4 Breathtaking Scenic Drives in Iowa
Hit up the back roads in Iowa to take in some of the state’s stunning views from the comfort of your car. Here are just four routes worth choosing for a day trip or weekend excursion.
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Great River Road
Great River Road delivers rewarding views of the Mississippi River while learning more about the history of the region. Stop by Effigy Mounds National Monument to experience what’s left of one of the country’s oldest civilizations. Get a glimpse into the area’s past when you explore McGregor and Marquette, two small towns that were founded in the 1800s. There’s also plenty of places to enjoy the water, whether you prefer kayaking or fishing.
Northwest Iowa Tour
Take the Northwest Iowa Tour from West Bend to Sioux City to sample some of the state’s art and food offerings. Check out West Bend’s Grotto of the Redemption, dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” It’s comprised of nine separate grottos depicting different scenes from the life of Christ. You can also stop by Sioux City’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe and Sioux City Art Center. Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor makes another flavorful pit stop.
Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
See the iconic Loess Hills, a formation of windblown silt deposits that formed during the Ice Age, when you drive the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. Interestingly enough, these loess hills are some of the tallest in the world. This route spans 177 miles from Akron to Hamburg. The Mile High Lake Scenic Overlook in Glenwood or the Loess Hills State Forest are two great places to pause for a photo op and to stretch your legs.
Iowa Wine Trail
Stretching approximately 123 miles from Decorah to West Branch, the Iowa Wine Trail provides lovely landscapes with excellent vino. It has nine wineries along the way so you can appreciate the unique flavors of wines that the region has to offer. Due to its length, it’s best to spread this trip out over a weekend rather than trying to do it all in one day.
For more tips on planning a sustainable road trip, check out this article here. And make waking up early for your journey suck less by trying some of these strategies.
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Whitney Russell resides in Dayton, though her spirit can be found beach-bumming in Puerto Rico (the land of her half-Puerto Rican heritage). When not crafting car-related content, she can be found chasing after the most amazing toddler in the world, watching her “beaver” of a husband build amazing woodworking projects, hanging out with two crazy dogs, and visiting family and friends. She also enjoys traveling, crafting, and binge-watching period dramas when time allows. See more articles by Whitney.