Introduction
If you’re reading this, I’m so glad—you’re about to join me on a little journey through one of America’s most underrated travel gems: the state of Iowa. I’ll confess—I didn’t expect much when I first planned to visit. But as soon as I rolled into the rolling cornfields, small-town diners, sweeping river bluffs and quirky roadside attractions, I was smitten. Iowa has a warmth and authenticity that you don’t always find in the big tourist hubs. It invites you to slow down, explore the unexpected, and enjoy the kind of unpretentious beauty that sticks with you.
So here are 12 things to do & places to visit in Iowa—in no particular order—each offering its own slice of the Hawkeye State’s character. Whether you’re into nature, culture, history, or just good food and a scenic drive, there’s something here for you.
12 Things To Do & Places To Visit In Iowa (2026)
1. Amana Colonies
Located in eastern Iowa, the Amana Colonies are a group of seven villages established by German Pietists in the mid-19th century. It’s a wonderful blending of preserved history, charming architecture, traditional craft, food and a slower pace of life. I found the villages more peaceful than you’d expect—shops and eateries tucked in historic buildings, lots of woodwork and folk tradition around you, and plenty of opportunity to bike or walk the countryside around the villages.
Tip: Stay overnight if you can—it makes the experience richer when you’re not just coming and going. Eat at one of the old German-style eateries, explore the artisan stores, and time your visit to overlap one of the local festivals if possible.
See Also: 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Dayton, OH
2. Maquoketa Caves State Park
If you love nature, caves, unexpected landscapes, this place will surprise you. The Maquoketa Caves State Park has limestone caves, interesting rock formations, hiking trails and a sense of adventure. I remember climbing into one of the caves and being struck by how wild and beautiful the setting was—it felt a world apart from the usual flat-Midwest vista.
Tip: Wear shoes that have decent grip (some rocks are slippery). Map out a lighter trail and a harder one so you’ll still have energy left for lunch or a scenic stop later in the day.
3. Pikes Peak State Park
Perched atop bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, this park delivers sweeping views, great for a road-trip stop or a longer hike. According to travel guides, you can even catch a boardwalk to see Bridal Veil Falls, view Native American mounds, and absorb the outdoors in a dramatic way. When I arrived, the view of the river snaking below the bluff made me pause—sometimes the best stops are the ones you didn’t plan too rigidly.
Tip: Go early in the morning or closer to sunset for golden light. Also check trail conditions—some parts may be rougher depending on seasons.
4. Effigy Mounds National Monument
This is one of the more spiritually and visually powerful places I visited. The Effigy Mounds are prehistoric earthworks in the shapes of animals, carved into the landscape by ancient Native cultures—set in high bluffs above the Mississippi. I felt a real quiet reverence walking those trails, looking out over the river valley.
Tip: Bring water, wear good walking shoes, and take your time. It’s not just about ticking off a site—it’s about connecting with the place and its history.
5. John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park (in Des Moines)
When you’re in the state capital, take a moment to stop by this remarkable outdoor sculpture park. With more than 20 major sculptural works by noted artists, it turns a city park into an art destination. I loved the way a stroll through the park felt unexpectedly inspiring—urban and creative, yet still relaxed.
Tip: Pair this with a visit to downtown Des Moines for dinner or a show. The sculpture park is a perfect “pause” in an urban day.
6. The Bridges of Madison County
Inspired by the novel and movie, these picturesque covered bridges in Madison County are more than tourist gimmicks—they’re quiet, lovely slices of rural Iowa charm. I drove a few of the back roads just to see them, and there was a special pleasure in the simplicity: wooden bridge, shimmering river or creek beneath, maybe golden leaves overhead.
Tip: Visit in fall if you can for the foliage. And take a picnic so you’re not constrained by schedules.
7. Grotto of the Redemption (in West Bend)
This is one of the quirkier, more memorable stops: a man-made shrine built over decades by a pastor, made up of nine grottos and loaded with gems and stones. It’s often described as “the Eighth Wonder of the World.” It left me smiling and slightly awed—just the kind of place you’ll talk about later and say, “You should’ve seen that!”
