Iowa can be proud of a lot of things. It is the leading corn grower in the country, but it is best recognized for its unique Midwestern charm. Visitors are welcome in Iowa's state capital, Des Moines, as well as its second-largest city, Cedar Rapids.
While visiting Iowa, you'll discover educational sites like the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, as well as adventure state parks like Maquoketa Caves and beautiful landscapes like the Bridges of Madison County to stimulate your creative side. Visitors and residents of Iowa agree that there is something unique about the state that keeps them coming back.
With this list of Iowa's best attractions, you can find even more locations to visit.
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1. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, run by the Dubuque Historical Society, has artifacts, displays, and live animals that represent the cultural and geological significance of the Mississippi River and all national rivers that define the country.
The Mississippi River runs along Iowa's eastern border, defining much of the life of the neighboring towns. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium aims to highlight the vital role that the Mississippi River and its watershed play in the environment and in the lives of people.
The museum has permanent exhibits such as the Mississippi River Discovery Center and an immersive 4D Theater, as well as continuously changing exhibitions that are sure to pique the interest of both adults and children.
Alligators, otters, and sturgeon are among the live creatures on display at the museum and aquarium, which depict the biodiversity found along riverbanks. A blacksmith shop, a stingray touch pool, and the old Logsdon Sand & Gravel Barge are among the museum's other attractions.
The historic Hotel Julien Dubuque is just a few streets away from the museum if you wish to spend the night in Dubuque. In addition, the city is home to some of Iowa's finest resorts.
350 E 3rd Street, Dubuque, Iowa 50401
2. National Museum and Library of the Czech and Slovak Republics
In Cedar Rapids, the National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library is a major institution devoted to presenting the history and culture of the Czech and Slovak people. It also aims to educate the people about their own liberties and how history has brought us to where we are now as a society.
The National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library achieves these objectives via permanent exhibitions, informative touring exhibits, and a variety of family-friendly special events.
More cultural interest may be found over the 12th Avenue bridge at the African American Museum of Iowa. A day excursion to Cedar Rapids' downtown area, which includes additional attractions such as the Paramount Theater, is less than a mile to the north. The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, located south of the city, is the ideal location to stay for weekend visitors.
1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 50401
3. The Statehouse
The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines is more than simply a gold-domed icon of the city; it's also a window into Iowa's past. The Iowa Senate, Iowa House of Representatives, Iowa Supreme Court, and numerous offices of the state's highest elected officials, including the governor, are all housed at the State Capitol, which is located on Grand Avenue on a hill with a great view of downtown Des Moines.
The State Capitol, in addition to serving as the seat of most of Iowa's government, is a stunning example of architecture and design, with numerous historical relics and fascinating Iowa exhibits that you may see on a self-guided tour.
1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50319
4. Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa Caves State Park provides a glimpse into the world under your feet for a distinct natural side of Iowa. There are many above-ground hiking routes in this famous state park that include cliffs, woods, and an intriguing natural marvel known as Balanced Rock. The caverns, however, are the primary reason to visit this area in Eastern Iowa.
The Dancehall Cave is a lit cave with high ceilings and a pathway for claustrophobics. Maquoketa Caverns State Park also provides access to more than a dozen additional caves that need a torch to explore and possibly a change of clothing for those who don't mind squeezing into small places. The park has a big campground set up for RVs and tents.
Maquoketa, Iowa is located at 10970 98th Street.
5. Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies of Eastern Iowa are made up of seven towns that transport visitors to another time and place. The Amana Colonies have a long history dating back to the mid-nineteenth century when German Pietists initially settled in this remote Iowa region. No outside forces have interfered with their cooperative living for many years.
The Amana Colonies are now a National Historic Landmark, and the town invites visitors to see historical buildings, shop and dine at local businesses, and explore the beautiful environs on bike trails and walks to get a sense of the slower pace of life.
Amana Colonies has annual events that attract visitors from all around the state. It's wonderful to learn about German customs at Amana Colonies, from sausage-making Wurstfest to the springtime Maifest.
It's recommended to spend a night or two at the Amana Colonies to get the whole experience. Zuber's Homestead Hotel is one of several local bed-and-breakfast establishments.
Amana, Iowa is located at 622 46th Avenue.
6. RAGBRAI
RAGBRAI is a week-long bike race that covers the whole state and is maybe one of the most iconic things to do in Iowa. From east to west, the road highlights Midwestern culture via pleasant people, tiny communities, and wide-open landscapes.
RAGBRAI is for Register's Annual Bike Race Across Iowa, and it has been taking place for more than 60 years. Each year, hundreds of cyclists, support vehicle drivers, and racing aficionados participate in this annual summer event.
During RAGBRAI, competitiveness isn't the driving force that propels riders across the state. Instead, it's all about the trip and the communal festivities that take place along the way. Roadside attractions such as live music and fresh watermelon slices abound in small villages. The event includes a lot of costumes and custom bicycles.
Every year, the route is altered, and the cities and small villages chosen for overnight stays become a huge block party. The whole RAGBRAI route and experience are enjoyable for the entire family, with smaller children (and parents) frequently choosing to ride less than the daily average of 60 miles.
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