This state would possibly lack some show-stopping sights, however it makes up for it with unspoiled landscapes, charming rural cities, rolling hills, and large blue skies. From my highway journey exploring this underrated state, listed below are my favourite spots to share…
1. Lake Okoboji
It is a beautiful leisure lake! This standard trip vacation spot by no means fails to attraction me, it’s crammed with shimmering waters, sandy seashores, elegant sunsets, and lovely landscapes. It takes it identify from the Dakota Sioux phrase which means ‘place of relaxation’ and holds the title of Iowa’s deepest pure lake.
I started my Iowa highway journey within the northwest at Lake Okoboji, a beautiful place to calm down lakeside earlier than heading east. I spent three days right here stress-free in a cute lakeside cottage, having fun with complimentary sailboat rides and water-skiing classes, boating and swimming within the clear waters, lounging on sandy seashores, climbing and biking fairly trails, having family-friendly enjoyable at Arnolds Park Amusement Park, and eating at lakeside eating places.
- Location: Dickinson County within the Iowa Nice Lakes area of northwest Iowa
- Location Map
- Finest time to go to: summer time
My favourite highlights…
- Staying on the Fillenwarth Seashore Resort – I beloved staying in a rustic-chic personal cottage and I assumed the indoor and out of doors swimming pools and the free Solar Runner Cruises had been an ideal addition!
2. Pella
It is a splendidly distinctive Dutch-inspired gem! This historic city is crammed with colourful tulip gardens, engaging Dutch-inspired structure, and picturesque windmills that made me really feel like I had stepped right into a storybook! This quaint city was based by Dutch immigrants in 1847 and is legendary for its annual Tulip Time Competition held every Might.
From Lake Okoboji, I drove 4 hours southeast throughout the state to the Dutch-inspired city of Pella for windmills, tulips, and pastries.
I spent a day right here visiting the spectacular Vermeer Windmill, admiring the attractive tulip gardens, strolling by means of the Dutch-inspired Pella Historic Village, gorging on Dutch pastries at Jaarsma Bakery, exploring the fascinating Scholte Home Museum and Gardens, searching the charming downtown boutiques, after which going kayaking at sundown at close by Lake Pink Rock.
- Location: central a part of the state
- Location Map
- Finest time to go to: spring when all of the flowers begin to bloom
My private highlights…
- The heavenly Dutch-inspired treats within the super-cute Jaarsma Bakery – I couldn’t get sufficient of the Apple Bread and Almond Bankets!
3. Dunnings Spring Park
I head to this tranquil spot every time I would like to seek out my zen! With its beautiful 200-foot waterfall tumbling right into a lush, inexperienced oasis and an abundance of engaging trails, it looks like a pure sanctuary to me, and I can’t get sufficient of its magical, tucked-away vibe.
From Pella, I headed 3 hours northeast to Decorah to hike and I stayed within the city (which I assumed was very easy-on-the-eye itself!) and spent a blissful day right here. I gazed on the breathtaking waterfall which was simply reached by way of a brief boardwalk path from the automobile park, admired the stone arch bridge which was crafted by a standard native stonemason and hiked the difficult two mile Higher Ice Cave Hill Path.
- Location: Decorah, within the northeastern nook of the state, it’s a part of a mixed space with Ice Cave Hill Park
- Location Map
- Dimension: over 115 acres
My private highlights…
- Staying on the splendidly distinctive Bluffside Gardens – I beloved the way it mixed trendy lodging with thoughtfully designed horticultural areas, I particularly beloved the courtyard crammed with fairly rhododendrons and hydrangeas!
- Having a picnic on the designated tables and benches situated close to the waterfall – consuming lunch whereas listening to the sounds of cascading water was a beautiful expertise!
- Mountaineering the steep path to the suitable of the stone bridge (the Dunning’s Spring Connector) which result in a scenic overlook providing panoramic views of the realm – I may see Decorah’s rolling hills, historic forests, and the picturesque Higher Iowa River winding by means of the panorama!
4. Dubuque
This historic riverfront metropolis by no means fails to attraction me! It’s a beautiful spot with sweeping river views, charming historic buildings, and the proper mix of historical past, nature, and a energetic vibe – really one among my favourite gems alongside the Mississippi!
It started as a small lead mining city – the oldest metropolis within the state – however has since grown right into a vibrant port metropolis with incredible out of doors areas and leisure trails.
From Decorah, I drove 2 hours south alongside the Mississippi River to historic Dubuque, Iowa’s oldest metropolis, the place I stayed for 2 days and that was sufficient to trip the historic Fenelon Place Elevator and take within the epic river views, stroll alongside the engaging riverwalk, hike the paths on the scenic Mines of Spain Recreation Space and go to the charming downtown retailers and eateries.
