Things to Do in Iowa

For me, Iowa is one of the best Midwest states to explore because it combines unique culture, small-town charm, and underrated adventures that always leave me with new favorite memories.

“Is this heaven? No, it’s Iowa.” - Ray Kinsella, Field of Dreams

Iowa opened up like a quilt, stitched with quiet corners, honest landscapes, and small places that held surprisingly big stories. It wasn’t a state that rushed to impress me, and that’s exactly why I kept leaning in. From gardens teeming with monarchs to markets humming with early morning voices, Iowa felt intentional. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with a sense of care, craft in the details, pride in the roots. It reminded me that meaning doesn’t always announce itself; sometimes, it grows quietly, waiting to be noticed.

What I love most about Iowa is how versatile it is. One day I can be discovering the famous covered bridges of Madison County, the next I’m exploring the vibrant arts and food scene in Des Moines, and then I’m hiking through the scenic Loess Hills. Each experience feels unique and makes me appreciate how Iowa is full of the best surprises.

So, what should you do first? To answer that, think about the kind of experience that’s the best fit for you.

Best Things to Do in Iowa

Letting time slow down at Reiman Gardens

Reiman Gardens, tucked into the edge of Iowa State University in Ames, felt like a place designed not just to display beauty, but to invite reflection.

Located on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, it was easy to reach and made for a refreshing stop right in the middle of town. We loved how the gardens were beautifully designed yet approachable, with spots to relax, or simply enjoy being outside. The mix of indoor and outdoor spaces made it enjoyable year-round, and the staff and volunteers added such a welcoming, community feel. It was the kind of place that made you slow down in the best possible way.

I entered under a canopy of summer blooms, their colors softening the day, and wandered slowly through the grounds. When I stepped into the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, the air changed, warmer, sweeter, and I stood still as a Blue Morpho landed briefly on my shoulder. I thought,

I thought Reiman Gardens was one of the most peaceful and inspiring garden spaces we’ve explored.

Outside, garden paths led me through prairie grasses, rose beds, and a massive steel butterfly sculpture, whimsical yet dignified. The Landscape Garden Studio made me want to start my own backyard haven, and I lingered in the Herb Garden longer than I expected, letting the scent of basil and lavender rise in the breeze. Even with families walking the paths and students snapping photos, it never felt crowded. It felt cared for, and in return, I slowed down enough to feel cared for, too.

Afterward, I stopped for a meal at The Cafe, just a few minutes away from the gardens. I ordered their signature pork tenderloin sandwich with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables, and finished with a rhubarb tart that somehow felt like spring on a plate. Every bite was thoughtful, just like the visit.

Where I Stayed: I stayed at the Iowa House, a charming boutique inn tucked into a historic former fraternity house on campus. With creaky floors, friendly smiles, and a quiet reading nook, it felt like coming home to somewhere I’d never been before.

Reiman Gardens At a Glance

• Location: 1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011
• Vibe: Calm, colorful, meditative
• Highlights: Butterfly Wing, seasonal flower beds, herb gardens, large-scale sculptures
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for peak blooms and butterflies
• Cost: Around $10 for adults
• Hours: Open daily, 10am–6pm
• Tip: Visit mid-morning when the butterflies are most active and the gardens are freshly watered

Tracing footsteps at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City wasn’t just a history museum, it was a map of courage laid out in story and sculpture. Set along the banks of the Missouri River, it welcomed me with broad paths, sweeping views, and a bronze statue of Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the expedition to die, standing watch.

Located along the Missouri River, the center was easy to find and beautifully set up, with the river itself serving as the perfect backdrop to the story. We loved how the exhibits combined history with hands-on experiences, perfect for both adults and kids.

The adjacent Betty Strong Encounter Center added even more depth, with rotating exhibits and cultural programs that tied the past to the present. It was a place that made history feel alive and connected to the landscape around us.

Inside, the museum unfolded in scenes: weathered journals, replicas of frontier gear, and large, immersive displays that pulled me into 1804.

I thought the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City was one of the most fascinating ways to step back into American history.

The exhibits blended Native American perspectives with the expedition’s challenges and triumphs. I learned about the tribes they encountered, the landscapes they mapped, and the human spirit that kept them going.

