From its numerous leisure activities to its bustling cities, Iowa is a romantic destination you don’t want to skip while traveling to the United States of America. Whether couples want to indulge in a scenic boat ride, shop till they drop in a modern shopping mall, or explore caves such as Maquoketa Caves State Park, this beautiful state will take care of them. Some fun and romantic destinations in the area such as Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Des Moines are waiting to offer exciting experiences as well. With its fertile farmlands and tasty cuisines, Iowa is also a foodie’s paradise. One way of exploring this great state with your lover is by taking a weekend off from your daily routine and touring a new destination. Read on below to find out more about the best romantic weekend getaways in Iowa, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 09, 2024.
1. Davenport (from USD 219)
Since its establishment in 1836, Davenport continues to attract fun-loving couples from all corners of the earth. Local museums such as Figge Art Museum and Putnam Museum and Service Center are nice locations to visit with your partner to see the unique artifacts on display and learn the region’s history. For that quiet evening walk while holding hands, make Quad City Botanical Center a priority. The venue is also perfect for romantic dates and weddings. From Des Moines to this city by car, you will drive for about 2 hours and 50 minutes and cover a distance of 169 miles (272 kilometers).
Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection
Address: 200 East 3rd Street
188.93 km (117.4 mi) from George Wyth State Park
2. Cedar Rapids (from USD 184)
Lovebirds visiting Cedar Rapids have an array of leisure activities to indulge in, ranging from tasting different wines to learning local history. Admire creatively made art pieces by local artists in sites such as Cedar Rapids Public Library. Compete on who is better at rock-climbing with your significant other at Palisades Kepler State Park. At the same location, you can also indulge in other recreational activities such as canoeing, hiking, and fishing. To arrive at this destination by car, you will drive for approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes on a 120-mile (193 kilometers) road.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex
Address: 350 First Avenue Northeast
86.81 km (54.0 mi) from George Wyth State Park
3. Dubuque (from USD 159)
Dubuque, Iowa’s oldest city, is out to offer a memorable romantic weekend getaway. Attend an outdoor festival such as America’s River Festival with your partner to interact with the locals and learn their way of life. Enjoy a luxurious stay in an accommodation facility such as Hotel Julien that’s endowed with modern amenities. Visit Eagle Point Park and enjoy watching wildlife. Dubuque is 217 miles (349 kilometers) away from Des Moines and it will take you around 3 hours and 19 minutes.
Hotel Julien Dubuque
Address: 200 Main Street
143.11 km (89.0 mi) from George Wyth State Park
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4. Mason City (from USD 155)
With Mason City’s award-winning attractions, it’s a beautiful destination for a romantic weekend getaway. To arrive at this city by car, you will drive for about 1 hour and 53 minutes, having covered a distance of 122 miles (196 kilometers). While visiting this region, try out creatively made cocktails in entertainment joints such as 1910 Lounge and Eleven. Aside from that, face your fears by skating at Roller City Skating Rink as well.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mason City, IA
Address: 4082 4th Street Southwest
97.59 km (60.7 mi) from George Wyth State Park
5. Sioux City (from USD 93)
Founded in 1854, this city is filled with enjoyment for couples. Sail back in history by taking a stroll in Sioux City Public Museum and see exhibits that are rich in Native American history. Apart from Sioux City Public Museum, there are other fantastic museums to explore in the region such as Mid America Museum of Aviation and Transportation and Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center. Visit Floyd’s Bluff and have a bird’s-eye view of Sioux City’s landscape as well. You will have to drive for about 3 hours and cover a distance of 198 miles (319 kilometers) by car from Des Moines to this beautiful city.
Hilton Garden Inn Sioux City Riverfront
Address: 1132 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA, USA, 51103
328.89 km (204.4 mi) from George Wyth State Park
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6. Pella (from USD 134)
Reasonable rates for spacious rooms and good breakfast selection.
Clean pool, hot tub, sauna, and well-maintained parking lot.
Convenient highway access and proximity to Knoxville Speedway and Pella's attractions.
Complimentary breakfast with a variety of options, including bacon, French toast, and make-your-own waffles.
Although sparsely populated, couples still frequent this magical destination. It’s also nicknamed “little Netherlands” because of its immigrants from the region. The annual Tulip Time Festival is one event you don’t want to miss as it will provide you insight into the local way of life in a special way. Also, tempt your taste buds by eating meals served in romantic and local restaurants such as George’s Pizza and Steakhouse and Windmill Café. Pella is 44 miles (70.8 kilometers) away from Des Moines or a 50-minute drive away.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Pella, IA
Address: 315 Roosevelt Road
133.74 km (83.1 mi) from George Wyth State Park
7. Waterloo (from USD 92)
There are numerous and high-rated romantic things to do in Waterloo. A leisure walk in this historic city reveals its beautiful neighborhoods, dramatic landscapes, and welcoming locals. If you’re looking for a nice place to escape to with your lover where you can relax peacefully, visit Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens. With a beach such as George Wyth State Park at your disposal, you have a perfect place to sunbathe and swim. Waterloo is 110 miles (177 kilometers) away from Des Moines or a 2-hour drive away.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Waterloo, IA
Address: 4025 Hammond Avenue
10.56 km (6.6 mi) from George Wyth State Park
8. Iowa City (from USD 139)
A trip to Iowa City exposes couples to numerous recreational opportunities. Hotels in this city such as hotelVetro and Graduate Iowa City have romantic packages and events that will make your weekend getaway exciting and memorable. In addition, most hotels are located in intimate locations. You can also stroll through the city at night to explore its romantic nightlife. To arrive at this destination by car, you will have to drive for about 1 hour and 48 minutes while covering a distance of 115 miles (185 kilometers).
The Highlander Hotel
Address: 2525 Highlander Place
120.61 km (75.0 mi) from George Wyth State Park
9. Des Moines (from USD 40)
Home to famous attractions such as Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and Blank Park Zoo, this capital city is worth a visit by light-hearted lovers. Since it has a thriving beer scene, you should stop by a local brewery such as Madhouse Brewery and try out beers on offer. Dance classes with your significant other at Des Moines Ballroom Dance Studio are not only a fun experience but will also strengthen your relationship. Before you leave Des Moines, go for a relaxing couple’s massage at East Village Spa.
Union Park - Des Moines - Unique Home
Address: 1919 E 9th Street
142.37 km (88.5 mi) from George Wyth State Park
10. Ames (from USD 72)
Nestled approximately 37 miles (59.5 kilometers) from Des Moines, Ames has grown to become an ideal romantic destination in Iowa. Visit local breweries such as Torrent Brewing Company and Alluvial Brewing Company and try out their beers that are made by passionate and skilled personnel. Thereafter, you can hang out with your lover at Brookside Park, an area with nice-smelling flowers, green grass, and tall trees that provide shade. Your journey from Des Moines to Ames by car will take about 42 minutes.
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
Address: 1310 Dickinson Avenue
119.79 km (74.5 mi) from George Wyth State Park
Have a fun and unforgettable weekend getaway
Tagging your lover whom you’re used to making great memories together for a weekend getaway is always fun. Spice up your dates by discovering both the hidden and not-so-hidden gems of Iowa. Check out the above romantic destinations in Iowa with your partner and create fun and unforgettable experiences.
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