Places to see in Iowa vacation sights in Iowa Explore things to do in Iowa

Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in Iowa with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore Iowa sites or check out the sites in another state.

You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in Iowa that have become local favorites easily with our site.

We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in Iowa whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.

Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Walcott, IA

The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum was a dream of Iowa 80 Truckstop founder, Bill Moon. They are pleased to be able to share this collection with the general public. Every truck has a story to tell and can provide a unique glimpse back in time. Many rare and one-of-a-kind trucks are on display. View short films about trucking history in their REO theater; a great way to learn even more about the trucks of yesteryear.

Des Moines Art Center

Des Moines, IA

The Des Moines Art Center engages diverse local and international audiences with contemporary art through its museum and school, adding to the cultural record through collections and programs. The Art Center offers free admission every day, which is supported by Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc. and Art Center members.

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

Sioux City, IA

Surrounded by over 1,000 acres of woodlands and loess hills prairies, the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center is the perfect setting for outdoor learning. Hands-on exhibits engage visitors in learning about the plants and animals of the Loess Hills and three miles of trails give them a chance to explore our natural habitats. People from all over the country (and world!) visit this Nature Center to learn,appreciate and revel in our natural world.

John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Des Moines, IA

Open to visitors since September 2009, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork by 22 of the world’s most celebrated artists. This accessible setting, coupled with the skilled landscape design and caliber of the art, makes it unlike any other sculpture park in the United States. The Pappajohns’ contribution of 28 works for the park is the most significant donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center.

The History Center

Cedar Rapids, IA

The History Center, strives to provide a unique community resource that preserves and shares the stories of our past, and connects people of all ages to the present and future of Linn County.

Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center

Sioux City, IA

The Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center serves the tri-state areas of Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota as an information center. Uniquely it also serves as a historical museum as both functions are housed aboard the dry-docked motor vessel, the M.V. Sergeant Floyd. Admission is free.

The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Dubuque, IA

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a museum located in Dubuque, Iowa, USA. The museum is a property of the Dubuque County Historical Society, with two centers on the riverfront campus: the Mississippi River Center and the National River Center.

Salisbury House & Gardens

Des Moines, IA

Salisbury House & Gardens is a historic house museum, featuring a 42-room estate surrounded by nine acres of beautiful gardens and woodland. It was built from 1923-1928 by cosmetic pioneer and Iowa native, Carl Weeks and his wife Edith. Tour this exquisite American estate and its diverse collections of art, literature, and worldly treasures.

Vander Veer Botanical Park

Davenport, IA

Since its establishment in 1885, gardens and floral displays have been a tradition at this beautiful 33 acre park, inviting visitors to stroll from the Conservatory to the Stone Fountain. The park grounds are home to an extensive collection of gardens and trees, including many planted during the early 1890’s. The Conservatory is famous for its 100-year tradition of providing gardens under glass.

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Cedar Rapids, IA

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, is a museum that celebrates life. Czech life. Slovak life. American life. They are a museum that encourages self-discovery, a museum that asks what it means to be free. Through extraordinary exhibitions and experiences, they tell stories of freedom and identity, family and community, human rights and dignity. Their stories connect yesterday with today and tomorrow.