Missouri And Iowa Map

If you’re planning to explore the Midwest, Missouri and Iowa should definitely be on your list. These states may not be as popular as New York or California, but they offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the charming small towns along the Mississippi River, Missouri and Iowa have something for everyone.

Top Attractions

Let’s start with the top attractions in Missouri and Iowa. One of the most iconic landmarks in the region is the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. This 630-foot monument is the tallest man-made monument in the United States and offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Other must-see attractions in St. Louis include the Missouri Botanical Garden, the City Museum, and the Saint Louis Art Museum.

In Iowa, the top attraction is undoubtedly the Field of Dreams movie site. This iconic baseball field, located in Dyersville, was made famous by the 1989 movie starring Kevin Costner. Visitors can walk on the field, sit in the bleachers, and even play catch with their loved ones.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of hidden gems to discover. In Missouri, check out the Katy Trail, a 237-mile trail that runs along the Missouri River and offers stunning views of the countryside. You can also explore the Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which features a castle-like mansion, natural bridges, and a sinkhole.

In Iowa, head to the Effigy Mounds National Monument, which preserves more than 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans. Another hidden gem is the Maquoketa Caves State Park, which boasts more than a dozen caves that you can explore on foot.

Food Scene

When it comes to food, Missouri and Iowa have plenty to offer. In Missouri, you can’t miss the famous Kansas City-style barbecue, which features slow-smoked meat, tangy sauces, and plenty of sides. For a taste of St. Louis, try the gooey butter cake, a sweet treat made with butter, sugar, and cake mix.

In Iowa, be sure to try the sweet corn, which is a staple of the state’s cuisine. You can also sample the Maid-Rite sandwich, a loose meat sandwich that originated in Muscatine.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget, Missouri and Iowa offer plenty of affordable activities. Many of the state parks and historic sites have free admission, and you can often find discounts on museums and other attractions. In addition, both states have plenty of cheap eats, from food trucks to diners.

Outdoor Adventures

For outdoor enthusiasts, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of opportunities for adventure. In Missouri, you can hike, fish, and camp in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which features clear streams and towering bluffs. You can also float down the Meramec River on a raft or canoe.

In Iowa, head to the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River and offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding bluffs. You can also bike or hike the High Trestle Trail, which features a stunning half-mile bridge over the Des Moines River.

Historical Landmarks

Both Missouri and Iowa have a rich history that is preserved in numerous landmarks and museums. In Missouri, you can explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, which offers a glimpse into the childhood of the famous author. You can also visit the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, which was the site of a major Civil War battle.

In Iowa, check out the Amana Colonies, a community of seven villages that were founded by German immigrants in the 1850s. You can tour the historic buildings, sample the local cuisine, and shop for handmade crafts.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of family-friendly activities. In Missouri, head to the Saint Louis Zoo, which is home to more than 18,000 animals. You can also visit the Science Center, which offers hands-on exhibits and a planetarium.

In Iowa, check out the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, which features a variety of animals from around the world. You can also visit the Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Natural Wonders

From waterfalls to caves, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of natural wonders to explore. In Missouri, don’t miss the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, which features natural rock formations and a series of waterfalls. You can also explore the Onondaga Cave State Park, which boasts a massive underground cave system.

In Iowa, head to the Maquoketa Caves State Park, which features more than a dozen caves that you can explore on foot. You can also check out the Pikes Peak State Park, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Vibrant Nightlife

While Missouri and Iowa may not be known for their nightlife, both states have plenty of options for those who want to party. In St. Louis, head to the Delmar Loop, which offers a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. You can also check out the Power & Light District in Kansas City, which is home to more than 50 restaurants, bars, and clubs.

In Iowa, head to downtown Des Moines, which offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. You can also check out the East Village in Des Moines, which is known for its trendy bars and art galleries.

Local Markets

If you’re looking for local products and souvenirs, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of markets to explore. In Missouri, head to the Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis, which is one of the oldest farmers markets in the country. You can also check out the City Market in Kansas City, which features more than 140 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

In Iowa, be sure to visit the Downtown Farmers Market in Des Moines, which is one of the largest farmers markets in the Midwest. You can also check out the Iowa City Farmers Market, which features more than 100 vendors selling locally grown produce and handmade crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

While Missouri and Iowa don’t have any beaches or mountains, they do offer plenty of scenic views and outdoor activities. In Missouri, head to the Lake of the Ozarks, which features more than 1,100 miles of shoreline and plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can also explore the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which offers stunning views of the Ozark Mountains.

In Iowa, head to the Loess Hills, which are a unique land formation that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can also explore the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, which features hiking trails and a variety of outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in experiencing the local culture, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of options. In Missouri, head to the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis, which offers exhibits on the state’s history and culture. You can also check out the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City, which celebrates the city’s rich jazz heritage.

In Iowa, be sure to visit the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch, which offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of the 31st President of the United States. You can also explore the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids, which celebrates the culture and heritage of the Czech and Slovak people.

Art and Music Scene

Both Missouri and Iowa have vibrant art and music scenes. In Missouri, head to the Saint Louis Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of art from around the world. You can also check out the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, which is home to more than 35,000 works of art.

In Iowa, be sure to visit the Des Moines Art Center, which features a variety of contemporary art exhibits. You can also check out the Englert Theatre in Iowa City, which hosts a variety of live music and theater performances.

Walking Tours

If you’re interested in exploring the cities on foot, Missouri and Iowa have plenty of walking tours to choose from. In St. Louis, you can take a self-guided tour of the historic Soulard neighborhood, which is known for its colorful architecture and lively nightlife. You can also take a guided tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which offers a glimpse into the brewing process.

In Iowa, be sure to take a walking tour of the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines, which features stunning architecture and a variety of historic artifacts. You can also explore the historic district in Dubuque, which features a variety of Victorian-era buildings.

Architectural Marvels

Both Missouri and Iowa have plenty of architectural marvels to discover. In Missouri, don’t miss the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, which is a stunning feat of engineering. You can also check out the Eads Bridge, which was the longest