9 Of The Greatest Destinations Most Iowans Overlook

The City of Belle Plaine was founded in they heydey of rail travel, in 1862. It's located along the Lincoln Highway and the Union Pacific Railroad. Present day Belle Plaine retains much of its historic charm from the city's most popular days, in the early 1900s. It's worth a visit to feel like you've stepped back in time

Iowa's only accredited zoo is located in Des Moines! Visit to feed giraffes, meet lion cubs, pet a camel and have the animal adventure of a lifetime.

Address: 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA

The National Mississippi River Museum is located on the river in the oldest town in the state! Learn about the history of the mighty river and see what it was like when the river was being dredged for travel! You can even tour a historic steamboat.

Address: 350 E 3rd St Dubuque, IA

Take one of the three hiking trails in Mount Hosmer Park to a breathtaking overlook of the Mississippi River. You can even see Wisconsin from the top! This is a great place to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a spring day with the family.

N 6th Street, Lansing, IA 52151

The stunning Loess Hills are Iowa's "front range", and a unique geographic formation that will impress you. To see the best of the hills, take this Loess Hills Road Trip.

Paddlers love Pleasant Creek State Park, where you can rent otorboats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboats! If you don't feel like spending the day on the water, you can lay out on the beach on the north shore.

Address: 4530 McClintock Rd., Palo

Historic and charming Decorah is one of the prettiest cities in the state. You'll find street fairs and farmers markets in the spring and summer, historic tours, and miles of outdoor adventure in nearby parks.

Lake MacBride State Park shows off some of the coolest nature in the state! Hike to a waterfall, see where the lake pours into the river, or paddle out onto the lake. It's one of the few places in Iowa that's open for swimming, and it's a great place to cool off. You'll love this underrated, beautiful lake park!

Address: 3525 Highway 382 NE, Solon, IA 52333

The National Farm Toy Museum is the perfect destination for kids and adults alike! Children will love the old fashioned farming equipment and toys for them to explore, and adults will enjoy learning all of the history behind our state's biggest industry.

Address: 1110 16th Avenue Ct SE Dyersville, Iowa