Unconventional: 10 Unique Iowa Venues That Will Wow Your Guests

Hotel ballrooms and conference centers are tried-and-true event staples. They offer plenty of space, great service, and reliable amenities—but let’s be honest, they can sometimes feel a little ... beige.

If you're ready to swap carpeted convention halls for roller coasters, gardens, racetracks, or historic gems, you're in the right place. These 10 unique Iowa venues break the mold and promise unforgettable experiences for your guests.

Come Along for the Ride

Adventureland Resort | Altoona

There’s a kid inside all of us—and nothing brings it out like rides, games, and snacks galore. Host your next corporate party or team outing at Adventureland, where thrill rides, family attractions, and the Adventure Bay water park set the stage for high-energy fun. With 24 dining options ranging from snack stands to saloons, your event will be as satisfying as it is exciting.

Watch Your Team Blossom

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden | Des Moines

Escape the office and step into a tropical paradise—yes, even in the middle of winter. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers lush indoor and outdoor spaces including a conservatory, rose garden, water features, and stunning sculpture installations. Newly renovated meeting rooms and top-tier catering make it a perfect setting for meetings, retreats, or receptions. Add on a guided garden tour for a refreshing team-building twist.

Take a Bow

RiverCenter & Adler Theatre | Davenport

Make a statement with your next event at this iconic downtown Davenport venue. The RiverCenter features 100,000 square feet of flexible event space for up to 3,000 guests, while the historic Adler Theatre dazzles with Art Deco elegance—think gold-leaf ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and timeless architecture. With artful catering and on-site amenities, this venue blends sophistication and scale.

Museum Piece

Living History Farms | Urbandale

Looking for a venue with a story? Living History Farms offers 500 acres of immersive, open-air museum experiences where guests can explore Iowa’s agricultural roots from the 1700s to today. Event spaces range from historic barns to modern facilities with up-to-date AV and catering, making this a perfect blend of past and present.

Off to the Races

Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel | Altoona

Raise the stakes with a one-of-a-kind event at Prairie Meadows. With venues throughout the casino, hotel, and racetrack, this all-in-one location is perfect for galas, fundraisers, or company parties. Enjoy live horse racing, slots and table games, plus casual to upscale dining—all under one roof.

A Good Sport

Mid-America Center | Council Bluffs

Whether you’re planning a trade show, large conference, or a spirited corporate gathering, the Mid-America Center delivers. The arena seats up to 8,000, while the connected convention center offers 64,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. With award-winning catering, nearby hotels, entertainment, and dining, this venue is a home run for large-scale events.

What a Zoo

Blank Park Zoo | Des Moines

Add some wild flair to your next event at Blank Park Zoo. From animal encounters to scenic outdoor spaces and rentable indoor facilities, this venue offers a playful yet professional environment that’s perfect for family-friendly events, networking nights, or creative team outings. Bonus: your event supports wildlife conservation.

Step Back in Time

Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad | Boone

All aboard! Host a moving event—literally—on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. Private charters take your group through the picturesque Iowa countryside in vintage train cars, complete with dining and drink options. It’s a great pick for memorable client outings, holiday parties, or themed events with a nostalgic twist.

Sip in Style

Summerset Winery | Indianola

Toast your team’s success at one of Iowa’s most beloved wineries. Summerset Winery offers indoor and outdoor event space surrounded by rolling vineyards. Live music, locally crafted wine, and customizable catering make this venue ideal for weddings, appreciation events, and intimate celebrations.

A Work of Art

Figge Art Museum | Davenport

For an event that inspires, head to the Figge Art Museum. Overlooking the Mississippi River, this modern venue offers galleries, atriums, and terraces perfect for cocktail receptions, lectures, or client appreciation events. Guests can explore curated exhibitions while enjoying locally sourced catering in a sophisticated space.

Make It Memorable

Iowa is full of unconventional venues that offer more than just a place to meet—they offer an experience. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, celebration, or educational event, these one-of-a-kind locations ensure your guests leave with more than just a name tag and a swag bag.

Looking to book one of these unique venues?

Visit meetingpages.com to explore, compare, and connect with Iowa’s best event spaces today.

Casey Romano, Publisher | meetingpages | casey@meetingpages.com

Creator of digital platform meetingpages complete event planning directory and resource delivering leads and national, regional and local exposure for event venues, suppliers and destinations in MN, WI, IA & CO markets. In her free time, this 19 year industry veteran enjoys dance, group fitness, and training her young golden retriever dog in competition obedience and confirmation.