Our Iowa and the Mississippi River
Journey along Iowa’s beautiful eastern edge, where the Mississippi River shapes both the land and its history. Wander through Dubuque’s historic streets, visit the iconic Field of Dreams Movie Site, and discover Iowa’s agricultural heritage.
Glide down the Mississippi on a full-day cruise aboard the Riverboat Twilight as limestone bluffs, golden fall colors, and quiet river towns drift by. From Cedar Rapids’ warm welcome to the craftsmanship of the Amana Colonies, this tour blends riverside beauty, heritage, and charm.
Highlights of Our Iowa and the Mississippi River
- Enjoy a full day cruise along the Mississippi
- Spend a day in the Amana Colonies
- Visit the Field of Dreams Movie Site
- Learn about John Deere with a historian
- Witness fall foliage at its peak
- Stay at three historic hotel properties
DAY 1: WELCOME TO CEDAR RAPIDS!
This evening, meet your Tour Director and friendly travel companions for a welcome dinner in Cedar Rapids. D
DAY 2: NATIONAL CZECH AND SLOVAK MUSEUM/
Begin your day with a visit to the National Czech and Slovak Museum, a Smithsonian affiliated institution showcasing rich history and culture and complete your experience with a traditional Czech-style meal. Continue on to Dubuque, one of Iowa’s oldest cities nestled among the bluffs of the Mississippi. Check into the historic Hotel Julien and enjoy free time to explore. B, L
DAY 3: TIFFANY WINDOWS/FIELD OF DREAMS/HISTORIC PROGRESSIVE DINNER
This morning, tour St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, home to a collection of over 100 Tiffany stained glass windows. Relive your childhood at the National Farm Toy Museum and marvel at the vast displays. This afternoon, step into movie magic at the Field of Dreams Movie Site. Meet a real-life “ghost player” and get a behind-the-scenes tour of the farmhouse. End your day with a progressive dinner in Dubuque, where each course will be served in a different historic property throughout the city. B, D
DAY 4: MISSISSIPPI RIVER CRUISE
All aboard the Riverboat Twilight! Spend a relaxing day aboard the Victorian-style paddlewheel riverboat as you cruise the scenic Mississippi River from Dubuque to Le Claire. Take in beautiful views, colorful fall foliage, towering bluffs, locks and dams, and passing river traffic. Enjoy lunch, guided narration, and live entertainment during your cruise. Transfer to Davenport where you will stay at the historic Hotel Blackhawk for two nights. B, L, D
DAY 5: ISABEL BLOOM/JOHN DEERE/ROBOTIC DAIRY FARM
Today’s first stop is a tour of Isabel Bloom, a studio where cement sculptures are crafted by hand. Next, learn about the history and production of John Deere with a local historian at the John Deere Pavilion, where a large collection of farm equipment is on display. After lunch, tour Cinnamon Ridge Farms and learn about their robotic milking process. Enjoy free time in Davenport to wander the city’s quaint streets, shopping, and restaurants. B, L
DAY 6: AMANA COLONIES
Depart Davenport and head towards the Amana Colonies, a group of seven historic villages known for their German heritage, handcrafted goods, and traditional communal past. Enjoy a guided tour of the main buildings before exploring on your own. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Amana farewell dinner at the Ox Yoke Inn. B, D
DAY 7: FAREWELL, IOWA!
Return to Cedar Rapids for your journey home with fond memories and new friends. B
QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS
Night 1: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, IA
Nights 2-3: Hotel Julien, Dubuque, IA
Nights 4-5: Hotel Blackhawk, Davenport, IA
Night 6: Hotel Millwright, Amana, IA
Dates:
Oct 10-16, 2027
Price Per Person:
Double: $2,397
Single: $2,995
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$238 per night
Depart/Return:
Cedar Rapids, IA
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Center, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Eastern Iowa Airport any time after 10:30 a.m. on Day 7.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Eastern Iowa Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
High of 65° F, low of 45° F
Time Zone
Central
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, view Travel Protection Information.