- Location: Mississippi River within the jap a part of the state, on the border of Wisconsin and Illinois
- Location Map
- Finest time to go to: all 12 months spherical
My highlights…
- Staying on the characterful and comfy The Richards Home – I beloved the classic decor, the 4 poster mattress and the intimate romantic vibe which made it an ideal selection for {couples} on a weekend break!
5. River Bluffs Scenic Byway
I assumed this is likely one of the most scenic drives within the state! I completely adore the surroundings alongside this excellent 109-mile route, with its limestone bluffs, rolling hills, and the winding Mississippi River, all superbly framed by charming small cities and countless picturesque landscapes.
From Dubuque, I set out on the River Bluffs Scenic Byway — a 109-mile drive by means of limestone bluffs, river valleys, and quaint cities, which took me a full day with stops alongside the way in which.
I additionally visited the cities of Guttenberg, with its historic downtown, and McGregor, recognized for its vintage retailers and charming cafes. Alongside the way in which, I explored historic websites like Motor Mill and Effigy Mounds and walked the scenic trails in Pikes Peak State Park.
- Location: northeastern a part of the state, this route stretches by means of Clayton and Fayette counties
- Location Map
- Finest time to go to: spring to fall
My private highlights…
- Stopping off on the Guttenberg Metropolis Overlook – I actually beloved the sweeping views of the Mississippi River, its islands, and the Lock and Dam No. 10 system!
6. Amana Colonies
That is quaint and distinctive family-friendly attraction! I personally assume it’s a picturesque place, crammed with charming historic villages, well-preserved Nineteenth-century structure, and vibrant flower gardens, all nestled inside rolling inexperienced hills. I like the timeless, community-focused ambiance that made me really feel like I used to be stepping again into an easier, extra peaceable period.
Based in 1855 by German immigrants – at the moment are a Nationwide Historic Landmark. The positioning options seven remarkably well-preserved historic villages.
From the Byway, I drove 2.5 hours southwest to the Amana Colonies, a Nationwide Historic Landmark crammed with charming villages and German heritage, the place I lingered for a day and evening.
I spent a full day right here exploring the fascinating historic buildings and museums, savoring scrumptious German delicacies and regionally brewed beer, purchasing for handcrafted items like classic furnishings and do-it-yourself quilts, strolling by means of lovely gardens, and even attending a basketry workshop!
- Location: about 20 miles southwest of Cedar Rapids within the east-central a part of the state
- Location Map
- Dimension: round 26,000 acres
- Finest time to go to: all 12 months spherical, Winterfest in is January
My highlights…
- Afterwards stopping by the family-run Fireplace Vineyard in Marengo which was simply seven miles away from the Amana Colonies – I used to be completely charmed by the big wine bottle sculpture, the welcoming tasting rooms, the gorgeous vine-covered veranda and their award-winning white wine, Storyteller!
7. Effigy Mounds Nationwide Monument
That is such a sacred and historic spot! It’s each a surprising magnificence spot and a protected web site, that includes breathtaking river valley views and over 200 prehistoric mounds constructed by Native American tribes. I additionally love the peaceable and reflective vibe it exudes.
Established in 1949, the positioning preserves mounds initially constructed by Native American tribes as sacred and ceremonial websites, a few of that are uniquely formed like animals reminiscent of bears and birds.
From Amana, I drove 2.5 hours northeast again towards the Mississippi River and I spent a lunchtime and afternoon right here climbing the Fireplace Level Loop Path (there have been seven major climbing trails in complete to select from), marveling on the historic mounds, taking in breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and studying about Native American tradition within the customer heart, which additionally had some superior historic Indian artefacts on show!
My highlights…
- Mountaineering the reasonably difficult 1.7-mile Fireplace Level Loop Path which took me 1.5 hours to finish – it took me over some steep inclines and uneven terrain however I beloved seeing the bear effigy mound, a number of conical mounds, and two beautiful overlooks with had excellent views of the mighty Mississippi River!
8. The Loess Hills Path Highway
I like this spot for spectacular views! This scenic byway took me on a panoramic journey by means of rolling hills, lush prairies, and the distinctive, windblown loess soil formations that outline the panorama.
Together with driving, I found loads of alternatives for climbing and biking, with quite a few trails, parks, and nature preserves alongside the way in which.
From Effigy Mounds, I made the lengthy 5-hour journey west throughout the state to drive the spectacular Loess Hills Path Highway close to the Missouri River, spending a full day on the scenic route.
