Mike Molstead Motors

Nov 18, 2022

Few activities are as fun and exciting as taking your friends and family on a day trip and explore a new destination. Located along the banks of the beautiful Cedar River in Floyd County, Charles City, IA, offers great opportunities to explore the region. Here are three easy day trips you should go on while traveling around the area.

1. Cedar Rapids

If you are searching for an urban destination where you can try some local food, check out cultural events, and visit interesting museums, Cedar Rapids is the place to be. Located about 100 miles southeast of the Charles City downtown area, Cedar Rapids can be reached in about one hour and 40 minutes via routes I-380 and US-218.

Once you make your way to the city, some of the local attractions you should visit include Ellis Park, the Ushers Ferry Historic Village, Mays Island, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, and the Cedar River Trail. The St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Osborn Park, and the African American Museum of Iowa are other important landmarks worth a visit.

2. McIntosh Woods State Park

Sitting on the northern shores of Clear Lake, McIntosh Woods State Park is a great destination to spend a day or an entire weekend swimming, boating, fishing, or simply having a picnic in a scenic spot. Located just 45 miles west of downtown Charles City, this state park can be reached in less than 50 minutes via route US-18, making it an easy day trip destination.

McIntosh Woods State Park covers an area of about 60 acres and was established in the 1940s by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Clear Lake, its main attraction, is the second largest body of water in the state as well as one of the most popular weekend destinations among residents from all over northern Iowa. Some of the facilities you can find here include a three-lane boat ramp, fishing spots, and modern campgrounds.

3. Lake Louise State Park

Located right across the state line in southern Minnesota, Lake Louise State Park is another wonderful day trip destination for outdoor lovers. Featuring a 25-acre reservoir, large prairies, and deciduous forests, this place is a well-known destination for butterfly watching, wildlife photography, hiking, camping, swimming, and picnicking.

Equipped with the latest version of Chevy Safety Assist, a supremely comfortable cabin, and the best-in-class max cargo volume, the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is a fantastic midsize SUV to take your family and friends on adventures all over the country. Stop by Mike Molstead Motors today, check out this and other models in person, book a test drive, and take home your favorite new or used vehicle with a convenient financing plan.