Iowa is a state that is rich in history and culture. From amusement parks to casinos, there’s something for everyone here. Keep reading for a list of some of the best things to do in Iowa!
Things to Do in Iowa City
The University of Iowa
It was founded in 1847, making it one of the oldest universities in the United States. But what really makes it special is its beautiful campus; it’s worth taking a stroll around. The buildings are all made from limestone, and they are surrounded by gorgeous gardens filled with sculptures and works of art. There are also plenty of activities and events happening on campus throughout the year, such as sports and live music events, so it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Iowa City.
The Iowa City Public Library
The Iowa City Public Library is located in the heart of downtown Iowa City. With its grandiose architecture and beautiful surroundings, it’s a sight to behold. But the library isn’t just a pretty face: it houses an impressive collection of books and other materials for all age groups.
Things to Do in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center is located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. It’s a world-class art museum with a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works from around the world, such as Picasso, Monet, and Warhol. The museum is also home to a large collection of American art, including works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Jackson Pollock. The center also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs for all ages, and special events. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for cultural things to do in Iowa. Admission to the museum is free!
The Iowa State Capitol Building
The Iowa State Capitol building is a beautiful and iconic structure located in downtown Des Moines. It’s worth a visit for its stunning architecture and history, as well as the incredible views of the city it offers. Be sure to check out the rotunda and the murals inside, which depict important moments in Iowa’s history. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the governor or other state officials working inside the Capitol. You can join a tour of the building or explore it on your own, and there’s also a gift shop on site.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa Caves State Park is located in the northeast corner of Iowa, about an hour’s drive from Des Moines, and it’s definitely worth a visit! The park, spanning over 6,256 acres (2,541 ha) of land, is home to beautiful limestone cliffs, crystal-clear streams and rolling hills from which you can admire scenic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s also a great place for hiking, fishing and bird watching. The park also features a nature center and an amphitheater, where you can learn more about the area’s history and ecology.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax or learn more about plants, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is the perfect place for you. There are different gardens to explore, like the Japanese garden, rose garden and children’s garden. You can also attend one of the events held throughout the year, like plant sales and educational programs for those seeking things to in Iowa with children. Admission is free for members and $8 for non-members, and the garden is open every day of the week except for Christmas.
Things to Do in Cedar Rapids, IA
The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
If you’re ever in the area of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, be sure to check out the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. It’s a great place to learn about art and the artists who create it. The museum is home to a wide variety of art, from paintings and sculptures to textiles and ceramics. Plus, it has a beautiful setting on the banks of the Cedar River. The museum is also a great thing to do in Iowa with kids, as there are plenty of kid-friendly activities and exhibits. Admission is free.
The Grant Wood Studio
The Grant Wood Studio is a must-see for any art lover. This small, unassuming studio located in Eldon, IA, just a few miles outside of Cedar Rapids, was the birthplace of one of America’s most iconic paintings: American Gothic. This studio is a great place to learn about Grant Wood’s life and work. You can see the actual room where American Gothic was created, as well as many of Wood’s other famous paintings. The studio is also home to a large collection of Wood’s personal belongings, including his journals and sketches.
Other Things to Do in Iowa State
The Field of Dreams
The Field of Dreams is a baseball field in Dyersville, Iowa that was made famous by the movie of the same name, starring Kevin Costner, and preserved as a tourist destination ever since. Visitors can take a tour of the field, see the original movie set, and even play catch on the field. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the Field of Dreams is a beautiful piece of Iowa history. Admission is only $7 for adults and $4 for kids, so it’s a great thing to do in Iowa for the whole family. And, who knows, you might just catch a glimpse of a ghost player or two…
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa, is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about the history and ecology of the Mississippi River. The museum has exhibits on everything from the river’s role in transportation and commerce to its impact on the environment. There’s also a beautiful aquarium with tanks full of fish, amphibians and reptiles from the Mississippi River watershed. If you’re visiting Dubuque, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Iowa! Admission to the museum and aquarium is only $9 for adults, making it a great value for families.
The Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies are a group of historic villages that were founded in the 19th century by German immigrants fleeing religious persecution in their homeland and seeking a place where they could live and worship freely. They settled in the Iowa River Valley, where they built seven villages: Amana, East Amana, West Amana, High Amana, Middle Amana, South Amana, and Homestead. Today, the Amana Colonies are a popular tourist destination and home to a thriving community of artists, craftspeople, and farmers. The Amana Colonies offer a unique glimpse into the past, and they’re a great place to shop for traditional German goods.
Council Bluffs
The city is known for a number of casinos, making it a great destination for gamers. Council Bluffs also boasts some of the best museums in the state, including the Lewis and Clark Museum and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. It is also home to a variety of parks, including Bayliss Park and Abraham Lincoln Park. If you’re looking for things to do in Iowa, why not take a day trip to Council Bluffs?
So, Are There Any Things to Do in Iowa?
You already know the answer! Whether you go to Iowa City, Des Moines, Dubuque, Dyersville or any other city in the state, you will always find some things to do in Iowa. Enjoy your IA trip!
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