Discover Iowa's Top Attractions
Iowa, nestled in the Midwest, is a state ripe with cultural and natural attractions. From the iconic Bridges of Madison County to the bustling Iowa State Fair, there's a wealth of experiences awaiting visitors.
![Farm in Iowa](/media/iowa-farm.jpg)
Des Moines, the state's capital, is a hub for many travelers, offering a mix of government history and modern attractions. To help plan your visit, check out the top attractions in Iowa.
1. National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
![Otter](/media/Iowa-dubuque-national-mississippi-river-museum-and-aquarium-otter.jpg)
In Dubuque, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium celebrates the Mississippi River's impact with exhibits and live animals like otters and alligators. Don't miss the Mississippi River Discovery Center and the 4D Theater.
Address: 350 E 3rd Street, Dubuque, Iowa
Official site: http://www.rivermuseum.com
2. State Capitol
![The State Capitol's Law Library](/media/iowa-des-moines-state-capitol-law-library.jpg)
The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines offers stunning architecture and a glimpse into the state's history. Self-guided tours are available.
Address: 1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa
Official site: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/resources/tourCapitol
3. Iowa State Fair
![A display of farm tractors at the Iowa State Fair](/media/iowa-top-attractions-iowa-state-fair-tractors.jpg)
The Iowa State Fair is a beloved 10-day event featuring the Butter Cow sculpture, live music, and a variety of food. It's a celebration of agriculture and community.
Official site: https://www.iowastatefair.org/
4. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
![National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library](/media/iowa-cedar-rapids-national-czech-and-slovak-museum-and-library-full-view.jpg)
This Cedar Rapids museum honors Czech & Slovak heritage through exhibits and events, promoting understanding of freedom and history.
Address: 1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Official site: http://www.ncsml.org
5. Maquoketa Caves State Park
![Maquoketa Caves State Park](/media/iowa-maquoketa-caves-state-park-cave-sign.jpg)
Explore the underground wonders of Maquoketa Caves State Park, with its numerous caves and hiking trails.
Address: 10970 98th Street, Maquoketa, Iowa
Official site: http://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/ParkDetails/ParkID/610127
6. University of Iowa Campus, Iowa City
![Old State Capitol, University of Iowa](/media/iowa-top-attractions-university-iowa-campus-iowa-city.jpg)
The University of Iowa in Iowa City is known for its Writers' Workshop and sports venues, contributing to the city's UNESCO City of Literature status.
7. Amana Colonies
![Amana Colonies](/media/iowa-amana-colonies.jpg)
The Amana Colonies offer a glimpse into 19th-century communal living with shops, dining, and festivals celebrating German heritage.
Address: 622 46th Ave, Amana, Iowa
Official site: http://www.amanacolonies.com/
8. RAGBRAI
![RAGBRAI](/media/iowa-ragbrai-bike-riders.jpg)
RAGBRAI is a week-long, non-competitive bike race across Iowa, featuring community celebrations and a showcase of Midwestern culture.
Official site: http://ragbrai.com/
9. The Bridges of Madison County
![Roseman Bridge, Winterset, Iowa](/media/Iowa-madison-county-the-bridges-of-madison-county-roseman-bridge.jpg)
Explore the scenic covered bridges of Madison County, which inspired a novel and film, and enjoy the local culture of Winterset.
10. Des Moines Art Center
![Des Moines Art Center paintings](/media/iowa-des-moines-des-moines-art-center-interior-exhibit.jpg)
The Des Moines Art Center showcases a diverse art collection, and the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park features iconic installations.
Address: 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa
Official site: http://www.desmoinesartcenter.org/
11. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
![Herbert Hoover National Historic Site](/media/iowa-top-attractions-herbert-hoover-national-historic-site-flowers.jpg)
Visit the birthplace and Presidential Library of Herbert Hoover in West Branch, celebrating the life of the 31st President.
Address: 210 Parkside Drive, West Branch, Iowa
Official site: https://www.nps.gov/heho/index.htm
12. American Gothic House
![American Gothic House](/media/iowa-top-attractions-american-gothic-house.jpg)
See the house from Grant Wood's famous painting "American Gothic" and learn about the artist at the adjacent center in Eldon.
Address: 300 American Gothic Street, Eldon, Iowa
Official site: http://www.americangothichouse.net/
13. Field of Dreams Movie Site
![Field of Dreams](/media/iowa-top-attractions-field-dreams-movie-site.jpg)
Visit the iconic Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and baseball nostalgia.
Address: 28995 Lansing Road, Dyersville, Iowa
Official site: http://fieldofdreamsmoviesite.com/
14. Grotto of the Redemption
![Lower Arcade at the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa](/media/iowa-top-attractions-grotto-of-the-redemption-blue-sky.jpg)
The Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend is a stunning collection of nine grottos made from precious stones, open to visitors year-round.
Address: 300 N Broadway Ave, West Bend, Iowa
Official site: http://www.westbendgrotto.com/
More Related Articles on tripates.com
![image](/media/iowa-des-moines-state-capitol-building.jpg)
More Places to Visit in Iowa: Explore the capital city of Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and top weekend getaways in Iowa.