Map Of Northern Iowa

Introduction

Welcome to Northern Iowa, a region filled with natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or off-the-beaten-path experiences, Northern Iowa has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, historical landmarks, and more. So pack your bags and get ready to explore Northern Iowa like never before.

Top Attractions

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Effigy Mounds National Monument is a must-visit attraction in Northern Iowa. Located in Allamakee and Clayton counties, this monument preserves prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans. Visitors can take a hike and explore the mounds, which are in the shape of animals like bears and birds.

Field of Dreams

If you’re a fan of the movie “Field of Dreams,” then you’ll love visiting the actual field where it was filmed. Located in Dyersville, Iowa, this site attracts thousands of visitors every year. You can even bring your own baseball and play a game on the field.

Mason City

Mason City is a charming town in Northern Iowa known for its architecture and music scene. Visit the historic Park Inn Hotel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and take a stroll through Music Man Square, a museum dedicated to the famous musical. Don’t miss the North Iowa Band Festival, held every Memorial Day weekend.

Hidden Gems

The Bridges of Madison County

The Bridges of Madison County are a hidden gem in Northern Iowa. Made famous by the novel and movie of the same name, these covered bridges are a beautiful sight to see. Take a drive through the countryside and stop at each bridge for a photo op.

Maquoketa Caves State Park

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Maquoketa Caves State Park. This park features a series of caves and limestone formations that you can explore. Make sure to bring a flashlight, as some of the caves are dark and require extra lighting.

The Grotto of the Redemption

The Grotto of the Redemption is a unique attraction in West Bend, Iowa. This shrine is made up of nine separate grottos, each featuring a different scene from the Bible. The grotto is made entirely out of precious and semi-precious stones, fossils, and petrified wood.

Food Scene

Pizza Ranch

Pizza Ranch is a Northern Iowa institution. This chain restaurant serves up delicious pizza, chicken, and salads in a family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss the famous Cactus Bread, a dessert pizza topped with cinnamon streusel and cream cheese frosting.

Maid-Rite

Maid-Rite is another Northern Iowa staple. This fast food chain specializes in loose meat sandwiches, which are similar to sloppy joes. Try the classic Maid-Rite sandwich or the Cheese-Rite, which is topped with melted cheese.

Hansen’s Dairy

Hansen’s Dairy is a family-owned dairy farm in Hudson, Iowa. They sell their own milk, cheese, and ice cream in their farm store. Take a tour of the farm and learn about the milking process, or enjoy a scoop of ice cream on the front porch.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many museums in Northern Iowa offer free admission. Check out the Cedar Falls Historical Society Museum, the Grout Museum of History and Science, and the Waterloo Center for the Arts for a fun and educational day out.

State Parks

State parks in Northern Iowa are a great way to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. Some parks, like Backbone State Park and Lake Macbride State Park, have beaches and boat rentals for a small fee. Others, like Pine Lake State Park and Rock Creek State Park, offer hiking and camping opportunities.

Festivals

Attending festivals is a great way to experience Northern Iowa’s culture without spending a lot of money. Check out the North Iowa Band Festival, the Cedar Valley Irish Festival, and the Iowa State Fair for fun and affordable events.

Outdoor Adventures

Biking Trails

Northern Iowa has many biking trails that offer scenic views and a great workout. The Cedar Valley Nature Trail, the Trout Run Trail, and the High Trestle Trail are all popular options.

Fishing

Northern Iowa has many lakes and rivers that are perfect for fishing. Clear Lake, the Cedar River, and the Iowa Great Lakes are all great spots to cast a line.

Camping

Camping is a popular activity in Northern Iowa. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are plenty of options. Backbone State Park, Maquoketa Caves State Park, and Dolliver Memorial State Park are all great choices.

Historical Landmarks

The Surf Ballroom

The Surf Ballroom is a historic music venue in Clear Lake, Iowa. This ballroom is known for its role in music history, as it was the site of Buddy Holly’s final concert before his death in a plane crash. The ballroom still hosts concerts and events today.

The Grout Museum of History and Science

The Grout Museum of History and Science in Waterloo, Iowa, is a great place to learn about the region’s history. The museum features exhibits on everything from Native American culture to World War II.

The Amana Colonies

The Amana Colonies are a group of seven villages in Eastern Iowa that were founded by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Today, the colonies are known for their historic architecture, delicious food, and artisanal crafts.

Family-Friendly Activities

The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa, is a great place to take the kids. The museum features exhibits on the river’s history and ecology, while the aquarium showcases local fish and marine life.

The Science Center of Iowa

The Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines is a fun and educational destination for families. The center features hands-on exhibits on everything from physics to biology.

The Iowa Children’s Museum

The Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville, Iowa, is a great place for kids to play and learn. The museum features exhibits on art, science, and technology, as well as a playground and climbing wall.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Hobo Museum

The Hobo Museum in Britt, Iowa, is a quirky destination that’s worth a visit. The museum showcases artifacts and memorabilia from the hobo culture, including bindles, hobo codes, and train graffiti.

The American Gothic House

The American Gothic House in Eldon, Iowa, is the site of the famous painting by Grant Wood. Visitors can tour the house and see the inspiration for Wood’s iconic painting.

The Matchstick Marvels Museum

The Matchstick Marvels Museum in Gladbrook, Iowa, is a unique attraction that features sculptures made entirely out of matchsticks. The museum’s owner, Patrick Acton, has built replicas of everything from the Empire State Building to the Hogwarts Castle.

Natural Wonders

The Loess Hills

The Loess Hills are a unique geological formation that runs along the western edge of Iowa. These hills are made up of wind-blown soil and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Iowa Great Lakes

The Iowa Great Lakes are a chain of lakes in Northwest Iowa that offer plenty of recreational opportunities. Visitors can swim, boat, fish, and camp in the area.

The Decorah Bald Eagles

The Decorah Bald Eagles are a famous family of eagles that live in Decorah, Iowa. Visitors can watch the eagles on a live webcam or take a guided tour of their nesting site.

Vibrant Nightlife

The District

The District in Cedar Falls is a popular destination for nightlife. This area features bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines is a hub of nightlife activity. Visitors can enjoy craft cocktails at The Continental Lounge or catch a show at the Hoyt Sherman Place theater.

The Iowa City Pedestrian Mall

The Iowa City Pedestrian Mall is a lively area filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can enjoy live music and street performers while they explore the area.