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Region
region
Explore Iowa By Region
Every region of Iowa offers something different to discover, from rolling hills and river towns to wide-open prairies and vibrant small communities. No matter where you go, each area brings its own character, stories, and experiences to explore.
Whether you’re planning a trip or just looking for somewhere new to go, exploring by region makes it easy to find what fits your journey. Use the map below to discover destinations, experiences, and hidden gems across each part of the state.
Regions
To highlight the diverse beauty of the state, these designations align with the regional framework established by Travel Iowa, encompassing the Lakes & Land, Loess Hills & Beyond, Driftless Area, Capital Country, and Storied & Scenic areas. These regions provide a way to explore Iowa’s unique landscapes, from the rugged northeastern bluffs to the rare geological formations of the western hills.
Regional Road Trip Stops
Place Categories: Autumn, Blooms & Botanicals, Capital Country, Shop Local, Spring, Summer, and Winter
Featured Business
Taylor Hill Lodge
Located in Southwest Iowa, Taylor Hill Lodge sits just north of Audubon, surrounded by rolling hills and wide-open views. This charming bed and breakfast is housed in a beautifully restored 1890s English barn, where historic character meets comfortable, modern amenities. Guests can choose from six cozy guest rooms, wake up each morning to a homemade breakfast featuring the lodge’s famous crustless quiche, and spend their days relaxing at their own pace.
Whether you’re gathering with family, reconnecting with friends, or planning a productive retreat, Taylor Hill Lodge offers plenty of spaces to unwind. Cozy up by the central fireplace, enjoy a game on the TV, challenge your group to lawn games overlooking the corn and soybean fields, or curl up with a good book in the loft. End the day on the patio, taking in the peaceful countryside and unforgettable Iowa sunsets that make this stay one you’ll want to experience again and again.
travel journals
Track Your Trek!
Grab your crayons and your sense of wonder! Our downloadable travel journals turn every cornfield, river town, and roadside giant into a page in your very own adventure book. Document your discoveries across Iowa or the US.
itineraries
plan your adventure
From day trips to weekend getaways, find itineraries that make exploring rural Iowa simple and memorable.
Weekend Getaway to Audubon, Manning & Templeton: Whiskey, History & Small-Town Charm
Few places capture the spirit of rural Iowa quite like Audubon, Manning, and Templeton. From a historic German Hausbarn to award-winning whiskey and one-of-a-kind countryside lodging, this western Iowa getaway blends history, heritage, scenic drives, and small-town hospitality.
Hands-On Farm Experiences in Johnson County
Agriculture is woven into the fabric of Johnson County, and there’s no better way to experience it than by getting out on the farm and meeting the people who grow, raise, and create.
Sips, Blooms, & Countryside Views in Johnson County
Discover Agri-tourism in Johnson County Escape to the scenic countryside of Johnson County, Iowa, where orchards, lavender fields, wineries, local farms, and handcrafted experiences create the perfect rural getaway. This...
Bison, Barns & Backroads: Northeast Iowa Agritourism Getaway
Bison, Barns & Backroads Some of the best travel experiences happen when you leave the interstate behind and take the scenic route. This Northeast Iowa
The Scenic City Getaway
Water fun, nature trails, river views, and classic small-town memories…
Iowa Falls is the kind of place that makes summer weekends with the family feel easy. Known as the Scenic City, Iowa Falls...
Exploring Calhoun County’s Parks, Lakes & Outdoor Adventures
From peaceful campgrounds and scenic hiking trails to fishing, paddling, and wildlife watching, Calhoun County...
A Golfer’s Weekend in Calhoun County
Discover one of Iowa’s hidden golf destinations with a weekend getaway featuring three unique 9-hole courses, scenic Twin Lakes views...
A Family Weekend in Iowa Falls, Iowa
Water fun, nature trails, river views, and classic small-town memories…
Iowa Falls is the kind of place that makes summer weekends with the family feel easy. Known as the Scenic City, Iowa Falls...
Weekend Getaway in Johnson County
Discover Agri-tourism in Johnson County Escape to the scenic countryside of Johnson County, Iowa, where orchards, lavender fields, wineries, local farms, and handcrafted experiences create the perfect rural getaway. This...