Tip: Allow a little extra time here. It’s off the beaten path, so plan your drive accordingly and make sure to check hours or any visitor notices.
8. Reiman Gardens (in Ames)
For a peaceful, beautiful indoor-outdoor experience, the Reiman Gardens near Ames deliver. With 17 acres of gardens, indoor conservatory, butterfly wing and seasonal events it’s a lovely stop. On a rainy afternoon I found it a perfect refuge—cottages, flowers, the quiet hum of nature even inside a small conservatory.
Tip: Check for seasonal hours and whether special exhibits are running. It might be more interesting if you time it right.
9. Iowa State Fair (in Des Moines)
If you’re visiting in August or want a quintessential “Iowa” experience, the Iowa State Fair is hard to beat. It’s big, vibrant, filled with foods on a stick, exhibitions, animals, music and more. I went once and simply soaked in the atmosphere—bright lights, folks from all around the state, and a kind of celebratory feel that made me glad I caught that trip.
Tip: Go early in the day to beat some of the crowds and heat, and plan for transportation ahead (parking can get tricky).
10. Decorah & Decorah Ice Cave State Preserve
Heading up into northeast Iowa, Decorah is a gem. The small city has Scandinavian roots, lovely hillside views, and nearby you’ll find the Decorah Ice Cave State Preserve—a cave that can hold ice into late summer in some conditions. I spent a morning wandering Decorah’s streets, sipping coffee, then pushed out to the ice cave and felt like I’d found a secret natural hide-away.
Tip: If you’re into craft beer, local breweries are popping up here. Also consider staying overnight to fully enjoy the ambiance of this quieter region.
11. Loess Hills (western Iowa)
Often overlooked, the Loess Hills in western Iowa are striking. Wind-deposited hills, unique terrain, beautiful views, great for hiking, bird-watching or just getting away from the usual flat landscape. When I drove through, the light and terrain felt completely different—rolling, ridged, layered with history and nature.
Tip: Take the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway for a relaxed drive, stop at picnic points, and allow time for photography or simply reflection.
12. Iowa Arboretum & Gardens (in Madrid)
Last but not least: a quieter, less tourist-heavy place but one I found deeply relaxing. The Arboretum & Gardens in Madrid covers 170 acres, features woodland trails, specialty gardens, treehouse village experiences and more. If you have some free time and want to unwind in nature—this is it.
Tip: Great for families or for a slower pace afternoon. Pack a snack, bring a book, enjoy a walk.
Final Thoughts
Iowa surprised me in the best ways. From farmland vistas to bluff-top panoramas, from historic German settlements to quirky gems like the Grotto of the Redemption, the state offers a patchwork of experiences that feel real, un-filtered, and charming. If you go planning only big cities and blockbuster attractions, you might miss the soul of Iowa—but if you go ready to explore, to slow down, to let the places sink in—you’ll find something special.
Here are a few things I learned and want you to keep in mind:
- Plan for a road trip mindset. Many of the best stops are rural, off-the-main-highway, and are best appreciated when you take your time.
- Wear layers and comfortable shoes. Whether cave-hopping, bluff-hiking or wandering small towns, the terrain and weather will vary.
- Mix nature + culture. Part of Iowa’s appeal is that you can go from a cave to a brewery, from a covered bridge to a sculpture park in a single day.
- Be open to surprises. Some of my favorite moments on the trip were unplanned: a side trail, a small town diner, a view I hadn’t expected.
- Visit outside peak season if possible. Spring and fall can offer more serenity and richer colors (especially the bluffs and hills in autumn).
- Bring your appetite. Iowa may not pop up first when you think culinary destination, but the traditional eateries, local artisans, and state fair treats are worth it.
So if you’re thinking of visiting Iowa—or perhaps giving it a second look—I hope this list gives you a good starting point. And if you go, drop me a note afterward—I’d love to hear what you ended up loving (and any hidden gems you discovered). Safe travels—and enjoy discovering Iowa’s quiet power and friendly charm.