10 Incredible Iowa Roadside Attractions You Must Hit on Your Next Vacation

Iowa, in its essence, is a line from a movie... at least it can be heaven when we're not fighting off corn sweat, derechos & tornados, or being carried away by gnats and mosquitos. It's a place where we show pride in a butter cow and folks don't just "talk about the weather"—they debate it like a sport. It’s where the traffic jams are caused by tractors, and the main social event is catching a glimpse of the latest 'nader' from the porch.

Here, the phrase "Midwest nice" is more than just a saying; it's practically a law, (and that's "Iowa Nice" if anyone is asking). Iowa is all these things and a whole lot more. So, if you've ever decided to explore the state, I've got a list of roadside attractions you may want to check off that travel list; from the "must stop," to the obscure and interesting!

10) Villages of Van Buren (Various): 

The villages in Van Buren County offer a glimpse into Iowa’s past with historic towns, covered bridges, and traditional Amish settlements, some not touch since the 1840s. It’s a great area for scenic drives and exploring the state's rich heritage. Here you won't find fast-food restaurants or a single stoplight in the entire county! The villages offer guests an ambiance of yester-year that only this area can provide.

Discover the peace and tranquility of small-town life in these communities:

• Bentonsport National Historic District
• Birmingham
• Bonaparte
• Cantril
• Douds-Leando
• Farmington
• Iowaville & Selma
• Keosauqua
• Milton
• Mt. Sterling
• Stockport

9) Matchstick Marvels Museum (Gladbrook):

This museum showcases intricate models of famous landmarks and structures made entirely out of matchsticks. The museum’s displays, crafted by artist Pat Acton, include replicas of the U.S. Capitol, Hogwarts Castle, and even the International Space Station. Visitors can marvel at these detailed masterpieces, view the drawings and tools used in their construction, and watch a documentary about Acton's unique hobby.

Acton is hailed by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! as the best matchstick model maker in North America. Acton has painstakingly crafted dozens of intricate wooden models using millions of matchsticks and gallons of glue. Many of his works are displayed in Ripley’s museums worldwide, including locations in Mexico City, Copenhagen, and various U.S. cities like Branson and Key West, making the Matchstick Marvels Tourist Center a must-see destination for families and groups of all sizes.

8) Snake Alley (Burlington):

Known as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” Snake Alley has been recognized by Ripley's Believe It or Not as "Unbelievably Crooked" and is the #1 Odd Spot in Ripley's Guide to the Curious Corners of America. Stretching between Columbia and Washington Streets on North 6th Street, this iconic and historical street features five half-curves and two quarter-curves, designed to resemble vineyard paths in France and Germany. It was constructed with limestone and blue clay bricks. Additionally, its constantly changing slant and 21% grade required a specialized construction technique to maintain the high grade on the outside of each curve.

Spanning 275 feet and rising 58.3 feet, Snake Alley is not only a unique piece of urban design but also the site of the annual Snake Alley Criterium uphill bike race each Memorial Day weekend and the Snake Alley Art Fair held on Father's Day.

7) The World's Largest Concrete Garden Gnome (Ames):

Elwood, the world's largest concrete garden gnome, stands tall at 15 feet in Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University. Weighing in at 3,500 pounds and constructed from rebar and concrete, this jovial gnome outshines his American rival, Gnome Chomsky, in New York.

While a taller gnome was discovered in Poland, Elwood maintains his claim to fame due to his concrete composition, contrasting with the fiberglass of the Polish gnome. Visitors can marvel at Elwood's grandeur while exploring the lush and beautifully landscaped gardens, with admission priced at $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $4.50 for children.

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6) The American Gothic House (Eldon):

The backdrop for Grant Wood’s famous 1930 painting American Gothic is a small house in Eldon, Iowa. The house is open to the public, and visitors can even borrow costumes to recreate the iconic image with pitchforks in front of the house.

