Seize your summer in Iowa

As resident experts on everything the summer has to offer, we’ve compiled a list of our favorites to help you start your summer fun list.

Eat & Drink

Cool down, fuel up, and head over to these summer favorites.

Paws & Pints: Sometimes Fido needs a night out, too.
The Yankee Clipper: We’ve got two words for you‌.‌.‌.Taco‌.‌.‌.Tuesday.
The Creamery: Ice cream after a hot day at Saylorville and Big Creek? You betcha.
What Dak: Korean fried chicken is definitely worth the trip west on University Ave.
The Breakfast Club: Because every summer morning should start with breakfast egg rolls.

The heat index says stay inside, but the Little Mermaid says, “I want to be where the people are.”

Ledges State Park: Bring the whole family and your four-legged friends for hiking and creek stomping.
Clive Greenbelt Trail: Ride, walk, or run on this beautiful trail with convenient connections.
The Brenton Arboretum: Get a dog pass and let your poochie swim in the ponds and streams.
Gray’s Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard or just rollerblade around the nearly two-mile paved loop like it’s 1998 all over again.
Rail Explorers in Boone: Choo-choo! Ride the rails on pedal-powered vehicles.
Maquoketa Caves State Park: With more caves than any state park, this magical place has been a favorite since the 1860s. Bring a flashlight, and prepare to get very‌.‌.‌.very dirty!
Field of Dreams in Dyersville: Is this heaven? No, it’s Iowa! Come for a Ghost Player Show or take a tour of the famous home.
Seven Oaks Recreation: Canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and‌.‌.‌.paintball?

We all know you’re going to the Iowa State Fair, but what other events are you enjoying the rest of the summer?

Des Moines Arts Festival: Take in the spectacular art, live music, and food in downtown Des Moines June 28-30.
Clear Lake July 4th Celebration: Amusement rides, bingo, a parade, live music, and a market—what’s not to love? Celebrate July 3–7.
RAGBRAI: Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa July 20-27 is a weeklong party on two wheels!
National Balloon Classic in Indianola: See more than 100 amazing hot air balloons July 26–August 3.
Adel Sweet Corn Festival: Visit this beautiful town on Saturday, August 10, for a street party, tournaments, and FREE SWEET CORN!

So you missed all the big events‌‌.‌.‌.that’s okay! The following list was made for folks who need more than one opportunity to have a great time.

Zoo Brew: The zoo isn’t just for kids. Wednesdays in June, July, and early August.
Des Moines Downtown Farmers’ Market: Head down for a classic Saturday morning.
Knoxville Raceway: With multiple events, you don’t have to pick just one night to have fun at the spring car capital of the world!
Warren County Speedway: You haven’t seen figure-8 racing until you’ve seen it here.
Iowa Cubs Baseball: Go for the concession-stand food (with a side of baseball).
Moonlit Movies and Summer Sundaze Music Series: Jamie Hurd Amphitheater in West Des Moines has entertainment and food trucks for the entire family.
Valle Drive-In: See today’s blockbusters at Newton’s throwback drive-in theater. TwoTone hack: Get takeout from Smokey D’s BBQ to eat during the movie.
Thursdays In Pella: Food trucks and theme nights—follow the Facebook group to get in on the fun.
Taco Tuesday Ride to Cumming Tap: Hop on the Great Western Trail by Jethro’s BBQ Southside and ride to this dive bar.