Discover 16 Great Tours In Iowa

Iowa might not be the first state that comes to mind when planning a trip, but it’s full of surprises for travelers who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences. Whether you’re into history, outdoor activities, or just exploring city streets with a twist, Iowa offers plenty of options. We especially like the Personal Guided Tour of the Covered Bridges of Madison County for its blend of scenic beauty and film history, and the Kayak Rentals at Quarry Springs Outfitters for a peaceful paddle in a spring-fed lake. These tours showcase Iowa’s natural charm and cultural touches, making the state a surprisingly diverse destination.

In this guide, we’ve gathered the 16 best Iowa tours, ranging from outdoor adventures and city explorations to quirky scavenger hunts and immersive murder mysteries. Each one offers a different way to see and experience Iowa, depending on your interests and pace. Whether you want to walk through historic districts or challenge yourself with a zombie-themed hunt, you’ll find something to match your travel style here.

1. Personal Guided Tour of the Covered Bridges of Madison County

At number one, the Personal Guided Tour of the Covered Bridges of Madison County is a standout for those interested in Iowa’s iconic structures and film fame. For just around $30, you get about two hours visiting several bridges on the National Register of Historic Places, with a private guide customizing your experience. The tour starts in Winterset’s charming courthouse square, where your guide shares the history of Madison County and its famous bridges like the Roseman Bridge—featured in the film starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. Visitors rave about how knowledgeable guides like Phyllis make the stories come alive, often adding extra scenic stops along the way. It’s perfect for history buffs and film fans alike, offering a personal touch that large group tours rarely match.

Bottom line: This private, flexible experience offers an intimate way to see some of Iowa’s most photographed landmarks, with an emphasis on storytelling and local context. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed pace and personal attention.

2. Kayak Rentals at Quarry Springs Outfitters

For a peaceful escape, the Kayak Rentals at Quarry Springs Outfitters provides a gentle paddle on a 240-acre spring-fed lake. Priced at only about $15 per person, you can rent a single or multi-passenger kayak for up to four hours. The water is calm, making it great for beginners and families wanting to enjoy nature without rough waters or big crowds. The setting is quiet, with lovely views and a chance to leave urban noise behind. Customers note it’s an ideal way to unwind and soak in Iowa’s countryside.

Bottom line: This is a budget-friendly, low-stress outdoor activity suitable for all ages and skill levels. It’s perfect for a half-day adventure away from city stress, especially in warm weather.

3. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Zombie Scavengers

If you’re tired of typical city tours, the Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Zombie Scavengers turns the city into a post-apocalyptic playground. Using your smartphone, you’ll seek out landmarks, find helpful tools, and complete quirky challenges—all while avoiding zombies. It’s a fun, fast-paced way to discover the city’s sights and hidden corners with a playful twist. With no strict time limits, you can pace yourselves, and a remote guide is available for hints. Reviewers say it’s a highly engaging experience that combines sightseeing with comedy.

Bottom line: Best suited for groups looking for a lively, interactive challenge that mixes exploration with humor, perfect for friends or families with a sense of adventure.

4. Des Moines Dash Scavenger Hunt

At number four, the Des Moines Dash Scavenger Hunt offers a city-wide adventure using your smartphone. Over roughly two hours, you’ll follow clues, solve puzzles, and visit various indoor and outdoor sites. With your remote guide helping via chat, you’ll document your journey with photos and complete challenges to score points. This interactive tour is great for those who enjoy problem-solving and exploring at their own pace. Several reviewers appreciate the easy-to-use app and the chance to uncover hidden city gems while competing for the top spot on the leaderboard.

Bottom line: Ideal for competitive pairs or families wanting a flexible and engaging way to explore Des Moines without fixed schedules.

5. Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Ames IA

For around $15, the Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Ames invites you to step into a crime-solving role. Over about two and a half hours, you visit 10 mapped locations, listening to audio stories that piece together a murder case. You have options to explore via walking or driving maps, making it accessible whether you prefer to stroll downtown or drive around the outskirts. Reviewers mention the immersive storytelling and the fun of piecing clues together, making it a good choice for mystery lovers and those wanting a different kind of history tour.

Bottom line: This experience combines storytelling with exploration, appealing most to puzzle-solvers and fans of crime dramas.

6. Participate in a Fun Scavenger Hunt in Davenport by Zombie Scavengers

Next is another zombie-themed adventure, Zombie Scavengers in Davenport. For $20, your group uses an app to hunt for survival items and complete challenges in a one-hour game designed for up to ten players. It’s quick, lively, and perfect for a fun afternoon with friends or family. The remote host helps you stay on track via chat, adding a layer of guidance and interaction. Many find it a great way to energize a city visit with lots of laughs.

Bottom line: This short, energetic game suits groups looking for a fast-paced, team-oriented activity that’s easy to book and play.

7. Explore Des Moines with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest

At just $10 per person, the Operation City Quest in Des Moines is a budget-friendly way to get to know the city. Using their app, you’ll find objects, complete challenges, and take photos, all while racing against the clock. The game’s flexible structure allows you to explore at your own pace, with a remote host providing hints. It’s a straightforward, fun activity for families or groups eager to see the city through puzzles and photo challenges.

Bottom line: Perfect for casual explorers who want a simple yet engaging way to discover Des Moines with minimal prep.

