Iowa Map Of Towns
Discovering the Hidden Gems and Top Attractions
Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of travel destinations, but this Midwestern state has plenty of hidden gems and top attractions that are worth exploring. Start your journey in Des Moines, the capital city, and visit the Iowa State Capitol building, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Des Moines Art Center. Then, head to Cedar Rapids to see the famous Brucemore Mansion and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art.
Other must-see attractions in Iowa include the Amana Colonies, a group of seven historic villages that offer a glimpse into the state’s German heritage; the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque; and the Effigy Mounds National Monument, which preserves Native American burial mounds and sacred sites.
Food Scene and Budget-Friendly Tips
Iowa is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, craft beer, and local wineries. Some of the best places to eat in the state include the Machine Shed restaurant in Urbandale, which serves hearty Midwestern fare; the Hamburg Inn No. 2 in Iowa City, which is famous for its award-winning pies and politically themed decor; and the Breitbach Country Tavern in Balltown, which is Iowa’s oldest restaurant.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, head to the downtown farmer’s markets in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, where you can sample local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. You can also save money on accommodations by staying in a hostel or a camping site, or by booking a room through Airbnb.
Outdoor Adventures and Natural Wonders
Iowa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and biking trails, lakes and rivers for fishing and boating, and state parks and forests for camping and picnicking. Some of the best outdoor destinations in Iowa include the Maquoketa Caves State Park, where you can explore limestone caves and rock formations; the Ledges State Park, which offers scenic hikes and rock climbing opportunities; and the Iowa Great Lakes region, which is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
Nature lovers should also check out the Loess Hills Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of the Missouri River Valley and the rolling hills of western Iowa; the Effigy Mounds National Monument, which boasts over 200 Native American mounds; and the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, which is a unique religious shrine made of thousands of precious stones and minerals.
Family-Friendly Activities and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re traveling with kids, Iowa has plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions. Some of the best options include the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, which features over 1,000 animals from around the world; the Science Center of Iowa, which offers interactive exhibits and planetarium shows; and the Adventureland amusement park in Altoona, which has over 100 rides and attractions.
For off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider visiting the Villisca Axe Murder House, which is said to be haunted by the ghosts of its victims; the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, which is a popular pilgrimage for baseball fans; and the American Gothic House in Eldon, which inspired the famous painting by Grant Wood.
Vibrant Nightlife and Local Markets
Despite its rural reputation, Iowa has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues. Some of the best places to go out include the Vaudeville Mews in Des Moines, which hosts live music shows and comedy acts; the Yacht Club in Iowa City, which is a popular spot for dancing and drinking; and the Octopus in Cedar Falls, which offers craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
For a taste of local culture, check out the farmer’s markets in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, which feature live music, food trucks, and artisanal products. You can also visit the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market, which is one of the largest outdoor markets in the country.
Beaches and Mountains
Although Iowa is not known for its beaches or mountains, there are still some scenic spots to enjoy. The Rathbun Lake area in southern Iowa has several beaches and campgrounds, as well as hiking and biking trails. The Spirit Lake area in northern Iowa is also a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Cultural Immersion and Art Scene
Iowa has a rich cultural heritage, with strong influences from Native American, European, and African American traditions. Some of the best places to explore Iowa’s cultural scene include the Meskwaki Settlement in Tama, which is a Native American reservation that offers tours and cultural programs; the African American Museum of Iowa in Cedar Rapids, which showcases the history and contributions of African Americans in the state; and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch, which celebrates the life and legacy of the 31st U.S. president.
For art lovers, Iowa has a thriving arts community, with galleries, museums, and public art installations throughout the state. Some of the best places to see art in Iowa include the Des Moines Art Center, which has a renowned collection of modern and contemporary art; the Figge Art Museum in Davenport, which features American and European art; and the Dubuque Museum of Art, which showcases regional and national artists.
Walking Tours and Architectural Marvels
Iowa has a rich architectural heritage, with styles ranging from Victorian to Art Deco to modern. Some of the best examples of Iowa’s architecture include the Iowa State Capitol building in Des Moines, which is a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts design; the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Park Inn Hotel in Mason City, which is the last remaining hotel designed by Wright; and the Grant Wood Studio in Cedar Rapids, which was the home and workplace of the famous artist.
For a guided tour of Iowa’s architecture, consider booking a walking tour in one of the state’s historic districts, such as the East Village in Des Moines or the New Bohemia district in Cedar Rapids.
Historical Sites and Biking Routes
Iowa has a rich history, with significant events and landmarks dating back to before European settlement. Some of the best places to explore Iowa’s history include the Living History Farms in Urbandale, which recreates Iowa’s rural past; the Amana Colonies, which offer a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century German immigrants; and the John Wayne Birthplace Museum in Winterset, which celebrates the life and career of the famous actor.
If you’re a biking enthusiast, Iowa has some of the best biking routes in the country. The famous RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) takes place every summer, and covers over 400 miles of scenic terrain. Other popular biking routes in Iowa include the High Trestle Trail, which features a stunning 13-story bridge over the Des Moines River; the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, which runs through forests and wetlands; and the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, which follows the route of an old railroad.
Wellness Retreats and Adventure Sports
Iowa may not be known for its wellness retreats or adventure sports, but there are still plenty of opportunities to relax and rejuvenate, or to get your adrenaline pumping. Some of the best wellness retreats in Iowa include the Raj Ayurveda Health Spa in Fairfield, which offers Ayurvedic treatments and yoga classes; the Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone, which offers meditation and wellness workshops; and the Maharishi Vedic City, which is a planned community based on Vedic principles.
For adventure sports, Iowa offers kayaking, rock climbing, and zip-lining opportunities. Some of the best adventure destinations in Iowa include the Backbone State Park, which has challenging hiking and climbing trails; the Coralville Lake, which is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing; and the Zip-Line and Canopy Tour in Dubuque, which offers thrilling zip-line rides through the treetops.
Whether you’re looking for history, culture, outdoor adventures, or relaxation, Iowa has something for every traveler. So, pack your bags and explore the Map of Towns!