FAMILY VACATIONS IN IOWA WITH CHILREN -WHAT TO DO IN IOWA WITH KIDS
FUN THINGS TO DO ON VACATION WITH KIDS - IOWA
Ideas for Family Summer Vacations in Iowa - Iowa is a great state for spending some quality time with your family since it offers a lot of opportunities for scenic drives as well as camping and other outdoor family activities.
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FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - NORTHERN IOWA (For example - Mason City, IA - Clear Lake, IA - Decorah, IA )
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Algona P.W. Camp Museum - Located in Algona, Iowa, this Prisoner of War camp was ‘home’ to a total of 10,000 German prisoners from 1943-46. The value of the work done by the prisoners in the 4 state area was estimated at $3,506,000.
Location: 114 S. Thorington Street, Algona, Iowa, United States Tel: 515-295-3719
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Frank Lloyd Wright Stockman House - The career of an architectural genius is marked by a series of great leaps forward in artistic style. The Stockman House represents such a leap in the career of Frank Lloyd Wright, America's greatest architect. The house has broadly overhanging eaves with a dramatically projecting cantilever roof over the entrance, ribbon windows, and a massive central chimney and fireplace. With its strong horizontal roof lines and base it relates strongly to the prairie earth. Planters beneath the windows and a flower urn show his desire to bring the outdoors into the interior of the house.
Location: 530 First Street North East Mason City, Iowa Tel: (641) 421-3666
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Winnebago Industries Factory Tour - Winnebago Industries, Inc., headquartered in Forest City, Iowa, is the leading United States (U.S.) manufacturer of motor homes, self-contained recreation vehicles used primarily in leisure travel and outdoor recreation activities. The Company builds quality motor homes with state-of-the-art computer-aided design and manufacturing systems on automotive-styled assembly lines. The Company's products are subjected to what the Company believes is the most rigorous testing in the RV industry. These vehicles are sold through dealers under the Winnebago®, Itasca® and Rialta® brand names.
Location: 605 West Crystal Lake Road Forest City, IA 50436 Tel: (641)-585-3535
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Kinney Pioneer Museum - Featured Exhibits include : The only Colby Car left of 900 made in Mason City between 1911 and 1914, 100-year-old loom still making rugs, Replica of 1859 Conestoga covered wagon, Working broom factory makes and sells many styles of brooms, Late 1800 Mason City Fire Pumper, Old log cabin, 1912 blacksmith shop, Interior of Original School House, Printing presses of the 1800s, Telephone service of yesteryear, Horse-drawn dairy wagon, 1906 Model N Ford, Mason City's Meredith Willson and Music Man display.
Location: P.O. Box 421, Mason City, IA 50402 Tel: (641) 423-1258
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Charles H. MacNider Museum - The Charles H. MacNider Museum , municipally owned institution conceived in 1964 and opened by 1966 in Mason City, Iowa. It exhibits and interprets a permanent collection of American art; temporary exhibitions of art; provides art classes for all ages; offers enriching arts programs; and maintains an art library.
Location: 303 Second Street SE Mason City, Iowa 50401 Tel: (641) 421-3666
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Blanden Memorial Art Museum - The Blanden Memorial Art Museum is a center of art and culture, not only for Fort Dodge, but for a large area of north central Iowa. Free admission gives access to items from the world-class permanent collection and current exhibitions by local as well as internationally renowned artists. A full range of classes, receptions, concerts, lectures and special events for all ages are available.
Location: 920 Third Avenue South, Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 Tel:515-573-2316
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The Lakes Art Center - The Lakes Art Center Offers traveling exhibitions that showcase local, regional, and national artists. It also features a foreign and classic film series, a gift shop, sculpture gardens and performing arts.
Location: PO Box 255 2201 Highway 71 Okoboji, IA 51355-0255 Tel: 712/332-7013
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Grotto of the Redemption - The Grotto of the Redemption at West Bend, Iowa is the largest Grotto in the world. Frequently called "the Eighth Wonder of the World", the Grotto represents the largest collection of minerals and petrification concentrated in any one spot - in the world.
