Show Me A Map Of Iowa
Discovering Iowa’s Best
Iowa, known as the Hawkeye State, is a Midwest gem that offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the rolling hills of the Loess Hills to the vibrant cityscape of Des Moines, Iowa has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Iowa.
Top Attractions
Iowa has no shortage of must-see attractions, including the Field of Dreams movie site, the Iowa State Capitol, and the Bridges of Madison County. But, one attraction that stands out from the rest is the iconic Mississippi River. Take a riverboat tour, go fishing, or simply enjoy the view from one of the many scenic overlooks.
Hidden Gems
One of Iowa’s hidden gems is the Amana Colonies, a collection of seven historic villages. Visitors can explore the German-style architecture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and shop for handmade goods. Another hidden gem is the Effigy Mounds National Monument, a sacred Native American site with over 200 mounds shaped like animals.
Food Scene
Iowa is known for its pork tenderloin sandwiches, Maid-Rites, and sweet corn. But, the state also has a thriving farm-to-table scene, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farms. Check out the Des Moines Farmers’ Market, the largest in the state, for fresh produce and artisanal products.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Iowa can be an affordable destination, especially if you take advantage of free attractions like the State Capitol building and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. Many parks and trails are also free to explore, and camping is a budget-friendly lodging option.
Outdoor Adventures
From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, Iowa has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. Some of the best spots for outdoor adventures include Maquoketa Caves State Park, Backbone State Park, and the Cedar Valley Nature Trail.
Historical Landmarks
Iowa is rich in history, with many landmarks and museums dedicated to preserving the state’s past. Visit the John Wayne Birthplace Museum in Winterset, the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids, or the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Iowa, such as visiting the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, exploring the Science Center of Iowa, or checking out the Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, check out the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in Walcott, the American Gothic House in Eldon, or the Matchstick Marvels Museum in Gladbrook.
Natural Wonders
Iowa may not have mountains or beaches, but it does have some stunning natural wonders, such as the Loess Hills, the Maquoketa Caves, and the Iowa Great Lakes.
Vibrant Nightlife
From craft breweries and wineries to live music venues and casinos, Iowa has a thriving nightlife scene. Check out the East Village in Des Moines, the Court Avenue District in Des Moines, or the Historic Fourth District in Sioux City.
Local Markets
Support local farmers and artisans by visiting one of Iowa’s many farmers’ markets. In addition to the Des Moines Farmers’ Market, other great options include the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers’ Market and the Iowa City Farmers’ Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Iowa may not have traditional beaches or mountains, but it does have some great spots for water recreation, such as Clear Lake and Okoboji. For hiking and scenic views, check out Pikes Peak State Park and the Mines of Spain Recreation Area.
Cultural Immersion
Iowa has a rich cultural heritage, with many festivals and events celebrating its diverse communities. Don’t miss the Iowa Irish Fest in Waterloo, the Greek Food Festival in Des Moines, or the Czech Days in Protivin.
Art and Music Scene
Iowa has a thriving arts and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues. Check out the Des Moines Art Center, the Figge Art Museum in Davenport, or the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.
Walking Tours
Take a leisurely stroll through one of Iowa’s charming towns or historic districts. Check out the Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines, the Heritage Trail in Dubuque, or the RiverWalk in Sioux City.
Architectural Marvels
Iowa has some stunning examples of architecture, such as the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Cedar Rock State Park, the World’s Largest Concrete Gnome in Ames, and the State Capitol Building in Des Moines.
Historical Sites
Explore Iowa’s past by visiting one of its many historical sites, such as the Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs, the Living History Farms in Urbandale, or the Fort Museum and Frontier Village in Fort Dodge.
Biking Routes
Iowa is a cyclist’s paradise, with over 1,800 miles of bike trails. Some of the best routes include the High Trestle Trail, the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and the Great River Trail.
Wellness Retreats
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life by visiting one of Iowa’s wellness retreats. Check out the Raj Ayurveda Health Spa in Fairfield, the Bickford Inn in Marshalltown, or the Wild Rose Casino and Resort in Emmetsburg.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Iowa has plenty of options for adventure sports. Try ziplining at Zip Iowa in Cresco, rock climbing at Climb Iowa in Grimes, or skydiving at the Des Moines Skydivers in Winterset.
With so much to see and do in Iowa, this travel guide will help you plan the ultimate trip. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Iowa has something for everyone.