Built in 1881 or 1882 by Charles and Catherine Dibble, the house is recognized for its Carpenter Gothic-style window that became the focal point of the renowned artwork. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the house is managed by the State Historical Society of Iowa and attracts thousands of visitors each year. Adjacent to the house, the visitor center features an exhibit gallery, educational media room, costume rentals, pitchforks for photo opportunities, a selfie stand, a gift shop, and a prairie garden, making it a comprehensive destination for art and history enthusiasts.

5) The Hobo Museum (Britt):

The Hobo Museum in Britt, Iowa, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and culture of hobos, featuring an extensive collection of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from the hobo era. This unique museum celebrates the spirit and history of hobos, showcasing their journeys, symbols, and stories.

Recently, the museum hosted its 124th National Hobo Convention celebration, a vibrant event that attracts enthusiasts and visitors to commemorate the rich history and enduring legacy of hobo culture. The celebration includes exhibits, storytelling, and activities that bring the hobo experience to life, highlighting the museum’s role in preserving this intriguing chapter of American history.

4) Grotto of the Redemption (West Bend):

The Grotto of the Redemption, located in West Bend, Iowa, stands as a monumental testament to devotion and artistry. Spanning over 42 years of construction, this sprawling shrine is celebrated as the largest man-made grotto in the world, renowned for its intricate design and vast collection of precious stones and gems.

Built by Father Paul Dobberstein, the grotto features nine separate grottos, each illustrating significant scenes from the life of Christ. Frequently lauded as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," it draws visitors with its blend of spiritual significance and architectural marvel. Open 24/7 with seasonal guided tours and a virtual tour option, the Grotto of the Redemption remains a cherished destination, blending faith, artistry, and a touch of the mystical. It is has also often been regarded as haunted by some visitors.

3) The Future Birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk (Riverside):

Trekkies unite in Riverside, Iowa, which claims to be the future birthplace of the one and only Captain James T. Kirk. By the way he is yet to be born there... in 2228. Originally a simple marker erected in 1985 by local councilman and Trekkie Steve Miller, the site has evolved to include a commemorative bench and a Shuttlecraft-shaped donation box, all set against a backdrop of local pride.

Riverside's transformation from "Where the best begins" to "Where the Trek begins" and its annual Trek Fest celebration highlight the town's dedication to celebrating its place in Star Trek lore, cementing its status as a must-visit for fans of the legendary series.

2) The World's Largest Truck Stop (Walcott):

Iowa 80, located off Interstate 80, is the world’s largest truck stop. It features a massive main building, restaurants, a movie theater, a barber shop, a dentist, a trucking museum, and an extensive gift shop, making it a must-see for road travelers.

Established in 1964, this iconic destination has evolved from a modest facility into a bustling hub that caters to 5,000 customers daily, offering a vast array of amenities including 900 parking spaces for tractor-trailers, 250 car spaces, and 20 bus spaces. Known affectionately as a “Trucker’s Disneyland,” Iowa 80 is not just a pit stop but a vibrant community gathering place. It hosts the annual Walcott Truckers Jamboree, celebrating the vital role of truck drivers with a record-setting turnout of 44,000 attendees.

1) Field of Dreams Movie Site (Dyersville):

I mean after I wrote the intro like that, you knew it had to make the list, right? One of the most iconic locations in Iowa, this baseball field was made famous by the 1989 movie Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner. The field is still there, complete with a farmhouse and cornfield backdrop. Visitors can walk the bases, play catch, and relive scenes from the movie.

"If you build it, he will come," and "Is this heaven. No, it's Iowa." were both brought to life here. Visitors can experience the magic of the movie by walking the field, which is surrounded by lush cornfields, and even step into the original farmhouse featured in the film. The site hosts various events throughout the year, including movie nights, baseball games, and fan gatherings, making it a cherished destination for movie enthusiasts and baseball fans alike. The Field of Dreams Movie Site continues to inspire and evoke nostalgia, celebrating the timeless connection between baseball, dreams, and family.

See, Iowa's roadsides are more than just corn, their a mix of quirky charm, historical significance, and natural beauty that can make a road trip unforgettable. Next time you hit the open road, be sure to take a detour and discover the hidden treasures that make Iowa truly special; like the adventure below.