The state of Iowa, which is located in the centre of the Midwest, is a region that is rich in both agricultural and cultural resources. And from its wide-open landscapes studded with cornfields to its inviting cities filled with a Midwestern charm, Iowa offers a fresh breath of air combined with friendly communities. This is because Iowa is home to both.
In addition, there is a wealth of new experiences to be had all around the state. River museums, movie sites, and the Bridges of Madison County are just a few examples of Madison County's cultural treasures that are well worth the trip. In addition, the state of Iowa is home to a number of historic German colonies as well as an expansive cave system.
Even though there is a large list of cities to visit in Iowa, the majority of tourists head to Des Moines, which is the capital of the state and is located in the geographic centre of the state. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to this area by the gleaming gold dome above the State Capitol building, which serves as a beacon. In addition, Des Moines is an excellent departure point for excursions lasting a single day or spanning multiple days throughout the remainder of the state.
1. The National Museum and Aquarium of the Mississippi River 2.
On the very eastern border of the state is where you'll find the National Mississippi River Museum, which is run by the Dubuque Historical Society. The historic and geological significance of the surrounding Mississippi River, as well as the significance of all national rivers in defining the country, is commemorated at the aquarium through its various collections, exhibits, and live animals.
The Mississippi River serves as Iowa's eastern state border and has a significant role in the economies of the municipalities that are located in its immediate vicinity. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium highlights the significant impact that this river and its watershed have on both the natural world and the lives of the people who live in it.
The museum has both permanent exhibits, such as the Mississippi River Discovery Centre and an immersive 4D Theatre, as well as regularly shifting exhibitions that are sure to pique the interest of both adults and children of all ages.
The museum and aquarium are also home to a number of live animals that are representative of the fauna that can be found on and around river banks. Some examples of these animals include sturgeon, otters, and alligators. A stringray touch pool, a blacksmith shop, and the historically significant Logsdon Sand & Gravel Barge are some of the additional exhibits that can be found in the museum.
The historic Hotel Julien Dubuque is located only a few blocks away from the museum, making it a convenient choice for overnight accommodations in Dubuque. In addition, the city is home to some of the finest resorts in the state of Iowa, including the Grand Harbour Resort and Waterpark.
2. State Capitol
On Grand Avenue, atop a hill, is where you'll find the Iowa State Capitol. From here, you'll have spectacular views of downtown Des Moines. It is the location of the Iowa Supreme Court, the Iowa House of Representatives, and many of the offices of the state's most important elected officials, including the governor's office. However, it is not merely a golden-domed icon of the city; rather, it is a gateway into the history of the state of Iowa.
In addition to serving as the hub for most of Iowa's governmental operations, the State Capitol in Des Moines is also a stunning example of the state's history of architectural and artistic achievement. In addition to that, it has a large number of historical artefacts other interesting Iowa exhibits that you can investigate on your own as part of a self-guided tour.
3. The State Fair of Iowa
Over one million people come from all over the Midwest and beyond to attend the Iowa State Fair each year, which takes place over the course of ten days in the first half of August each year. This enormous agricultural expo and community festival takes place every year in Iowa and is widely considered to be the best state fair in the country.
The Iowa State Fairgrounds are home to a seemingly endless number of exciting attractions. Spend some time checking out the world-famous Butter Cow as well as other locally sourced attractions, such as barnyard yoga and the numerous possibilities to view other types of cattle. A Sky Glider, live music events, and agricultural demonstrations are all among the notable features at the fair.
The Iowa State Fair is also known for its culinary offerings and experiences. At the fair, the delicacies often consist of high-calorie selections such as beef slices the size of a dinner plate as well as many deep-fried concoctions that are impaled on a stick. On the other hand, those calories are put to good use because of all the walking that must be done in a single day.
4. The National Museum and Library of the Czech and Slovak Republics
In Cedar Rapids, there is a sizable institution known as the National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library. Its mission is to educate visitors about the history and culture of Czech and Slovak people. In addition to this, it makes an effort to educate the general people about the history of our society and how it got us to the place where we are now in terms of our liberties.
These objectives are met by the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library thanks to the exhibits that are permanently on display, the educational travelling exhibitions, and the abundance of special activities that are geared towards the entire family.
The African American Museum of Iowa is located on the other side of the 12th Avenue bridge and provides additional opportunities for cultural exploration.
A day excursion can be made out of a visit to the downtown area of Cedar Rapids, which is located less than a mile to the north of the hotel and features attractions such as the Paramount Theatre.
