JV Vineyard and Retreat

There's much to be said for just getting lost in the woods, so when you start to feel acquainted with the forested areas of the site, set out along the North Raccoon river, where there are several scenic county parks and wildlife areas to explore. There's also Swan Lake State Park (25 minutes' drive), a popular spot south of Carroll with good fishing and boating opportunities. You could also stick to nearby towns and cities, starting in nearby Jefferson (20 minutes), home to the impressive 168-foot-tall Mahanay Bell Tower (come to hear its carillons chime, stay for the views from its observation deck). On the edge of Jefferson there's also the Wild Rose Casino and Resort if you're in the mood for a round or two of roulette. Elsewhere, Iowa has plenty of family-friendly activities to try. Deal's Orchard (20 minutes) has hay rides, cider, activities for the kids and (in season) an impressive pumpkin patch, while further afield in downtown Des Moines (an hour and 25 minutes) there are amusement parks, interactive museums and a sculpture park, plus the ever-popular Blank Park Zoo on the city's southern edge.