I think it's safe to say that Iowa is a pretty awesome state, but just in case, here are some facts to back it up. How do we stack up against the rest of the country? Read on to find out!
1. At 90%, Iowa has the highest graduation rate in the country.
Iowa is a unique place, with the four corners of the state each having 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! Ranging from food, to travel, to history, to annual events, these seven hills to die on are guaranteed to rouse some pride about life in Iowa and lead to some active debates. But 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!
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.
Yes, everyone knows about John Deere, which was founded in Illinois - but Deere was the successor to John Froelich, who invented the first model in 1892. A museum can still be found in Froelich, Iowa.
Amana is the hub of German heritage in Iowa, and that's never true more than in October. This massive festival of music, food, and games turns the town into a giant party, and it's the most authentic Oktoberfest outside of Germany.
The state fair every summer is a massive event, filling Des Moines with excited tourists looking to ride the rides, see the music - and try whatever bizarre fried foods have been invented this year! It's a uniquely Iowa event, and one of the nation's biggest.
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!
Sure, outsiders think of farmland when they talk about living in Iowa - but they've never been to West Okoboji Lake! From this massive lakeside resort to the many peaceful towns along the Mississippi river, Iowa residents have no shortage of places to enjoy the water.
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. Griddled ground beef, a smear of mustard on the bun, and any other toppings you want. It's a little messy - but incredibly delicious.
Where do you fall on these truths about life in Iowa? Let us know your opinion in the comments section! If you want to find out for yourself, make sure to visit the Amana Oktoberfest and Iowa State Fair websites to plan your trip to next year's events. And if you want to try one of Iowa's most iconic foods, why not try it in this unique restaurant in an alley? And be sure to show your pride in your Iowa roots whenever you leave the house!
Iowa is known as the place where greatness begins, so it's no surprise that many celebrities have called it home! Some famous people from Iowa went on to make an impact all over the world - and even beyond - while some stayed true to their roots and made greatness happen from right here in the Hawkeye State. From painters, to actors, to musicians, and even a Nobel Prize winner, these eight celebrities from Iowa all have one thing in common - they came from some of the best small towns in Iowa. From humble beginnings, they left quite a legacy - and several of these Iowa celebrities even left museums behind them right where it all began!
One of the most famous American artists not only was born in small-town Iowa, he spent much of his career portraying the rural life he knew best.
His biggest legacy is in Cedar Rapids, where a massive collection of his work is on display. His boyhood home has been preserved, and an American Gothic House visitor center is a popular attraction.
Best known for composing the music to the iconic musical "The Music Man," Willson was an acclaimed composer. His most famous musical's movie adaptation was filmed right here in his hometown!
The first Iowa resident in space, Cunningham served as a lunar module pilot on the Apollo 7 mission in 1968. He accumulated over 4,500 hours of flying time.
Less of a household name but maybe even more significant, Borlaug won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in agriculture that led to a massive increase in production. He's known best for helping to develop disease-resistant wheat varieties.
Have you visited any of the museums mentioned in this article? Tell us about your trip, and let us know which other celebrities from Iowa you're a fan of in the comments section! For more on the legacy left by one of these celebrities, check out the world-famous Grant Wood collection in Cedar Rapids. And if you're proud of your Iowa roots, why not show it off?
