Whether you want to explore a nature reserve or visit a nearby city and check out some museums, historical monuments, and cultural centers, going on a day trip is a great way to spend some quality time with your family. If you are searching for the best destinations to discover near Newton, IA, here are three fantastic day trips you can go on in the family SUV.
1. Des Moines
Located about 35 miles west of downtown Newton, the capital and most populous city in the state of Iowa is a wonderful day trip destination that can be reached in a little over half an hour via route I-80. Sitting on the banks of the Des Moines River, this city is an important cultural center in the region and offers plenty of local landmarks that attract visitors from all over the country.
A growing financial and industrial hub, Des Moines has experienced a population boom since the 1980s, when the first skyscrapers started being built in the city. Nowadays, some of its most famous tourist attractions include the Iowa State Capitol, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, the Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers’ Market, and the St. Ambrose Cathedral.
2. Cedar Rapids
Home to almost 300,000 inhabitants in its metropolitan area, Cedar Rapids is the second largest city in the state of Iowa and an increasingly important hub for culture and arts in the region. Located a little under 100 miles east of downtown Newton, Cedar Rapids can be reached in about one hour and a half via route I-80, making it a fantastic day trip destination.
Although smaller than Des Moines, Cedar Rapids is not in short supply of things to do and places to visit. Some of the local attractions you should explore while in town include May’s Island, the Czech Village and New Bohemia district, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, and the Cedar River Trail.
3. Elk Rock State Park
If you are looking for a quaint nature reserve to enjoy a day away from the city and explore the natural wonders of Iowa, Elk Rock State Park is the place to be. Located just 25 miles south of Newton, this sprawling nature reserve can be reached in about half an hour via route IA-14. Some of the facilities you can find here include public boat ramps, picnic tables, fishing spots, and an equestrian camping area.
If you are looking for a sedan, an SUV, or a crossover to go on memorable adventures and discover the wonders of Iowa, visit us today at Lauterbach Buick GMC! Our family-owned and operated dealership offers a great selection of new Buick and GMC models for sale, as well as the best customer service in the region.
Photo by Brett Sayles: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-men-sitting-on-picnic-bench-1141434/
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