Iowa Travel Guide (Midwest/United States of America/North America)

Introduction to Iowa

Iowa is a charming state in the Midwest region of the United States of America. Known for its sprawling farmland, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage, Iowa beckons visitors from all over the world with its numerous attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or a foodie, Iowa has something to offer everyone. In this tour guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, and experiences to enjoy in Iowa.

List of Places to Visit in Iowa

If you’re a first-time visitor, here are the must-visit places in Iowa:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum - This museum in West Branch celebrates the life and legacy of the 31st US President, Herbert Hoover.
State Historical Museum of Iowa - Learn about Iowa’s rich history, from its Native American roots to its modern-day significance, at this fascinating museum in Des Moines.
John Wayne Birthplace and Museum - Fans of ‘The Duke’ will love this museum in Winterset, which showcases the life and career of the legendary Hollywood actor.

Natural Attractions of Iowa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Effigy Mounds National Monument - Explore the ancient burial mounds of Native Americans in this National Monument near McGregor.
Maquoketa Caves State Park - Hike through the winding caverns and scenic trails of this stunning park in Maquoketa.
Iowa Great Lakes - Go fishing, boating, jet skiing or simply soak up the sun at this picturesque chain of lakes in the northwest region of Iowa.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Iowa

Iowa boasts a vast network of trails and routes that are perfect for hiking or biking enthusiasts.

High Trestle Trail - This 25-mile trail offers stunning views of the Des Moines River Valley and the famous High Trestle Bridge, which is lit up at night.
Raccoon River Valley Trail - This 89-mile trail passes through some of Iowa’s most picturesque landscapes, including woods, rivers, and prairies.
Neal Smith Trail - Wildlife enthusiasts will love this trail that winds through the Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge, providing an up-close look at Iowa’s native flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Iowa: Activities and Tours

Iowa State Fair - Held each August, this 11-day extravaganza showcases the best of Iowa’s food, music, crafts, and entertainment.
Field of Dreams Movie Site - Step back in time to the 1989 Hollywood classic by visiting the iconic baseball diamond in Dyersville that was the setting of this classic movie.
Bridges of Madison County Tour - Follow in the footsteps of Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood in this tour of the six covered bridges in Madison County.

Week-Long Itinerary for Iowa

If you have a week to spare, here’s an itinerary for exploring Iowa:

Day	Activity
Day 1-2	Des Moines: Visit the State Historical Museum, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Iowa State Capitol.
Day 3-4	Dubuque: Explore the National Mississippi River Museum, ride the Fenelon Place Elevator, and take a scenic drive along the Mississippi River Drive.
Day 5-6	Ames: Visit the Iowa State University campus, the Brunnier Art Museum, and the Reiman Gardens.
Day 7	Amana Colonies: Experience the history and culture of the Amana Colonies with a visit to the museums, shops, and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Iowa

Iowa is known for its home-cooked meals, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich - A staple dish in Iowa, this sandwich features a crispy pork tenderloin cutlet served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles.
Sweet Corn - Iowa’s sweet corn is legendary, and best enjoyed in the summer months when fresh corn is abundant.
Maid-Rite Sandwich - This loose meat sandwich is a regional specialty, consisting of seasoned ground beef on a soft bun.

Local Beverages

Craft Beer - Iowa has a thriving craft beer scene, with more than 100 microbreweries and brewpubs across the state.
Maid-Rite Root Beer - This classic soft drink is a perfect accompaniment to a Maid-Rite sandwich.
Fireside Winery - Located in Marengo, this winery offers a range of locally-produced wines, from dry whites to sweet reds.

Where to Stay in Iowa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Iowa offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best:

Hotel Julien Dubuque - This historic hotel in Dubuque features luxurious rooms and suites, a casino, and a spa.
The Merrill Hotel, Muscatine - This contemporary hotel in Muscatine offers stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace, and views of the Mississippi River.
Innkeeper’s Bed and Breakfast, Dyersville - This charming B&B in Dyersville features cozy rooms, homemade breakfast, and friendly hosts.

What to Buy in Iowa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Quilts and Crafts - The Amana Colonies are known for their traditional crafts, including quilts, pottery, and stained glass.
Vintage Finds - Dubuque’s Main Street and Iowa City’s Northside Marketplace are great places to scour for vintage and antique items.
Maquoketa Art Experience - This non-profit organization in Maquoketa offers a range of locally-produced arts and crafts, including paintings, jewelry, and sculptures.

Local Culture and Customs of Iowa

Iowans take pride in their rich cultural heritage, which is shaped by their farming roots, religious values, and community spirit. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs, such as:

Saying “please” and “thank you”.
Tipping at restaurants and bars.
Dressing appropriately for the occasion.
Participating in community events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Iowa

The best time to visit Iowa is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities and festivals are in full swing. However, each season in Iowa has its charm and distinct offerings.

Do’s and Don’ts of Iowa

Do:

Try the local cuisine, including sweet corn, pork tenderloins, and Maid-Rite sandwiches.
Visit the state and national parks to enjoy Iowa’s natural beauty.
Take a scenic drive along Iowa’s backroads to experience the rural lifestyle.
Attend a community festival or fair to get a taste of Iowa’s local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

Litter or pollute the natural environment.
Underestimate the power of Iowa’s weather, which can be extreme and unpredictable.
Disrespect local customs and traditions.
Speed or drink and drive on Iowa’s roads.

Safety and Health

Safety in Iowa

Iowa is a relatively safe state, with low crime rates and friendly people. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as:

Locking their vehicles and securing their valuables.
Staying in well-lit areas at night.
Being aware of their surroundings in unfamiliar places.

Health in Iowa

Iowa has a good healthcare system, with excellent hospitals and medical facilities in the major cities. Visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before arriving in Iowa, as medical costs can be high in the event of an emergency.

Getting to Iowa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Iowa

Des Moines International Airport - This airport is located in Des Moines and serves domestic destinations across the US.
Eastern Iowa Airport - Located in Cedar Rapids, this airport offers flights to destinations in the Midwest region.
Quad City International Airport - Located in Moline, Illinois, this airport serves the Quad Cities region on the Iowa-Illinois border.

Bus Stations Near Iowa

Greyhound Bus Lines - Greyhound offers bus services to cities across Iowa, including Des Moines, Dubuque, and Cedar Rapids.
Jefferson Lines - Jefferson Lines operates bus services to Iowa from Minneapolis and Sioux Falls.

Other Options

Iowa is well-connected by road and rail, and visitors can also choose from a range of car rental, taxi, and ride-sharing services.

How to Get Around in Iowa

Iowa has a well-maintained network of roads and highways, which is best explored by car. Visitors can also opt for public transportation options, such as buses and trains, which are available in the major cities. Biking and hiking trails are also popular modes of transportation in Iowa.

Where to Go Next from Iowa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Iowa:

Chicago, Illinois - Just a few hours’ drive from Iowa, Chicago is a vibrant city that offers world-class museums, shopping, and dining experiences.
Omaha, Nebraska - Located across the Missouri River from Iowa, Omaha is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin - A popular tourist destination, Wisconsin Dells boasts a range of outdoor and indoor water parks, amusement parks, and family-friendly attractions.

Conclusion

Iowa is a hidden gem in the Midwest region of the United States, offering visitors a genuine taste of rural America, along with numerous cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, Iowa is the perfect destination for making memories that will last a lifetime.