Iowa And Illinois Map
Discovering Top Attractions and Hidden Gems
Iowa and Illinois are two states in the Midwest region of the United States that have a lot to offer for tourists. From historic landmarks and natural wonders to vibrant nightlife and delicious food, there is something for everyone in these states. Some of the top attractions include the Willis Tower in Chicago, the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, and the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville.
However, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For example, the Amana Colonies in Iowa are a series of seven historic German villages that offer a glimpse into the past. In Illinois, the Shawnee National Forest is a beautiful outdoor destination that is often overlooked by tourists.
Sampling the Food Scene
Iowa and Illinois are known for their delicious food, from deep-dish pizza in Chicago to pork tenderloin sandwiches in Iowa. Some of the top restaurants to try include Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in Chicago and the Maid-Rite sandwich shop in Iowa.
However, there are also many local markets and food festivals that offer a taste of the region’s cuisine. The Iowa State Fair is a must-visit event for foodies, with over 200 food stands serving everything from corn dogs to funnel cakes.
Exploring Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, there are plenty of options in Iowa and Illinois. The Mississippi River is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and kayaking, while the Great River Trail in Illinois is a scenic path for biking and hiking.
Other outdoor adventures include exploring the caves at Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa or hiking through the Starved Rock State Park in Illinois.
Visiting Historical Landmarks
Iowa and Illinois have a rich history, and there are many landmarks that reflect this. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, is a must-visit for history buffs, as is the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch, Iowa.
Other historical sites include the Amana Heritage Museum in Iowa and the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Illinois, which features the remains of an ancient Native American city.
Enjoying Family-Friendly Activities
Both Iowa and Illinois have many family-friendly activities to enjoy. The Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville is a hands-on museum that kids will love, while the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is a great destination for animal lovers.
Other family-friendly activities include visiting the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Illinois, or the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa.
Experiencing Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
If you’re looking for a unique experience, there are many off-the-beaten-path adventures to explore in Iowa and Illinois. For example, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the Iowa countryside or go on a ghost tour of the haunted locations in Illinois.
Other off-the-beaten-path experiences include visiting the world’s largest truck stop in Walcott, Iowa, or exploring the abandoned town of Cairo, Illinois.
Discovering Natural Wonders
Iowa and Illinois have many natural wonders to explore, from the Mississippi River to the rolling hills of the Driftless Area. The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a great destination for birdwatchers, while the Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa features ancient Native American burial mounds.
Other natural wonders include the Garden of the Gods in southern Illinois, which features stunning rock formations, and the Great River Road in Iowa, which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Enjoying Vibrant Nightlife
Both Iowa and Illinois have a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to explore. Chicago is known for its blues music, while Iowa City is home to many indie bands.
Other nightlife destinations include the River Music Experience in Davenport, Iowa, and the House of Blues in Chicago.
Exploring Local Markets
Iowa and Illinois are home to many local markets that offer a taste of the region’s culture. The Iowa City Farmer’s Market is a popular destination for foodies, while the Chicago French Market offers a variety of gourmet foods.
Other markets to explore include the Downtown Davenport Farmer’s Market in Iowa and the Bloomington Farmers’ Market in Illinois.
Discovering Beaches and Mountains
While Iowa and Illinois are not known for their beaches or mountains, there are still some destinations to explore. The Mississippi Palisades State Park in Illinois features stunning cliffs and hiking trails, while Lake Michigan offers beaches in Chicago.
Other beach destinations include the Coralville Reservoir in Iowa and the Carlyle Lake in Illinois.
Experiencing Cultural Immersion
Iowa and Illinois have a rich culture, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in it. The National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offers a glimpse into the region’s Czech heritage, while the Swedish American Museum in Chicago explores Swedish culture.
Other cultural destinations include the Figge Art Museum in Davenport, Iowa, and the Art Institute of Chicago in Illinois.
Taking Walking Tours and Exploring Architectural Marvels
Both Iowa and Illinois have many walking tours and architectural marvels to explore. In Chicago, you can take an architecture boat tour to learn about the city’s iconic buildings, while in Iowa, the Pella Historical Village and Vermeer Windmill offer a glimpse into Dutch architecture.
Other architectural marvels to explore include the Black Hawk State Historic Site in Illinois and the Historic Park Inn Hotel in Iowa.
Visiting Historical Sites and Biking Routes
Finally, there are many historical sites and biking routes to explore in Iowa and Illinois. The Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail is a popular destination for biking, while the Great River Road in Iowa offers scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Other historical sites to visit include the John Deere Historic Site in Illinois and the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in Iowa.
Overall, Iowa and Illinois offer a wide variety of attractions and experiences for tourists to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or delicious food, you’re sure to find something to love in these two Midwestern states.
