• January 1, 2025 - Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Reiman Gardens

Category: Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Jinying/stock.adobe.com

2. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Category: Local Attractions
© Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

3. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

4. Buffalo Bill Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Buffalo Bill Museum

5. Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

6. Field of Dreams

7. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum

Category: Kids & Family Fun
© Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum

8. Iowa Capitol Building

© Courtesy of sframe - Fotolia.com

9. Des Moines Farmers’ Market

Category: Shopping & Stuff
© Downtown Farmers Market

10. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Category: Activities & Fun Outdoors
© National Mississippi River Museum & Aquariu

11. Brunnier Art Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Brunnier Art Museum

12. Adventureland Park

Tours in the Area
© Adventureland Park

13. Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Category: Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Pappajohn Sculpture Park

14. Brucemore

15. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Category: Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

16. Figge Art Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples

17. Grotto of the Redemption

© Grotto of the Redemption

18. Mines of Spain Recreation Area

Category: Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Mines of Spain Recreation Area

19. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Iowa

Category: Local Attractions

20. Iowa State Fair

21. Surf Ballroom and Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Surf Ballroom and Museum

22. The Iowa Theater

Category: Entertainment Near Me

23. John Wayne Birthplace & Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© John Wayne Birthplace & Museum

24. Living History Farms

Category: Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Living History Farms

25. Fenelon Place Elevator Co, Iowa

© Fenelon Place Elevator Co

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

Bordered on two sides by the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, Iowa is a Midwestern agricultural state filled with unique small towns, parks, caves and roadside attractions. Home to President Herbert Hoover and western film icon John Wayne, Iowa has its share of historical homes, monuments, and parks. Cultural attractions include world-class art museums such as the Figge in Davenport and the Brunnier in Des Moines. Iowa has an exciting array of attractions and cities just waiting to be discovered, including Dubuque, Iowa City, Ames and Cedar Rapids.

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