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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
Nestled amidst scenic rolling hills of Audubon, Iowa sits Taylor Hill Lodge. This charming bed and breakfast offers a unique stay in a remodeled English barn from the 1890s. Inside the lodge, modern comforts blend seamlessly with the rustic character of the original structure. Guests can choose from six cozy bedrooms and enjoy amenities like a central fireplace, a relaxing patio with stunning views, and a cozy loft for game nights. Whether you’re seeking a family getaway, a solo retreat, or a place to unwind with friends, Taylor Hill Lodge provides a peaceful escape in the Iowa countryside.
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.
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…
Spend 48 Hours in Stanton, Iowa
Swedish roots, lakeside recreation, and small-town charm Stanton is a destination that invites travelers to slow down. With its painted-white homes, strong Swedish heritage, and easy access to Viking Lake...
Family Weekend in Dyersville
Stay & Explore Dyersville Dyersville is a dream destination for families. With world-famous attractions, interactive museums, and wide-open spaces, it’s a place where kids can
Spend 48 Hours in Perry, Iowa
Art-filled streets, trail connections, and a boutique hotel experience Perry blends historic character with creative energy. From its walkable downtown and public art to trail
Spend 48 Hours in Pella, Iowa
Dutch heritage, charming canals, and small-town elegance Pella feels like stepping into another country without leaving Iowa. With storybook architecture, deep-rooted Dutch traditions, incredible food,
Spend 48 Hours in Boone, Iowa
Historic railroads, outdoor adventure, and local flavor Boone is a destination where nostalgia meets adventure. From scenic train rides and rich railroad history to river
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
15
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.
Discovering the Hidden Gem of Twin Lakes, Iowa
When you think of the ultimate Midwest summer getaway, your mind might instantly drift to massive resort lakes packed with commercial tourist traps. But in
EOH Explorer Series | Littlefield Recreation Area
Littlefield Recreation Area: Family-Friendly Cabins & Outdoor Adventure Near Exira, Iowa As a busy work-from-home mom of three, I’m always looking for places that help
EOH Explorer Series | Gehling Greenhouse
If you’ve spent much time driving Iowa gravel roads, you know some of the best places don’t look flashy from the outside. Gehling Greenhouse, near
EOH Explorer Series | Rail Explorers Boone Division
There are some experiences that feel like they belong on a bucket list the second you try them, and Rail Explorers in Boone is absolutely
Getaway in Northeast Iowa: Top 10 “Small-Town” Things to Do
Craving an escape filled with outdoor adventures and charming small towns? Look no further than Northeast Iowa! This hidden gem boasts stunning natural beauty, unique
A Visit to Spencer
Hey, everyone! Today, we’re heading off the beaten path to discover the charming town of Spencer, Iowa! I’ve heard so many amazing things about this
A Visit to Okoboji
Welcome to Okoboji, Iowa! Let’s dive into this lake-town adventure. Start your morning with breakfast at O’Farrell Sisters, a hidden gem tucked away off the
Winter Sips in Iowa
Winter Sips in Iowa: Cozy Breweries, Wineries & Distilleries Worth the Drive Winter in Iowa has a quieter rhythm, and that’s exactly what makes it
A Visit to McGregor & Marquette
Welcome to the charming towns of McGregor and Marquette, Iowa! Join me as we explore these two neighboring gems nestled along the scenic Mississippi River.
Exploring Central Iowa: A Hidden Gem of Midwestern Charm
Central Iowa often gets overshadowed, but it’s a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty, friendly towns, and unique things to do. Whether you love nature,