The state of Iowa is situated in the northern central part of the United States, bordering the states of Minnesota (north), Wisconsin (northeast), Illinois (east), Missouri (south), Nebraska (west) and South Dakota (northwest), and the rivers of Mississippi (east), the Missouri and the  Big Sioux (west). A top destination in Iowa is the area of Iowa Great Lakes, a chain of glacier-carved lakes with resorts, sandy beaches, and nature ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors in this state are impressed with the unique landscapes of Loess Hills and the idyllic rural towns. Explore the capital city, Des Moines, by foot or by bicycle as there are more than 800 miles of trails with great views! Popular sites in Des Moines include the Downtown Farmers’ Market, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Historic East Village for shopping, dining and plenty of entertainment!

Population: 3. 13 million inhabitants

Capital: Des Moines


Other major cities: Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City, Waterloo, Council Bluffs, West Des Moines, Ames


Main attractions: Iowa State Capitol,  Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Paramount Theatre, Des Moines Art Center, Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Effigy Mounds National Monument, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Iowa Great Lakes, Grotto of the Redemption, Iowa State Fairgrounds, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Bridges of Madison County,  Field of Dreams Movie Site, Amana Colonies, Maquoketa Caves State Park

Nearest Airports: Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO), Sioux Gateway Airport (SUX)

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