fun things to do in iowa
Iowa, a state in the Midwestern United States, is known for its rolling hills, scenic countryside, and vibrant cities. Here are some fun things to do in Iowa:
- Visit the Iowa State Fair: The Iowa State Fair is a must-visit event in Des Moines, featuring live music, delicious food, and animal exhibits.
- Explore the Amana Colonies: The Amana Colonies are a group of seven German-inspired villages in eastern Iowa, offering shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Take a stroll along the Mississippi River: The Mississippi River forms the eastern border of Iowa, and there are many scenic spots to walk, bike, or take a boat tour.
- Visit the Field of Dreams movie site: The movie "Field of Dreams" was filmed in Dyersville, Iowa, and the site has been preserved as a tourist attraction.
- Go hiking at Backbone State Park: Backbone State Park in Dundee, Iowa, features hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Iowa Great Lakes: The Iowa Great Lakes region in northwestern Iowa offers boating, fishing, and water sports on five interconnected lakes.
- Take a tour of the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum: The John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum in Waterloo, Iowa, showcases the history of the iconic tractor brand.
- Visit the Figge Art Museum: The Figge Art Museum in Davenport, Iowa, features a collection of American art from the 19th century to the present.
- Go skiing at Sundown Mountain Resort: Sundown Mountain Resort in Dubuque, Iowa, offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter.
- Attend a festival: Iowa has many festivals throughout the year, including the Iowa City Jazz Festival, the Des Moines Arts Festival, and the Iowa State Fair.
- Visit the Living History Farms: The Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, showcase Iowa’s agricultural heritage with historic farms and demonstrations.
- Take a brewery tour: Iowa has a growing craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.
- Visit the National Farm Toy Museum: The National Farm Toy Museum in Dyersville, Iowa, features a collection of farm toys and memorabilia.
- Go biking on the Raccoon River Valley Trail: The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a 89-mile trail that runs from Des Moines to Jefferson, Iowa, and offers scenic views of the countryside.
- Visit the Brucemore Mansion: The Brucemore Mansion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a historic mansion that offers tours and cultural events.
- Take a scenic drive on the Great River Road: The Great River Road is a scenic drive that runs along the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum: The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in Walcott, Iowa, showcases the history of trucking and features a collection of vintage trucks.
- Go fishing on the Okoboji Lakes: The Okoboji Lakes in northwestern Iowa offer excellent fishing opportunities for bass, walleye, and other species.
- Visit the Pappajohn Sculpture Park: The Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa, features a collection of modern and contemporary sculpture.
- Take a tour of the Iowa State Capitol building: The Iowa State Capitol building in Des Moines, Iowa, offers guided tours and stunning views of the city.
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Iowa. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or food, there’s something for everyone in the Hawkeye State!