Location: West Bend, Iowa
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Witter Gallery - Established in 1972, the Witter Gallery has been a vital force in fostering an appreciation of the visual arts in the Storm Lake area. The facility was given as a gift to the city of Storm Lake by Ella Witter, daughter of George Witter, one of the early founders of the city. Ella graduated from Storm Lake High School and attended the Chicago Art Institute to study painting. Further study took place in Munich, Germany, with Hans Hofmann, and in Mexico City, with Diego Rivera. A number of her oil paintings are included in the Gallery's permanent collection, along with lithographs and woodcuts by another Storm Lake artist, Dorothy Skewis.
Location: 609 Cayuga Street Storm Lake, Iowa 50588 Tel: 712-732-3400
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Battle Hill Museum of Natural History - The Museum features more than 4,000 natural history specimens on display. Displays include Rocks, Fossils, Artifacts & Shells, Dioramas, Antlers and Horns, Skeletons, Skulls and Old Bones, Wildlife Mounts, Hides & Petting Zoo.
Location: Battle Creek Iowa Tel: 712 365 4414
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Sanford Museum & Planetarium - The Sanford Museum and Planetarium has exhibits and activities on a variety of subjects including: Archaeology, Art, Astronomy, Geology, History, Natural History, Paleontology. The museum was made possible through a trust fund established by the late Mr. & Mrs. W.A. Sanford of Cherokee, Iowa, in memory of their only son, Tiel.
Location: 117 E. Willow St. Cherokee, Iowa 51012 Tel: 712/225-3922
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Bluedorn Science Imaginarium - The Carl A. and Peggy J. Bluedorn Science Imaginarium opened in 1993 in response to the increased interest in the Grout’s science programs. Described 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.
Location: 322 Washington St. Waterloo, IA 50701 Tel: 319-233-8708
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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.
Location: 503 South Street Waterloo, Iowa 50701 Tel: (319) 234-6357
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Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanical Gardens - In February 1995, there was no money, no land, no trees–just the vision of eight Cedar Valley dreamers. Today, the dreamers' numbers have grown to 400, over 450 trees have been planted and 24 acres are under development on the 75-acre site leased from Hawkeye Community College. Nationally recognized landscape architects, Buettner and Associates, developed the master plan, which includes 43 features in five major elements: the arboretum, the botanical gardens, the prairie, the conservatory and the service area.
Location: Hawkeye Community College 1927 East Orange Road Waterloo, IA 50704 Tel: (319) 226-4966
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Lost Island Theme Park - Theme Park offering a huge wave pool, five water slides, 'Lazy River', 18-hole 'goofy golf' course, go-cart track, concessions, gift shop and picnic area.
Location: 2225 E. Shaulis Rd., Waterloo, IA Tel: 319-233-8414
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Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum - Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum embodies the living heritage of Norwegian immigrants to America. Sharing this cultural legacy can inspire people of all backgrounds to celebrate tradition. With 16 historic buildings in its main complex, which occupies most of a square block in downtown Decorah, Iowa, and two National Register sites just outside the city, Vesterheim houses over 24,000 artifacts, which include large samplings from the fine, decorative, and folk arts, and the tools and machinery of early agriculture, lumbering, and other immigrant industries.
Location: P.O. Box 379, 523 W. Water St., Decorah, Iowa 52101 Tel: (563) 382-9681
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University of Northern Iowa Museum - The University Museum is one of only five major natural history museums within the State of Iowa, and one of an even smaller number featuring collections with a global perspective. The collections, which support the University's curriculum and research, cover a wide selection of natural and human history topics. The Museum offers events and programs to heighten student and public awareness of environmental and cultural diversity and serves as a forum for the discussion of global issues.
Location: UNI Museums 3219 Hudson Road Tel: Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0199 Phone: 319-273-2188
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FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - CENTRAL IOWA (For example - Cedar Falls, IA - Boone, IA - Perry )
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Des Moines Playhouse - The Playhouse remains one of the largest subscription performing arts organization in Iowa with 4,500 members. More than 55,000 people attend an average of 12 productions each season, produced by a professional staff of 10 plus more than 1,000 volunteers. The Playhouse Education Department serves more than 14,000 people annually and consists of a year-round program of classes and camps. In addition, Playhouse programming includes a professional wing, The Iowa Touring Theatre Company.
