Things To Do in Iowa
Have you ever heard the term “flyover state”? If so, you probably know that the list of states that fall in this category includes many in the Midwest, Great Plains, mountain region, and the South. The reason these states are referred to as flyover country is because the assumption is that everyone flies over them to get to more interesting locations along the coasts of the United States.
What it really means is that people are missing out on plenty of beautiful states by assuming that they are not worth visiting. Iowa is one of these states. While it may not jump off the page as a top tourist destination in this country, that is probably because people do not know about all the things to do in Iowa. Also known as the Hawkeye State, Iowa is a beautiful state in the Midwest filled with attractions that can entertain travelers of all kinds.
Why Visit Iowa?
There are endless reasons to visit the Hawkeye State. With plenty of state parks, beautiful landscapes, thriving cities, culture, history, and examples of artistic expression, this hidden gem of the Midwest is worth a visit no matter what type of traveler you are. Road trippers that are driving through several states can find plenty of roadside attractions to make their drive through Iowa memorable.
International tourists can get a taste of American culture in the city of Des Moines. Nature lovers can admire the sweeping prairies and diverse wildlife that are spread throughout the state.
Why visit the state of Iowa? A better question is…why not? There is so much to do in this state that you can easily fill out a travel itinerary and still barely make a dent in the long list of Iowa attractions.
A Guide to Iowa
Before you plan your trip to Iowa, it might be helpful to know about some of the best attractions that the state has to offer. Even if you have lived here your entire life, it is likely that you have not explored everything that there is to do. Treat this article like your roadmap for planning a trip, helping you hit all the best Iowa attractions that will suit your personal tastes for travel.
The Parks
Iowa is home to a long list of state parks, which feature various attractions like unique landscapes, nature preserves, lakes, and forests. No matter where your trip takes you, there is likely a park or two within a short drive. Let’s take a look at some notable entries on the state park register and other public recreation spots.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
A great mix of fascinating views and unique land features, Maquoketa Caves State Park is a great spot to visit in eastern Iowa. Six miles of hiking trails, a natural bridge standing 50 feet above Raccoon Creek, and the 17-ton Balanced Rock are just a few of the features outside of the caves themselves that make this park a memorable visit. You can also explore the 1,100-foot Dancehall Cave along with twelve others, either by walking or spelunking, at Maquoketa Caves State Park.
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
This unique park in downtown Des Moines is a must-see for your trip if you are passing through or staying in the city. Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork from dozens of the world’s most well-known sculptors. The gorgeous landscaping efforts make for a peaceful day of walking among the sculptures and admiring human creativity, all in the heart of the city. Be sure to include Pappajohn Sculpture Park on your itinerary for your Des Moines trip.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
The first US president born west of the Mississippi River, Herbert Hoover is an important figure born in Iowa. You can visit the birthplace cottage of this former president on the property. His father’s blacksmith shop is also a cool spot in the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site.
Herbert Hoover Presidential Library
Another aspect of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. The museum features interactive exhibits where you can learn about the life of this man, a president who cared deeply about preserving lands on the national register. The Presidential Library is a highlight of the many attractions at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site.
First West Branch Schoolhouse
The West Branch Schoolhouse is another attraction located at this site on the national historic register. This one-room schoolhouse is a fun display of what the classroom environment looked like in the late 1800s. Of the many historic places throughout the state, the schoolhouse offers a unique perspective on life in the 19th century.
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
The western border of Iowa runs along a portion of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Along its length, there are many museums and visitor centers at which you can stop to learn more about these explorers, their encounters with Native Americans, and their journey across the country.
Adventureland Park
Altoona, IA is the home of Adventureland Park, a resort that features over 100 rides, shows, and attractions. If you need a place to bring the kids for some family fun, then this amusement park is the perfect place to include on your travel itinerary.
The Museums
A rich culture and history make Iowa a fascinating place to visit if you want to learn about the past and how it has impacted the present. The large number of museums across the state provides plenty of learning opportunities for you and your fellow travelers.
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
America is a country rich in waterways. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is a facility dedicated to teaching about these bodies of water and the life that is maintained by them. The National Mississippi River Museum houses a cafe, boatyard, cinema, and many exhibits telling the story of the country’s waterways and teaching about the preservation of these natural features and the wildlife they support.
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Iowa is the state with the fourth largest Czech American population. As a result, this culture has become an important part of the state’s history. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library hopes to inspire people from every background to appreciate the history and culture of this population. Events throughout the year, artifacts, genealogical records, and both temporary and permanent exhibits make the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library a great place to stop during your travels.
Figge Art Museum
The Figge Art Museum is a major art museum in Davenport, IA in the eastern portion of the state. Its encyclopedic collection explores past, present, and future art with plenty of interactive activities and exhibits to admire.
Brunnier Art Museum
The only accredited museum that includes a decorative art collection in Iowa, the Brunnier Art Museum is located on the campus of Iowa State University in the city of Ames. It is a museum dedicated to displaying many fine objects since its opening in 1975.