Two-Day Getaway in Calhoun County
County Calhoun County is a relaxed summer destination centered around Twin Lakes and the welcoming town…
reels of the region
see the region in motion
Experience Iowa through local events and scenic moments. These videos capture the spirit of the region and the stories unfolding across the Heartland.
1
Glamping in Iowa | Sunset Hills Bison Ranch Experience
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A Day in Sioux City, Iowa | Food, Museums & Riverfront Fun
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A Day in Pella, Iowa | Tulips, Windmills & Dutch Charm
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A Day in Spirit Lake, Iowa | Lake Life, Food & Small-Town Charm
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A Day in Spencer, Iowa | Shops, Art & Small-Town Charm
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A Day in Okoboji, Iowa | Lake Life, Food & Summer Fun
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A Day in McGregor & Marquette, Iowa | River Views & Outdoor Adventure
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A Day in Jefferson, Iowa | Bell Tower Views & Small-Town Charm
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A Day in Dyersville, Iowa | Field of Dreams & Small-Town Charm
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A Day in Clear Lake, Iowa | Lake Life, Shops & Small-Town Charm
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Things to Do in Clarion, Iowa | Travel Guide & Hidden Gems
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A Day in Boone, Iowa | Scenic Train Ride & Outdoor Adventure
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A Day in Sioux Center, Iowa | Shops, Food & Family Fun
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This Iowa Town is Full of Art & Surprises | Perry, Iowa
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This Iowa Lake Town Feels Like a Hidden Getaway | Panora
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A Weekend in Oskaloosa & Albia, Iowa | Food, Shops, Wine & a Lakeside Escape
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Things to Do in Orange City, Iowa | Dutch Windmills, Food, & Small-Town Charm
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A Day in Le Mars, Iowa | Ice Cream, Shops, & Small-Town Fun
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Don’t Skip Guthrie Center, Iowa | A Small-Town Hidden Gem
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Don’t Skip Guthrie Center, Iowa | A Small-Town Hidden Gem
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A Weekend in Decorah, Iowa | Waterfalls, Food, & Small-Town Charm
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A Day in the Amana Colonies, Iowa | Food, Shops, Wineries, & More
from the blog
discover more along the way
Dive deeper into the places, people, and stories that make the Heartland worth exploring.
EOH Explorer Series | Center Grove Orchard
Sometimes all it takes is an old photo to bring back a season of life. When Guest Explorer Lindsey came across pictures from visits to
Explorer Series | Paddle Iowa: Why My Favorite View of the State Is From the Water
Paddle Iowa: Why My Favorite View of the State Is From the Water I LOVE WATER. I LOVE KAYAKING. Put the two together, add an
Beyond Kinnick: Make the Most of Your Hawkeye Football Weekend in Johnson County
There’s nothing quite like a Hawkeye football weekend. By Friday afternoon, Iowa City is buzzing. Fans dressed in black and gold fill the streets, restaurants
EOH Explorer Series | A Different View of the North Raccoon River
If signs that say River Access, One Lane Bridge, Gravel Ends or Level B Road make you want to turn instead of keep driving, I have an
From Barn to B&B: The Iowa Farm Story Behind Taylor Hill Lodge
Some places are more than a destination. They just feel like coming home. Long before Taylor Hill Lodge welcomed weekend retreats, weddings, and family reunions
EOH Explorer Series | Following Memories Through Northeast Iowa
Sometimes the best road trips aren’t about discovering somewhere new. They’re about returning to places that have been part of your story for years. Guest
EOH Explorer Series | Patton Bar & Diner
A Retro Night Out at Patton Bar & Diner There are certain restaurants that immediately make you want to stay awhile, and Patton Bar &
EOH Explorer Series | Best Cabin Stays in Iowa
The Best Cabin Stays in Iowa There was a time when our family’s idea of “getting away” involved a tent, a patch of uneven ground,
EOH Explorer Series | Ærø Arts
Discovering Local Art and a Little Troll Magic at Ærø Arts There are some places you visit for one reason and leave with something completely
EOH Explorer Series | Thomas Dambo Trolls in Clinton, Iowa
Hunting Giant Trolls in Clinton, Iowa: A Family Adventure Worth the Road Trip On a recent visit to Eastern Iowa, my husband stayed back working