Weekend trips provide a bit of escape to work-weary travelers who can't quite find the time or money to get away for longer vacations. Iowa offers several destinations that can provide experiences from the rustic and rural to the urbane and sophisticated.
Near Milford is the Iowa Great Lakes recreation area, a 3,600 acre expanse of wilderness that is home to five glacier-fed lakes. The deepest, West Okoboji, is a popular tourist destination for its lakeside towns and relaxed waterfront recreation. The area also boasts the University of Okoboji, a fake college campus that provides visitors with a college-town atmosphere without the troublesome necessity of having to actually attend any classes!
For those wanting to try their luck, the Riverside Casino and Golf resort may be the answer. Nearly 1,300 slot machines can be played day and night on a gaming floor that also provides 24 blackjack tables and a private poker room. The show floor is home to national acts, and weekend warriors can take advantage of the stand-up comedy during the casino's comedy weekends. Riverside Casino and Golf resort is located on Highway 22 just south of Iowa City.
Anyone bringing kids on a weekend excursion may need to find a place with a little more visceral thrill. Adventureland is home to over 100 rides, shows and attractions designed to keep the excitement level high. Located just outside Des Moines, the amusement park offers three large roller coasters as well as a number of less-intense rides for the less-adventurous visitors.