5.Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa is a great place to visit if you want to experience a natural aspect of the state that is unlike any other. This well-known state park is home to a plethora of above-ground hiking paths that lead visitors through wooded areas, cliffs, and to an intriguing geological formation known as Balanced Rock. However, exploring the caves in this park in Eastern Iowa is the primary reason to go there.
The Dancehall Cave is a well-lit cave with high ceilings and a walkway, making it ideal for people who become anxious in enclosed spaces. Maquoketa Caves State Park also provides access to more than a dozen other caves, each of which calls for the use of a torch and, most likely, a change of clothes in order to explore. This is an option for visitors who don't mind being confined in tight places. There is a huge campground in the park that is suitable for RVs as well as tents.
6. The Iowa City Campus of the University of Iowa
The University of Iowa, which was established in 1847, serves as the cultural fulcrum of Iowa City, which was the first capital city of the state. The expansive campus that stretches along both banks of the Iowa River has multiple entry points to local points of interest. Among the most exciting are the sporting competitions that take place at venues such as the Carvery Hawkeye Arena and the Nile Kinnick Stadium.
In addition, the University of Iowa is home to the illustrious Writers' Workshop, which is often considered to be the most prestigious writers' workshop in the United States. This acclaimed institution contributes to Iowa City's efforts to acquire a status as a UNESCO City of Literature and imparts a particular literary flavour to the city's streets.
7. Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies in Eastern Iowa are comprised of seven different communities that transport visitors to another time and place, far apart from the modern world. The beginning of the Amana Colonies may be traced back to the middle of the 19th century, when German Pietists established their first settlement in this remote area of Iowa. Their communal way of life was uninterrupted by any outside interference for a good number of years.
The Amana Colonies are now recognised as a National Historical Landmark, and the surrounding town welcomes visitors to experience life at a more relaxed pace during their time there. The Amana Colonies can be enjoyed in a number of ways, such as by going on tours of their historical buildings, going shopping or out to eat at one of the local businesses, or going on walks or bike rides through the beautiful scenery that surrounds the settlements.
Visitors come from all across the state to participate in the annual celebrations held at the Amana Colonies. It's a lot of fun to learn about German customs in Amana Colonies, whether you go for the Wurstfest, which celebrates making sausages, or the Maifest, which takes place in the spring.
Spending at least one or two nights in the neighbourhood is highly recommended if you want to get the most out of your time exploring the Amana Colonies.
8. RAGBRAI
RAGBRAI is a week-long bicycle race that travels across the entirety of Iowa. It is considered by many to be one of the most iconic things to do in Iowa. The route goes from east to west and highlights the culture of the Midwest, which is characterised by kind and welcoming people, quaint villages, and vast open spaces.
This summer's The Register's Annual Bike Race Across Iowa has been held for almost to half a century, and this event continues to draw tens of thousands of cyclists, support vehicle drivers, and those who are interested in racing on a yearly basis.
RAGBRAI riders aren't motivated by a desire to compete against one another when they ride across the state. Instead, the voyage itself and the community celebrations that take place along the entire route are the primary focal points of the event. Roadside entertainment, such as live music and freshly sliced watermelon, is becoming increasingly popular in small communities. Dressing up in costumes and riding bicycles with unique modifications are also important parts of the event.
The route is altered each, and the cities and small villages that are chosen as overnight stops are transformed into enormous block parties. The RAGBRAI route and experience as a whole are enjoyable for the entire family, and those with younger children (as well as adults) may choose to ride a shorter distance than the daily average of 60 miles that is covered by the route.
9. "The Bridges of Madison County" by Daniel James Brown
A picturesque journey may be had at the Bridges of Madison County in Winterset, which is located roughly 30 kilometres to the southwest of Des Moines. These stunning bridges have been the subject of innumerable images, as well as numerous trips and even a best-selling book that may soon be adapted into a movie.
Pella Tulip Time is an annual festival that's been held in the central Iowa town for more than eight decades.
— Iowa PBS (@IowaPBS) May 3, 2023
Residents enjoy sharing these traditions with visitors, welcoming everyone to become "Dutch for the Day." https://t.co/X6HqP6yNfy @PellaHistorical pic.twitter.com/hqCCkxdV5z
People who lived in this region throughout the latter half of the 19th century likely didn't give much thought to the bridges until The Bridges of Madison County became a massive box office success. There are still six covered bridges in existence today, out of the original 19, and five of them are listed on the National Historic Register.