Buffalo Bill Museum
Does your trip take you near LeClaire on the border between Iowa and Illinois? The Buffalo Bill Museum features the Lone Star, a wooden steam-powered towboat. Plus, you can learn about what life was like along the Mississippi River throughout American history. You can also discover more about the local Native American populations, the famous western figure William Cody, and the life of settlers.
John Wayne Birthplace Museum
The city of Winterset contains the John Wayne Birthplace Museum. This famous actor who had a deep respect for the United States Armed Forces that he often portrayed on screen is celebrated at this museum. Many John Wayne artifacts can be observed at this facility, as well as guided tours that will teach you about the life of John Wayne.
Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Located on the border between Iowa and Nebraska along the Missouri River in Sioux City, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a cultural complex that demonstrates how people from various backgrounds can come together to support Iowa’s natural resources and cultural history.
Seven Villages
Though the Seven Villages are not a museum, they tell an interesting chapter of Iowa history. When German Christians wanted to flee persecution in their home country, they eventually arrived in Iowa in the mid-19th century. Six villages were initially established in close proximity to each other to form a communal society. Eventually, a seventh village was built to grant the commune access to the railroad.
Unique Art/Architecture Attractions
From sculptures to modern art to the performing arts, creative expression is an important aspect of the Hawkeye State. there are a few memorable sites to visit that can demonstrate the creativity of the human spirit.
Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center was established in 1948 in the capital city. The facility is dedicated to modern and contemporary art with paintings, sculptures, and other mixed media. Des Moines Art Center sits right next to Greenwood-Ashworth Park in the heart of the city. If you love contemporary art, then the Des Moines Art Center should be at the top of your priority list.
Elwood, the World’s Largest Concrete Gnome
Iowa State University is the home of Reiman Gardens, which features a 15-foot-tall concrete gnome. That’s right, Elwood is the world’s largest gnome made out of concrete and certainly falls under the category of unique things to do in Iowa.
Covered Bridges of Madison County
Madison County is known as the covered bridge capital of Iowa. There are six separate covered bridges throughout Madison County, including the Cedar Covered Bridge, the Cutler-Donahoe Bridge, the Hogback Covered Bridge, and the Imes Bridge. If you want to experience multiple covered bridges in a short period, then Madison County is the place to go.
Lover’s Leap Bridge
This unique spot in Columbus Junction, IA is a swinging bridge known as Lover’s Leap Bridge. So-named because of the various stories surrounding the ravine of romantic tragedies and hauntings, this bridge sits above an eight-story height, so it is not for the faint of heart.
Grant Wood
The famous artist named Grant Wood was born and died in Iowa. As a result, the state has honored him with several galleries and locations to celebrate this renowned artist. There is an art gallery in Animosa, a studio and visitor center in Cedar Rapids, and several trails that you can walk that include his name. Wood is most known for his iconic painting “American Gothic.”
Iowa Cities That Offer Many Attractions
While you may not think of Iowa as a very populated state, there are still plenty of cities and towns that are worth a visit. Each of them offers something unique for travelers, so deciding which metropolises to visit depends on your preferences for things to do in Iowa.
Des Moines
Both the largest city in the state and its capital, Des Moines should be near the top of your itinerary for attractions, simply because of the sheer number of them. Some already mentioned above like the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Adventureland Park can be found here, but there is plenty more to do in Des Moines, which sits in the Des Moines River valley.
Blank Park Zoo
Love to admire animals? The Blank Park Zoo, which is the only accredited zoo in the state, is home to over 800 animals. The 49-acre facility includes lions, tigers, hogs, tortoises, giraffes, penguins, red pandas, and even rhinos. The zoo is great for a day with the kids, but you don’t have to be young to enjoy admiring these majestic and unique creatures.
Des Moines Farmers Market
Located in the historic court district of the city, the Des Moines Farmers Market is a great experience on Saturdays from May to October. Shop for fresh produce, meats, and other food items while supporting local farmers and food artisans that call Iowa home. This experience is often called one of the top farmers markets in the country.
Wells Fargo Arena
Looking for some live entertainment options in the capital of Iowa? Look no further than Wells Fargo Arena. Take in a live concert from some of your favorite musical artists, watch a unique WWE event, or cheer on the local indoor football team called the Iowa Barnstormers. Sit back, relax, and enjoy whatever show you choose, (or, stand up and cheer your heart out).
Iowa Supreme Court
Do you love all things government- or law-related? Then you can’t do much better than the highest court in the state. The Iowa Supreme Court conducts its business in the courthouse in Des Moines, an architectural beauty not far from the Iowa State Capitol. The Iowa State Capitol is also worth a visit to marvel at this unique national historic landmark.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
If you are a fan of greenery and the preservation of plant species, then a visit to this botanical garden in the capital is a necessity. Gorgeous outdoor gardens and a geodesic dome are the highlights of the botanical garden, and they can make for a truly relaxing morning or afternoon attraction.
Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest in the nation and is often considered the top attraction in the state. The Iowa State fairgrounds are right in the city of Des Moines, ensuring that a large number of people can easily get there every year. Over one million people head to the Iowa State Fair each year to get a taste of Iowa fun, from good eats to the massive 600-pound Butter Cow. The Iowa State Fair is a significant part of Iowa’s history, having been around since 1854. The current Iowa State fairgrounds have been in use since 1886.
