Day Trips from Des Moines
← All Des Moines day tripsDay Trips from Des Moines: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Des Moines, IA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Des Moines
Bison Scenic Drive
IA 50228, USA
Just 32 min from Des Moines, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Des Moines River Valley Scenic Overlook
IA 50156, USA
Just 50 min from Des Moines, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Waubonsie State Park Scenic Overlook
IA 51640, USA
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Des Moines, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Loess Hills Scenic Overlook
Oak Ave, Moorhead
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 127 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Decatur, NE 68020
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Murray Hill Scenic Overlook
Little Sioux, IA 51545
Just 2 hrs 16 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 122 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Covered Bridges Scenic Byway
Winterset, IA 50273
Just 40 min from Des Moines, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Overlook
IA 50014, USA
Just 42 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Blackbird Scenic Overlook
NE 68020, USA
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mile Hill Lake Scenic Overlook
Mile Hill Lake Park, US-34
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Des Moines, rated 4.5 stars by 129 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook Tower (Loveland Overlook)
Honey Creek, IA 51542
Just 1 hr 47 min from Des Moines, rated 4.5 stars by 296 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
Burlington, IA 52601
Just 2 hrs 46 min from Des Moines, rated 4.3 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Des Moines
What are the best scenic drives near Des Moines, IA?
The best scenic drives near Des Moines include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Des Moines?
Most scenic drives near Des Moines range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Des Moines?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Des Moines, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Des Moines?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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