Tourist Destinations World Travel Guides
Rural charm and small-town feel is what Iowa exhibits, factors that never fail to attract travelers longing for a relaxed and laid-back holiday. Sitting in the mid-west portion of the United States, what welcomes visitors in Iowa is the warm hospitality of its people, a trait that is admired by tourists around the globe.
Visiting Iowa is synonymous to an awesome adventure, where every turn solicits admiration and amazement. The scenic roadways lead to nostalgic spots defined by heritage homestead, quaint villages, and historic museums. Amana Colonies is an important tourist spot and is a proud member of the National Historic Landmark. Here is where visitors can get in touch with Iowa’s past, as they witness pre-historic materials used in putting up cedar, sandstone and brick homes.
The rich and fertile soil of Iowa permitted it to be one of the country’s top wine producers, while the rest of the natural treasures comprised of Iowa Great Lakes crossing in Okoboji in Dickson County. Okoboji, due to the world-class resorts found in the borders of the majestic lake, has become a prime tourist spot that invites water-lovers most especially during summer. Apart from water-related happenings, Okoboji is a place for shopping, golfing, and exploring historic sites and museums.
For kids, nothing is more special than spending the entire day in Lost Island Waterpark. Situated in Waterloo, it is the state’s biggest waterpark that plays host to a full array of water attractions and rides such as Kiwi Koaster, Tangerine Tempest tube ride, and Molokini Crater. To add excitement to their Iowa visit, Blank Park Zoo is an excellent idea as well. About 1,500 animals call this 49-acre attraction their home, and the little ones just cannot get enough of the opportunity to be up-close to California Sea Lion, Harbor Seal, Red Panda, Black-headed Heron, Golden Headed Tamarin, Egyptian Fruit Bat and Two-toed Sloth. Apart from these rare animals, children draw thrill in carousel and train rides, camel experience, penguin live show, and a lot more. And for an added learning, head to The Des Moines Botanical Center, a 14 acres property housing a geodesic dome filled with tropical and sub-tropical plants that changes its exhibit every quarter.
The energy of Iowa comes from the different events that it celebrates all year through. The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa or RAGBRAI is one of the grandest affairs of the state, an event that gathers thousands upon thousands of cycling enthusiasts in the entire USA. The State Fair, considered the nation’s biggest state fair, also invites visitors from near and far.
Iowa never fails to surprise visitors, the reason why this region has become a prime tourist destination. For families or individuals who wish to experience a different kind of a getaway, a slow-paced yet fulfilling one, Iowa is the place that fulfills it.
