Bus Trips   

Enjoy a fun-filled day of shopping, dining, and exploring at Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines! With a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, there's something for everyone. Spend the day shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or exploring at your own pace. Walking will vary depending on your activities. Pickup locations include NIACC's Mason City campus and Clear Lake Perkins. Tuition includes round-trip bus transportation and snacks, but feel free to bring your own!

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Relax and travel with friends on a comfortable chartered bus as we head to one of the Midwest’s premier dinner theatres. Your ticket includes round-trip transportation, snacks on the bus, a delicious dinner, and reserved seating for this heartwarming and energetic performance filled with unforgettable songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life.” Whether you’re a longtime fan or seeing Annie for the first time, this charming story of hope, family, and friendship is perfect for all ages. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity for a stress-free day of great food, great company, and outstanding live theatre! Our meal at Chanhassen includes a selection from their expansive main menu, warm bread and butter, and a drink of coffee, tea, or milk. Any other drinks and desserts will be an extra charge that will be paid to the theater. If you have dietary needs, please let them know as you order. There are several seats that are handicap accessible. The bus will meet at NIACC and will also make a pick at Perkins parking lot in Clear Lake. Walking Level: Low-Med Seats are limited—register early to save your spot!

Registration Closes a 12:00 PM on November 4. 

No Refunds after 12:00 PM on November 4.

Relax and travel with friends on a comfortable chartered bus as we head to Chanhassen Dinner Theatres in Chanhassen, Minnesota for an unforgettable day of dining and entertainment!

Your ticket includes round-trip transportation, snacks on the bus, a delicious dinner, and reserved seating for Disney’s Newsies. 

Inspired by the real-life Newsboys’ Strike of 1899, Newsies is an energetic, feel-good musical about a spirited group of young newspaper sellers who band together to stand up for what they believe is right. Featuring high-energy dancing, an inspiring story of friendship and determination, and memorable songs including “Seize the Day” and “King of New York,” this crowd-pleasing Broadway musical is filled with heart, humor, and excitement. 

Our meal at Chanhassen includes a selection from their expansive main menu, warm bread and butter, and coffee, tea, or milk. Additional beverages and desserts are available for purchase and will be paid directly to the theatre. If you have dietary needs, please let your server know when ordering. 

Several handicap-accessible seats are available. The bus will depart from NIACC with an additional pickup at the Perkins parking lot in Clear Lake. 

Walking Level: Low–Medium 

Registration Closes at 12:00 PM on March 8.

No Refunds after 12:00 PM on March 8.

Join us for a trip exploring several greenhouses throughout North Iowa and Northeast Iowa! Discover a variety of plants, flowers, and gardening inspiration as we visit different greenhouses along the way. We'll also stop for lunch during the trip.

This trip involves a moderate amount of walking, but you can explore at your own pace. The trip fee includes transportation. Lunch and any additional purchases are at your own expense.

Pickup locations: NIACC's Mason City campus and Charles City.

Experience the Downtown Des Moines Farmers' Market in the Historic Court District! Spanning 12 city blocks, the market features more than 300 vendors offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, plants, flowers, handmade goods, ready-to-eat meals, and more! Enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and the opportunity to connect with local growers and artisans.

Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at the market and have time to explore, shop, and enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace. Any purchases will be at your own expense.

This trip involves a moderate amount of walking, but you can explore at your own pace.

Pickup locations: NIACC's Mason City campus and Clear Lake.

Explore the charm of Decorah, Iowa! Enjoy a tour of Seed Savers Exchange, dine at the famous Mabe's Pizza or another local restaurant, shop the historic downtown, visit scenic natural springs, and more!

Lunch will be on your own, and the tour fee is included in tuition. This trip involves a moderate to high amount of walking, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Light snacks and water will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Children ages 12–17 must be registered with an adult.

Pickup locations: NIACC's Mason City campus and Charles City.

Join us for a guided tour of Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa! Explore the beautiful gardens, visit the Butterfly Wing filled with exotic butterflies in flight, admire the ever-changing floral displays, and stroll through 17 acres of stunning outdoor gardens. Following the guided tour, you'll have time to explore the gardens at your own pace.

Afterward, we'll travel to downtown Ames, where you'll have free time for lunch and shopping on your own.

Please note: This trip involves a considerable amount of walking, but you can explore at your own pace. The trip fee includes round-trip transportation and admission to Reiman Gardens. Lunch and any additional purchases are at your own expense.

Pickup locations: NIACC's Mason City campus and the Perkins Restaurant parking lot in Clear Lake.

Experience the best of Iowa at the legendary Iowa State Fair, where tradition meets excitement! From delicious fair food and live entertainment to thrilling rides, unique exhibits, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Spend the day exploring the fairgrounds, discovering your favorite attractions, and experiencing one of Iowa's most beloved traditions!

The trip fee includes round-trip transportation and admission to the fair. Lunch and any additional purchases are at your own expense.

Walking Level: High. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Pickup locations: NIACC's Mason City campus and Clear Lake.

Experience the beauty and flavors of fall on a day trip to Gays Mills, Wisconsin! Known for its scenic countryside and abundant apple orchards, Gays Mills is the perfect destination for an autumn getaway.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the colorful fall scenery as we travel by chartered bus into Wisconsin's apple country. During our visit, you'll have opportunities to explore local orchards, browse seasonal markets and shops, and enjoy fall favorites like fresh apples, cider, cider donuts, baked goods, and other seasonal treats.

Bring your shopping bag, appetite, and camera as we enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by beautiful fall scenery and small-town Wisconsin charm!

Round-trip chartered bus transportation from NIACC and lunch are included. Additional trip details and scheduled stops will be provided closer to departure.

Walking Level: Medium–High. This trip involves a moderate amount of walking and standing, potentially on uneven outdoor surfaces at orchard locations. Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are recommended.

Join us for a fascinating trip to the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota! Enjoy a private program led by experienced naturalists, where you'll learn about eagle behavior, conservation efforts, and these magnificent birds. You'll also have time to explore the National Eagle Center, located along the scenic Mississippi River.

The trip fee includes admission to the National Eagle Center. Lunch will be on your own.

Walking Level: Moderate.

Pickup location: NIACC's Mason City campus only.