Iowa is home to an easygoing atmosphere and great entertainment perfect for a spring break vacation with family or friends. Tap into the rich history of the town of Pella, or entertain the kids at the Children’s Museum in Sioux City. Head out on the Mississippi River in Dubuque, or enjoy the nightlife in Des Moines. Book a stay at one of many incredible Iowa vacation rentals for your spring break. When planning your trip, consider the diverse activities and attractions in these Iowa cities.

1. Burlington

A vacation rental in Burlington offers action-packed fun for families and friends. Treat the kids to a day at Huck’s Harbor Waterpark or opt for some adult time at the Catfish Bend Casino. The Burlington Fire Department Museum offers fun educational opportunities while the Garrett Phelps House Museum is ideal for history buffs. Zip line with your crew at SkyTrail or explore the Starr’s Cave Nature Center and Preserve. Let the kids feed the goats at the Wildlife Lakes Elk Farm before dining at Big Muddy’s or Martini’s Grille.

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2. Pella


Feel as if you are settling back into the 1800s when making the quaint city of Pella your vacation destination for spring break. Tour the Pella Historical Village that is home to the Vermeer Mill or stop in for a group photo at the Dutch windmill that is surrounded by acres of tulips. Golfers can head to the Bos Landen Golf Club for 18 holes while the art enthusiasts can see local artwork at the Pella Community Arts Center. Top off your spring break vacation with a performance at the Pella Opera House before a nightcap at the Cellar Peanut Pub. When you want to explore the great outdoors, jog, bike, or hike the Howell Station Prairie Trail.

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3. Sioux City

Prepare for a spring break rich in culture when settling in Sioux City. This Iowa city is home to the LaunchPad Children’s Museum and the Long Lines Family Recreational Center to keep little minds and bodies active. Soak up the sun and the blooming spring flowers at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center or spend your break touring the Mid American Museum of Aviation and Transportation. The Lamb Productions Theatre offers musical performances and plays for the artistic types and the free Sioux City Art Center is a popular tourist spot for browsing masterpieces.

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4. Dubuque


Opt for a spring break filled with water adventures on the Mississippi River. Within minutes from your cozy vacation rental, you can kayak and canoe on the river with rentals from Fever River Outfitters or take a boat tour with Dubuque River Rides. Indulge the nature enthusiasts when stopping in at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens or immerse yourself in the history of the city with a tour of the Mathias Ham House and log cabin. Let the kids explore the creatures at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium before savoring some American cuisine at Caroline’s Restaurant.

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5. Boone


Snap a selfie with your college roommates or gather up the kids for a family photo when visiting Pease Creek and the sandstone cliffs in Boone. This Iowa city offers outdoor attractions ideal for spring break that include hiking Ledges State Park or rides on the Boone and Scenic Railroad. Head to the Canyon Road Creek for some fishing before enjoying the nightlife at the Southside Club or Adobe Lounge. If the temps are still chilly in the spring, you can try your hand at snow skiing or snowboarding at the Seven Oaks Recreation Area.

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6. Bellevue

A spring break vacation rental in Bellevue puts you and your family in the heart of a city rich in history. Take the guided walking tour of Central Bellevue that leads you to the Potter’s Mill, the Jackson County Courthouse and the Dyas Hexagonal Barn. Time your trip to coincide with the spring Jackson County Pro Rodeo for a thrill or dive into the water attractions that include boat tours and water skiing on the Mississippi River with Ski Bellevue Water Ski. When you want to explore nature on your own, cycle the trails of the Bellevue Rivervue Trail or bird watch at the Bellevue State Park.

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7. Des Moines

Opt for big city fun in the big city of Des Moines for your spring break. Families flock to the Science Center of Iowa to explore the interactive exhibits while Principal Park is a must-do for the sports fans in your group. Stop in at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to snap some photos of the unique creations or see local art work at the Des Moines Art Center. A tour of the State Capitol Building may teach the kids something new about the government to make your spring break more educational. When you want to relax with friends, grab some brews at the Hessen Haus or bar bites at the High Life Lounge.

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8. Arnolds Park


Entertainment awaits you with a vacation rental in Arnolds Park, where you and the kids can ride the coasters at Arnolds Park Amusement Park or make a splash at the Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark. Rock ‘n’ roll fans can tour the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame Museum while the golfers can practice their swings at the Emerald Hills Golf Club. Relax with a glass of wine at the Wine Bar and Art Gallery or enjoy the live music at Chaplin’s.

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