Location: 831 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA 50312 Tel: 515-277-6261
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Des Moines Art Center - The Art Center presents thought-provoking exhibitions and educational programs, as well as hands-on studio art classes. World-class architecture and outstanding Permanent Collections. Restaurant boasts a 5-star rating and the museum shop is a source for great gifts, contemporary items, jewelry, greeting cards, and art related books.
Location: 4700 GRAND AVE. DES MOINES, IA 50312-2099515.277.4405
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Civic Center of Greater Des Moines - The Civic Center of Greater Des Moines will serve as an outstanding community performing arts center, accessible to all, where people may be educated, entertained and enlightened. Every year, the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines welcomes a quarter of a million people to enjoy the wonder, the suspense and the joy of live theater.
Location: Civic Center, 221 Walnut Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Tel: (515) 246-2300
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Des Moines Botanical Center - The 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 the people of Iowa. It is located on 14 acres along the east bank of the Des Moines River, close to downtown.
Location: 909 Robert D Ray Drive, Des Moines, Iowa 50316 Tel: 515 323 6290
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Living History Farms - Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, tells the amazing story of how Iowans transformed the fertile prairies of the Midwest into the most productive farmland in the world. While at the 550-acre open-air museum, visitors travel at their own pace through five historical time periods spanning 300 years. On-site interpreters provide a unique learning environment of seasonal activities and demonstrations.
Location: 2600 111th St. Urbandale, Iowa, 50322 Tel:(515) 278-5286
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Iowa State Center - Great events--concerts, conferences and performances--happen at the Iowa State Center. Whether it's a cheering crowd at Hilton Coliseum, colleagues meeting in the Scheman Building, or families enjoying a show in Stephens Auditorium or Fisher Theater, every guest has a great time at the Iowa State Center.
Location: Scheman Building, Suite 4, Ames, IA 50011-1113 Tel: 515-294-3347
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Historic Valley Junction - Over 120 diverse shops in one historic place. Shops on Antiques, Art Galleries & Framing, Bakeries & Gourmet Foods, Clothing, Floral & Bouquets, Furniture & Home, Gifts & Collectibles, Hair & Beauty, Jewelry, Photography, Restaurants & Bars, Special Services and Specialty Stores.
Location: 217 1/2 5th Street West Des Moines, IA 50265 Tel: (515) 222-3642
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Blank Park Zoo - The mission of the Blank Park Zoo is to foster a greater appreciation of the natural world by providing a zoological park featuring exhibition and conservation of a diverse living animal collection, family-oriented recreational activities, and zoological science education programs.
Location: 7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315 Tel: 515-285-4722
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Iowa Arboretum - The Iowa Arboretum, Located on 378 acres in the heart of Boone county contains hundreds of species of trees, shrubs and flowers in a quiet scenic setting. This living museum offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.
Location: 1875 Peach Avenue, Madrid, IA 50156 Tel: (515) 795-3216
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Neal Smith NWR Prairie Learning Center - Experience the breathtaking beauty of over 5,000 acres of tallgrass prairie and native Midwest wildlife. Located near Prairie City, Iowa on Highway 163 in Jasper County. The Refuge reconstructs the native plant and animal communities that greeted Iowa's earliest settlers in the mid 1800's.
Location: P.O. Box 399 9981 Pacific Street Prairie City, Iowa 50228-0399 Tel: (515) 994-3400
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Amboy Trail Ranch - The Amboy Trail Ranch is located just outside of Newton, Iowa on over 100 acres of beautiful woodland providing Horse Camp, Ash Tree Cabin, Brambleberry Cabin ,Blue Heron Rookery, Gift Certificates ,Trail Rides , Hayrides.
