenery and fun activities to enjoy along with the beautiful weather. If you're looking for deals, the shoulder seasons of April, May, October, and November are good for finding discounts on lodging.
Things Not To Miss
Batter up! You and your pet can run the bases and explore the grounds at the Field of Dreams movie site near Dyersville.
Explore the pet friendly trails at Effigy Mounds National Monument, perched atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. This site preserves 206 prehistoric mounds created by Native Americans, 31 of which are in the shape of animals.
Celebrate German heritage in the Amana Colonies, where craftspeople, artists, brewers, and bakers carry on the traditions of the past. Check their calendar for festival dates!
Set out on a self-guided tour of the covered bridges of Madison County, and enjoy the small towns along the way.
Take a pet friendly road trip on the Great River Road! Enjoy the simple pleasures as you follow the mighty Mississippi through quiet river towns and picturesque landscapes.
Connect with nature on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway as you pass dunes made almost entirely of windblown soils that were deposited toward the end of the last ice age. When it's time to stretch your legs, choose one of the many public hiking trails along the route.
