8 Surefire Signs You Have Strong Roots In Iowa

Iowa is one of those states that outsiders often disregard, but those who live here know it’s home to one hidden gem after another. And that’s just fine with us – we love our own little slice of Americana all to ourselves. For those who have strong roots in Iowa, the culture of this great state has had a huge influence. We’ve got unique destinations to visit, festivals you can’t experience anywhere else, and some of the best – and biggest – food in the United States. The Hawkeye State also has that unique Midwestern charm that feels like the old ways still hold sway and folks don’t mind doing things a little more slowly. We’ve got a lot of state pride, and companies like Wear Your Roots are happy to help us show it off with unique apparel. How many of these eight signs of deep roots in Iowa apply to you?

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Maybe the most iconic food in Iowa is the pork tenderloin sandwich - and these are definitely knife and fork affairs. Sometimes the tenderloin is five times the size of the bun. What's the biggest one you've eaten?

City of Graettinger

Iowa is a pretty spread-out place, and depending on where you live, it could be a four-hour drive to the nearest city. The good news is - there's some beautiful scenery along the way!

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Maybe the most unique dining location in Iowa, the state's famous Maid-Rite diner has a location inside the Amish Country Store in the tiny town of Lamoni. If you've visited here, you're definitely a real Iowan - and you probably walked away with some amazing Amish goodies!

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Sometimes it seems like the rest of the country only pays attention to Iowa once every four years - when the Presidential candidates come to town for the caucuses. You never know when you'll see a White House hopeful waiting at your local diner!

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Every state has a state fair - but none has one like this one, a massive amusement festival that takes over Des Moines for several days and debuts over-the-top fried foods each year. Bring an appetite!

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Who needs to go to Orlando? Between the massive coaster-packed Adventureland and the new and fantastical Lost Island, Iowa has plenty for adventure-seekers - but we're partial to the historic Arnolds Park Amusement Park, one of the country's oldest.

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These little dough pockets filled with jam or other sweet fillings are a gift from the many Czech immigrants who settled Iowa early in its history - and just about every Hawkeye State resident has an opinion on where to find the best.

Amana Colonies

Speaking of those immigrant roots, so many of Iowa's small towns were founded by Europeans who brought their own culture over. The most famous festivals take place in the German town of Amana - including an amazing Oktoberfest - but don't miss Pella's Tulip Time or Decorah's Norwegian heritage festivals.

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Wear Your Roots/OnlyInYourState

Do you have strong roots in Iowa? Tell us your Hawkeye State memories in the comments section, and if you’re planning to use Wear Your Roots for your Iowa gear, make sure to use code Iowa10 to get 10 percent off your next order! We think there’s much to explore and love in the Hawkeye State – did you know it’s home to the famous cafe from the Old Home commercials?