8 Best Wellness Retreats In Iowa
Sometimes, you need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are looking to escape to a park to surround yourself with remote wilderness or a cute bed and breakfast in the countryside, Iowa is full of such destinations. The state is home to tranquil, unique parks such as Maquoketa Caves State Park. There are also cute towns such as Decorah to retreat to and charming cabins such as Five Ridge Prairie Cabin, Westfield. Here, we explore the 8 best places to relax and enjoy a personal wellness retreat.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
One of Iowa's most unique outdoor parks is Maquoketa Caves State Park. The park has more caves than any other state park. Those looking to reset away from the hustle and bustle of the city should look no further than Maquoketa Caves State Park. All you need is a pair of hiking boots, a hat, and a flashlight to explore the wonders this park has to offer. There are 13 caves to explore in Maquoketa. Explore the magnificent 1,100-foot “Dancehall Cave,” Hernando’s Hideaway, Shinbone Cave, and Wye Cave. There is an interpretive center where you can learn more about the geology of the caves and their formation. While most places with cave exploration offer the opportunity exclusively by guided tour, at Maquoketa Caves State Park, anyone can explore the caves anytime. A network of 6 miles of trails connects the caves and scenic overlooks in the park. Some of the best sites to admire include the “Natural Bridge” standing 50 feet above Raccoon Creek. Camp overnight at the park amongst lush groves of pine trees at one of Maquoketa's campsites.
Ledges State Park
Another state park in Iowa to escape to is Ledges. The park is renowned for its sandstone gorge, which is up to 100 feet deep in certain areas. Driving up to Ledges State Park, you will already see the park's beautiful attractions, including Peas Creek, sandstone cliffs, and glacial canyons. Drive down Canyon Drive to see views of the little Canyon the park is known for. Ledges spans over 1,200 total acres and is an outdoor paradise where visitors can hike, swim, and camp. There are four miles of trails to explore in the park. Some trails offer scenic lookouts, including views overlooking Pea’s Creek Canyon. For a challenging hike, check out Old Indian Trail and Crow's Nest Trail. While the trail is steep, you can enjoy stunning views of sand cliffs from both sides of the trail. After a day of hiking, cool off at the park's creeks. Camp overnight at one of the park's campsites. The park offers full hook-up and electric and non-electric campsites. Book yours in advance online. The challenging hikes, flowing streams, and serene surroundings at this park are sure to bring a sense of peace that you will carry with you after you leave.
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dubuque
Open since the 1980s, Dubuqye's Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a space to escape the concrete and immerse yourself in stunning green gardens. The 56-acre Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens has more than 60 types of gardens to enjoy. The grounds are open year-round, and there is no admission fee, as it is a volunteer-run space. Check out the arboretum's unique Japanese Garden and listen to the calming waterfall to enjoy a moment of peace. In the summer, take a tour of the gardens to learn more about the garden's history and about the plants that occupy the garden space. Even in the winter months, the arboretum is a great place to visit. You can snowshoe or cross-country ski around the grounds. While most of the plants will be covered in snow and nothing will be in bloom, the grounds are still a sanctuary to enjoy nature. Wildlife tracks can be seen in the snow, and feathered friends are often spotted by the Heinemann Visitor Center, where the bird feeders are. Near the Botanical Garden, check out the Hampton Inn Dubuque for a nice quiet night to relax after a day exploring the gardens.
Little House on the Farm & Guest Barn Bed & Breakfast
Those looking for a taste of country living to bring you peace and rejuvenation should look no further than Little House on The Farm & Guest Barn Bed & Breakfast. The hosts, Pat and Jess Young, aim to give their guests a unique and relaxing experience on their farm. At the Bed & Breakfast, guests have the chance to unwind and walk along country roads, enjoying views of cows and fields. End your day at the Little House on the Farm by reading by the fire or watching the sunset from the porch. Guests can choose to stay at one of two stand-alone private renovated barns, each equipped with their own kitchenette. Staying at either barn will transport guests to a simpler time with rustic elegance. The Bed & Breakfast is conveniently located near several of Iowa's scenic byways.
