Explore These 21 Impressive Iowa Hidden Gems
Iowa is well known in the Midwest for its role as a key cog in “America’s Breadbasket.” But for curious travelers, the Hawkeye State is so much more than corn fields and soybeans — it’s a land of magnificent hidden gems tucked away in small towns, along major waterways, and in scenic nature areas.
Effigy Mounds National Monument | Harpers Ferry
Many of the Midwest’s best hidden gems are rooted in history and the effigy mounds preserved here — more than 200 of them — are associated with nearly two dozen Native American tribes and shaped like birds, turtles, and other animals and figures. Visitors can not only admire the mounds but contemplate them and the tribes that built them.
Maquoketa Caves State Park | Maquoketa
This park is arguably one of Iowa’s most unique gems and offers a thrilling outdoor experience with the most caves of any park in the state. More than a dozen caves can be found in the park, including Dancehall Cave and Hernando’s Hideaway, and can be found along a scenic six-mile trail system. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes and get ready for an adventure.
Grotto of the Redemption | West Bend
This massive religious shrine, constructed of countless minerals and precious stones, is a sight to behold as the world’s largest man-made grotto — actually nine separate grottos that depict different scenes in the life of Jesus Christ.
Visitors of all denominations can tour the grotto (both in-person and virtually) and take time for a few moments of quiet reflection. Special events offer chances to participate in prayer services and festivals as well.
High Trestle Trail Bridge | Madrid
The scenic High Trestle “rail trail” runs for 25 miles through four counties and is favored among bikers and walkers. The centerpiece of the trail is the High Trestle Trail Bridge, designed to represent the view through a mine shaft and pays homage to local coal mining history.
The bridge has multiple overlooks with panels that highlight the cultural and natural history of the area. At night, blue lights illuminate the bridge, making it a stunning sight for those exploring the trail.
Pikes Peak State Park | McGregor
Overlooking the Mississippi River near the Wisconsin border, Pike’s Peak offers some of the Midwest’s best views of the river and the Mississippi River Valley. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic overlooks, picnic areas, campgrounds, birding opportunities, and even access to the Bridal Veil Falls via a half-mile trail.
Matchstick Marvels Museum | Gladbrook
One of the most unique attractions in Iowa showcases the masterpieces of craftsman Patrick Action, who turns matchsticks into incredible works of art. More than seven million matchsticks have been used to create models of the Notre Dame Cathedral, the US Capitol, and many more.
Loess Hills Scenic Byway | Western Iowa
Iowa’s western border is noted for the Loess Hills and their extraordinary landscape of rolling hills of wind-deposited soil, prairie, and steep covered bluffs. Travelers can follow a distance of more than 200 miles through the Loess Hills, exploring small towns, stopping to admire unique geological formations, and visiting numerous attractions.
The Bridges of Madison County | Winterset
The “Bridge Capital of Iowa” is so famous that it inspired a book and a movie. Visitors and history buffs can visit six covered bridges on self-guided tours or personal tours that provide insight into the history of the bridges and production of The Bridges of Madison County. Visit each bridge, take pictures, and spend time in one of the most scenic areas of the Hawkeye State.
Villisca Axe Murder House | Villisca
The site of the unsolved 1912 Villisca Axe Murders beckons visitors to explore an infamous part of Iowa history. Curious visitors can tour the house during the day, but the brave and the bold interested in paranormal activity can book an overnight stay to see if the house is truly haunted.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site | West Branch
Presidential museums aren’t necessarily the most hidden of gems, but this one celebrating 31st US President Herbert Hoover, is one history buffs don’t want to miss. The museum traces Hoover’s long life of public service all the way to the presidency and visitors can explore exhibits, his restored birthplace cottage, and other sites to gain insight into his captivating life.
Snake Alley | Burlington
San Francisco’s Lombard Street is famously seen as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” but Snake Alley in Iowa can give it a run for its money. Originally built for easy horse and carriage travel, the alley on North 6th Street features five half-curves and two quarter-curves between Columbia and Washington streets.
