Map Of Southern Iowa Travel Guide
Introduction
Southern Iowa is a beautiful region with a diverse range of attractions and experiences to offer visitors. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, this region has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
The top attractions in Southern Iowa include the Amana Colonies, the Bridges of Madison County, the National Balloon Museum and Hall of Fame, and the Iowa State Fair. The Amana Colonies are a group of seven villages that were founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. They offer visitors a glimpse into the past with their historic architecture and traditional crafts. The Bridges of Madison County are famous for their covered bridges, which were made famous by the book and movie of the same name. The National Balloon Museum and Hall of Fame is located in Indianola and is home to a collection of hot air balloons and artifacts related to the sport. The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and oldest state fairs in the country and offers a wide range of entertainment, food, and attractions.
Hidden Gems
One of the hidden gems in Southern Iowa is the Villisca Axe Murder House. This historic home in Villisca is the site of a gruesome murder that took place in 1912, and it is said to be haunted. Another hidden gem is the American Gothic House in Eldon, which is the home that inspired the famous painting by Grant Wood. Visitors can tour the home and see the painting up close. The Pella Tulip Time Festival is another hidden gem. This annual event in Pella features a parade, street vendors, and thousands of tulips in bloom.
Food Scene
The food scene in Southern Iowa is diverse and delicious. Some of the must-try dishes include sweet corn on the cob, Maid-Rites (a loose meat sandwich), and Dutch pastries like stroopwafels and poffertjes. Another must-visit spot is the Danish Inn in Elk Horn, which serves traditional Danish cuisine like frikadeller (meatballs) and flæskesteg (roast pork).
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visitors to Southern Iowa can save money by taking advantage of free attractions like the John Wayne Birthplace Museum in Winterset or the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum in Knoxville. Another budget-friendly tip is to pack a picnic and enjoy one of the many parks and natural areas in the region. The Maquoketa Caves State Park and the Ledges State Park are both popular spots for hiking and picnicking.
Outdoor Adventures
Southern Iowa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, and camp in the many state parks and natural areas in the region. Some of the best spots for outdoor adventures include the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and Lake Red Rock.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Southern Iowa. The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines is a popular spot for families, as is Adventureland amusement park. The Science Center of Iowa and the Iowa Children’s Museum are also great options for kids.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
One off-the-beaten-path experience in Southern Iowa is the American Gothic House in Eldon. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home and see the famous painting up close. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend. This massive stone structure was built by a Catholic priest and features intricate mosaics and sculptures.
Natural Wonders
Southern Iowa is home to many natural wonders, including the Maquoketa Caves State Park, the Ledges State Park, and the Effigy Mounds National Monument. The Maquoketa Caves State Park features a series of underground caves that visitors can explore, while the Ledges State Park offers stunning views of the Des Moines River Valley. The Effigy Mounds National Monument is home to more than 200 prehistoric mounds and is a sacred site for many Native American tribes.
Vibrant Nightlife
The nightlife in Southern Iowa is vibrant and varied. Visitors can enjoy live music and craft beer at local breweries like Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. in Decorah or Peace Tree Brewing Co. in Knoxville. The Des Moines Social Club is another popular spot for nightlife, with its art exhibits, live performances, and rooftop bar.
Local Markets
There are many local markets in Southern Iowa where visitors can shop for fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. The Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market is one of the largest and most popular markets in the region, featuring more than 300 vendors. The Amana Colonies Farmers’ Market is another great option, with its handmade crafts and traditional foods.
Beaches and Mountains
Southern Iowa may not have beaches or mountains, but it does have plenty of natural beauty to enjoy. Lake Red Rock is a popular spot for swimming and boating, while the Decorah area is known for its scenic bluffs and valleys.
Cultural Immersion
Southern Iowa is a melting pot of cultures, with a strong Dutch and German influence. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s culture by visiting the Amana Colonies, attending the Pella Tulip Time Festival, or exploring the Dutch windmills in Orange City. The Iowa Irish Fest in Waterloo is another great way to experience the region’s cultural heritage.
Art and Music Scene
Southern Iowa has a thriving art and music scene, with many local galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Des Moines Art Center and the Figge Art Museum in Davenport are both popular spots for art enthusiasts, while the Iowa State Center in Ames and the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines are great venues for live performances.
Walking Tours
There are many walking tours available in Southern Iowa, covering everything from historic landmarks to street art. The Des Moines Sculpture Park is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, while the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival offers guided tours of the region’s famous covered bridges.
Architectural Marvels
Southern Iowa is home to many architectural marvels, including the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, the Salisbury House in Des Moines, and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch. These buildings are not only impressive in their design, but also offer a glimpse into the region’s history and culture.
Historical Sites
There are many historical sites in Southern Iowa that offer visitors a window into the past. The John Wayne Birthplace Museum in Winterset is a must-visit for fans of the famous actor, while the Living History Farms in Urbandale offer a glimpse into what life was like for early settlers in the region.
Biking Routes
Southern Iowa has many great biking routes, including the High Trestle Trail, which spans 25 miles between Ankeny and Woodward and features a stunning bridge with LED lights. The Raccoon River Valley Trail is another popular spot for biking, with its scenic views and historic landmarks.
Wellness Retreats
Southern Iowa is a great place to relax and recharge. Visitors can unwind at one of the many wellness retreats in the region, such as the Bickford Bed and Breakfast in Marshalltown or the Raj Ayurveda Health Spa in Fairfield.
Adventure Sports
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Southern Iowa has plenty of adventure sports to offer. Visitors can go zip lining at the Wildwood Hills Ranch in St. Charles, kayaking on the Des Moines River, or rock climbing at Climb Iowa in Grimes.
With so much to see and do in Southern Iowa, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, this region has something for everyone.