Iowa is a heartland state of rolling prairies, covered bridges, and charming small cities anchored by a surprisingly vibrant Des Moines arts and food scene. Home to the world-famous Iowa State Fair, Grant Wood country, the Field of Dreams movie site, and the historic Amana Colonies, Iowa rewards visitors who look beyond the cornfields to find genuine Midwestern character.
Historical sites
Places where Iowa's past comes alive.
Effigy Mounds National Monument
Where: Harpers Ferry
Admission: Adult: $10 (≈$10) | Child: Free
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
Where: West Branch
Admission: Adult: $10 (≈$10) | Child: Free
Amana Colonies National Historic Landmark
Where: Amana
Admission: Adult: $8 (≈$8) museum | Child: $4 (≈$4)
Living History Farms
Where: Urbandale
Admission: Adult: $18 (≈$18) | Child: $12 (≈$12)
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Where: Des Moines
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
Iowa State Capitol
Where: Des Moines
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
Museums
Curated collections that tell Iowa's story.
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Adult: $23 (≈$23) | Child: $16 (≈$16)
Putnam Museum of History & Natural Science
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Adult: $13 (≈$13) | Child: $9 (≈$9)