Before I visited Iowa, I didn’t know much about it. To be honest, it wasn’t even high on my travel list. Like many people, I pictured miles of cornfields and quiet towns—and not much else. But when I finally decided to take a road trip through the state, I discovered that Iowa is full of surprises. It’s a place with beautiful natural spots, rich history, friendly locals, and plenty of fun things to do.
What stood out to me most was the peaceful vibe of Iowa. The roads were calm, the air felt fresh, and there was a real sense of community everywhere I went. Whether I was exploring a cave, walking through a local farmers market, or just sitting by a river watching the sunset, I felt completely relaxed.
Iowa isn’t flashy or crowded, and that’s what makes it so special. It offers a slower pace of travel that helps you connect with the places you visit and the people you meet. From scenic state parks and charming small towns to tasty local food and family-friendly attractions, there are so many great things to do in Iowa.
In this article, I’m going to share the highlights from my trip—places I visited, activities I enjoyed, and little moments that made a big impact. If you’re thinking about traveling to Iowa or just curious about what this Midwest state has to offer, I hope my experience helps you plan your own adventure. Trust me, Iowa might surprise you too.
Explore the Great Outdoors
One of the best things to do in Iowa is simply to get outside. I didn’t expect the state to have so many beautiful natural spots, but I was blown away by how peaceful and scenic it was. If you enjoy hiking, exploring caves, or just relaxing in nature, Iowa has a lot to offer.
Loess Hills
One of my favorite outdoor experiences in Iowa was visiting the Loess Hills. These rolling hills are found in western Iowa, and they’re completely unique—formed by windblown soil over thousands of years. I went on a few short hikes here and the views were incredible. You can see miles of open land, and the trails are quiet and well-kept. It’s the kind of place where you can take a deep breath and just enjoy the stillness.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
If you’re into a little adventure, Maquoketa Caves State Park is a must-see. I had never explored caves before, so this was totally new for me. Some caves are small enough to crawl through, while others are big and easy to walk inside. There are also nice hiking trails and a beautiful forest all around. It’s a great mix of fun and nature, and perfect for a day trip.
The Mississippi River
On the eastern side of Iowa, I spent time along the Mississippi River. Cities like Dubuque and Davenport have beautiful riverwalks where you can stroll, take in the views, or hop on a boat tour. Watching the sunset over the water was one of the most peaceful moments of my trip.
Iowa may not be a place people talk about for outdoor adventures, but trust me, it has some real hidden gems. Whether you love hiking, cave exploring, or just taking a quiet walk in nature, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
Discover Iowa’s Small-Town Charm
One thing I quickly learned on my trip is that Iowa’s small towns are full of charm. Each one has its own personality, and they’re some of the best places to visit if you want a real feel for the state. These towns are quiet, friendly, and packed with history and local flavor. I found myself slowing down, meeting kind people, and enjoying the simple things.
Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies were one of my favorite stops. It’s actually a group of seven villages that were started by German settlers back in the 1800s. Walking through the streets felt like stepping back in time. There are cozy shops, handmade goods, old-style bakeries, and even a working woolen mill. I spent hours browsing local crafts and trying delicious pastries. It’s a peaceful place that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Decorah
Decorah was another lovely surprise. It’s in northeast Iowa, surrounded by bluffs and rivers, and it’s known for its Norwegian heritage. The town has a really laid-back vibe. I took a scenic drive through the countryside, visited a Norwegian museum, and even found a waterfall just outside of town. Decorah is great if you love nature and culture together in one place.
Pella
Then there’s Pella—a little Dutch town that feels like a storybook. The streets are lined with cute buildings, windmills, and flower beds. I visited during the spring, right around the time of the Tulip Festival, and it was so beautiful. People wore traditional Dutch clothing, and the whole town smelled like fresh flowers and baked goods. It was a really unique experience I wasn’t expecting to find in the Midwest.
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Check Out the Cities
While I loved the small towns and outdoor spots, Iowa’s cities also gave me some great experiences. They’re not huge or overwhelming, but they each have their own style and offer plenty to see and do. From cool museums to local markets and cozy coffee shops, the cities in Iowa are worth exploring.
Des Moines
I started in Des Moines, the state capital, and I was honestly impressed. It has a mix of modern energy and Midwest charm. One of my favorite spots was the Downtown Farmers’ Market. It was full of fresh food, handmade crafts, and live music. I also visited the Des Moines Art Center, which has a surprisingly good collection of modern and classic art—and it’s free!
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park in the middle of the city was another highlight. I loved walking through it and seeing all the creative outdoor artwork. At night, I found some great local restaurants and even a rooftop bar where I could see the city lights.
Iowa City
Next, I made my way to Iowa City. This is a college town, home to the University of Iowa, so it has a younger, artsy vibe. I spent some time walking through the Ped Mall—an open area downtown with shops, bookstores, coffee spots, and street performers. The whole place felt alive and creative.
If you’re into books and writing, you’ll like it here—Iowa City is actually a UNESCO City of Literature. I didn’t know that before I went, but once I got there, it made sense. The city has a thoughtful, relaxed energy that really grows on you.
Cedar Rapids
I also stopped in Cedar Rapids, which is known for its strong Czech and Slovak heritage. I checked out the National Czech & Slovak Museum, which taught me a lot about immigrant history in the area. The surrounding neighborhood, called the Czech Village, is full of colorful buildings, bakeries, and unique shops.
