American Iowa is sometimes referred to as the Hawkeye State, somewhere more than just cornfields and farmland where you can find your own field fo dreams.
- Des Moines: Begin your journey in the state capital, Des Moines. Explore the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, visit the State Capitol Building, and indulge in the buzzing food and art scene downtown.
- Field of Dreams: Feel the magic as you step onto the baseball diamond of the iconic Field of Dreams in Dyersville. Relive the classic movie and take a swing where legends played.
- Amana Colonies: Immerse yourself in history as you visit the Amana Colonies, a group of seven villages settled by German immigrants. Explore the quaint shops, indulge in traditional German cuisine, and learn about the communal lifestyle.
- John Deere Museum: Experience the legacy of agriculture in the John Deere Museum in Waterloo. Discover the history of this iconic American company and see the evolution of farming equipment.
- Iowa State Fair: Don’t miss the chance to attend the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines. Join the festivities, savor fair food, and experience the thrill of amusement rides and live entertainment.
- Effigy Mounds National Monument: Visit the ancient Native American burial mounds in Harpers Ferry. Explore the trails and be awed by the views of the Mississippi River valley.
- National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium: Discover the world of the Mississippi River in Dubuque. Learn about its ecology, explore interactive exhibits, and encounter exotic marine life.
- Maquoketa Caves State Park: Embark on an underground adventure in Maquoketa Caves State Park. Explore the network of caves and Admire the geological formations.
- Herbert Hoover National Historic Site: Step back in time at the birthplace and burial site of the 31st President of the United States, Herbert Hoover. Explore the historic buildings and learn about Hoover’s life and legacy.
- Iowa Great Lakes: Escape to the Iowa Great Lakes region, a popular summer destination. Enjoy water sports, relaxing beaches, and lakeside communities.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations:
- Loess Hills: Experience the dramatic landscape of the Loess Hills, a geological formation. Hike the scenic trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy views.
- Spook Cave and Campground: Dare to explore the mysterious underground Spook Cave near McGregor. Take a boat tour through the cave system, featuring rock formations and storytelling guides.
- Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum: Journey to Burr Oak, where Laura Ingalls Wilder once lived. Visit the museum and see the original family-owned hotel and the setting that inspired her writing.
- Backbone State Park: Discover the beauty of Iowa’s first state park in Dundee. Hike the rugged trails, swim in the clear lake, and admire the limestone cliffs.
- American Gothic House: Channel your inner artist in Eldon, where you’ll find the house featured in Grant Wood’s iconic painting, “American Gothic.” Take a photo with the house and learn about its artistic significance.
- Antique Archaeology: Fans of the hit TV show “American Pickers” will enjoy a visit to Antique Archaeology in LeClaire. Explore the store filled with antiques and collectibles.
- Pikes Peak State Park: Experience panoramic views of the Mississippi River at Pikes Peak State Park in McGregor. Hike to the overlooks, picnic by the river, and capture photographs.
- Danish Windmill: Visit Elk Horn, home to the only authentic Danish windmill in the United States. Take a tour to learn about the Danish heritage and witness the mill in action.
- Snake Alley: Admire the crookedest street in the world, Snake Alley, located in Burlington. Challenge yourself by walking or biking down this attraction.
- The Bridges of Madison County: Explore the romantic legacy of the iconic covered bridges featured in Robert James Waller’s novel. Take a scenic drive through Madison County and admire the structures.