Location: 4423 Iowa Street Newton, Iowa 50208 Tel: (641) 792-9932
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Salisbury House - Utilized as a public museum and cultural center, Salisbury House serves Iowans through its use as an educational and cultural resource serving diverse populations as a place of study and enjoyment, as a destination for tourists, and to assist our state in economic development.
Location: 4025 Tonawanda Drive Des Moines, IA 50312 Tel: 515.274.1777
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Des Moines Symphony - The Des Moines Symphony is a full-service professional orchestra. The orchestra performs seven pairs of classical concerts throughout the season, as well as a pops performance, family concerts, in-school ensemble performances, and its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert, a free performance on the State Capitol grounds.
Location: 221 Walnut Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Tel: (515) 280-4000
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Hoyt Sherman Place - A grand manor home built in 1877 by prominent businessman Hoyt Sherman; the structure is now a museum and performing arts center. The original house and gallery display an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century paintings and elaborately carved 17th century furniture as well as many rare, ancient artifacts. The newly renovated historic theater built in 1923, hosts and impressive array of world renowned musicians, theatrical productions, and local performing arts events.
Location: 1501 Woodland Ave. Des Moines, IA 50309 Tel: (515) 244-0507
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Adventureland Park - Adventureland is "Iowa's Largest And Most Complete Family Resort Complex" Located on the northeast corner of the Des Moines metro area. Adventureland Amusement Park contains over 100 rides, shows, and attractions including some of the country's most exciting roller coasters and thrill rides that can challenge the most avid amusement park enthusiasts. There are also plenty of rides for less adventurous guests including great water rides as well as a full compliment of children's rides spread throughout the park. But the entertainment doesn't stop with rides - Adventureland presents a full array of shows in the park - from live music to magic to song and dance - there's always something to suit everyone's taste.
Location: 305 34th Ave NW, Altoona IA 50009 Tel: 515-266-2121
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International Wrestling Institute and Museum - The museum boasts over 600 displays as it takes visitors through the history of wrestling, from ancient Greece through the present day Olympics. Among other things, It features a large artist's rendering of Jacob wrestling the Angel of the Lord and section on Abraham Lincoln as a wrestler during his early years in Illinois.
Location: 1690 W. 19th St. SW Newton, IA 50208 Tel: 641.791.1517
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Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad - The railroad, which is the one Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad operates over, was begun in 1893. Fraser had just become the center of the newly discovered coal deposits and transportation was needed to move the coal. A line was built about 4 miles to the west from Fraser to connect with another railroad at Fraser Junction, which is now called Wolf.
Location: 225 10th Street P.O. Box 603 Boone, IA 50036 Tel: 800-626-0319
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Terrace Hill - Terrace Hill, the official home of Iowa's governors!" This beautiful house is a proud part of Iowa's history and future.
Location: 2300 Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50312 Tel: 515-242-5841
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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 curiosity in us all. Interact, experiment and explore and see what you and science can do!
Location: 401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway Des Moines, IA 50309 Tel: 515-274-6868
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FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - WESTERN IOWA (For example - Sioux City, IA - Le Mars, IA - Denison )
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Plymouth County Historical Museum - The mission of the Plymouth County Historical Museum is to research, collect, care for, exhibit and interpret items that serve to illustrate the history of Plymouth County.
Location: 335 1st Avenue S.W.; Le Mars, IA 51031 Tel: 712-546-7002
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Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitor Center - More ice cream is produced in Le Mars by a single company - BLUE BUNNY - than in any other city in the world. Come visit the Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitor Center to see how we make our ice cream, and try some yourself in our old fashioned ice cream parlor!
Location: Wells Dairy, Le Mars, Iowa
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Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum - The Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum is located next to beautiful West Okoboji Lake, a natural glacial lake created by the Wisconsin glacier some 12,000 years ago. The Maritime Museum and excursion boat the Okoboji Queen II are located adjacent to the Arnolds Park Amusement Park in Arnolds Park, Iowa.
Location: 243 West Broadway St. Arnolds Park, IA 51360 Tel: (712) 332-5264
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Arnold's Park - The oldest amusement park west of the Mississippi. It is the home to 'The Legend' roller coaster, rated one of the top 10 wooden coasters in the world.