The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway is a wonderful way to see the bridges, as well as the breathtaking natural environment, and it extends for more than 82 miles. Travel on a dirt road is necessary to access three of the bridges.
The Madison County Chamber of Commerce hosts both group and individual tours of the covered bridges (please note that reservations are required for these trips). The Madison County Covered Bridge Festival takes place every year in October, and it serves as the culmination of an unforgettable cultural event.
Even if there were none of the county's picturesque covered bridges, the city of Winterset and Madison County would be well worth a visit. It will be well worth your time to pay a visit to Winterset's Historic Town Square after you have spent the morning or afternoon exploring and taking pictures of the covered bridges.
The birthplace of John Wayne is located in Winterset, and there is a museum dedicated to The Duke, who is widely considered to be the most famous cowboy in American history.
10. Des Moines Art Centre
Since its founding in 1948, the Des Moines Art Centre has served as a gathering place for people from the surrounding community as well as tourists. Paintings, sculptures, and photographs are displayed sporadically throughout the space. In addition, the museum features permanent collections that range from the work of Georgia O'Keefe to those of Edward Hopper, as well as mixed-media shows. The Des Moines Art Centre does not charge any fees for admission.
In addition, the Des Moines Art Centre is in charge of an impressive collection of sculptures that may be found in the middle of downtown. It is very impossible to miss the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park located in the heart of the city. This well-maintained sculpture park is located between Grand and Locust streets, close to the Des Moines Public Library, and comprises rotating pieces as well as a few permanent installations that have come to symbolise the city.
11. National Historic Site of Herbert Hoover
Herbert Hoover, who served as the 31st President of the United States, is the only president who was originally from the state of Iowa. In the little community of West Branch, where he was born, there is now a National Historic Site that honours his life and the significant role he played in the development of both the United States and the world.
It is important to take the time during a trip to West Branch to learn about Herbert Hoover's early life and to see the area where he was born. Additionally, it is important to see the various landscapes and buildings that have been preserved since they contributed to the development of the future president.
The tombs of former President Herbert Hoover and former First Lady Lou Henry Hoover are located in this park as well. The Presidential Library and Museum at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site will take up the most of your time during your visit to the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. This is despite the fact that it is amazing to witness these structures appear to be frozen in time. This outstanding collection has been carefully managed, and it comprises both temporary and permanent displays. The permanent exhibit focuses on Hoover's life and legacy.
12. The American Gothic House in Full Bloom
Grant Wood, who was born and raised in Iowa, is often regarded as one of the 20th century's most important painters in terms of cultural impact. A substantial portion of his most important works draw influence from his upbringing in the Midwest.
Nearly every art aficionado in the United States and the rest of the world is familiar with the work of Grant Wood known as American Gothic. This painting is particularly noteworthy since it represents a farmer and his wife outside their one-story white home.
This beautiful home, which can be seen in the background of this work of art, is actually accessible to the public and may be seen in person. When guests come to the house, they frequently pose for photos in front of it looking like the farmer or the farmer's wife.
The neighbouring American Gothic House Centre provides information on the life of Grant Wood as well as the background of the house that was the subject of one of his most renowned paintings.
13. The Movie Website for "Field of Dreams"
In 1989, this location was used to film Field of Dreams, which starred Kevin Costner. When you go to the Movie Site in Dyersville, you can find yourself wondering, "Is this heaven?" while you're there. Fans of the movie will find the Field of Dreams Movie Site to be an enjoyable destination, even if they ignore the fact that they are in Iowa and the movie quotes that are posted there. The location offers a variety of interactive exhibitions, numerous options for taking photographs, and a beautiful background.
The Ghost Sunday Show is an additional event that takes place at the Field of Dreams on certain Sundays throughout the year. At these movie reenactment events, baseball players from the past dressed in period costumes emerge from the cornstalks to put on a show that is enjoyable for the whole family.
Field of Dreams is located just 30 minutes outside of Dubuque, where other sites such as the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium beckon for more experiences. A visit to Field of Dreams may easily fill up an entire weekend.
14.Grotto of the Redemption
Grotto of the Redemption is an absolutely one-of-a-kind destination that may be found near West Bend, Iowa. It is also known as the West Bend Grotto, and it is made up of nine different grottos that were all created by a local priest with the assistance of a few other people. Each grotto was constructed using beautiful stones and diamonds.
The West Bend Grotto is an excellent example of what one man with a mission can accomplish throughout his lifetime. This is true regardless of the denomination or religion to which you adhere.
Every single day of the year, visitors are welcome to explore the grotto.