History and monuments dot this landscape almost as often as the golden farmlands. Learn about America’s 31st president at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch. In northeast Iowa is the Effigy Mounds National Monument, a group of prehistoric American Indian burial and ceremonial mounds. This part of Iowa is also home to the Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage. The 37-county region tells the story of American agriculture, agribusiness and farm life and is affiliated with the National Park Service. In addition, there are five national wildlife refuges here. If you love history, imagine seeing the Amana Colonies, consisting of seven historic villages in 1855 by German immigrants as a religious communal society. Here you can also buy antiques, hand-woven baskets, furniture and clocks and locally made wine and beer. In Ames, take the family to see the Christian Petersen Art Museum, a newer structure that exhibits works of art by Christian Petersen and contemporary artists. You won’t want to miss the state capital of Des Moines, home to Blank Park Zoo with its naturalistic exhibits and more than 800 animals from five continents. You also should enjoy the Brenton Skating Plaza, an outdoor family entertainment venue.
5.0 based on 214 reviews
The High Trestle Trail is just an amazing biking and walking trail just outside of Des Moines. It’s a flat, all paved concrete and asphalt, and about 26+ miles overall. My recording will show more time and mileage because I made several stops along the way and rode the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail for a bit as well. This is my 3rd ride on this trail and I never get tired of it. There are rest stops along the way with water and restrooms, tire pumps and bike repair stations, and several small towns with restaurants and breweries like Slater and Madrid. Of course the Trestle bridge is the highlight and be sure to ride it during the day, and enjoy the blue LED lights at night. It was a great day for riding and depending upon which way the wind is blowing you’re sure to have a headwind or tailwind in the open stretches but just take your time and enjoy the ride!
5.0 based on 10 reviews
Looking for a quite place to walk, jog, run or bike this is the trail. Miles and miles of trail with little or no traffic and the views are wonderful. Also a safe place to walk by yourself.
5.0 based on 1 reviews
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