Decorah
Not far from the House on the Farm Bed & Breakfast, is the small town of Decorah. The town is renowned for its outdoor charm, making it a great place for a nature escape. Decorah has a vibrant downtown, tasty restaurants, waterfalls, hikes, and rivers to enjoy. Visit Dunning's Spring Park or the nearby Siewer's Springs State Park to see waterfalls and wildlife. Sometimes, bald eagles are spotted in Decorah's parks. The Upper Iowa River winds through the town and is a great river to paddle down to enjoy unique views of the town. The town's 11-mile Trout Run Trail is the perfect spot for an afternoon bike ride or hike in town. Continue enjoying the outdoors at the Decorah High Point Cabins. Choose from a variety of rustic cabins to unwind in at the end of your day. Some of the cabins have a hot tub to relax in, where you can watch the stars and enjoy your serene surroundings. After a day exploring the outdoors in Decorah, visitors are sure to feel rejuvenated by the fresh air and beautiful sites.
Five Ridge Prairie Cabin, Westfield
Sitting on top of the loess bluff is the remote wellness cabin Five Ridge Prairie. Located in Westfield, the cabin is in the middle of nowhere, away from the distractions and business of modern life. This makes it a great spot to rest and reset. The cabin's front porch offers stunning views of the Big Sioux River and Missouri River valleys. The one-room cabin has everything you need. There is a lofted bed and futon. A solar system provides electricity to the cabin. There is a dining set, grill, outdoor stove, propane heat, and 5 gallons of water included. Getting to the cabin is a bit of a hike. Guests will want to bring bedding and food for their stay. Enjoy watching the sunrise and sunset from the cabin's porch. Spend the day meditating outside and enjoying nearby trails.
Little Swan Winery and B&B, Estherville
Just 1 1/2 miles north of the small town of Superior in Northwest Iowa is a quaint bed and breakfast called Little Swan Winery. This is another great spot to rest and enjoy the countryside, away from everyday life. The Bed & Breakfast has rustic charm and is in a renovated grain elevator. There are three different rooms to choose to rent from. There is a tasting room on the property in a remodeled 1920s barn. The tasting room has 35 different types of wines produced on the property that guests can try. Throughout the year, Little Swan Winery hosts different themed nights for guests. Some of the themed nights of the past year include a chili night, a Salisbury Steak dinner, and a Roast Bison meal. Overall, the unique cuisine, local wine, and countryside offer a refreshing getaway.
Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies is a great place for those who don't want to go too far away from modern life for a relaxing getaway. The town is known for good food, drinks, slow living, and a unique history. Founded by German settlers in 1855, the town went on to become a self-sufficient community until the 1930s. Today, the town is bustling with shops and eateries. Learn more about the history of the Amana Colonies at the Amana Heritage Museum. Reconnect to your creative side by strolling through A J's Copper Garden and admire the variety of copper sculptures. Grab some traditional brews to unwind at The Ronneburg. Stay overnight at one of the town's cute B&Bs, such as Abbi's B&B or Village Guest Suite. Leaving town, check out Iowa Valley Scenic Byway and watch the countryside scenery of charming farms and grazing sheep.
Overall, everyone needs time to rest and reset. In Iowa, these 8 places provide people with the opportunity to do just that. Find peace in the scenery of Peas Creek, sandstone cliffs, and glacial canyons at Ledges State Park. Reconnect to your creative side and get inspired by the history of Amana Colonies. Or enjoy the peace of being nestled away at Five Ridge Prairie Cabin. Whatever you are looking for in a wellness retreat, these places in Iowa have you covered. Next time you are looking for a weekend escape or a relaxing trip, consider checking out one of these places. The peace and serenity you will find here won't leave you disappointed.
