Iowa State Map Cities

Introduction

Welcome to Iowa, the Hawkeye State! Known for its rolling hills, beautiful countryside, and friendly people, Iowa has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, or a vibrant nightlife, Iowa has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions and hidden gems in Iowa’s major cities, as well as some off-the-beaten-path experiences that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.

Top Attractions

Des Moines

The capital city of Iowa, Des Moines, is home to a wide variety of attractions. Visit the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to see over 30 works of art by world-renowned artists, or take a stroll through the Des Moines Botanical Garden to see thousands of plants from around the world. For history buffs, the Iowa State Capitol is a must-see, while families will love the Blank Park Zoo and Adventureland amusement park.

Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids is the second-largest city in Iowa and is known for its lively arts scene. Visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art to see works by Grant Wood, one of America’s most famous artists, or catch a performance at the Paramount Theatre. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Indian Creek Nature Center offers miles of hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Davenport

Davenport, located on the banks of the Mississippi River, is home to the Figge Art Museum, which features rotating exhibitions of contemporary and classic art. The city also has a rich history, which you can explore at the Putnam Museum and Science Center, or by taking a stroll through the historic Village of East Davenport.

Hidden Gems

Lost Island Waterpark

Located in Waterloo, Lost Island Waterpark is a hidden gem for families. With over 15 water attractions, including a lazy river and wave pool, there’s something for everyone. The park also has a zip line, go-karts, and mini-golf, making it a great place to spend a day.

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Located in northeastern Iowa, Effigy Mounds National Monument is a unique and fascinating destination. The monument contains over 200 prehistoric mounds, many of which are in the shape of animals, such as bears and birds. Visitors can hike through the park and see the mounds up close, as well as learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes that built them.

Food Scene

Iowa is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and delicious comfort food. In Des Moines, try the famous Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich at B&B Grocery, or visit Zombie Burger for unique and creative burgers. In Cedar Rapids, check out the NewBo City Market, which features dozens of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. And in Davenport, be sure to stop by Lagomarcino’s, a historic ice cream parlor and candy shop that has been in business since 1908.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Iowa is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. Many of the state’s top attractions, such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Iowa State Capitol, are free to visit. For affordable accommodations, consider staying in a hostel or camping in one of Iowa’s many state parks. And don’t miss out on the state’s many free festivals and events, such as the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Arts Festival.

Outdoor Adventures

Iowa’s rolling hills and beautiful countryside make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through the Loess Hills State Forest, which offers stunning views of the Missouri River Valley, or rent a kayak and paddle down the Cedar River. For birdwatchers, the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, while anglers will love the trout streams in northeast Iowa.

Historical Landmarks

Iowa has a rich history, from Native American cultures to the early pioneers. Visit the Amana Colonies, a group of seven historic villages that were founded by German immigrants in the 1850s, or explore the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch. For a glimpse of Iowa’s agricultural past, visit the Living History Farms in Urbandale, which features reenactors and exhibits that showcase life on an Iowa farm in the 1800s.

Family-Friendly Activities

Iowa is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids will love. Visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque to learn about the river’s ecosystem and see live animals up close, or check out the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines, which features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. And for a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside with the family-friendly company, Balloon Bros.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, Iowa has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy. Visit the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, a massive structure made of millions of pieces of semi-precious stones and gems. Or take a tour of the American Gothic House in Eldon, which inspired the famous painting by Grant Wood. And for a taste of Iowa’s Scandinavian heritage, visit the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah.

Natural Wonders

Iowa may not have mountains or beaches, but it does have plenty of natural wonders to explore. Visit the Maquoketa Caves State Park to see dozens of limestone caves and formations, or hike through the Effigy Mounds National Monument to see the prehistoric mounds up close. And for a unique experience, visit the Fenelon Place Elevator in Dubuque, the world’s shortest, steepest scenic railway, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Vibrant Nightlife

While Iowa may not have the nightlife scene of larger cities, it still has plenty to offer visitors looking for a night out. In Des Moines, check out the Court Avenue District, which features dozens of bars and restaurants, or visit Wooly’s, a popular music venue that hosts both local and national acts. In Cedar Rapids, head to the NewBo District, which has a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as a farmers’ market during the day.

Local Markets

Iowa’s farmers’ markets are a great place to sample local produce and crafts. In Des Moines, visit the Downtown Farmers’ Market, which features over 300 vendors and live music. In Cedar Rapids, check out the NewBo City Market, which has dozens of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. And in Dubuque, visit the Dubuque Farmers’ Market, which is the oldest farmers’ market in Iowa.

Beaches and Mountains

While Iowa may not have beaches or mountains, it does have plenty of places to enjoy the great outdoors. Visit the Okoboji area, which has several lakes and beaches, as well as amusement parks and waterparks. And for a taste of Iowa’s rolling hills, hike through the Loess Hills State Forest, which offers stunning views of the Missouri River Valley.

Cultural Immersion

Iowa has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Native American tribes, European settlers, and more. Visit the Meskwaki Settlement in Tama to learn about the history and culture of the Meskwaki people, one of Iowa’s Native American tribes, or visit the Danish Windmill in Elk Horn, which celebrates Iowa’s Danish heritage. And for a taste of Iowa’s German roots, visit the Amana Colonies, a group of seven historic villages that were founded by German immigrants in the 1850s.

Art and Music Scene

Iowa has a lively arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. In Des Moines, visit the Des Moines Art Center, which features a variety of contemporary and classic art, or catch a show at the Hoyt Sherman Place Theater. In Cedar Rapids, check out the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, which features works by Grant Wood, or catch a performance at the Paramount Theatre.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore Iowa’s cities and learn about their history and culture. In Des Moines, take a tour of the Historic East Village, which features beautiful architecture and unique shops and restaurants. In Cedar Rapids, take a stroll through the Czech Village/New Bohemia District, which celebrates the city’s Czech heritage, or explore the Downtown Cultural Corridor, which features a variety of museums and theaters.

Architectural Marvels

Iowa has a variety of architectural marvels that are worth seeing. Visit the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, which features a stunning dome and beautiful murals, or explore the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Cedar Rock State Park in Quasqueton. And for a taste of Iowa’s historic architecture, visit the Salisbury House and Gardens in Des Moines, a beautiful mansion that was built in the 1920s.