Cedar Rapids
The next largest city on our list of places to visit is Cedar Rapids. Though smaller than the capital, it is still home to over 130,000 Iowans, plus a long list of attractions. As mentioned previously, there is the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, as well as the Grant Wood visitor center.
You can also find the NewBo City Market, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, and the Brucemore, a historical Iowa house that is a Queen Anne-style mansion. Don’t forget to check out The District, home of the Czech Village and New Bohemia before you leave the city. Lastly, if you are looking for some live events like concerts, there are many performances hosted at the Alliant Energy Powerhouse that you can check out.
Dubuque
Before Iowa even became a state, the city of Dubuque was founded. Here you will find the museum dedicated to the waterways of America, especially the Mississippi River, at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens should hold a spot on your itinerary as well if you love diverse plant species and preservation.
If you love to ski and are visiting in the winter, the Sundown Mountain Resort is hard to beat. Eagle Point Park is situated on a bluff that overlooks the waters of the Mississippi, so you can enjoy an easy walk around the park with amazing views and a great spot for a picnic.
Council Bluffs
Seated on the east bank of the Missouri River, right across from Omaha, NE, is the city of Council Bluffs. There is much to do in this smaller metropolis, whether you are a fan of history, art, good food, or family adventures. Learn about the history of locomotives at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Stop at Bayliss Park in the heart of the city to admire some gardens, fountains, and light shows at night. Escape from the Cryptic Room with your family before time runs out. There are also multiple casinos you can head to for some gaming opportunities.
West Bend
West Bend is a tiny town in northern Iowa that may be home to one of the most fascinating things to do in Iowa. The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is the largest manmade grotto in the world, depicting various scenes from the life of Christ. The architecture, caverns, and portraits displayed in the stone are truly a marvel to behold. West Bend also features other notable attractions, such as the Wagon Wheel Cafe and Double L Saloon, the West Bend Historical Society, and the bleueRenovation gift shop.
Winterset
A small town of just over 5,000 people may not appear to have much to offer travelers. However, it is the home of several attractions, including the aforementioned Jphn Wayne Birthplace Museum. Other places of note include the numerous covered bridges surrounding the area in Madison County, Clark Tower, the Iowa Theater, the Winterset Stage, and the Covered Bridges Winery.
West Branch
West Branch is a small town not far from Iowa City where the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site resides. But you don’t have to love the 31st president of the United States to enjoy a visit to this tiny town. The Old Capitol Museum, for example, is an interesting spot to learn about the former capital of the state and one of the most recognizable buildings in Iowa history.
The Iowa Children’s Museum is a perfect attraction to bring your kids to for mind-engaging activities and exhibits. Good food and drink can be found in several locations, including the Brick Arch Winery, Main Street Sweets, Oasis Falafel, and Herb and Lou’s Pizza.
Keokuk
Fans of geology could find the precious stones of Keokuk to be worth a trip to this small town in southeastern Iowa right on the border between three states. Keokuk geodes became known as the official rocks of Iowa, and these precious stones are numerous in the area around the town of Keokuk. You can also get some great views of the Mississippi River from the Bridge Observation Deck in Victory Park to add one of the largest rivers in the country to your sightseeing list.
Walcott
Here is another unique spot for fans of trucks or the trucking industry in general. The world’s largest truck stop is located near Walcott, IA. Right next door is the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, where you can look at antique trucks and learn about the history of this vital industry.
Every year, the Walcott Truckers Jamboree in July features many events celebrating trucks and truckers both young and old. If this kind of thing suits your fancy, then a visit to Walcott in July will certainly provide the thrills you are looking for.
Your Next Trip Should Include Iowa
Maybe you are looking for a fun family vacation in a state that you have never visited before. Perhaps you are a professional on a business trip to Des Moines and are looking for some things to do in Iowa when you aren’t in meetings or conferences. You might even be a resident of the state but you have never driven more than an hour to explore other areas of your home region.
No matter what type of traveler you are, Iowa offers some truly memorable experiences that can last a lifetime and make your stay in this state full of joy and excitement.
You can explore the natural underground network of caves at the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Jackson County. If you are anywhere near the capital in the month of August, then you can’t miss out on the incredible Iowa State Fair at the Iowa State Fairgrounds just outside of downtown Des Moines.
Do you have Czech or Slovak background in your family? You may have a connection to the population in Iowa, so visit the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids.
Want to take in a play or musical without dealing with massive crowds? Head to the Iowa Theater in the small town of Winterset for a live performance in a smaller setting. Learn about the 31st president of the United States at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site where you can visit the blacksmith shop run by his father.
From the massive Iowa State Fair to the hiking trails of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Trail to Main Street Sweets in West Branch, it is not hard to find some attractions that will leave you with positive memories of the Hawkeye State.
Start planning your next trip to Iowa today, whether it is a cross-country road trip, a long weekend, a business trip, or just a day-long stop in the capital. Hopefully, this article can act as a guide for your journey through this state. While many may think of all the corn growing here, or the fact that it is