After the museum, we stopped at Jitters, a cozy café just a short drive away. I had a warm bowl of chicken and wild rice soup with a half Reuben sandwich, and a peanut butter cookie that reminded me of every Midwestern kitchen I’d ever loved. Comforting, unassuming, and exactly right.

Where I Stayed: I stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City, a surprisingly stylish option set inside a historic battery building. With exposed brick, sharp design, and a soundtrack of classic rock floating through the lobby, it was a playful contrast to the quiet weight of the museum.

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center At a Glance

• Location: 900 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103
• Vibe: Historical, thoughtful, riverside calm
• Highlights: Expedition artifacts, Sgt. Floyd monument, outdoor sculptures, Native perspectives
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall when the riverwalk is most inviting
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–4pm; closed Mondays
• Tip: Walk along the riverfront trail after your visit, it ties the experience back to the land itself

Honoring roots at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

I thought the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library was one of the most meaningful cultural museums we’ve visited. It wasn’t just about artifacts on display—it was about stories, traditions, and resilience. From beautifully embroidered folk costumes and historic photographs to immersive exhibits about immigration and community, the museum painted a vivid picture of Czech and Slovak heritage in America. It felt both deeply personal and universally inspiring.

Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, right along the river, the museum was easy to reach and beautifully designed. We loved how the space blended modern architecture with cultural richness, making it feel both fresh and rooted in history. Walking through, we could sense how the museum honored not only the past but also the living traditions that continue today—music, food, language, and art. It was a place that connected generations while celebrating identity.

During our visit, we took our time with the permanent exhibits and also enjoyed a rotating art installation that showcased contemporary Czech and Slovak artists. I loved how the museum combined historical depth with modern creativity, showing that culture is always evolving. The library added another dimension, offering books, records, and resources that made the experience even richer. It felt like more than a museum—it was a cultural hub that left us with a deeper appreciation for heritage and community.

Where I Stayed: I stayed at The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, a sleek, modern space run in part by hospitality students. It had the polish of a downtown boutique stay, but with more personal warmth and thoughtful touches.

Meeting legends at the Buffalo Bill Museum

I thought the Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire was one of those small-town gems that packed a big punch of history and character. Dedicated to Buffalo Bill Cody—born right here in LeClaire—it gave us a fascinating look not only at his legendary life but also at the broader story of the Mississippi River and the people who lived along it. From Wild West memorabilia to riverboat history, the museum felt like a time capsule full of surprises.

Located right on the banks of the Mississippi, the museum was easy to find and set against a beautiful backdrop of the river itself. We loved how it celebrated both local history and the larger-than-life persona of Buffalo Bill. The exhibits were varied—one moment we were learning about Cody’s early days, the next we were stepping into river history with artifacts and even a full-size wooden riverboat on display. It was approachable, engaging, and full of that small-town warmth where you feel welcome the moment you walk in.

During our visit, we took our time wandering the exhibits, reading stories of Cody’s adventures, and diving into the history of river life in LeClaire. I loved how the museum wove together multiple threads—local stories, national legends, and everyday artifacts—into one cohesive narrative. It felt like more than a tribute to Buffalo Bill; it was a celebration of the region’s character and resilience. By the end, we walked out with a deeper appreciation for both the man and the Mississippi community that shaped him.

I stayed at the River View Lodge, a local inn with balconies that opened right onto the water. I left the door cracked at night just to hear the river moving in its sleep.

Rolling through time at the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum was not what I expected. I walked in thinking I’d see a few old rigs, maybe a wall of vintage signage, but what I found was a gleaming gallery of horsepower and heritage.

Located right next to the famous Iowa 80 Truckstop in Walcott—the largest truck stop in the world—it was easy to find and completely free to explore. We loved how thoughtfully the museum was laid out, with gleaming displays, historic photos, and plenty of signs that shared the backstory behind each vehicle. It wasn’t just about trucks, it was about the people, the industry, and the sense of freedom tied to life on the road.

Each truck told a story, from the curved fenders of a 1920s Mack to the polished chrome of a 1960s Peterbilt. There were gas pumps, diner booths, and displays filled with driver logbooks and CB radios, decades of life on the road distilled into artifacts. It was less about machines and more about the people behind the wheels. I overheard a retired driver explaining engine specs to his grandson and felt something generational, proud, and grounded.

