Located in America's heartland, Iowa is a place of abundant natural beauty, a multitude of recreational activities, progressive educational institutions and a diverse economy.
With a bounty of inland lakes and rivers Iowa is blessed with stunning natural resources. Not surprisingly, it is one of the top tourist destinations in the Midwest, popular with visitors during all four of its distinct seasons. For example, did you know Iowa is the only state bordered by two nationally designated scenic byways? The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River on our eastern border, and the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway hugs the Missouri River on our west.
Iowa's appeal isn't limited to rural areas. The state's towns and cities have a long history of supporting arts and cultural activities, offering visitors a wide variety of museums, galleries, and events. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art is home to the world's largest collection of Grant Wood's iconic works. Our own Maquoketa, Iowa is home to the Old City Hall Gallery, a historic building housing the original oil paintings by nationally known realistic impressionist Rose Frantzen, who has exhibited at The Smithsonian.
The state also is home to several minor league baseball teams, very successful college sports teams, world-class entertainment, and incredible restaurants and nightclubs. And if it's cycling you want, for more than 150 years Iowans have had a love affair with bicycling. We have the perfect terrain for all types of pedaling, including 1,800 miles of well kept biking trails. And if you like caves try www.ExploreMaq.com.
From our quaint small towns to our bustling and vibrant metropolitan areas, we have your memories just waiting to be discovered.