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Iowa Vacations

Located in the spectacular heartland of America, Iowa is a state that is bookended by the Missouri River to the West and the Mississippi River to the East. Visitors to this spectacular state can tour one of the many glimmering cities or stroll along one of the many wild rivers that punctuate its geography. After the Black Hawk War displaced local Native Americans in 1832, settlers flooded to the state and established farms. The long-established farming tradition has made Iowa the nation’s leader in corn and hog production, producing a state where the pig population is at times eight times larger than the human population. The state is renowned for its pivotal role in American politics—every four years it is home to the Iowa Caucus.

The state’s capital, Des Moines, offers a variety of activities to entertain couples and families alike. The city is home to Adventureland Park, which features more than 100 rides, attractions and family-friendly shows. Guests can also stop by the bordering Adventure Bay Water Park, which is complimentary after admission to Adventureland Park. Visitors can head to downtown Des Moines to take advantage of the arts culture this mellow city has to offer. The city streets are lined with galleries, specialty shops and antique stores, making it a great tour for art aficionados. Outdoor enthusiasts can stroll through the Iowa Arboretum and Reiman Gardens to view some of the state’s native flora and fauna, or stop by John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park to view art within a natural setting. Visitors can catch one of the city’s famous races at the Iowa Speedway while movie buffs can enjoy visiting John Wayne’s birthplace. Those who want to spend some time on the water can take a cruise along the Des Moines River on the authentic John Anderson White Riverboat paddle wheeler.

Visitors can retreat to the great Mississippi River to explore the charming town of Davenport. Davenport is located on the most unusual part of the Mississippi River, where the river actually runs east to west. This city is renowned for celebrating the arts, offering a number of music festivals that feature jazz, blues, classic, rock and roll and even reggae. Visitors can stroll through the picturesque Vander Veer Botanical Garden or view unusual plant species in the Floral Conservatory and Greenhouses. Visitors can visit the spectacular riverside locale, locally known as River’s Edge, to enjoy a variety of seasonal events and activities. This sports facility features an Olympic sized ice rink, which hosts freestyle skating and hockey games. Golf enthusiasts can play on one of two 18-hole golf courses while family travelers can take their children to the Davenport Junior Theatre.

Travelers can escape east to view the stunning city of Cedar Rapids. Visitors can choose between museums, historic sites and outdoor entertainment that appeal to both family travelers and couples on vacation. Visitors can learn more about Iowa’s European population by stopping at the National Czech and Slovak Museum or tour the mysterious Historic House and Museum. Those who want to catch a show can stop by the historic Paramount Theater, which hosts the Cedar Rapids Symphony performances, ballets and Broadway plays. Visitors who would like to escape outdoors can visit the Indian Creek Nature Center, which features four miles of trails that weave through woodlands, wetlands and prairies. Visitors with families in tow can enjoy the spectacular educational experiences and exhibits at the visitors’ center, which features an indoor honey bee hive and a maple sugar house. More adventurous hikers can embark along the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, which extends 52 miles between Cedar Rapids and Waterloo. Guests can enjoy hiking, mountain biking and cross country skiing along this popular trail.

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