There’s also the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, which has works by Grant Wood—he’s the artist who painted American Gothic and actually lived nearby.
Enjoy Local Food and Drinks
One of the things I always look forward to when I travel is trying the local food—and Iowa did not disappoint. The meals were hearty, comforting, and full of local flavor. From small-town diners to farm-fresh stands, I found some tasty surprises along the way.
Maid-Rites: A Local Classic
Before visiting Iowa, I had never heard of a Maid-Rite. It’s a loose meat sandwich that’s kind of like a sloppy joe—but without the sauce. I know that might not sound exciting, but trust me, it was delicious. I tried one at a local Maid-Rite diner, and it came with mustard, pickles, and onions on a soft bun. Simple, but full of flavor. It’s definitely one of those “only in Iowa” foods you have to try at least once.
Sweet Corn in the Summer
Iowa is known for its corn, and after eating fresh sweet corn straight from a roadside stand, I totally get why. It was sweet, juicy, and tasted like summer. I picked some up while driving through the countryside, and it became one of my favorite snacks during the trip. If you visit during the warmer months, don’t miss it.
Wineries and Breweries
I was surprised to find that Iowa has a growing number of wineries and craft breweries. I stopped by a small winery just outside of Des Moines and did a tasting—it was a relaxing way to end the afternoon. I also tried a few local beers in bars around the state. The people were always friendly, and the places had a cozy, laid-back feel.
Homestyle Cooking
Everywhere I went, I found homestyle meals that reminded me of something a grandma might cook. Chicken and noodles, pork tenderloins, mashed potatoes—you name it. The portions were big, the prices were fair, and the food always hit the spot. I especially loved stopping at small-town cafes, where the coffee was hot and the pie was homemade.
Fun Events and Festivals
One of the best ways to experience Iowa’s culture is by joining its local events and festivals. I was lucky to catch a few during my trip, and they gave me a real sense of the community and fun spirit that’s alive in the state.
Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is famous for a reason. It’s huge and full of everything you’d expect at a classic Midwestern fair—rides, games, giant animals, and plenty of food on a stick! I tried deep-fried Oreos and walked around admiring the livestock competitions. The fair brings together people from all over Iowa, and the energy is so lively. If you visit in late summer, the State Fair is a must-see.
Tulip Time Festival in Pella
I visited Pella during its Tulip Time Festival, and it was magical. The whole town was covered in colorful tulips, and people were dressed in traditional Dutch clothes. There were parades, music, and plenty of food booths. It felt like stepping into a different world. If you love flowers and festive celebrations, this festival is worth planning your trip around.
National Balloon Classic in Indianola
For something a little different, I went to the National Balloon Classic in Indianola. It’s a nine-day event where dozens of hot air balloons take off every morning and evening. Watching the sky fill with colorful balloons was unforgettable. The event also had live music, food trucks, and family activities. It was such a peaceful and beautiful way to enjoy Iowa’s summer.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with family can be tricky, but Iowa surprised me with plenty of fun places for all ages. Whether you’re with kids, parents, or just looking for easy-going activities, there’s a lot to keep everyone happy and entertained.
Blank Park Zoo (Des Moines)
One of the best stops for families is the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. I loved walking around and seeing animals from all over the world. The zoo isn’t too big, so it’s perfect for younger kids who might get tired quickly. They also have special events and feeding times that make the visit extra exciting.
Adventureland Amusement Park
If you want thrills and rides, Adventureland near Des Moines is the place to go. It has roller coasters, water rides, and plenty of games. I remember seeing kids laughing and running everywhere—it felt like pure joy. Even if you’re not a big fan of rides, there are shows and restaurants that make the day fun for everyone.
Living History Farms
For a more educational but still fun experience, Living History Farms is a great choice. It’s an outdoor museum where you can walk through old farmhouses, watch demonstrations of farming tools, and even meet people dressed like they’re from the past. I found it fascinating, and it’s a hands-on way to learn about Iowa’s farming history.
Wrap-Up: Why I’d Visit Iowa Again
After spending time exploring Iowa, I can honestly say it’s a place I’d visit again and again. The state surprised me in so many good ways—from its beautiful nature and charming small towns to the friendly people and fun local events.
What I loved most was how welcoming Iowa felt. No matter where I went, people were kind and happy to share their stories and favorite spots. The pace of life was slower, which made my trip feel relaxing and refreshing.
Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, exploring small towns, enjoying good food, or joining festivals, Iowa has something special for everyone. It might not be the most famous travel destination, but that’s part of its charm. If you’re looking for a place that’s full of hidden gems and warm moments, Iowa should definitely be on your list.
I hope my experience helps you discover the best things to do in Iowa and inspires you to plan your own trip. Trust me, once you visit, you’ll find plenty of reasons to come back.
Conclusion
Visiting Iowa was a wonderful surprise for me. From exploring beautiful nature spots to enjoying the charm of small towns and cities, there was always something new and interesting around every corner. The friendly people, tasty local food, and fun festivals made my trip even better.
If you’re wondering what to do in Iowa, I hope this guide helps you discover the many great places and activities the state offers. Iowa may not be the most famous travel destination, but it has a special kind of beauty and warmth that’s hard to find anywhere else.
So, whether you’re planning a family trip, a solo adventure, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Iowa is definitely worth a visit. I’m already looking forward to my next trip back!
