7 Strong Beliefs Iowa Natives Stand By

Iowa is quite a unique place—each corner of the state has its own distinct culture. But if there's one thing that brings all Hawkeye State residents together, it's when someone from the other 49 is wrong about Iowa culture.

From food to travel to history and annual events, these seven strong beliefs about life in our state are guaranteed to either rouse Iowan pride or lead to some hot debates. One thing is for sure: no matter where you land on these discussions, they're sure to get people more interested in exploring Iowa's unique culture—and finding out for themselves.

1. When It Comes to Pork Tenderloin, the Bigger the Better

The pork tenderloin sandwich is probably Iowa's most iconic food. But if you ask most people, if it's not spilling off the bun, it's not a proper pork tenderloin sandwich. That's just one of the simple facts about Iowa. The inspiration here was likely the pounded-flat German schnitzel. We love grabbing pork tenderloin sammies at Smitty's Tenderloin Shop in Des Moines and Goldie's Ice Cream Shoppe in Prairie City.

2. We Invented the First Tractor

Everyone knows about the popular tractor brand John Deere, which was founded in Illinois. But Deer was the successor to John Froelich, who invented the first gasoline-powered tractor model in Iowa in 1892. You can learn all about this at the Froelich Tractor Museum in, you guessed it, Froelich, Iowa.

3. No One Does American Oktoberfest Like Us

The town of Amana is the hub of German heritage in Iowa, and this is especially true during October. The town puts on an amazing Oktoberfest — a massive festival of music, food, games, and of course, drinking. Most natives will agree it's the most authentic Oktoberfest outside of Germany.

4. We Have the Best State Fair in the U.S.

Every summer, the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is a big deal. Locals and tourists flock to the fairgrounds to ride the fun rides, see musical acts, and try whatever bizarre fried foods are being offered at the vendor booth. It's a uniquely Iowa event, and one of the nation's biggest fairs.

5. Taco Pizza Is an Original Iowa Treat

The taco pizza, which replaces the standard Italian seasonings with ground beef and Mexican spices, was reportedly invented right here in Iowa by Happy Joe's Pizza in Bettendorf. It's now served all around the country, and is one of the most scrumptious food combinations you could come by.

6. We're Not Just a Prairie State

Sure, outsiders think of farmland when they talk about living in Iowa. But they've never been to West Okoboji Lake. Between a stunning lakeside resort and the many peaceful towns along the Mississippi River, Iowa residents have no shortage of places to enjoy fresh, glimmering water.

7. A Tavern Sandwich Is Not a Sloppy Joe

Whether you call it a tavern sandwich or a loose-meat sandwich, it's very much its own thing, and you definitely had one growing up in Iowa. Forget the messy tomato sauce that a sloppy joe comes with—this is as simple as it comes. Most come with griddled ground beef, a smear of mustard on the bun, and any other toppings you want. It's a little messy, but incredibly delicious. We love the tavern sandwiches at The Canteen in Ottumwa, Taylor's Maid-Rite in Marshalltown, or Miles Inn in Sioux City.

Did we miss any strong beliefs that people from the Hawkeye State hold dear? Find out for yourself by visiting the small towns, unique restaurants, and historical sites in Iowa, and plan your trip using Only In Your State's itinerary planner.