Location: Hwy 71 & Lake Street, Arnolds Park, Iowa Tel: 712-332-2183
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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.
Location: 2901 Jackson Street Sioux City, IA 51104 Tel: 712.279.6174
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Sioux City Art Center - The Sioux City Art Center has served as a cultural focus for Western Iowa and the surrounding region for more than 60 years. Founded in 1938 as a Works Progress Administration project, it was established to serve people of all ages and backgrounds. The Sioux City Art Center is one of only four WPA art centers in Iowa to survive to the present without interruption.
Location: 225 Nebraska Street, Sioux City, Iowa 51101 1712 Tel: 712 279 6272
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Woodbury County Conservation Board - Explore nearly 5,000 acres of unique conservation lands. One can find tremendous variety of outdoor recreational opportunities ranging from lake fishing to river canoeing, from swimming to picnicking, and from hiking to hunting. The numerous resources make outdoor enjoyment possible for people of all ages and interests.
Location: 4500 Sioux River Rd Sioux City, IA 51109 Tel: (712) 258-0838
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The Danish Immigrant Museum - The Danish Immigrant Museum is dedicated to preserving the culture and history of the Danish people who immigrated to America. Extensive collections of artifacts, as well as special annual and traveling exhibits, are on display in a striking modern half-timbered building situated on a 30-acre site in the rolling hills of western Iowa.
Location: 2212 Washington Street Elk Horn, Iowa 51531-0470 Tel: 712.764.7001
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Donna Reed Center for the Performing Arts - Based in Denison, Iowa, the Donna Reed Foundation operates to recognize, encourage, and support talent through national, state, and local scholarships, conduct workshops taught by outstanding industry professionals from across the country, and promote stage plays, concerts, and other cultural activities throughout the year. It also works towards supporting a performing arts center, full film archive, a museum, and professional studio facilities dedicated to developing new artists.
Location: 1305 Broadway Denison, Iowa 51442 Tel: 712 263 3334
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Guthrie County Historical Village - The 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 early-20th Century.
Location: 206 W. South St. Panora, Iowa 50216 Tel: 641.755.2989
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Doll House - Visit this 109 year old cottage and hear about the people that took the Lewis and Clark, Freedom-Underground Railroad, Orphan Train, California-Oregon and Morman Trails.
Location: 810 Main St. P.O. Box 656 Griswold, IA 51535 Tel: 1-712-778-4332
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Museum of Religious Arts - The purpose of the Museum of Religious Arts is to preserve and exhibit religious arts, tradition and culture, fostering an appreciation of religious history for enrichment and that of future generations.
Location: 2697 Niagara Trail Logan, IA 51546 Tel:712-644-3888
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Garst Farm Resorts - The Resort offers outdoor recreation including the best trail riding in Iowa. Rent a canoe, mountain bike, draft horse wagon or gator. Take a tour of commercial or alternative agriculture, learn about prairies, astronomy, raptors, local history and more. Try out one of the 35 fishing ponds, take a hike, try bird watching. Stroll the expansive gardens and lots more.
Location: 1390 Highway 141, Coon Rapids, Iowa 50058 Tel:712-684-2964
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Danish Windmill Museum and Welcome Center - The 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 1848, was brought to the United States in November 1975 and rebuilt in Elk Horn by community volunteers in 1976.
Location: 4038 Main Street Elk Horn, Iowa Tel:1-800-451-7960
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Shelby County Historical Museum - Shelby County, located in the heart of scenic western Iowa, offers ethnic charm, a wealth of historic nostalgia and excellent outdoor recreation. Its rolling hills and valleys are a pleasant surprise for many visitors who consider Iowa to be flat.
Location: Harlan, Iowa 51537 Tel: (712)-755-2437
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FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - EASTERN IOWA (For example - Cedar Rapids, IA - Dubuque, IA - Iowa City , IA )
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Crystal Lake Cave - In 1868 lead miners drilled 40 feet into the ground to find traces of a rich lead vein. In this process they found very little lead, but instead discovered a natural geological wonder of matchless beauty. In 1932, the late Bernard Markus, (one of the original lead miners), opened the cave to the public, naming it Crystal Lake Cave.