8. Des Moines City Scavenger Hunt by 3Quest Challenge

Another scavenger hunt option, 3Quest Challenge, offers a riddle-based discovery experience for $10 per person. Over two hours, you solve riddles, photograph the answers, and complete fun challenges across three separate quests. The game guides you through historic sites and quirky landmarks, making it suitable for puzzle lovers and curious travelers aiming to explore more of the city’s story.

Bottom line: A good choice for those who enjoy riddles and solving clues while discovering the city’s lesser-known spots.

9. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Davenport by 3Quest Challenge

This Davenport scavenger hunt offers a riddle-based, multi-quest journey for about $10 per person. You’ll hunt for items, complete challenges, and try to finish all three quests within your own set time. It’s perfect for competitive groups wanting to test their puzzle skills while exploring. The remote guide offers support, and the game is flexible enough for all fitness levels.

Bottom line: Well-suited for puzzle enthusiasts and groups who enjoy a bit of friendly competition on their city exploration.

10. Cedar Rapids Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest

In Cedar Rapids, the Operation City Quest turns the downtown into a search zone. For $10, you’ll find 60 objects using your phone, send in photos, and perform challenges across 13 categories. The app helps keep track of points and progress, with a remote guide ready to assist. It’s a great way to see the city’s sights actively rather than passively walking or riding.

Bottom line: A fun, interactive activity perfect for families or groups who want to explore at their own pace with technology and support.

11. Creative Cedar Rapids Scavenger Hunt

The Creative Cedar Rapids Scavenger Hunt stands out for its immersive and personalized approach. Priced at $29, it includes a live remote host helping you through your phone, making it more than just a scavenger game. This experience blends sightseeing, creative challenges, and social fun, making it ideal for groups looking for an interactive, engaging activity that goes beyond typical city tours.

Bottom line: Best for groups seeking a fully guided, customized experience that combines exploration with creative tasks.

12. Des Moines Art Walk Experience

For art lovers, the Des Moines Art Walk Experience offers a 90-minute, app-led exploration of the city’s artistic side. It combines trivia, puzzles, and visits to landmarks, ideal for those wanting to combine cultural discovery with a bit of fun. While reviews are limited, the concept appeals to travelers who enjoy interactive, self-guided cultural tours.

Bottom line: Suitable for art enthusiasts and urban explorers who enjoy learning through interactive challenges.

13. Dubuques Historic Downtown GPS Self Guided Walking Tour

In Dubuque, the Historic Downtown GPS Self Guided Walking Tour offers a flexible way to explore at your own pace. Starting at Saint Raphael’s Cathedral, you visit landmarks like the Julien Dubuque Monument and the Dubuque County Courthouse. The tour lasts about an hour to an hour and a half and uses an app that guides you through the city’s story. Reviewers appreciate the value and the engaging storytelling, making it perfect for history and architecture buffs.

Bottom line: A budget-friendly, self-paced way to discover Dubuque’s historic sites with minimal fuss.

14. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Holly Jolly Hunt

During the holiday season, the Holly Jolly Hunt brings festive cheer to Des Moines. Using an app, you’ll find holiday-themed items around the city, earning points for each find. It’s a one-hour, group-oriented activity that’s perfect for families and friends wanting to enjoy the season’s spirit while staying active.

Bottom line: Great for holiday visitors or locals looking to add some fun and tradition to their winter visit.

15. Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Sioux City IA

In Sioux City, the Murder Mystery Detective Experience offers immersive storytelling over 2.5 hours. You’ll explore 10 locations, following an audio story to unravel a murder case. The option to explore via walking or driving makes it accessible. Reviewers mention the engaging story and detailed clues, making it excellent for mystery fans and curious travelers who enjoy a good story with their sightseeing.

Bottom line: A compelling mix of storytelling and exploration for puzzle-solvers and mystery enthusiasts.

16. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Davenport by Operation City Quest

Finally, the Operation City Quest in Davenport offers a straightforward, fun scavenger hunt to explore the city. For just $10, you hunt for objects, complete challenges, and see how your team stacks up in points. It’s flexible, easy to set up, and perfect for a short outing or a quick team-building activity.

Bottom line: A no-fuss, budget-friendly activity suited for casual groups wanting a lighthearted way to explore Davenport.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Iowa

When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you love history and iconic architecture, the Madison County bridges tour is a fantastic choice. For outdoor lovers, renting a kayak at Quarry Springs offers a peaceful retreat. If you’re after city exploration with a fun twist, scavenger hunts like the Des Moines Dash or Cedar Rapids adventure are ideal.

Budget travelers will appreciate options like the self-guided Dubuque tour or the $10 scavenger hunts. For those seeking immersive storytelling, the murder mystery experiences in Ames or Sioux City offer engaging narratives. Booking early, especially for popular outdoor activities or holiday events, is recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

The Sum Up

Iowa’s tours cover a surprising range—from scenic bridges and outdoor paddling to city challenges and mystery-solving adventures. For a laid-back, scenic experience, the Personal Guided Tour of the Madison County Bridges offers a perfect blend of history and film magic. If outdoor activity is your thing, kayaking at Quarry Springs delivers serenity and fresh air. For an energetic, interactive day, city scavenger hunts like the Des Moines Dash or Davenport’s Operation City Quest turn sightseeing into a game.

No matter your style, Iowa’s diverse tour options are worth exploring. Consider your interests and schedule, then book early to lock in your favorite experience. These tours can add a memorable touch to your trip — giving you a real taste of Iowa beyond the usual roadside stops.