Iowa Travel Guide: Explore the Best Parks, Historic Sites, and Hidden Gems
Explore Iowa with this Roam Your Home travel guide. Discover rolling countryside parks, historic bridges, museums, charming river towns, and hidden gems across the Hawkeye State.
Discover Places to Explore
Looking for more places to explore? Browse all of our Roam Your Home articles about Iowa, including state parks, historic sites, small towns, and unique roadside stops. From scenic river valleys to charming Main Streets, discover some of the best things to do in Iowa.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
From limestone bluffs and scenic river valleys to peaceful prairie parks, Iowa’s parks showcase the quiet natural beauty of the Midwest. Our featured Iowa park highlights one of the state’s best outdoor destinations.
Buffalo Bill Cody’s Homestead
Iowa’s historic landmarks showcase early pioneer settlements, agricultural traditions, and influential cultural sites. Our featured Iowa historic site explores one destination that captures the spirit of the Hawkeye State’s past.
Best National Parks in Iowa
Top 5 Iowa State Parks
- Maquoketa Caves State Park
- Ledges State Park
- Pikes Peak State Park
- Backbone State Park
- Fort Atkinson State Preserve
Top 5 Iowa Museums
- Des Moines Art Center
- Figge Art Museum in Davenport
- National Mississippi River Museum in Dubuque
- State Historical Museum of Iowa in Des Moines
- National Czech & Slovak Museum in Cedar Rapids
Know Before You Roam: Iowa Quick Facts
- Largest City: Des Moines
- High Point (Rank): Hawkeye Point 1,670 (42)
- Lowest Elevation: Mississippi and Des Moines Rivers Confluence: 480 ft
- State Nickname: “Hawkeye State”
- State Flower: Wild Prairie Rose
- State Tree: Bur Oak
- State Bird: American Goldfinch
- State Fish: Channel Catfish
Explore Iowa on the Roam Your Home Travel Map
Discover Iowa through the Roam Your Home map.
Each marker leads to one of our articles highlighting parks, historic landmarks, museums, and unique roadside stops. Click a pin to learn the story and start mapping your Iowa journey.