Despite its twists and turns, it’s the sight of multiple annual events, including the Snake Alley Criterium on Memorial Day weekend and the Snake Alley Art Fair on Father’s Day.
Crystal Lake Cave | Dubuque
After you’ve explored Maquoketa Caves State Park, journey to explore 3,000 feet of this natural limestone underground wonder, known for its stunning rock formations. Guided tours along well-lit passageways all visitors of all ages to enjoy and explore intricate stalactites, stalagmites, helicities, and other crystalized formations.
Amana Colonies | Amana
Founded in 1855 by German immigrants, this group of seven villages have been collectively named a National Historic Landmark and offers visitors a chance to do just about anything. Residents and visitors alike can go antique shopping, sample locally-made wine, enjoy annual events like Oktoberfest, play a scenic round of golf, and purchase intricate crafts like handwoven baskets, clocks, and furniture.
RAGBRAI | Various locations
The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) is more than just a bike ride. It’s a week-long festival that’s the longest multi-day bicycle touring event in the world. For riders of all ages, it’s a great way to build camaraderie, attend fun events and celebrations, and see the best of Iowa from the comfort of a bike seat.
Danish Villages | Elk Horn and Kimbalton
The twin Danish villages of Elk Horn and Kimbalton allow residents and out-of-towners to take a trip to Denmark without ever leaving Iowa.
Elk Horn has the nation’s only operating Danish windmill and hosts the annual Tivoli Fest each May and Julefest in November. Visitors can also enjoy Danish cuisine, marvel at Danish architecture, and visit the Museum of Danish America to learn more about the area’s heritage.
The Frank Lloyd Wright Stockman House | Mason City
Famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s influence can be found all over the Midwest and the restored Stockman House — one of the few Wright houses in Iowa — is another prime example of his Prairie Style of design. Public tours are offered seasonally, allowing visitors to see Wright’s innovative and timeless designs up close.
The Sawmill Museum | Clinton
One of Iowa’s more unique museums explores the lumber-rich community of Clinton, once known as the “Lumber Capital of the World.” The museum preserves pieces of the former Struve Mill and includes a working sawmill from the early 20th century, giving visitors a first-hand look at how lumber is processed and its importance in the world.
Fenelon Place Elevator | Dubuque
The world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway — measuring just 296 feet in length — is also known as the Fourth Street Elevator — offers scenic views via cable car of downtown Dubuque, the mighty Mississippi River, and Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois as riders are transported 189 feet from Fourth Street to Fenelon Place. Not bad for such a short trip!
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum | Decorah
Continue your journey of Iowa European discovery at the nation’s largest museum dedicated to Norwegian-American heritage and culture. Visitors can explore the trials of immigration through the Norwegian-American experience, visit 12 different historic buildings, and get inspired by Vesterheim’s world-class art collection — the museum also offers classes in Norwegian folk art!
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library | Cedar Rapids
Iowa is very proud of its melting pot of different European cultures and the NCSML invites visitors to come and learn about rich and unique Czech and Slovak history and culture. Visitors of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits, innovative experiences, permanent exhibits, community events, and festivals such as the annual Czech Village Christmas Market.
Tabor Home Vineyards and Winery | Baldwin
For travelers who love to relax, Tabor can be the best kind of Iowa hidden gem: One that offers fascinating tours, wine tastings, and incredible views of wine country. Visitors can enjoy a six-wine sampler for just $5, refreshing sparkling slushies, and tasty Iowa meat and cheese as they kick back, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds around them.
Explore Hidden Gems in the Hawkeye State
Whether you want to explore historic covered bridges, ancient Native American mounds, and underground caves or visit unique museums and scenic nature areas, Iowa has something for every type of traveler to indulge in. Make your way to the Hawkeye State and discover perfect getaways and attractions in the heart of the Midwest!