Summertime and the living’s easy, especially in Eastern Iowa. Imagine warm sunshine on your skin, blue skies above, and the scenic beauty of the Hawkeye State unfolding before you. It’s the time of the year when Eastern Iowa blooms with joyous festivals, cultural events, and a spirit of celebration. This year, we’re inviting you to pack your bags, rev up your engines, and join us on an incredible journey. So, here’s our hand-picked list of the top 5 summer destinations in Eastern Iowa you just can’t afford to miss.
Classic Car Night with Surf Zombies, Decorah (June 2nd)
Do classic cars and vintage aesthetics set your heart racing? Then you’ll be thrilled by what’s on offer in Decorah. Classic Car Night at Toppling Goliath pairs the allure of yesteryear’s automobiles with the high-energy beats of The Surf Zombies. As you soak up the nostalgic vibe, enjoy the irresistible combination of great food, crisp beer, and fantastic live music. It’s an evening that promises to be both delightful and memorable, delivering an experience that epitomizes summer fun.
Benz Beer Fest, Cedar Rapids (June 17th)
Our summer adventure starts in Cedar Rapids, at the highly anticipated Benz Beer Fest. The perfect oasis for a parched throat on a sunny day, this beer festival offers a chilled ambiance for everyone from hardcore hopheads to occasional ale admirers. With a stunning selection of over 100 beers, live music, and food vendors cooking up a storm, this gathering promises a day full of laughter, froth, and fun. It’s an ideal kickoff to a summer that promises to be unforgettable.
Downtown Block Party, Iowa City (June 24th)
Shimmy into your most comfortable shoes and gear up for a day of entertainment and excitement at the Downtown Block Party in Iowa City. Watch as the city’s downtown district transforms into a pulsating hub of activity from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Dueling pianos battle it out for melodic supremacy, drag shows dazzle with their flamboyance, silent discos groove to unheard beats, and pro wrestling matches keep the adrenaline pumping. As you immerse yourself in the spirited atmosphere, don’t forget to savor the wide selection of refreshing drinks and delicious street food.
Boom-Fest, Vinton (August 26th)
If you’re a connoisseur of creativity and craftsmanship, your journey will not be complete without a stop at Boom-Fest in downtown Vinton. This festival is a playground for art and craft enthusiasts, with local artisans displaying their unique masterpieces. Alongside this, an enticing farmer’s market offers a cornucopia of fresh produce and handmade delights. As the sun sets, Vinton – affectionately known as “The City of Lights” – dazzles attendees with a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the summer sky.
Bremer County Fair, Waverly (July 23rd to 29th)
The grand finale of our top 5 Summer Destinations in Eastern Iowa is in Waverly. That’s where the iconic Bremer County Fair offers a classic summer fair experience that brims with nostalgia and excitement. Over the course of a week, you’ll find a bustling carnival, a lively beer garden, and an array of live music performances. Events like the “Combine Demolition Derby” and the “Wright Rodeo” add an eccentric touch to this beloved local tradition. This fair is the perfect getaway, leaving you with memories you’ll cherish long after summer has faded.
So there you have it, a spectacular summer road trip that promises to immerse you in the rich culture, vibrant atmosphere, and warm hospitality of Eastern Iowa. Each event offers a unique experience, making this the perfect itinerary for anyone looking to make their summer truly unforgettable. As the open road beckons, we hope you’ll join us in exploring and celebrating the best of what Eastern Iowa has to offer. So, buckle up, turn the radio up, and let’s hit the road for a summer of endless adventure and fun!