Welcome to Iowa, the Hawkeye State! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, flying to Iowa is a great way to experience the state’s rich history, natural beauty, and friendly people. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best ways to find flights to Iowa, as well as some of the top attractions and destinations to visit while you’re here.
Getting to Iowa
Iowa is located in the heart of the Midwest, and there are several airports that offer flights to the state. The largest airport in Iowa is the Des Moines International Airport (DSM), which is located in the state capital of Des Moines. Other airports that offer flights to Iowa include the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids, the Quad City International Airport (MLI) in Moline, Illinois, and the Sioux Gateway Airport (SUX) in Sioux City.
When looking for flights to Iowa, you have several options to choose from. Most major airlines, including Delta, United, American, and Southwest, offer flights to Iowa. You can search for flights on the airlines’ websites, or use a travel search engine like Expedia or Kayak to compare prices and find the best deals.
If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can often find cheaper flights to Iowa. Midweek flights are usually less expensive than weekend flights, and flying during the off-season (usually from September to April) can also save you money. It’s a good idea to book your flight in advance to get the best price, but if you need to book a last-minute flight, you can often find deals on travel websites or by calling the airline directly.
Top Attractions and Destinations in Iowa
Once you arrive in Iowa, there are plenty of things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions and destinations to visit:
- The Iowa State Fair: Held every August in Des Moines, the Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most popular state fairs in the country. It features rides, food, livestock shows, and live music, as well as unique exhibits like the Butter Cow and the Giant Slide.
- The Amana Colonies: Located in eastern Iowa, the Amana Colonies are a group of seven historic villages founded by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Visitors can explore the villages’ museums, shops, and restaurants, and learn about the history and culture of the Amana people.
- The Bridges of Madison County: Made famous by the novel and movie of the same name, the covered bridges of Madison County are a picturesque and romantic destination in central Iowa. Visitors can drive or bike along the scenic routes to see the bridges and explore the surrounding countryside.
- The Mississippi River: Iowa borders the mighty Mississippi River, which offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and sightseeing. You can take a riverboat cruise, visit historic river towns like Dubuque and Davenport, or explore the natural beauty of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
- The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum: Located in West Branch, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 31st president of the United States. Visitors can see exhibits about Hoover’s childhood, his humanitarian work, and his presidency during the Great Depression.
Whether you’re coming to Iowa for business or pleasure, there are plenty of flights to get you here. Once you arrive, you’ll find a welcoming and friendly state with plenty of things to see and do. From the historic covered bridges to the modern attractions of Des Moines, Iowa has something for everyone. So pack your bags, book your flight, and come discover the heartland of America!