Latest travel news across Iowa - December 2022

December 7, 2022

Cone Park, Sioux City
Cone Park, Sioux City
Whether travelers are looking for a charming inn, picturesque town square for holiday shopping and celebrations, or a cozy cabin, Iowa offers unique options for a winter getaway. 
Backbone State Park, Dundee
Outdoor Winter Adventures
Those looking to fully immerse themselves in wintery outdoor recreation will enjoy a stay at one of Iowa’s many year-round cabins. Experience a peaceful stay at Backbone State Park in one of the recently remodeled cabins and explore the trails with a hike, snowshoe or a snowmobile ride. 
Seven Oaks Recreation, Boone
Travelers can hit the slopes in Boone County. Seven Oaks Recreation offers fun for every age, including snowboarding, snow tubing, skiing and more. Families can take a ride on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad's Santa Express.
Cone Park, Sioux City
With abundant outdoor adventure options and bustling historical districts, Sioux City is likely to please everyone in the group. Visit Cone Park for snow tubing and ice skating; stop by downtown when you’re finished and enjoy unique local restaurants and shops. 
Reiman Gardens' Winter Wonderscape, Ames
Mesmerizing Holiday Light Displays
Atlantic transforms into the "City of Lights" with Christmas in Atlantic. Reiman Gardens in Ames’ Winter Wonderscape Light Show (pictured) is a must-see attraction. The Painting with Lights town square display in Oskaloosa draws in visitors from all over the region. Christmas Acres in Le Mars is also a staple, featuring lighted sculptures, inflatables, music and an estimated 200,000 lights. 
Explore Travel Iowa’s event calendar for more local holiday celebrations across the state with lights, parades, music and plenty of festive charm.
King's Pointe Resort, Storm Lake
Indoor Fun for the Whole Family
The cold weather doesn’t stop the fun at King’s Pointe Waterpark Resort (pictured) in Storm Lake. With a zero-depth entry pool, relaxing lazy river and thrilling tube slides, there’s fun for family members of all ages. FunCity Resort in Burlington also offers splashing fun, as well as an arcade, zooming go-karts, bowling alley and more.

Another great way to explore Iowa is through locally sourced wine, beer, spirits and food. The Iowa Wine and Beer Passports are a great guide to the wineries and breweries located across the state. Check out this list of family friendly wineries and breweries to find spots that the kids will enjoy as much as the adults.
Adventureland, Altoona
What's New in 2023
The new year brings new opportunities for travelers looking for culture, thrills, education and more. If they’re looking for new ways to experience art, they’ll find it at the newly renovated Frank Lloyd Wright home, The Alsop Art Gallery. Thrill seekers can find an adrenaline rush with new additions at Adventureland (pictured), and foodies can get a taste of the state at the new Iowa Eats food festival. Explore all that’s new in 2023
Color the Wind Kite Festival, Clear Lake
Coming Up Next
Mark your calendars for these events and activities you won’t want to miss.

January 13-15: Icestravaganza, Davenport

January 21-22: Bald Eagle Appreciation Days, Keokuk
January 26-29: University of Okoboji Winter Games, Okoboji
February 4: Arctic Open Golf Tournament, Lake View
February 4: BRR (Bike Ride to Rippey), Perry
February 18: Color the Wind Kite Festival, Clear Lake (pictured)
February 25: Dubuque on Ice Brewfest, Dubuque
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