Iowa is a year-round destination with four distinct seasons. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and there are many available attractions. Festivals also attract crowds during July and August. The fall is an ideal time to view foliage. The spring can be mild and temperate. The least popular time to visit is during the winter. However, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy skiing and snowmobiling during this time.

high season: July to September
low season: January to March
shoulder season: April to June, October to December

Weather Information

Summers can be warm, with average temperatures in the mid-70s, and the occasional storm from June through August. Winters bring snow and average temperatures in the low 20s. Spring and fall tend to be mild with sporadic showers.

Crowd Information

Iowa receives its highest concentration of visitors from July through September, and the lowest from January through March. The Iowa State Fair takes place in August and attracts more than one million people each year. RAGBRAI, a bicycle race across the state, takes place at the end of July and also attracts many visitors.

Closure Information

Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions remain open throughout the year. However, certain outdoor theme and water parks close during the winter.

When to Save

Hotel prices are lower during midweek.

When to Book

Since prices rarely fluctuate throughout the year, there is no specific time to book; however, advance reservations are encouraged.

Information provided by the Iowa Tourism Office