2026 Iowa Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Located in the Greenville Municipal Airport in Greenville, IA, the Iowa Aviation Museum preserves and shares the state’s aviation history. Within the museum is the Iowa Aviation Hall of Fame which pays tribute to and honors Iowans who have significantly impacted the field of aviation. On display at the museum, there are an astounding series of vintage planes. Included in the exhibitions are a 1941 Australian Tiger Moth, a 1946 Piper J-3 Cub, a 1928 Curtiss Robin, a 1946 Taylorcraft BC2, and many other amazing aircraft. If you’re planning your visit to the Iowa Aviation Museum, be advised that the museum is only open from April through November. The Museum also hosts special events each month so be sure to check out the events calendar before your visit. Whether traveling with history or aviation buffs, Iowa Aviation Museum is a family-friendly attraction that doesn’t disappoint. Address: 2251 Airport Rd, Greenfield, IA 50849, United States

We didn't plan to stay in Solvang — we were just driving through — but pulling off the road for an hour turned into one of the best stops of the whole trip. If you're anywhere near it, don't skip it. The town is genuinely Danish, and not in a theme-park way, even though it looks like one. It was founded in 1911 by a group of Danish-American settlers who'd actually come from Iowa, not directly from Denmark — they bought 9,000 acres of old ranch land specifically to build a community around their heritage, and settled it right next to the historic Mission Santa Inés. They built a Danish folk school and a college to keep the language and traditions alive. The one twist: the windmills, the half-timbered buildings, all the postcard details — that look didn't exist at the founding. It was only added starting in 1946, when the town deliberately redesigned itself to look like a Danish village. So it's not an old transplanted town frozen in time; it's a place that chose, decades later, to look exactly like what people imagine when they hear "Denmark." And it works. Walking down the main street felt like a completely different country dropped into California — windmills, storybook rooflines, flower boxes on every balcony, a trolley with "Velkommen" painted on the front. Even the gift shops lean into it, selling mugs that say "I'm not yelling, I'm Dane" right next to ones for every other nationality. The food is Danish too — we didn't sit down for a full meal, but even walking past, you could tell this wasn't generic tourist food dressed up with a theme. If you're driving the coastal route anywhere near here, build in the extra hour. Solvang isn't a detour — it's the kind of stop that ends up being the thing you remember most. #solvang #california #californiatravel #denmark #travel2026#travel#couplestrip#thingstodo

Everything was beyond what I could have ever imagined! Celebrating my retirement from Iowa Public Schools with this incredible tea at The Plaza was truly special. Shalim Kahn, our server, was the most kind and attentive person you could hope for—he's truly a gem for this establishment. I genuinely hope everyone has the chance to enjoy this wonderful tea service at least once in their lifetime. Such cherished memories were created! Thank you so much!

Campustown in Ames—packed with cafés, restaurants, and little shops that Iowa State students are always rotating through. From quick coffee runs to casual eats and late lunches, it’s the go-to strip between classes and hangouts. Always busy, always familiar, always a student favorite. #iowastate #iowastateuniversity #ames #iowa #campustown

Iowa, a state in the Midwest of the United States, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, clean and friendly cities, and historical/cultural attractions. Highlights include the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Reiman Gardens, the Field of Dreams movie site, and the historic river town of Dubuque along the Mississippi River. Must-visit attractions in Iowa: · Pappajohn Sculpture Park (Des Moines): An outdoor sculpture park in the city center featuring world-class art. · Field of Dreams Movie Site (Dyersville): The actual baseball field from the famous movie, a must-visit for film and baseball fans. · Reiman Gardens (Ames): A large botanical garden near Iowa State University, beautiful year-round. · High Trestle Trail Bridge (Madrid): One of Iowa's most scenic bike and pedestrian bridges, perfect for enjoying the views. · Mines of Spain Recreation Area (Dubuque): A peaceful natural area with trails and views of the Mississippi River. · Grotto of the Redemption (West Bend): A religious architectural site made from various stones and minerals. · Fenelon Place Elevator (Dubuque): A funicular offering panoramic views of Dubuque and the river. Cities and activities of interest: · Des Moines (Capital): Visit the Iowa State Capitol and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. · Iowa City: A university town rich in culture, featuring the Old Capitol Museum and the Museum of Natural History. · Dubuque: A historic river town with beautiful views and old architecture. Travel tips: · Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) offers warm weather and various festivals, such as the Iowa State Fair. · Weather: Iowa experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall. For outdoor activities, spring or summer is recommended. · Transportation: Renting a car is advisable as attractions are spread out.

Last Saturday, the campus turned into a sparkling winter wonderland! Enjoyed a lovely walk with my friends under the falling snow. 🌨️❤️

I never knew I loved wind turbines until I spotted them—they’re so gorgeous! 🌬️✨ There’s something magical about these giant spinning giants on mountains. . If you’re a fan like me, here are some countries where you can see wind turbines in all their glory: 🌏 China – Thousands across mountains and plateaus 🌏 USA – Texas, Iowa, California, and more 🌏 Germany – Onshore & stunning offshore in the North Sea 🌏 India – Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra 🌏 Spain – Castilla-La Mancha & Galicia 🌏 UK – Iconic offshore turbines in the North Sea 🌏 Denmark – Pioneers of wind energy . Have you spotted wind turbines in your travels? Share in comment below! 💨💚 . #windturbines #renewableenergy #travelgoals #natureandtech #ecotravel #sustainabletravel #wanderlust #cleanenergy #scenicviews #travelinspiration

This awe-inspiring Catholic shrine situated in the heart of West Bend, IA is a bucket list item for many religious travelers. Founded by German immigrant Father Paul Matthias Dobberstein, the shrine was inspired by a promise he made to the Blessed Virgin Mary. As a child he came down with a debilitating case of pneumonia; from his sickbed, he prayed to Mother Mary for healing. He promised that if he were to overcome the sickness, he’d build a shrine in Mary’s honor. Thus the conception of the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption. In addition to being a devout and studied priest, Dobberstein was intrinsically artistic. For over a decade he hoarded beautiful and precious stones. It was with these materials that he began building the Grotto in 1912. Set in a vast and verdant expanse of IA farmland, Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption invites Christians to be hearers of the Word and thinkers and doers of Christ. Today, group and private tours are available throughout the year. Tours take about three hours and are one of many amazing sites to see in Iowa. Address: 208 1st Ave NW, West Bend, IA 50597, United States