Location: South of Dubuque, Iowa on Highway 52 Tel: (563) 556-6451
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Family Museum of Arts and Science - Family Museum of Arts and Science is a department of the City of Bettendorf built in 1997 and located on the Learning Campus next to the Bettendorf Public Library off 18th Street and Spruce Hills Drive in Bettendorf. Since opening in the new facility, the museum has served over 700,000 people. The facility includes 44,000 sq. ft. of programming space including a 9600 sq. ft. exhibit hall, three multi-purpose rooms for dance instruction and performances, two preschool classrooms, two art studios, one science studio, a party room, a great hall, museum store, welcome theater for school groups and an outdoor science discovery park "Kingdom for Kids" playground.
Location: 2900 Learning Campus Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa 52722 Tel: (563)-344-4106
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Davenport Museum of Art - The Figge Art Museum, formerly the Davenport Museum of Art actively serves the public by collecting, conserving, and exhibiting art, and by promoting appreciation and creation of visual art through education. As a vital, responsive institution, the FAM brings art and people together, expands the knowledge and love of art, and enriches the life of the community through the power of art.
Location: 1737 West 12th Street Davenport, Iowa 52804 Tel: (563) 326-7804
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'Field of Dreams' Movie Site - A place of fertile soil, traditional values and simple pleasure. And in Dyersville, Iowa, at the 91-year-old Lansing family farm with its quaint, and oh so recognizable house, baseball still ranks as a favorite pastime for all ages. What better place to carve a baseball diamond from a corn field and to make a movie about pursuing one's dream, no matter how much effort it takes?
Location: 28963 Lansing Road, Dyersville, Iowa 52040 Tel: 1 888 875 8404
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Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science - The Putnam Museum and IMAX® Theatre is a one-stop opportunity to explore the history and environments of the Mississippi River Valley and faraway places too! For centuries, people have been drawn to the Mississippi River and the surrounding prairies—to hunt, trade, farm, manufacture, and to live. Founded in 1867, the Putnam is one of the first museums established west of the Mississippi. Home to over 160,000 artifacts and specimens, the Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science offers permanent and changing exhibits, dynamic public programs, Iowa's only 3D IMAX Theatre, plus our exclusive Heritage Theater® and live interpretations—all in a beautiful 115,000 square foot facility—the largest museum in the Quad Cities of eastern Iowa and western Illinois.
Location: 1717 West 12th Street Davenport, Iowa 52804
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National Farm Toy Museum - over 30,000 toys and exhibits between its two floors. Tractors, implements, trucks, miniature farm dioramas, toy manufacturing information, and pedal tractors are on display around the museum. Also displayed are two Doug Schlesier sculptures, plaques honoring inductees into the National Farm Toy Hall of Fame, and a plaque honoring the founders of the world’s largest farm toy manufacturer headquartered in Dyersville, the Ertl Company.
Location: 1110 16th Ave. Ct. SE Dyersville, Iowa 52040 Tel: (563) 875-2727
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Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens - Only arboretum and botanical garden in the USA staffed entirely by volunteers. 375 dedicated individuals maintain the trees, plants and shrubs, and seed-gifts which are all labeled throughout the garden.
Location: 3800 Arboretum Drive, Dubuque, IA 52001 Tel: (563) 556 2100
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Bickelhaupt Arboretum - A fourteen acre outdoor museum of select, labeled trees, shrubs, ground covers, perennials and annual flowers.
Location: 340 South 14th Street Clinton, Iowa 52732-5432
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Mississippi River Museum - Experience the Mississippi through interactive exhibits, river creatures and historic artifacts. Capture the drama of river people who discovered, lived upon and celebrated the waterways of the United States. Visit the Mathias Ham House, the Dubuque History Museum at the Old Jail or indulge in a Victorian House Tour and Progressive Dinner. Experience an adventuresome overnight in a stateroom, dine in the galley, and see what life was really like on a working steamboat.
