7 Must-Do Fall Activities in Northwest Iowa You Can’t Miss
As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, Northwest Iowa becomes a beautiful, vibrant playground of fall colors, cozy family traditions, and small-town celebrations. Whether you’re a lifelong local or just planning a weekend getaway, there are plenty of fun and festive ways to enjoy the season close to home.
1. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Loess Hills
Fall colors + scenic overlooks = the perfect Iowa road trip.
The Loess Hills Scenic Byway stretches over 200 miles along Iowa’s western edge, and it’s one of the best places in the state to enjoy autumn views. Pack a thermos of coffee and stop at a few scenic overlooks along the way, or plan a fall hike at Hitchcock Nature Center.
Local tip: This is a perfect day trip from Swea City, Estherville, or Ledyard, just a short drive to some of the best foliage in the Midwest.
2. Celebrate at the Iowa Great Lakes Fall Festival – Spirit Lake
Held each October in Spirit Lake, the Iowa Great Lakes Fall Festival is a family-friendly event that includes:
- Pumpkin decorating
- Hayrides
- Local food vendors
- Craft booths
- Live music
It’s a great way to experience small-town community vibes and support local makers while enjoying a relaxing fall Saturday.
3. Hike at Stone State Park – Sioux City
If you’re looking for a peaceful day outdoors, head to Stone State Park in Sioux City, one of Northwest Iowa’s natural gems. The park offers:
- Leaf-covered trails
- River views
- Wildlife sightings
- Picnic areas
Make a stop at the nearby Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy the outdoor playscape.
4. Take a Llama Hike at Rector Llamas
Yes, you read that right! Llama hikes are real, and they’re a hit in the fall! Rector Llamas, located near the Loess Hills, offers guided hikes through scenic trails alongside these friendly, fuzzy companions. It’s a fun, quirky, and memorable way to spend a crisp afternoon outdoors, and you’ll get some great photos, too.
5. Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Orchard
No Iowa fall is complete without apples, pumpkins, and cider! Check out some of these local favorites:
- Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard – Council Bluffs: Enjoy apple picking, hayrack rides, cider slushies, and baked goods.
- Deal’s Orchard – Jefferson: Known for their apple cider donuts, this orchard also features a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and live weekend entertainment.
Looking for something closer? Check your local Chamber of Commerce or town Facebook page; many Bank Plus communities host pop-up pumpkin patches or fall markets.
6. Catch a Show at the Orpheum Theatre – Sioux City
When the weather turns chilly, head indoors and enjoy a performance at the historic Orpheum Theatre. This beautifully restored venue offers:
- Live concerts
- Comedies and plays
- Touring Broadway shows
- Community events
Some upcoming highlights include for fall and winter:
- Walker Hayes: Unplugged (Oct 19)
- Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through “The Change” (Oct 21)
- World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby Ballet (Oct 28)
- For the Senses: A Symphony of Discovery (Nov 15)
- Nutcracker: The Magical Christmas Ballet (Dec 3)
- Hadestown (Dec 16)
It’s a cozy way to enjoy the arts while supporting a piece of Iowa history.
7. Tour the Villisca Axe Murder House – If You Dare
For thrill-seekers and true crime fans, fall is the perfect time to visit Iowa’s most famous haunted location: the Villisca Axe Murder House. Take a daytime tour to learn the history, or if you’re brave, book an overnight stay. Either way, it’s a spooky way to get into the Halloween spirit.
Fall in Love with Northwest Iowa
From scenic drives and llama hikes to cider donuts and haunted tours, Northwest Iowa is full of fall fun for the whole family. At Bank Plus, we’re proud to be part of the communities that make this region so special.
Whether you’re sipping cider at a local orchard, catching a concert, or enjoying a quiet country road, we’re here to help you live your best life, season after season.
Don’t forget—whether you’re buying tickets for a show, grabbing cider donuts, or booking that haunted house tour, make it easy and secure by paying with your Bank Plus credit card. Enjoy convenient transactions and extra peace of mind while you fund your favorite fall adventures!