Iowa Travel Guide

Nestled between Mississippi and Missouri, Iowa is a delightful US travel destination. The state capital of Des Moines makes a perfect spot for an alternative weekend break in a historic, culturally rich city, while a wider exploration of the state enables travelers to enjoy incredible natural scenery and national parks.

Things to Do in Iowa

Des Moines offers plenty of excellent shopping, dining and nightlife options. The city is also home to a host of stunning parks and green open spaces. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a fragrant stroll through beautiful flower gardens with influences from around the world. Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a nice place to enjoy a picnic or a walk amid unique and quirky contemporary art installations and sculptures that are scattered through its grounds. Outside of Des Moines, Iowa has a lot of wonderful natural attractions. Hiking enthusiasts will love trekking through the Maquoketa Caves State Park, and the Effigy Mounds National Monument. The latter of the two contains a lot of archaeological exhibits and museums about Native American history in the area.

Best Places to Stay in Iowa

Des Moines is a great place to base yourself in Iowa, but feel free to visit any of the bucolic towns scattered throughout the state en route to discovering the underrated beauty of Iowa.

Best Time to Visit Iowa

Iowa can be enjoyed all year round, though Spring, Summer and Fall are the best options for hiking and being outdoors.