Iowa On A Us Map

Reference Maps of Iowa, USA Nations Online Project

Discovering the Heart of America

Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a US travel itinerary, but it is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Iowa is a land of rolling hills, fertile farmlands, quaint towns, and bustling cities, where history, art, music, and nature converge to create unforgettable experiences.

Top Attractions

Iowa has a wealth of attractions that cater to all interests and ages. Some of the must-see places include:

The Field of Dreams movie site, where you can relive the magic of the iconic 1989 movie and play catch on the famous field.
The Iowa State Fair, a 10-day extravaganza of food, music, competitions, and entertainment that draws over a million visitors every year.
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, which honors the life and legacy of the 31st US president and showcases his birthplace, childhood home, and library.
The Amana Colonies, a group of seven German villages that have preserved their 19th-century heritage and offer tours, festivals, and artisanal products.
The Iowa Great Lakes, a chain of glacial lakes that provide boating, fishing, swimming, and camping opportunities, as well as scenic drives and hikes.

Hidden Gems

Iowa also has many hidden gems that are worth exploring, such as:

The Effigy Mounds National Monument, a sacred Native American site that features over 200 prehistoric mounds shaped like animals and birds.
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a 4.4-acre urban oasis in downtown Des Moines that showcases over 30 contemporary sculptures by world-renowned artists.
The Grotto of the Redemption, a mesmerizing complex of nine grottos and 15 stations of the cross that depict the life of Jesus and are made of millions of precious stones and minerals.
The Loess Hills Scenic Byway, a 220-mile route that winds through the unique landscape of the Loess Hills, a rare formation of wind-blown soil that supports diverse flora and fauna.
The Villages of Van Buren, a collection of 12 charming towns that offer antique shops, art galleries, bed and breakfasts, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Food Scene

Iowa is a foodie paradise that celebrates its agricultural bounty and ethnic diversity with creative and delicious cuisine. Some of the local specialties include:

Pork tenderloin sandwich, a breaded and fried pork cutlet that is bigger than the bun and a staple of Iowa cafés and diners.
Sweet corn, a summer delicacy that is grilled, boiled, or roasted and served with butter and salt, or turned into salsa, chowder, or fritters.
Burgers, a beloved classic that is reinvented with innovative toppings and sauces, such as bacon jam, peanut butter, or jalapeño jelly.
Ice cream, a creamy and rich treat that is made with fresh dairy and comes in countless flavors, from cinnamon roll to sweet potato pie.
Beer, a thriving industry that produces over 100 craft breweries and offers a wide range of styles, from IPAs to stouts, pilsners, and sours.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Iowa is a budget-friendly destination that offers many free or low-cost things to do and see. Here are some tips to save money:

Visit state parks, which charge only a small entrance fee and offer hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife watching opportunities.
Attend festivals and fairs, which often have free admission and showcase local music, food, and culture.
Explore small towns, which have charming main streets, historic buildings, and friendly people, and offer affordable lodging and dining options.
Take advantage of happy hours, which offer discounted drinks and appetizers at bars and restaurants.
Use coupons and deals, which are available online and in tourist brochures, and offer discounts on attractions, hotels, and restaurants.

Outdoor Adventures

Iowa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, who can enjoy a variety of activities in all seasons. Some of the best options are:

Hiking, which can be done on over 500 miles of trails in state parks, national forests, and wildlife refuges, and offers scenic vistas, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters.
Biking, which can be done on over 1,600 miles of trails and routes, including the iconic RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa), which covers over 400 miles in a week and attracts thousands of riders from around the world.
Fishing, which can be done on over 6,000 lakes and ponds, as well as rivers and streams, and offers a chance to catch walleye, bass, catfish, and trout.
Kayaking and canoeing, which can be done on the many rivers and streams that crisscross the state, and offer a peaceful and scenic way to explore the countryside.
Winter sports, which can be done on the many ski resorts, snowmobile trails, and ice fishing lakes that offer a snowy wonderland of fun and adventure.

Historical Landmarks

Iowa has a rich history that is reflected in its many landmarks and monuments. Some of the most significant sites are:

The Iowa State Capitol, a majestic building that houses the governor’s office, the legislative chambers, and many works of art and history.
The John Wayne Birthplace and Museum, a tribute to the legendary actor who was born in Winterset and starred in over 170 movies.
The Bridges of Madison County, a romantic and nostalgic setting that inspired the best-selling novel and the movie adaptation, and features six covered bridges that date back to the 19th century.
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum, a fascinating museum that showcases the history and impact of the transcontinental railroad, which connected the east and west coasts and changed the nation forever.
The Iowa Women’s Heritage Trail, a trail that honors the achievements and contributions of Iowa women in fields such as education, politics, arts, and sports, and features markers, sculptures, and exhibits.

Family-Friendly Activities

Iowa is a great destination for families who want to bond, learn, and have fun together. Some of the top family-friendly activities are:

The Blank Park Zoo, a zoo that houses over 1,000 animals from around the world and offers interactive exhibits, shows, and events.
The Science Center of Iowa, a science museum that features hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and planetarium shows, and encourages curiosity and creativity.
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, a museum that showcases the ecology, culture, and history of the mighty river and its creatures, and offers boat rides, animal encounters, and films.
The Adventureland Park, an amusement park that offers over 100 rides, attractions, and shows, and caters to all ages and thrill levels.
The Iowa Children’s Museum, a museum that offers imaginative and interactive exhibits, workshops, and events, and fosters learning and play for children up to 12 years old.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Iowa has many off-the-beaten-path experiences that offer a glimpse into its unique culture and lifestyle. Some of the most unusual ones are:

The Hobo Convention, a gathering of hobos and tramps that takes place every August in Britt and features a parade, a king and queen contest, and a hobo stew.
The Grotto Fest, a celebration of the Grotto of the Redemption that takes place every June in West Bend and includes tours, music, food, and fireworks.
The Covered Bridge Festival, a festival that takes place every October in Winterset and celebrates the covered bridges of Madison County with tours, crafts, music, and food.
The Bily Clocks Museum, a museum that showcases over 30 hand-carved clocks made by two brothers from Spillville, who used local woods, minerals, and gems to create intricate and whimsical designs.
The Iowa State University Insect Zoo, a zoo that houses over 2,000 live insects and arachnids from around the world and offers educational programs, workshops, and outreach.

Natural Wonders

Iowa may not have towering mountains or vast oceans, but it has many natural wonders that are just as awe-inspiring. Some of the most beautiful ones are: