- What does Iowa have to offer to visitors?
- Iowa has more to offer than many visitors might think, from unique beach towns filled with waterside amusement parks to towns with a deep history and rich Dutch heritage.
- What activities can visitors enjoy in Iowa?
- No matter the season, visitors to Iowa can enjoy a variety of activities, from wintertime snowmobile excursions to summertime festivals and flea markets.
- What activities are available during spring and autumn in Iowa?
- Spring brings golf sessions, while autumn is perfect for delightful walks along the river.
- What should visitors do to enjoy Iowa fully?
- Visitors are encouraged to explore many of Iowa's destinations to get a solid grasp of all the pleasures and enjoyment the state has to offer.
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1. Des Moines
Explore exciting attractions and enjoy vibrant downtown shopping and dining.
Originally named after the river on which it sits, Des Moines was first established as Fort Des Moines in 1843 and eventually grew into the city that it is today. Des Moines has come a long way from its U.S. Army base roots, so much so that in modern Des Moines guests and locals can see a Broadway show many nights throughout the year, purchase locally grown produce and locally raised meat from the Downtown Farmers Market, and even visit extensive art galleries showcasing local and national artists. Des Moines also features many family-friendly attractions, ranging from outdoor hikes along the river to child-centric museums and restaurants.
2. Dubuque
Walk along the Mississippi River and discover unique historical landmarks.
City of bluffs, craft beer, Mississippi River adventures, intricate history, and Loras College, Dubuque finds itself as a bridge between rural and urban Iowa, classic architecture and new innovations, and maintaining the old way of doing things while pushing forward into the future. Officially the first established town in Iowa, settled in 1833, Dubuque was founded by Julien Dubuque before Iowa was officially a state. Depending on the season, guests are often enthralled with eagle watching on Lock & Dam #11, enjoying free family and individual programs through the Multicultural Family Center, or enjoying a tri-city view from the Fenelon City Elevator.
3. Sioux City
Visit fascinating museums and explore rich local history.
Sioux City, located in northwest Iowa, is locally renowned for its art and history museums, the most significant being the Sioux City Art Center and the Sioux City Public Museum. Families may enjoy a visit to the Children's Museum, which has many interactive attractions, or a trip to the Sergeant Floyd River Museum, which tells of the town's industrial history surrounding the Missouri River. Visitors to Sioux City may also enjoy the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, a family-oriented museum covering the early 1800s expedition that helped expand the early United States.
4. Davenport
Stroll along the riverfront and enjoy lively cultural events.
Geographically located along the Mississippi river and symbolically recognized as being part of the crossroads of America, Davenport has a population of nearly 100,000 and is part of the Quad Cities. Once a city that existed primarily for manufacturing and other Mississippi-based industries, Davenport has recently undergone a heavy rejuvenation, helping to reshape the school systems, neighborhoods, public services, and more to levels that haven't been seen in this region in over 80 years. Being a regional cultural hub and third largest city in Iowa, this city offers unique and diverse art, recreation, and music for all to enjoy while spending time in the Quad Cities.
5. Cedar Rapids
Explore art museums and discover vibrant local entertainment.
Regionally renowned for being one of the best cities for children, Cedar Rapids has an extensive list of attractions, restaurants, and entertainment geared towards families. From indoor entertainment for children at the Play Station to interactive exhibits and puppet shows at the Cedar Rapids Public Library, children will be endlessly entertained while parents are given a chance to relax. For a more engaging family experience, the indoor Newbo City Market may pique everyone's interests, while Speedeezz Indoor Karting will playfully bring out the competitive side in everyone. For the young learning mind, the Iowa Children's Museum is heavily recommended as it features a 28,000-square-foot playground for children to investigate and learn in while having a lot of fun.
6. Iowa City
Visit the University of Iowa and explore charming downtown sights.
Iowa City, a self-proclaimed collection of communities, rests in the central-southeastern part of the state and is home to the University of Iowa. Filled with plenty of craft breweries, wineries, and local restaurants, visitors to Iowa City will not go hungry or thirsty while looking for something special to please their palate. However, the real charm of Iowa City isn't just its museums, local concert halls, delicious restaurants, or universities. When it comes to pleasing visitors the most, Iowa City strives with its seemingly endless list of events and festivals that take place throughout the year, providing travelers with ample opportunities to plan their trip around a special event they will enjoy.
7. Amana
Discover unique shops and savor delicious German-inspired cuisine.
Ever proud of their heritage, the Amana Colonies were founded as a group of settlements in 1855 by German Pietists. There were seven original villages, all of which now comprise the Amana Colonies. For nearly 80 years after their founding in Iowa, the colonies were completely self-sufficient, an isolated local economy that allowed their heritage and traditions to maintain intact. The modern day Amana Colonies are an enormous tourist attraction known primarily for its restaurants and custom traditional shops. Reflecting their German heritage to this day, the Amana Colonies have been on the list of National Historic Landmarks since 1965.
8. Ames
Explore Iowa State University and enjoy family-friendly attractions.
Home to Iowa State University and much more, Ames is a desirable tourist destination in Iowa that deserves a spot on any itinerary. Whether passing through Ames or deciding to stay for an extended period of time, Ames has a variety of accommodations to satisfy the needs of guests, from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels and everything between. The city itself is dotted with delicious restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, and cozy coffee shops where travelers can rest while taking in scenic views of downtown. When the weather is pleasant, there are numerous outdoor activities to partake in, such as golfing at the Ames Golf and Country Club or renting a bike to explore the town on two wheels.
9. Bentonsport
Walk through a charming historic district and admire scenic views.
Quietly residing along the Des Moines River is Bentonsport, a once vibrant town of nearly 1,000 individuals that has since shrunk to a population of merely 40 residents. Even with the shrinking population, Bentonsport has not lost its spirit, and has maintained its atmosphere of an historical village along the water, with many of its shops located and residents still living in numerous buildings from the 1840s. The once crucial bridge to the town, the old truss bridge, still stands as a landmark to be explored and has been converted to a pedestrian bridge across the Des Moines River. Visitors who are history buffs will find great joy in Bentonsport, and also in the fact that the town is on the National Register of Historic Places.
10. Burlington
Explore exciting attractions and enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi.
The entire state of Iowa owes credit of its nickname, the Hawkeye State, to Burlington after a newspaper founded in the city was renamed from the Iowa Patriot to The Hawk-eye. Given that Burlington is situated on the powerful Mississippi River, many of its former industries were based around the river itself, and modern day Burlington still incorporates the Mississippi into many of its daily leisure activities. The greater Burlington area is also steeped in history and enables guests to experience exciting events, such as minor league baseball games or the chance to explore what was once called "The Crookedest Street in the World," Snake Alley.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Des Moines
- 2. Dubuque
- 3. Sioux City
- 4. Davenport
- 5. Cedar Rapids
- 6. Iowa City
- 7. Amana
- 8. Ames
- 9. Bentonsport
- 10. Burlington