Summer is here and so is the season of outdoor group event activities! Need some planning inspiration for an Iowa corporate outing? Adventure awaits when you organize an outing that’s interesting, entertaining, fun, and best of all outdoors. This month meetingpages shines the spotlight on some of Iowa’s best places, events, and attractions to take your team outdoors!
There is more to a corporate cruise or private charter than just drifting along. These Iowa charter cruise lines specialize in giving your group the space they need to network, engage in teambuilding, and bond as a group, all in swanky surroundings and a relaxing atmosphere aboard some beautiful boats.
Known as the “Flagship of the Iowa Navy,” the Queen II can accommodate up to 200 passengers. Modeled after the original Queen steamer boat, the Queen II cruises the sparkling blue waters of Lake Okoboji.
Departing from Rathbun Lake Marina, the Jon Anderson White Riverboat is a stunning replica of a classic paddle wheeler from the turn of the century, with modern amenities such as air conditioning, handicap access, and two restrooms. Sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, and live entertainment make this an exceptional experience.
Designed for cruising the waterways of the great Mississippi River, this 750 passenger paddlewheel boat “Celebration Belle” offers casual sightseeing, luncheon, and dinner cruises.
While you’re in the area: Travel Dubuque, “where Iowa started,” was named the 4th Best American Riverfront by USA Today. Known for its thriving cultural scene, and where an abundance of natural beauty abounds explore historical sites, golf, bike and visit the site of the Academy Award nominated film – Field of Dreams. Stay in one of the city’s charming bed and breakfasts, inns, cabins, or hotels and sample the menus of some of the best culinary establishments in the Midwest.
There is nothing like a day on the course with your squad. The sunshine, the verdant greens, the lovely landscape … and the intensity of a good golf game. Bring your group together on a golf course and watch the healthy competition, instant camaraderie, and entertaining action take place all outdoors!
Award-winning 18-hole Scottish-inspired golf course located in America’s Heartland. Beautifully maintained course close to the University and next to Jack Trice Stadium where the Cyclones play. Both indoor and outdoor dining space with views of the course.
While you’re in the area: Think Ames, home to Iowa State University, named the best college town in Iowa. And when you visit, take in a concert at the Central Iowa Symphony, smell the roses at the Iowa Arboretum, go back in time to the Ames Historical Society, or take a break at some of the area’s finest restaurants, bistros and cafés.
Designed by the legendary Rees Jones, known for his championship golf courses worldwide. The 18-hole course spans 7,100 yards with panoramic views that includes a 30-foot waterfall that flows into a 12-acre lake. Luxury hotel rooms, live entertainment, relaxing spa, and gourmet dining make this a memorable experience.
The only Arnold Palmer Signature Course in the state of Iowa, the award-winning course features 500 acres that cut through the dramatic bluffs and running ravines between Big Creek Dam and Saylorville Lake. With a full practice facility, full-scale public restaurant, and expansive meeting space, this public club offers players a private club experience.
While you’re in the area: Visit Sioux City where area attractions include Cone Park tubing hill, Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City, the Mid America Museum of Aviation + Transportation, and much more. With nearly two dozen hotels, inns, and lodges, and a wide range of both casual and fine dining, your visit to Sioux City can’t help but be memorable.
In Iowa, it’s easy to find an activity or event that’s pure entertainment. Planning ideas for your team are abundant in the Hawkeye State — have them catch a ballgame, go along for the ride on a roller coaster, or send them off to the races — the possibilities are endless and are all outdoors!
And they’re off, getting in on the action of live horse racing from April through October. The on-site hotel invites guests to enjoy its 168 comfortable rooms, 24/7 casino with table games, poker tournaments, and slots, plus indoor saltwater pool, hot tub, fitness center, and dining at any one of its five fine restaurants.
Known as “The Fastest Short Track on the Planet”, the NASCAR-owned Iowa Speedway hosts a variety of racing events, including the Iowa Corn 300. Trackside camping is one of the most popular options for a stay at the Speedway, but for those less inclined to camp, nearby hotels offer lodging. The facility boasts 25 luxury suites with concessions providing a variety of food and beverage options.
For a complete list of outdoor activities, visit our Iowa Outdoor Event Activities Directory!
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.
Spotlight | By Casey Romano, Publisher | June 29, 2026
Summer in Iowa is the perfect time to move meetings beyond four walls and into the great outdoors. From scenic river cruises and championship golf to motorsports, live entertainment and outdoor adventures, Iowa offers memorable settings for team-building events, client appreciation gatherings and corporate celebrations. Read more...
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