5 days in Iowa Itinerary

Des Moines is the capital and the most populous city in the U.S. Venture out of the city with trips to Winterset (Iowa Quilt Museum, John Wayne Birthplace & Museum, &more) and Historical Village, Vermeer Windmill & Scholte House (in Pella). And it doesn't end there: ponder the world of politics at Capitol Building, explore the world behind art at Des Moines Art Center, stroll around Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and learn about wildlife with up-close encounters at Blank Park Zoo.

To find other places to visit, more things to do, and tourist information, read Des Moines visit planning website.

Orlando to Des Moines is an approximately 6-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. Due to the time zone difference, you'll gain 1 hour traveling from Orlando to Des Moines. Traveling from Orlando in May, expect Des Moines to be little chillier, temps between 73°F and 53°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 12th (Wed) to allow time to drive to Dubuque.

Dubuque is the county seat of Dubuque County, Iowa, United States, located along the Mississippi River. On the 13th (Thu), take in the waterfront at Riverwalk, then make a trip to Fenelon Place Elevator Co., then get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, and finally try to win big at Diamond Jo Casino. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: take in nature's colorful creations at Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and then walk around Eagle Point Park.

To see photos, where to stay, more things to do, and other tourist information, refer to the Dubuque sightseeing planner.

You can drive from Des Moines to Dubuque in 3.5 hours. Other options are to fly; or take a bus. Expect a bit cooler evenings in Dubuque when traveling from Des Moines in May, with lows around 48°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 14th (Fri) to allow enough time to travel back home.