Fall can be one of the busiest times for students as classes and campus clubs and organizations resume, but it is also full of fun and unique events to take part in — if you are looking for a break from the ordinary, check out some popular events in Iowa.

Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad

Featuring dinner, dessert and picnic options, the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is a fall dining experience unlike anything else in the area. The two dining cars run on Friday nights from June through October and Saturday nights from April through November. Passengers traveling aboard railroad cars maintained in classic 1950s style go on a two-hour tour through the Des Moines River Valley while dining on an elegant meal, dessert or picnic. This event, because of its more formal attire and expensive price tag — dinner train tickets run around $55 per person — is not an every week event, but can make for a special night.

Because of the popularity of these trains, reservations are highly encouraged and can be made by calling 1-800-626-0319.

Living History Farms Cross Country Race

You can spend Thanksgiving running in the largest cross country race in North America. The Living History Farms Cross Country Race spans seven miles of rugged terrain, including fences, streams and gullies, and over 6,000 runners participate each year.

Lee Christensen, a junior in animal science, participated in the race last year.

“I thought it was a great race,” Christensen said. “It’s a lot more interesting than a typical 5K or 10K because of all obstacles and unique costumes.”

All proceeds from the race, which has an entry fee of $30, go toward non-profit organizations, including the Living History Farms Museum and the Des Moines Area Religious Council Food Pantry. To register for the race or for more information, call 1-800-529-7684.

US Cellular World Food Festival

If trying new foods, tasting beer and free entertainment sounds appealing, the US Cellular World Food Festival is worth a look. The WFF will take place Oct. 10-12 in the Des Moines East Village and will feature international cuisine and a variety of beers and wine in an attempt to display cultural diversity in Des Moines.

Amy Eaton, marketing and communications manager of the World Food Festival, said the event is both unique and affordable.

“It’s free to get in, and none of the menu items exceed $5. Each vendor will also offer a taste item for $1,” Eaton said.

In addition to food, a variety of performances will take place during the three-day festival.

“We have one main stage that has entertainment going on during the evening,” Eaton said, “During the day we have strolling entertainment with all sorts of different dancing and music.”

Wild Rose Independent Film Festival

The 6th annual Wild Rose Independent Film Festival will be held Nov. 6-9 at the Iowa State Historical Building in Des Moines. The festival, taking place in the East Village district of Des Moines, has seen rapid growth in recent years and will feature independent productions that can not be found in mainstream theaters. To view the schedule of events for the four-day festival, visit www.ariesworks.com.

Ledges State Park

One of Iowa’s first state parks, Ledges offers those who love the outdoors many beautiful sights to see and well-maintained paths to hike. The park contains stone shelters, picnic tables, stone shelters and campsites. The shelters and picnic sites, some of which contain outdoor fireplaces, are all free to use and can be reserved ahead of time.

Abby Diehl, junior in materials engineering, has visited the park many times.

“I love it because there were really interesting plants and foliage that grow around there,” Diehl said.

The Des Moines River runs through the park’s west edge and allows for both fishing and canoeing. The park is located just 15 miles from Ames.

Park officials can be contacted at 432-1852 or visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Web site.