Agriculture and industry flourish
Iowa is a hub of agricultural production and is also known as the “Food Capital of the World.” The state is the nation’s leading producer of corn, soybeans, pork and eggs. The state’s rich, fertile soil and favorable climate make it ideal for agriculture, which contributes significantly to the state and national economy.
Major agricultural producing cities
- Des MoinesDes Moines is the state capital and home to insurance companies, but also plays a key role in agricultural businesses.
- Cedar RapidsIt is known for its large grain processing plants and food production industries.
- Sioux City: A major meat processing and grain producing company.
Top 5 Employers in Iowa
- University of Iowa
- Principal Financial Group
- Hy-Vee
- Unity Point Health
- John Deere
Must-visit tourist spots
Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind as a tourist destination, but the state is rich in historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty.
- Dyersville, filming location for Field of Dreams: Step into a famous baseball stadium where dreams come true.
- Iowa State Fair, Des MoinesOne of the largest and oldest state fairs in the country showcases the state’s agricultural pride.
- Pikes Peak State ParkIt is known for its stunning views of the Mississippi River and beautiful hiking trails.
- Amana Colonies: A group of seven villages known for their unique German traditions and artisan crafts.
- Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, West Branch: A museum dedicated to the 31st President of the United States, featuring exhibits on his life and career.
Fun fact: of Iowa State Fair A tradition dating back to 1911, the Butter Cow is famous for its life-sized sculptures made entirely from butter.
Great food from around the state
Iowa’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in agricultural tradition – the state is known for its home-style cooking, farm-to-table fare, and of course, its world-famous pork and corn dishes.
5 Famous Foods and Restaurants in Iowa
- Corn on the cobIt’s a standard dish at Iowa gatherings and is often served with butter.
- Maid-Rite SandwichThe loose meat sandwich is an Iowa staple, especially popular at Maid-Rite diners.
- Iowa Pork Tenderloin SandwichThe breaded and deep-fried pork loin is served in a bun that is larger than bread.
- Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, Des Moines: Known for their creative zombie-themed burgers.
- Machine sheds, various locations: Celebrate Iowa’s agricultural heritage with hearty Midwestern cuisine.
Rich culture and entertainment
Iowa boasts a rich cultural fabric influenced by its Native American roots and European immigrant traditions, and the state has a thriving arts scene with numerous festivals, theaters and galleries.
5 Great Places to Experience Culture in Iowa
- Des Moines Art Center: Featuring contemporary art and famous traveling exhibitions.
- Englert Theatre, Iowa CityHistoric theater featuring live music, plays and movies.
- National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, Dubuque: A must-see for history and wildlife lovers.
- Iowa City Book Festival: Celebrating literature and Iowa City’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature.
- Brucemore House, Cedar Rapids: Historic homes that offer a glimpse into the state’s past.
Top-notch higher education
Iowa is home to many prestigious universities and colleges known for their academic excellence and vibrant campus life, which attract students from around the world and contribute greatly to the state’s intellectual and cultural diversity.
6 Top Colleges in Iowa
- University of Iowa: Known for offering excellent programs in healthcare, law, and creative writing.
- Iowa State University: Leader in agricultural and engineering research.
- Grinnell College: A highly regarded liberal arts college.
- Drake UniversityIt is known for its programs in business, journalism and law.
- Luther CollegeIt is known for its music and liberal arts education.
- Coe CollegeWe offer an individualized liberal arts education with a community focus.
Great natural resources
Iowa’s landscapes range from rolling hills and fertile grasslands to tranquil rivers and picturesque lakes. The state’s natural beauty offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and boating to birdwatching and fishing.
5 Amazing Iowa State Parks
- Ledges State ParkIt is known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and beautiful hiking trails.
- Maquoketa Caverns State ParkIt is famous for its complex cave systems and geological formations.
- Lake OkobojiIt’s part of the Iowa Great Lakes and is popular for water sports and summer vacations.
- Backbone State Park: Iowa’s oldest state park, offering rugged terrain and beautiful scenery.
- Effigy Mounds National Monument: Preserves ancient Native American earthworks and offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
Fun fact: Iowa’s Loess Hills are one of only two landforms in the world formed by wind-blown silt during the Ice Age.
A mecca for sports
Iowa has a strong athletic reputation, especially at the collegiate level. The state’s universities boast a strong athletic tradition, and the state’s landscape provides an ideal setting for a variety of sports and outdoor activities.
Iowa’s Top Sports Teams and Events
- Iowa HokiesThe University of Iowa teams are especially known for their football and wrestling teams.
- Iowa State CyclonesIowa State University’s team, which has strong support in basketball and football.
- Drake RelayIt is one of the most prestigious athletics events in the country.
- Ragbrai: The Register’s annual “Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa” is a week-long cycling event that draws participants from all over the world.
- Field of Dreams Ghost Players: Rediscover the magic of baseball with summer games and events at iconic movie locations.
Popular phrases in Iowa
- “Is this heaven? No, this is Iowa.”: Famous lines from movies Field of DreamsIt reflects the idyllic and peaceful charm of the state.
- “Hawkeye Pride”Celebrate the University of Iowa’s beloved sports teams and strong school spirit.
- “Raised on corn”: Often used to describe Iowans’ wholesome upbringings, especially their agricultural roots.
- “Tall corn”It refers to the state’s rich, lush cornfields, a staple of the Iowa landscape.
- “Iowa Nice”: Highlight the state’s culture of friendliness and courtesy that visitors and newcomers often experience.
What else is Iowa known for?
- health careIowa boasts top-notch medical facilities and is a leader in medical research, especially at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
- Renewable energyThe state is one of the nation’s leaders in wind energy production, with wind farms dotted across the state.
- Fairs and FestivalsFrom the Iowa State Fair to small town festivals, these events celebrate the state’s agricultural roots and community spirit.
- Historic monumentsIn Iowa, Amana Colonies, Laura Ingalls Wilder Museumand Historic Bridges of Madison County.
- Friendly CommunityKnown for its warm, close-knit communities, Iowa embodies Midwestern hospitality.
