Overview

Iowa is a state of rolling farmland, friendly small towns, riverfront cities, and surprising cultural gems. Known as the Hawkeye State, it’s where classic Americana meets innovation and Midwestern hospitality. With historic landmarks, outdoor recreation, and iconic events like the Iowa State Fair, Iowa offers an authentic slice of heartland life.

  • Capital: Des Moines
  • Largest Cities: Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City
  • Population: ~3.2 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid continental — cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers

Top Destinations in Iowa

Des Moines

The state capital features art galleries, craft breweries, historic neighborhoods, and one of the best state fairs in the country.

Iowa City

A UNESCO City of Literature and home to the University of Iowa, with a lively downtown and strong literary culture.

Dubuque

A scenic Mississippi River city with historic architecture, bluff-top views, and a revitalized riverfront.

Amana Colonies

A group of seven historic German villages offering traditional food, handmade crafts, and unique shopping.

Decorah

A charming town in northeast Iowa known for Norwegian heritage, beautiful trails, and trout fishing.

Must-See Attractions

  • Iowa State Capitol (Des Moines) – A stunning gold-domed building open for tours
  • Field of Dreams Movie Site (Dyersville) – “If you build it, they will come” lives on
  • Pikes Peak State Park – Scenic views of the Mississippi River and forested bluffs
  • National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (Dubuque) – Interactive exhibits and wildlife
  • Brucemore Mansion (Cedar Rapids) – A historic estate with gardens and events

Things to Do

  • Bike the High Trestle Trail with its iconic lighted bridge
  • Attend the Iowa State Fair for fried food, livestock, and concerts
  • Explore covered bridges in Madison County
  • Tour breweries and wineries across the state
  • Camp, fish, or kayak in Iowa’s state parks and rivers

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Des Moines International (DSM), Eastern Iowa Airport (CID – Cedar Rapids), Quad City International (MLI – near Davenport)

Transport

  • Rental cars are ideal for rural travel and scenic routes
  • Amtrak serves southeastern Iowa via the California Zephyr line
  • Public transit available in Des Moines and larger cities

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–May): Wildflowers bloom and temps warm up
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for fairs, festivals, and river fun
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Colorful foliage and harvest season
  • Winter (Nov–Mar): Snowy charm and indoor attractions

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Hearty and down-to-earth, with farm-fresh flavors and immigrant influences
  • Specialties: Pork tenderloin sandwiches, sweet corn, Maid-Rite loose meat sandwiches, rhubarb pie
  • Drinks: Local beers, Iowa wines, and apple cider
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Iowa State Fair (Des Moines)
  • Tulip Time (Pella)
  • RAGBRAI – An annual statewide bike ride
  • National Czech & Slovak Festival (Cedar Rapids)
  • Oktoberfest (Amana Colonies)

Souvenirs from Iowa

  • Iowa-shaped cutting boards or décor
  • Local jams, honey, or popcorn
  • Amana Colonies handicrafts
  • Field of Dreams merchandise
  • University of Iowa or Iowa State gear

Fun Facts

  • Iowa is the only U.S. state bordered by two navigable rivers: the Mississippi and the Missouri
  • It’s the leading producer of corn, pork, and eggs in the country
  • The first caucus in U.S. presidential elections happens here
  • The state has over 70 wineries and 100 breweries
  • The movie Field of Dreams was filmed in Dyersville, and the field is still open to visitors

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Cultural & Scenic Tour

  • Day 1: Des Moines – Capitol, East Village, and downtown dining
  • Day 2: Pella or Amana Colonies – cultural heritage and shopping
  • Day 3: Dubuque – Mississippi riverwalk and museums

5-Day Iowa Road Trip

  • Day 1: Start in Des Moines – explore city highlights
  • Day 2: Drive to Madison County – covered bridges and countryside
  • Day 3: Decorah – museums and nature trails
  • Day 4: Field of Dreams and Dubuque – history and river views
  • Day 5: Cedar Rapids or Iowa City – local eats and arts scene

Cities

  • Des Moines