Roadside Attractions in Iowa
Traveling through Iowa, a state known for its rolling hills and scenic countryside, offers numerous opportunities to explore unique roadside attractions. Whether one is driving through the state on their way to neighboring Nebraska or taking a leisurely drive through the countryside, Iowa has a plethora of attractions waiting to be discovered. The first attraction of note is the Field of Dreams movie site, located in Dyersville, Iowa. This site, made famous by the 1989 film Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner, features a working baseball diamond surrounded by the rolling hills of Iowa.
Iowa is also home to the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, located near the Iowa 80 Truckstop in Walcott. This museum showcases a wide range of trucks from various time periods, including vintage trucks and rare European models. With over 50 trucks on display, this museum is a must-visit for truck enthusiasts. Another notable attraction is the Living History Farms in Urbandale, where visitors can explore Iowa's agricultural heritage through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
In the town of Pella, visitors can explore the Vermeer Mill, a working Dutch windmill that showcases the traditional Dutch architecture of the area. Pella is also home to the Pella Historical Village, a collection of historic buildings and homes that offer a glimpse into the area's rich history. In Des Moines, the state capital, visitors can explore the East Village, a vibrant neighborhood filled with boutiques, restaurants, and unique shops.
One of the most unusual roadside attractions in Iowa is the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend. This complex of concrete and porcelain structures features intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations. The grotto was built over 30 years by Father Paul Dobberstein and features an extensive collection of precious stones and ceramics. Located in Emmetsburg, the Iowa Welcome Center showcases the state's rich history and culture through interactive exhibits and displays.
Iowa is also home to the Bridges of Madison County, a collection of six historic bridges that span the Madison County countryside. Located in Indianola, the National Balloon Classic is a renowned event that takes place each year, featuring hot air balloon competitions and demonstrations.
Iowa is also home to the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, located near the Iowa 80 Truckstop in Walcott. This museum showcases a wide range of trucks from various time periods, including vintage trucks and rare European models. With over 50 trucks on display, this museum is a must-visit for truck enthusiasts. Another notable attraction is the Living History Farms in Urbandale, where visitors can explore Iowa's agricultural heritage through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
In the town of Pella, visitors can explore the Vermeer Mill, a working Dutch windmill that showcases the traditional Dutch architecture of the area. Pella is also home to the Pella Historical Village, a collection of historic buildings and homes that offer a glimpse into the area's rich history. In Des Moines, the state capital, visitors can explore the East Village, a vibrant neighborhood filled with boutiques, restaurants, and unique shops.
One of the most unusual roadside attractions in Iowa is the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend. This complex of concrete and porcelain structures features intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations. The grotto was built over 30 years by Father Paul Dobberstein and features an extensive collection of precious stones and ceramics. Located in Emmetsburg, the Iowa Welcome Center showcases the state's rich history and culture through interactive exhibits and displays.
Iowa is also home to the Bridges of Madison County, a collection of six historic bridges that span the Madison County countryside. Located in Indianola, the National Balloon Classic is a renowned event that takes place each year, featuring hot air balloon competitions and demonstrations.