Location: 350 East 3rd Street Port of Dubuque Dubuque, Iowa 52001
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Dubuque Museum of Art - Take a on line tour of a few prized pieces from the Dubuque Museum of Art Permanent collection.
Location: 701 Locust Street Dubuque, Iowa 52001 Tel: (563) 557-1851
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Duffy's Collectible Cars - Filled with 30's-40's-50's-60's and 70's American made hardtops and convertibles. Our sparkling dealership lets you step back in time with lots of Classic Car memorabilia and nearly 100 fully restored, high quality investment automobiles.
Location: 250 Classic Car Court S.W. - Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, Tel: (319) 364-7000
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National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library - Founded in 1974, the NCSML is the nation’s foremost institution interpreting Czech and Slovak history and culture. The museum/library attracts 20,000 – 30,000 visitors and program participants each year, from all 50 states and many other countries.
Location: 30 - 16th Avenue SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404-5904 Tel: 319-362-8500
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Muscatine Art Center - Showcasing the 1908 Musser Mansion and the contemporary Stanley Gallery, the Muscatine Art Center offers eastern Iowa both decorative arts associated with the original home, and exciting changing exhibitions. Established as a museum in 1965 by a gift of Laura Musser’s heirs, Mary Catherine McWhirter and Mary Musser Gilmore, the mansion features many distinctive architectural details of the Edwardian period.
Location: 1314 Mulberry Avenue, Muscatine, Iowa Tel:563-263-8282
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Cedar Rapids Museum of Art - The mission of the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art is to excite, engage and educate the community in the visual arts through our collection, exhibitions and programs.
Location: 410 Third Avenue SE Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401 Tel: (319) 366-7503
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Brucemore - 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 cultural center, Brucemore's 26-acres are alive with concerts, festivals, performances, and activities. So log off and come over to the big house.
Location: 2160 Linden Drive SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403 Tel:319/362-7375
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Riverside Theatre - Riverside Theatre's mission is to provide an artistic home for theatre professionals from Iowa and beyond, and to entertain audiences with intimate, engaging productions from the classics to world premieres.
Location: 213 n. gilbert st. iowa city, iowa 52245 Tel: 319.338.7672
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Old Capitol Museum - To collect, preserve, interpret, and share with students and others in the state and nation early Iowa history and its significance then, now, and for the future.
Location: Old Capitol Museum 24 Old Capitol The University of Iowa Iowa City, IA 52242 Tel: 319.335.0548
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The History Center - The Vision of The Carl & Mary Koehler History Center is to create excitement about the heritage and traditions of Linn County’s land and people.
Location: 615 1st Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 Tel:319-362-1501
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University of Iowa Museum of Natural History - A 500-million-year journey through Iowa's past. Explore the state's geology, ecology and native cultures. Featured displays include a coral reef from 380 million years ago, a prehistoric coal swamp, a giant Ice Age sloth, Meskwaki traditional artwork and the 500-foot bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River and the arrival of Marquette and Jolliet in 1673.
Location: 10 Macbride Hall Iowa City, IA 52242 Tel: (319) 335-0480
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Plum Grove Historic Farm - Plum Grove was built in 1844 as the retirement home of Gov. Robert Lucas, the first territorial governor of Iowa and former governer of Ohio.
Location: 1030 Carroll St. Iowa City, Tel: 319 337 6846
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University of Iowa Museum of Art - One of the country's most important collections of African art serves as the museum's centerpiece. Visitors can also view traveling exhibitions and selections from the museum's permanent collections of more than 10,000 works of art.
Location: 150 North Riverside Drive Iowa City, Iowa 52242 Tel: (319) 335-1727
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FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - SOUTHERN IOWA (For example - Des Moines, IA - Knoxville , IA - Ottumwa )
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The Birthplace of John Wayne - Our wide selection of John Wayne-related items are available for purchase right here, 24 hours a day.
