11 Amazing Destinations That Will Make You Forget You're In Iowa

Once you step inside the Crystal Lake Caves in Dubuque, you will be absolutely blown away by their other-worldly beauty. The caves were formed over millions of years as slow-moving groundwater carved layers of limestone, and it’s easy to believe you’re in another world when you’re exploring them. Address: 6684 Crystal Lake Cave Rd., Dubuque, IA.

The Grotto of the Redemption is often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World," and it’s easy to see why. With nine intricate grottos depicting scenes from the life of Jesus, and the largest collection of precious stones and gems found in one place, you’ll be blown away by the grotto’s jaw-dropping beauty. Address: 300 N Broadway Ave., West Bend, IA.

The Amana Colonies will make you feel like you walked back in time. The colonies are comprised of seven villages: Amana, East Amana, High Amana, Middle Amana, South Amana, West Amana and Homestead. They are filled with historic buildings, charming shops and restaurants serving authentic German food, family style.

Another old-world German destination, Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park is full of attractions that will make you feel like you’re in a totally different time and place. At the Hausbarn, you’ll see how a typical farm family lived in Germany in the 1660s. And that’s just one of the many attractions waiting for you at this fascinating spot. Address: 12196 311th St., Manning, IA.

Head to Norwegian country in Decorah at The Vesterheim Museum. This museum is an amazing place to learn more about Norwegian-American heritage and life. You’ll see historic buildings, a folk art school, over 30,000 artifacts and more. Address: 520 W Water St., Decorah, IA.

The Maharishi Vedic City is like no other place, and you’d never guess it was in Iowa. It is a small city near Fairfield founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The founding principle of the city is based on the belief that groups of people who work and meditate together can achieve world peace. The town runs an organic farm, spa and is connected to the Maharishi University of Management. City tours are held from 1:30-4:30 PM on any day of the week, and their address is 1734 Jasmine Ave., Maharishi Vedic City, IA.

The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is something out of this world, with paintings and ornate frescoes, 64 cathedral glass windows and two towering 212 foot tall steeples. Address: 104 3rd St. SW, Dyersville, IA.

Go to the Sistine Chapel right here in Iowa, and have a meal while you’re at it. Graffiti artist Paco Rosic bought an abandoned warehouse in Waterloo and recreated Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel on the restaurant’s ceiling. The restaurant serves a variety of entrees, like steak, lamb, fish and more. Address: 622 Commercial St., Waterloo, IA.

Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Iowa. It really reminds me more of Middle Earth in "The Lord of the Rings" than it does Iowa. Whatever it reminds you of, it’s definitely worth a visit. Address: 10970 98th St., Maquoketa, IA.

Pella was settled by 800 Dutch immigrants in 1847, and you could easily imagine that you’re actually in a small Dutch town, rather than one in Iowa. Pella has plenty of unique Dutch architecture, like their wooden windmills, authentic store fronts and Molengracht Plaza, a replica of an authentic Dutch square that includes a Dutch-style canal.

The Loess Hills in western Iowa are incredibly unique and look nothing like the rest of the state. They are home to some of the largest remaining prairie remnants in Iowa, and it would be easy to imagine that you’re exploring another planet as you walk the extensive trail system there.