Afterward, I grabbed lunch at Iowa 80 Kitchen, right on-site. I had the fried chicken plate with mashed potatoes and green beans, pure road-trip comfort food. It wasn’t fancy, but it was hearty, generous, and exactly right after a walk through trucking history.

Where I Stayed: I stayed at the Comfort Inn Walcott, just down the road, a simple stay with a hot breakfast and soft pillows, perfect for recharging before heading on to the next Iowa stop.

Starting the day fresh at the Des Moines Farmers’ Market

I thought the Des Moines Farmers’ Market was one of the most vibrant and energizing markets we’ve ever strolled through. Sprawling across downtown on Saturday mornings, it felt like the whole city came alive with fresh produce, baked goods, live music, and a buzz of community spirit. From farm-fresh peaches to handmade crafts, every stand offered something unique. It wasn’t just a market, it was an experience that celebrated Iowa’s flavors and creativity.

Located in the Historic Court District of downtown Des Moines, the market was easy to find and beautifully set up, with stalls stretching for blocks. We loved how it brought together farmers, artisans, and neighbors in one lively space. The backdrop of the courthouse and city streets gave it an urban feel, but the produce and homemade treats reminded us we were in the heart of farm country. It struck the perfect balance of local charm and big-city energy.

During our visit, we wandered through rows of colorful produce, stopped for breakfast burritos hot off the griddle, and chatted with farmers about their seasonal harvests. I loved how the market wasn’t just about shopping—it was about connection. Families, couples, and friends all seemed to linger, enjoying the atmosphere as much as the food. It felt like a true reflection of Des Moines: welcoming, lively, and grounded in its agricultural roots.

Living History Farms: A Time-Worn Walk Through Iowa’s Heritage

“It felt like stepping into someone’s memories.” From the moment I boarded the tractor cart, I was pulled into the pulse of another century. The trail led me first to the 1700 Ioway Farm, quiet, earthy, reverent. Cornstalks rustled as I passed, and I thought, “This land held stories long before settlers arrived.”

Located in Urbandale, just outside Des Moines, it was easy to reach and made for a full day of exploration. We loved how the farm interpreters were dressed in period clothing and eager to demonstrate everything from blacksmithing to cooking over open hearths. Each section of the farms represented a different era, so as we moved through the grounds, it felt like traveling through time. The mix of authentic buildings, hands-on activities, and beautiful farmland made it both educational and surprisingly fun.

The 1850 Pioneer Farm felt more alive, smoke curling from a hearth, chickens underfoot, a kettle of beans on the fire. The air smelled of wood smoke and warm cornbread. I took a bite: crisp edge, soft center, just a whisper of sweetness. Grounded. Real.

By the time I reached the 1900 Horse-Powered Farm, the clip of hooves and grind of gears filled the air. I ran my fingers along leather harnesses, breathed in oats and iron, and felt the grit of working land settle into my skin. Then the 1876 Town welcomed me with clanging blacksmith hammers and the scent of ink and dust. I paused in the Flynn Mansion, polished wood and garden blooms wrapping around me like a memory.

My highlights? Fresh cornbread at the Pioneer kitchen, warm, golden, smoky, with a depth that tasted like home.

Closing Thoughts

Iowa is one of my favorite states in the Midwest to explore, and every time I visit, I’m reminded why it’s one of the best places for a mix of history, small-town charm, and outdoor beauty. For me, Iowa is so unique because it offers experiences that feel authentic and welcoming, often in underrated destinations that most people overlook. Honestly, some of my favorite memories have come from exploring here.

Whether I’m wandering through historic small towns, visiting local festivals, or finding a new café that instantly becomes one of my favorites, I always feel like Iowa gives me the best balance of culture, history, and natural beauty. For me, it’s one of the most underrated states in the Midwest, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Iowa didn’t shout to get my attention, it whispered. In gardens blooming with intention, museums built from memory, and markets alive with local pride, I found a quieter kind of beauty, one that grew slowly and stayed with me. Every stop felt like a story told with care, from hand-lettered signs to heritage recipes. And somewhere between the rhythm of a Saturday market and the hush of a butterfly wing, I realized: Iowa isn’t just a place you pass through. It’s a place that gently, surely, settles in.

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