We Bet You Didn't Know These Rural Iowa Destinations Even Existed
By Raymond Goldfield|Published July 26, 2023
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Raymond Goldfield
Author
Raymond Goldfield is a life-long New Jersey resident and an avid traveler and foodie who can be usually found on the Jersey Shore during the offseason or checking out the latest seasonal flavors at The Bent Spoon in Princeton. He has been working for Only In Your State for since early 2022, where he writes for New Jersey and Iowa and edits the Mid-Atlantic region. He can also be found writing about pop culture for GeekDad. When at home, he enjoys reading comic books and is part of The Rabbitt Stew podcast team. While New Jersey is his home base, he travels regularly and has visited Virginia, Florida, Maine, Minnesota, and Canada as well as all of NJ's border states. Ultimate travel goal? Visit all the best buffets in the United States.
There is nothing better than exploring the open road in Iowa – except, of course, finding a unique attraction hiding in the middle of nowhere! The Hawkeye State is such a great place for hidden attractions that it feels like there’s a surprise hiding around every corner. Some of these rural destinations in Iowa are located in the middle of nature, with nothing around for dozens of miles. Others might only be a short distance from a major city but feel like you’ve stepped into another world. They include such unique destinations as a museum with tiny but staggering works of art, a historic cafe in the middle of nowhere, and one of the most unique schools in the United States. The only thing that’s for sure is that when you head off the beaten path in Iowa, you’re bound to discover something amazing.
1. Villages Folk School - Keosauqua
Villages Folk School, 809 1st St, Keosauqua, IA 52565, USA
A unique all-ages education facility frozen in town, this Van Buren County institution unites dozens of local craftsmen to teach skills like traditional baking and blacksmithing in a rustic environment. Read more about Villages Folk School in our past coverage.
2. The All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club - Charles City
The All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club, 2667 240th St, Charles City, IA 50616, USA
Did you know there's only one all-grass tennis club in Iowa? This elite sports destination is located just a little outside of tiny Charles City. Read more about All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club in our past coverage.
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3. Gitchie Manitou State Preserve - Larchwood
Gutchie Manitou State Monument Park, Larchwood, IA 51241, USA
One of the most unique state nature preserves in Iowa, this rural destination located in the northwestern corner of the state is home to quartzite deposits and a collection of ruins that have been transformed by graffiti. Read more about Gitchie Manitou State Preserve in our past coverage.
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4. Hawkeye Buffalo Ranch - Fredericksburg
Hawkeye Buffalo & Cattle Ranch, 3034 Pembroke Ave, Fredericksburg, IA 50630, USA
One of the best places to see these majestic creatures up close, this rural ranch offers wagon rides among the herds of grazing buffalo. Read more about Hawkeye Buffalo Ranch on its official Facebook page.
Located along the historic Lincoln Highway, this rural cafe used to be one of the most important stops for highway travelers. Today, it's a historic cafe that still serves up some incredible diner grub and homemade pie! Read more about Niland's Cafe on the diner's Facebook page.
6. Matchstick Marvels - Gladbrook
Matchstick Marvels, 329 2nd St, Gladbrook, IA 50635, USA
Located in a tiny town, it's hard to believe what's found inside this museum - a collection of stunning recreations of famous vehicles and buildings, all painstakingly created with matchsticks. Read more about Matchstick Marvels in our past coverage.
7. Living History Farms - Urbandale
Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322, USA
Located in Urbandale, part of the greater Des Moines Metro Area, this farm is a unique interactive activity that shows visitors an up-close look at Iowa's rich agricultural roots. Read more about Living History Farms on its official website.
8. Roller Coaster Road - Allamakee County
Roller Coaster Road, Roller Coaster Rd, Iowa 52170, USA
The bumpiest road in Iowa, it's an experience that feels more like a theme park attraction than a country ride - and the best part is, the only fee to ride it is the price of gas!
Have you visited any of these unique rural destinations in Iowa? Tell us about your adventures in the comments section! If you’re planning an extensive Iowa road trip, make sure you have all the essentials for your journey, and have a great adventure!
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