6 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in Iowa

Iowa is not the typical state one looks at for travel, but that makes its overlookers all the more mistaken. Filled to the brim with lovely small towns, bringing about a charm and, in some cases, a stop in an old-timey America, Iowa, the Hawkeye State, is all the more precious to those in the know. In celebration of the state's merit, or perhaps an introduction to the nearly undiscovered, here are six underappreciated towns to visit in Iowa.

North Liberty

"Blues and BBQ" is the slogan of North Liberty's Centennial Park, and while such a large and open space/venue is normally a brisk walk of lightly colored grasses and multi-colored playgrounds, every year, it transforms. Becoming a place of solid blues, BBQ made by grill masters, and a family-centric time with all the right elements of an oversized backyard party. Complete with a kick-off and live events, North Liberty's Blues and BBQ has become quite the famous display, meaning that however little North Liberty may be known on the whole, what comes out of it are very good, smoky delights.

But while such extravagant and loud events may not be to the tune of everyone's liking, the small town of North Liberty offers the nearby Lake Macbride State Park. Iowa's largest park, Macbride, offers deep and thicketed trails, while at its gorgeous center, Lake Macbride welcomes swimming and surfing and is a beach surrounded by otherwise impenetrable trees. A place of relaxation by the water or even a quiet trek through the hills, North Liberty really offers both the extremes of quiet and social excursions.

Dyersville

To the untrained eye, Dyersville may seem like any midwestern town, ut nothing could be further from its reality, as Dyersville still does represent that old culture of mid-20th-century America while also harboring attractions and places both cool and unique to it and the town's identity.

For one, the If You Build It Exhibit offers a tour of one of America's most recognizable baseball fields, straight from the movie Field of Dreams. Loaded with artifacts, props, and people who played major roles in its production, this is Dyersville's fantastic claim, but do not get it wrong; it's more than just a movie set or a field; there is life.

May the religious and non-religious rejoice, for Dyersville is also home to the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, a saint of the 16th century who left his mark all over the world. For better or for worse, the basilica here is the real beauty, as it's a 125-year-old art piece in itself, and this architecture and high ceilings filled with statues and paintings are open to all.

Council Bluffs

Council Bluff's surrounding area and dedication to fascinating spots are well worth visiting this town, which has tall green trees on every corner. Council Bluffs may actually be a treasure box in town form, as there are many places to go, see, and experience, and one certainly won't see all that the town offers in just one go.

Home to the Historic General Dodge House, the house of this union general saw many important events as Dodge became a star, an advisor to presidents (such as Abraham Lincoln), and even earned the title of "the greatest railroad builder of all time." The site adds a bit of humanity to the now-growing town, and perhaps it will be here for a very long time to see it change.

They say no area is complete without a natural park, and while that may or may not be true, Council Bluffs does not have such an issue. Say hello to Lake Manawa State Park ("Manawa" means comfort), a premier spot for not only hiking but also for contemplation and peace by the shore. Lake Manawa itself has waters that are as reflective as a mirror and even manage to capture the clouds far above within its peerless images, ensuring that few lakes are as beautiful and crystal clear as the gift given by nature.

Creston

Perhaps the most artistic town in the state, this small town has murals painted in every corner of its land, making for at least 30+ unique artistic wall pieces for the satisfaction of both passersby and locals. While at it, the nearby Creston Arts Gallery is a rotating gallery of local and regional artists who put their creativity out for the world to see, but if not the world, the audiences of Creston are sure appreciators who look forward to seeing each new exhibit and theme, making for a truly artistic time spent in the presence of its creators.

However, for those who prefer the art of mother nature, Green Valley State Park has 390 acres of trails, shelters, beaches, and even a ski area. This multifaceted park has something for everyone and is situated amongst the rolling hills and plains that sit right outside of Creston, giving the artistic town one last art piece from another artist.

Indianola

Though niche, Indianola is still so beautiful and embodies that charming spirit so characteristic of an underappreciated paradise. For lovers of the garden, vibrant colors, and pleasant scents that linger in the air, Buxton Park Arboretum houses gardens of a garden variety (pun intended), including but not limited to a butterfly garden, a children's garden, and a facility of public arts which has its works throughout the park. A more refreshing spot for the weary traveler, the blooming flowers are good for the soul.

Now, for that very specific itch that one can't seem to scratch, a niche museum lined with history, artifacts, and live demonstrations may just be all that is needed. Indianola is proud to be the town that has the National Balloon Museum, which has over 200 years of ballooning and hosts nearly 10,000 visitors a year. It seems that all things balloon and balloon enjoyment are found here and with the prime flying conditions of Indianola, the museum today stands proud, tall, and welcoming.

Fort Madison

A cozy place to retire to, Fort Madison is a town of just over 10,000 people. But regardless of the numbers, it presents itself as a place one goes to escape the grime of the city and live quietly amongst the summer breezes and rustling of the trees.

Yet the town itself does not lack any attractions or forms of entertainment as well. Named after its historical Fort Madison (the oldest fort in the upper Missisipi area), the site of the fort is still viewable today, and while the original structures are mostly gone, Old Fort Madison is well worth the time and price of admission for its historical richness and scenic views. Integral to the modern town that now stands before it, the state ensures the grounds are well taken care of.

To go that extra mile, however, the Sheaffer Pen Museum does its best to pay respects to the titan's humble origins. The curious tale of craft pens that have landed themselves on UN charters and other important legal documents began here: in a small shop by a man with a big dream. While today, Sheaffer has undergone a lot of change, this museum represents the roots it can never write away.

Unlike states like California or Florida, which are renowned for their beauty, Iowa is one that slips under the radar, and it is not because it lacks the natural wonder of said states but because it's yet to have been discovered by the public consciousness. While it may not be this singular reason at play, one thing is for sure: the beauty and often forgotten charming places of Iowa still exist, waiting to be recognized, explored, and appreciated for what they are. Only then, and then only, will the eyes of the people fall on these small towns and then realize what they've been missing.