Iowa is often overlooked as a travel destination, but this Midwestern state is definitely worth exploring. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here are the 7 best things to do in Iowa.
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The Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies, located in eastern Iowa, are a group of seven historic villages founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. The colonies were established as communal societies where residents shared resources and worked together to support their communities. Today, the colonies are a popular tourist destination, known for their unique architecture, traditional crafts, and delicious cuisine.
Explore the historic homes and businesses of the early settlers, many of which are preserved as museums and shops. Be sure to check out the variety of restaurants, bakeries, and breweries to sample traditional Amana cuisine and locally brewed beer. One of the highlights of the Amana Colonies is the annual Oktoberfest celebration. This celebration takes place each fall and features live music, food and drink vendors, and traditional German dancing and festivities.
There are several great places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
The Bridges of Madison County
The Bridges of Madison County, located in central Iowa, are a series of covered bridges. The bridges were originally built in the 19th century to allow travelers to cross the rivers and streams crisscrossing the countryside. Today, thanks to the famous novel and film of the same name, they are popular tourist attractions.
Take a self-guided tour of the covered bridges scattered throughout the picturesque countryside. Each bridge has its own unique history and character, and many are restored to their original condition. In addition to the covered bridges, the area is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions that celebrate the region’s history and culture.
Along the way, John Wayne fans should take time to check out the John Wayne Birthplace Museum located in Winterset, Iowa. John Wayne was born in Winterset in 1907, and the museum is located in the house where he was born.
There are several great places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Cedar Valley Nature Trail
The Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a 52-mile-long multi-use trail that runs through some of Iowa’s most scenic and historic areas. The trail starts in Evansdale and winds its way through Cedar Falls, Waterloo, and many other smaller towns and communities. It follows the path of an old railway line, offering you a flat and easy route through the beautiful countryside.
Along the way, you will pass through forests, wetlands, and prairies, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The trail also passes by several historic sites, including the remains of old railroad bridges and tunnels. One of the highlights of the Cedar Valley Nature Trail is the Black Hawk County Conservation Board’s Hartman Reserve Nature Center. The trail also connects to several other trails in the area, including the Prairie Lakes Trail and the Waterloo Riverfront Trail.
There are several great places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is dedicated to preserving and restoring the native tall grass prairie ecosystem of the Midwest. Located near Prairie City, the refuge is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including bison, elk, prairie chickens, and many species of birds.
Enjoy hiking, bird watching, and wildlife photography on the many trails and observation areas throughout the refuge. Don’t miss the Bison and Elk Prairie, where you can view herds of bison and elk roaming free in their natural habitat. Take a guided tour, participate in an educational program, or simply tour the exhibits in the visitor center to learn about the history and ecology of the tall grass prairie ecosystem.
There are several great places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Loess Hills Scenic Byway
Explore the Loess Hills Scenic Byway in western Iowa for stunning views. This scenic byway is approximately 220 miles long. It winds its way through beautiful landscapes, small towns, and historic sites. Stop at the Loess Hills State Forest, which covers over 11,000 acres of forest and grasslands. Hike one of the many forest trails and explore the unique rock formations located throughout the area.
Don’t miss the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a home for a diverse array of wildlife including bald eagles, pelicans, and river otters. Hike along the trails, go fishing in the lake, or take a scenic drive through the refuge. Other notable stops along the Loess Hills Scenic Byway include the Hitchcock Nature Center, the Danish Windmill Museum, and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum.
There are several great places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Pikes Peak State Park
Pikes Peak State Park, located in northeast Iowa, offers scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River valley. In addition to stunning views of the river, the park boasts breathtaking waterfalls, and miles of scenic hiking trails. Don’t miss the 500-foot overlook, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Hike the many trails throughout the park. Check out the impressive Bridal Veil Falls, a stunning 40-foot waterfall that cascades down a limestone cliff. Explore the picturesque Effigy Mounds National Monument, which features over 200 prehistoric mounds shaped like animals. Pikes Peak State Park also offers boat launches, fishing, picnic areas and campgrounds for visitors who wish to stay overnight.
There are several great places to camp in the park or stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum
The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum located in West Branch, Iowa, and is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The museum showcases the life and times of the 31st President of the United States, Herbert Hoover. Exhibits include personal artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
Learn about Hoover’s childhood, his time as a mining engineer, and his presidency during the Great Depression and World War II. Don’t miss the replica of the Oval Office during Hoover’s presidency or the collection of political cartoons from the era.
Outside the museum is the Hoover National Historic Site, which includes the Hoover family’s birthplace cottage and the grave of the former president and his wife, Lou Henry Hoover.
There are several great places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Plan Your Visit to Iowa Soon!
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, Iowa has plenty of activities to keep you busy. Plan your trip today and discover all the hidden gems this state has to offer.
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