I drove the highway over two full days, making a number of stops to soak up the breathtaking views of the distinctive rolling hills and staying in a single day midway in Missouri Valley. Alongside the way in which, I hiked the paths at Preparation Canyon State Park, explored the charming small city of Glenwood with its historic structure and comfy retailers, and visited Onawa, which was crammed with quaint and attention-grabbing boutiques.
- Location: western a part of the state, it runs parallel to the Missouri River from Sioux Metropolis within the north to Hamburg within the south
- Location Map
- Dimension: over 200 miles
My favourite highlights…
- Discovering the beautiful Loess Hills Lavender Farm – I beloved the very potent aroma it had, the beautiful Insta-worthy blooms and the lovable craft retailer the place I purchased lavender-infused tub oil!
9. State Capitol Constructing
I feel this effective and attention-grabbing attraction is unquestionably price a go to! It’s an extremely interesting place, with its majestic 23-karat gold-covered central dome, intricate interiors that includes ornate woodwork, marble flooring, and historic murals, and timeless structure that make it a surprising centerpiece. To me, it looks like entering into a chunk of dwelling historical past!
Accomplished in 1886 and stands as the one five-domed capitol constructing within the U.S. Its placing design ranks it among the many most opulent state buildings within the nation!
From the Loess Hills, I drove 2 hours east to Des Moines to tour the grand gold-domed State Capitol, the place I spent a day exploring alone (although guided excursions had been additionally out there at no further cost) and admired the beautiful dome, wandered by means of the grand legislative chambers, and strolled the lofty corridors. I marveled on the gold leaf gilding, the grand spiral staircase, intricate woodwork, and marble flooring, took in historic murals and displays, and loved panoramic views of Des Moines from the grounds!
- Location: Des Moines, within the central a part of the state barely to the south
- Location Map
- Finest time to go to: Saturday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm
My private highlights…
- Seeing the attention-grabbing First Woman Doll Assortment which was displayed within the south corridor – it was nice to see the distinctive porcelain dolls representing all Iowa’s First Women wearing miniature replicas of their inaugural robes, the Governor Kim Reynolds doll was my favourite!
10. Pikes Peak State Park
It is a splendidly serene hidden gem! I’m an enormous fan of the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley, with its lush woodlands and dramatic bluffs making a picture-perfect pure escape.
From Des Moines, I drove 3.5 hours northeast to Pikes Peak State Park close to McGregor, overlooking the Mississippi River Valley, the place I spent a beautiful day right here and hiked the picturesque boardwalk path to see the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls (there have been 11 miles of climbing in complete), loved breathtaking views of the Mississippi River from the overlooks and explored the luxurious woodlands and bluffs.
- Location: northeastern a part of the state close to McGregor
- Location Map
- Wildlife: bald eagles, white-tailed deer, foxes, songbirds, turtles, and colourful butterflies.
My private highlights…
- Additionally climbing the quick and simple Level Ann Path which was a 1.5 mile spherical journey beginning close to the principle parking space and took me solely 45 minutes – it lead me to a surprising overlook the place I spent ages gazing at panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley!
11. Herbert Hoover Nationwide Historic Website
I feel this can be a very attention-grabbing historic vacationer attraction! It’s a beautiful and peaceable spot, that includes charming historic buildings and picturesque landscapes that superbly replicate the common-or-garden beginnings of America’s thirty first president.
It preserves the late Nineteenth-century birthplace, childhood residence, and gravesite of Herbert Hoover, the thirty first President of the US. The positioning additionally encompasses a reconstructed Quaker meetinghouse, a well-preserved schoolhouse, prairieland, and strolling trails. From Pikes Peak, I drove 2.5 hours southwest to probe for a day.
Admission was free, and I spent a number of hours exploring the easy two-bedroom cottage, visiting the blacksmith store and Quaker meetinghouse, strolling by means of the reconstructed tallgrass prairie, touring the presidential library and museum (which price $10 for entry), and paying my respects on the gravesite of Herbert and Lou Hoover – all whereas studying about his exceptional life and legacy.
My favourite highlights…
- Stopping by The Vigorous Restaurant for dinner afterwards which was situated within the city of West Department – I beloved the fashionable decor, the community-focused pleasant vibe and their divine French toast sticks and Expresso Martinis!
12. Lake Macbride State Park
I feel this is likely one of the most alluring park’s within the state! I like the sprawling lake, serene woodlands, seasonal waterfall, and scenic climbing trails that come collectively to create a tranquil, tucked-away oasis I can by no means get sufficient of.
From West Department, it was only a 30-minute drive west and I stayed for 3 days tenting within the trendy, well-equipped campground situated within the northern unit. I hike the attractive trails – there have been 7 miles of multi-use paths in complete – go paddleboarding on the sprawling lake, calm down on the sandy seashore, and marvel on the gushing seasonal waterfalls.
