Summary
Iowa, known as The Hawkeye State, is situated in the Midwestern United States and features some of the most stunning sights and locations to explore. By examining these remarkable images, one can truly appreciate its beauty. Additionally, it is noteworthy that Strawberry Point is the site of the world’s largest strawberry, which is an intriguing piece of trivia.
1. Grotto of the Redemption
The largest man-made grotto in the world, this Iowa landmark is essential for visitors to the state. Often referred to as the eighth Wonder of the World, the Grotto of the Redemption comprises a series of nine grottos that illustrate scenes from the life of Jesus.
Annually, more than 100,000 visitors explore the grotto, which features approximately $4 million worth of minerals and rocks that create this extraordinary site. In 2001, the grotto was added to the National Register of Historic Places and showcases materials such as jasper, quartz, topaz, calcite, stalactites, and stalagmites.
2. Iowa River Valley
Iowa is recognized as one of the most rural regions in the United States and indeed, globally. However, this does not diminish the state’s natural splendor. The Iowa River Valley stands out as an exceptional location to experience its unrefined beauty, while the River Valley Lodge and Campground in Farmington serves as an accommodating stay for those seeking comfort. Numerous miles of untouched horse trails can be explored at a leisurely pace amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Iowa.
3. Snake Alley, Burlington
Previously acknowledged by Ripley’s Believe It or Not as the world’s most crooked road, Snake Alley in Burlington undeniably ranks among the most unique attractions in Iowa. With seven curves over a span of 275 feet, Snake Alley is illuminated by replica Victorian lampposts, preserving its distinctive historical charm. Dating back over a century, the alley was initially constructed as a shortcut to Burlington’s business area, but is now recognized as an intriguingly beautiful tourist destination.
4. Pikes Peak State Park
As one of the most photographed locations in Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park is essential for those wishing to appreciate the natural, cultural, and historical attributes of the state. The park presents stunning views of the Mississippi River from its highest point, and the awe-inspiring landscape makes the challenging ascent worthwhile.
Established as a state park in 1936, Pikes Peak encompasses nearly a thousand acres and features hiking trails and campgrounds for visitors to enjoy.
5. Des Moines
The capital of Iowa, Des Moines stands as the most populous city in the state and houses many prominent attractions. The Capitol Building is an essential site to behold impressive architecture. Additionally, notable experiences include the Iowa State Fairgrounds, Blank Park Zoo, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. The State of Iowa Historical Museum should also be included among the top places to visit in the city.
6. Black Hawk Bridge
Commonly referred to by locals as the Lansing Bridge, Black Hawk Bridge crosses the Mississippi River from Iowa into Wisconsin. Inaugurated in 1931, this bridge represents a remarkable feat of engineering with one of the more distinctive designs among bridges spanning the Mississippi. The bridge honors Chief Black Hawk of the Sauk tribe, a group involved in a notable uprising in 1832.
7. Crystal Lake Cave
Located five miles south of Dubuque, Crystal Lake Cave is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite destinations in Iowa. This impressive cave system reveals pristine stalagmites, helictites, and rare anthodites, with its operators branding it a Matchless Wonder. The outdoor pavilion at Crystal Lake Cave is ideal for casual picnicking, and the complex also offers a gift shop for visitors.
8. Interstate 80
Given that significant portions of Iowa are exceptionally rural, one of the finest methods to engage with the state’s natural essence is via its expansive roads, with Interstate 80 being a prominent route to consider.
This highway traverses the heart of the state, and travelers should not miss the opportunity to stop at Iowa 80, which is touted as the largest truck stop worldwide. This expansive truck stop features a wide array of amenities, including a 300-seat restaurant, a barber shop, a 60-seat movie theater, and an extensive food court offering various culinary delights.
9. Mississippi River, Keokuk
The Mississippi River ranks among the most stunning natural sites in the United States, and Keokuk, Iowa offers one of the best vantage points to appreciate it. The Keokuk-Hamilton Bridge stands as a beautiful crossing over the Mississippi, which borders Iowa for 300 miles.
Fishing is a favored pastime along the Mississippi River, particularly among Iowans, while Keokuk also hosts an annual American Civil War reenactment and offers attractions such as the Keokuk Veteran’s Memorial, the Miller House Museum, and the George M. Verity River Museum.
10. Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
A visit to Iowa truly would be incomplete without experiencing the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, which showcases numerous locomotives and an array of cars. The railroad presents a unique opportunity to ride in an open-air car, and the organizers frequently arrange special events, including dinner trips.
The most popular excursion on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad lasts approximately one hour and forty-five minutes, which undoubtedly ranks among the finest activities available in Iowa.
11. John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Another prominent attraction in Iowa is the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located in Des Moines. Featuring over 20 sculptures from renowned artists, this park is recognized as one of the leading destinations of its kind in the nation.
Spanning 4.4 acres, the park is accessible during city park hours, from sunrise to midnight, with guided sculpture tours offered from April to October. Visitors are prohibited from touching or climbing on the sculptures, except for Scott Burton’s exquisite piece known as Seating for Eight.
12. Downtown Pella
While Pella may not be one of the largest towns in Iowa, it undeniably offers one of the most picturesque locations within the state, particularly with its vibrant Dutch community. Pella has received accolades such as Tourism Community of the Year and Corporate Friend of Tourism, with many guests enjoying the remarkable natural beauty of Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake.
The Tulip Time festival represents an ideal occasion to visit Pella when the Dutch community showcases its heritage, while the Sinterklaas Christmas parade and the Kermis summer festival in July also merit attention. Among the top attractions in Pella are the Pella Historical Village and the Scholte House Museum and Gardens.
13. Central Iowa
Although Central Iowa is predominantly influenced by the state capital, Des Moines, there are numerous other sites to uncover in this region. A particularly enchanting location worth exploring is Ames, which was ranked as one of CNNMoney.com’s Best Places to Live. Among the highlights in Ames is the Octagon Center for the Arts, and a visit to nearby Fort Dodge is also worthwhile, particularly to see the Fort Museum and Frontier Village.