Location: 216 S. 2nd St. Winterset, Iowa 50273 Tel: (515) 462-1044
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Pella Historic Village - Immerse yourself in the old-world charm of the Netherlands as you stroll along our brick streets visiting our storybook storefronts, the Molengracht canal, and our authentic 1850's working windmill. And this is just the beginning of your Experience!
Location: 507 Franklin St. Pella, IA U.S. 50219 Tel: (641) 628-4311
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Airpower Museum, Inc - See the collection of aircraft, engines, and aircraft memorabilia assembled in the Airpower Museum, as well as the Annual AAA/APM National Fly-In. Its grass runways and scenic setting help to recapture the feel of aviation in its early years.
Location: 22001 Bluegrass Road Ottumwa, Iowa 52501-8569 Tel: 641-938-2773
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Beach Ottumwa - The Beach Ottumwa is a beautiful indoor / outdoor waterpark located in Ottumwa Iowa. Built in 1992, The Beach Ottumwa is home to the boys and girls OHS Swim Teams, and well as the Ottumwa Swim Club's Barracuda Swim Team.
Location: 101 Church Street Ottumwa Iowa 52501 Tel: (641) 682-SURF
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Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum - Founded in 1844, the Nelson homestead is one of the premier historic attractions in Mahaska County. The property, maintained by the Mahaska County Historical Society, Inc., now features historic buildings from all over Mahaska County, providing visitors a glimpse of what life was like for Iowans in 19th century America. The Nelson home, built in 1853, and the Nelson barn, built in 1856, are the focal point of the museum and are designated National Historic Sites by the U.S. Department of Interior.
Location: Mahaska County, Iowa.
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Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center - Dedicated in 1996, the Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center is the birthplace farmstead of Henry A. Wallace. The walking tour, organic produce gardens, programs and outdoor artwork introduce the great achievements of Wallace, who served as U.S. Vice President, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Secretary of Commerce and Founder of Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Henry A. Wallace was named the "Most Influential Iowan of the 20th Century" by the Des Moines Register in December, 1999.
Location: 2773 290th Street Northeast of Orient, Iowa Tel: (641) 337-5019
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Iowa Aviation Museum - The 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. The museum has eleven civil aircraft on display, including some rare examples of early flying machines from the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s. The museum is home to two military aircraft, an A-7 Corsair jet and a Huey Cobra helicopter, both used in the Viet Nam War, both donated to the museum by the Iowa National Guard. They stand as a tribute to Iowa men and women who have served in the military.
Location: P. O. Box 31, 2251 Airport Road, Greenfield, Iowa 50849 Tel: 641-343-7184
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Montgomery County History Center - The society's history center is located in Read Oak, Iowa on a seven acre campus. The center features a museum, a century old restored barn and corncrib, a 150 year old log house. The society is preparing to build a new 13000 square foot museum and educational facility.
Location: 2700 N 4th Street Red Oak, Iowa 51566 Tel: 712-623-8299
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EOWATA - Discover EOWATA campus, the Life Engineering Foundation's International Headquarters, with its beautiful grounds, excellent facilities and unique attractions
Location: 2953 Delta Avenue Bridgewater, Iowa 50837-8015 Tel:(641) 369-2391
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Starr's Cave Nature Center - Starr's Cave Park and Preserve was established in the mid 70's. It is owned by the state
Location: and managed by the Des Moines County Conservation Board. The preserve is a 200 acre area just outside of Burlington, Iowa. Features include an extensive trail system through mature woodlands, prairies remnants and the limestone bluffs along Flint Creek. Three caves are also located within the preserve. Hiking and caving are perhaps the most popular activities here. Visitors are welcome to explore the caves on their own The limestone bluffs in which the cave is located is a favorite place among geologists. The rock is composed mainly of crinoid shells, a sea animal from the Mississippian Period 300 million years ago.
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Midwest Old Threshers Reunion - This festival demonstrates the history of farm machines and farm life. Displays include operating steam engines, crafts & antiques, electric trolleys & steam trains, working log village of 1850s, antique tractors, gasoline engines, antique cars & trucks, 60-Acre campground and lots more.
Location: Midwest Old Threshers 405 E Threshers Road Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641 Tel: 319-385-8937
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