- Location: jap a part of the state close to the city of Solon
- Location Map
- Dimension: roughly 2,180 acres
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, raccoons, turtles, frogs, waterfowl, and bald eagles
My highlights…
- Wading within the shallow waters close to the waterfall spillway after a protracted day’s climbing – it was pure bliss!
13. Beulah Falls 
I’m alway in awe of this tranquil hidden gem! This picturesque waterfall options cascading waters tumbling over 20 toes of moss-covered, craggy rocks, all surrounded by lush inexperienced landscapes – my go-to spot for stress-free and connecting with nature!
From Lake Macbride, I drove 2.5 hours northeast alongside scenic backroads to Clayton County to see Beulah Falls, which I visited for a day cease. It was conveniently situated simply inside the doorway of Spook Cave Campground (which lies on the principle highway) and I took the time to soak up the pure magnificence spot and luxuriate in a number of moments of quiet zen-like reflection! Only a tip – this seasonal waterfall is finest seen within the spring or after heavy rains!
- Location: Clayton County close to McGregor within the northeastern a part of the state
- Location Map
- Finest time to go to: Late April to Early June is when it’s most swollen.
My highlights…
- Staying till sundown on the Spook Cave Campground and seeing the sky bursting into shades of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting completely on the peaceable lake – it was a very dreamy finish to the day!
14. Ledges State Park
That is standard pure paradise! I’m all the time captivated by the towering sandstone bluffs, picturesque climbing trails, and serene creek crossings—I like the way it feels each tranquil and adventurous!
From Beulah Falls, I drove 3 hours southwest to Ledges State Park close to Boone for sandstone bluffs and creek crossings, spending two day tenting in a single day within the campground and exploring the spectacular Canyon Highway and Desk Rock Loop (one among 10 climbing trails to select from), wading by means of peaceable creek crossings, kayaking on the Des Moines River, taking in breathtaking views from the Inspiration Level overlook, and having fun with picnics within the picturesque shaded areas.
- Location: central a part of the state close to Boone
- Location Map
- Dimension: round 1,200 acres
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, raccoons, and beavers
My highlights…
- Rock hopping on Pea’s Creek on a sizzling summer time’s day – it was superior having the ability to traverse from one facet to the opposite with out getting moist, all whereas surrounded by the park’s beautiful sandstone cliffs!
15. Waubonsie State Park
This expansive hilly spot all the time wows me! I’m an enormous fan of its sweeping Loess Hills, with their breathtaking panoramic views, rolling prairies, serene woodlands, and vibrant wildflowers – it feels each peaceable and awe-inspiring on the identical time!
From Ledges, I drove 3.5 hours south to Waubonsie State Park close to Hamburg, the place the Loess Hills meet sweeping Missouri River Valley views, staying for 2 day tenting within the well-equipped trendy campground and climbing the breathtaking Sundown Ridge Path (one among 11 miles of trails to discover). I additionally get pleasure from mountain biking on the difficult Waubonsie Horse Path, boating on the serene 7-acre Lake Virginia, and soaking within the panoramic views of the Missouri River Valley.
- Location: Loess Hills in southwest Iowa, close to the city of Hamburg in Fremont County
- Location Map
- Dimension: roughly 1,990 acres
My favourite highlights…
- The Sundown Ridge Nature Path which was a straightforward awe-inspiring 2-mile loop which took me an hour to finish – the sweeping vistas of the Missouri River Valley from the ridgetops and distinctive “cat-step” terraces had been simply divine!
16. Crystal Lake Cave
I assumed this was a really attention-grabbing pure attraction! I actually loved the mesmerizing underground world, with its intricate formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and glowing crystal deposits – it really felt otherworldly to me!
Iowa’s longest dwelling cave, estimated to be over 2 million years previous, with ongoing formations created by pure limestone erosion and mineral deposition over millennia.
From Waubonsie, I wrapped up my loop with a protracted 5-hour drive northeast again to Dubuque to tour the fascinating Crystal Lake Cave, which I explored for a number of hours earlier than ending my journey.
I paid the $20 entrance charge and went on a captivating 45-minute guided tour by means of the intricate underground passageways whereas studying in regards to the cave’s wealthy geological historical past on the identical time!
- Location: Dubuque within the northeastern a part of the state
- Location Map
- Dimension: spans round 3,000 toes (not all areas are open to the general public)
My private highlights…
- Studying on the tour about the way it was found by 1868 by the miner James Rice whereas he trying to find lead and the way it was initially accessed by way of a 45-foot shaft.
