, Iowa, USA
Iowa has something for everyone. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in the Hawkeye State:
Visit Des Moines: Iowa's capital city, Des Moines, has a lot to offer. Explore the Des Moines Art Center, visit the Iowa State Capitol, and stroll through the East Village for unique shops and restaurants.
Field of Dreams Movie Site: If you're a fan of the classic baseball film "Field of Dreams," make the pilgrimage to the movie site near Dyersville. You can even play catch on the iconic field.
Amana Colonies: Discover the history and heritage of the Amana Colonies, a group of seven villages founded by German immigrants. You can explore museums, shops, and enjoy traditional German cuisine.
Iowa State Fair: Held annually in Des Moines, the Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most famous state fairs in the United States. Enjoy carnival rides, food on a stick, and live entertainment.
Maquoketa Caves State Park: Explore the underground wonders of Maquoketa Caves State Park. The park features limestone caves, scenic hiking trails, and a visitor center.
John Wayne Birthplace Museum: Visit the birthplace of the legendary actor John Wayne in Winterset. The museum showcases Wayne's life and career through memorabilia and exhibits.
Pella: Experience a touch of Dutch culture in Pella, known for its annual Tulip Time Festival. You can tour a historic windmill, explore the charming downtown, and sample Dutch pastries.
Grotto of the Redemption: Located in West Bend, this remarkable religious shrine is one of the largest grottos in the world. It features intricate mosaics made from precious stones and minerals.
Effigy Mounds National Monument: Discover the ancient Native American burial mounds and effigy mounds at this national monument. The park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the Mississippi River.
Savor Iowa's Culinary Delights: Try some of Iowa's signature dishes, such as pork tenderloin sandwiches, corn on the cob, and Maid-Rite loose meat sandwiches. Don't forget to sample local craft beers and wines.
Explore the Great River Road: Drive along the scenic Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River through Iowa. You'll encounter picturesque river towns and beautiful vistas.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site: Learn about the life of the 31st President of the United States at his birthplace and museum in West Branch. The site includes Hoover's boyhood home and gravesite.
RAGBRAI: If you're an avid cyclist, consider participating in the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI). It's a week-long bike tour that covers the entire state.
Villisca Axe Murder House: For those interested in the paranormal, this house in Villisca is the site of a mysterious unsolved murder that occurred in 1912. Guided tours are available.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge: Explore this natural oasis near Prairie City, where you can see bison, elk, and various other wildlife. There are hiking trails and a visitor center.
Living History Farms: Located in Urbandale, this interactive outdoor museum takes you through 300 years of Iowa's agricultural history. You can explore historic farms and engage in hands-on activities.
Dunnings Springs Park: Enjoy the beauty of nature in Decorah at Dunnings Springs Park, home to cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, and lovely picnic spots.
Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad: Take a scenic train ride through the beautiful Des Moines River Valley. The railroad offers themed excursions and special events throughout the year.
Iowa Great Lakes: Visit the Iowa Great Lakes region, including Okoboji and Spirit Lake, for water sports, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.
Dubuque: Explore the historic town of Dubuque on the banks of the Mississippi River. Visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator.
Indianola Balloon Classic: If you visit in late July, don't miss the Indianola Balloon Classic, where you can witness colorful hot air balloons filling the sky.
Snake Alley: Located in Burlington, Snake Alley is known as the "crookedest street in the world." It's a unique and picturesque spot for a stroll.
Explore the Loess Hills: The Loess Hills in western Iowa are a unique land formation with scenic byways and hiking trails. It's an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts.
Iowa's Covered Bridges: Visit the famous covered bridges of Madison County, made famous by the novel and film "The Bridges of Madison County."
Waterloo: Learn about Iowa's industrial history at the Grout Museum District in Waterloo, which includes a science center, history museum, and a planetarium.
Mines of Spain Recreation Area: Discover the natural beauty of this park near Dubuque, where you can hike, birdwatch, and explore Julien Dubuque's gravesite.
Iowa Wine Country: Explore Iowa's growing wine country, with vineyards and wineries offering tastings and scenic views.
Boating on the Mississippi River: Rent a boat or join a river cruise for a unique perspective of the Mississippi River, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Prairie Meadows Casino: If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the slot machines and table games at Prairie Meadows Casino in Altoona.
Cedar Rapids: Visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Brucemore Mansion, and the National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library in this vibrant city.
Visit Iowa, USA
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.