We drove across a big section of America’s heartland as we headed east out of Colorado. The plains are so different from the mountains out west, but they have a unique beauty of their own. We gazed across wide open spaces and fields of corn and other crops as we drove along. I was glad to make a stop in Iowa where we enjoyed the charms of the Hawkeye State.
Des Moines West KOA Holiday is one of the nicest KOAs we have been to. It is clean, spacious, and has fun activities and amenities. From here we were able to venture out to several great sights. In the neighboring town of Winterset, we toured John Wayne’s Birthplace Museum which includes his childhood home and the adjacent museum about his life and movies. The interesting exhibits detail how the man born as Marion Morrison became known as The Duke and went on to fame as the iconic cowboy and war hero who symbolized American values and ideals.
After the museum we drove out into the country to see some of the covered bridges made famous by the Clint Eastwood/Meryl Streep movie The Bridges of Madison County. Two of the 6 bridges that are still standing were featured in the movie. Walking across the old bridges gives you a feeling of stepping back in time. The whole area is so picturesque!
Another highlight of our time in Des Moines was seeing the state capital. We prefer taking guided tours because you learn so much about the history and culture of the state and how their government system works. Most guides also have a lot of surprising stories to tell too. The Iowa capital was beautiful inside and has the most amazing law library I have ever seen.
After the capital city, we drove east to stop at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. We have been to 6 of the 15 presidential libraries now and each has provided a unique insight into the president’s life and family, administration, and leadership. The exhibits, documents, photographs, and videos immerse you in the sights and sounds of that period in our country’s history. We enjoyed learning more about our 31st president and the successes and challenges faced during his term in office.
We made a detour in Dyersville, Iowa, to see the Field of Dreams movie site. We have always enjoyed the baseball movie famous for its line “If you build it, he will come.” You can tour the house from the movie, visit the small gift shop, stop at the snack bar, and even hit a ball and run the bases on the famous field if you want to.
Our final stop in Iowa was at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque. Part museum, part aquarium, and part science center, there is much to see and do here. This facility is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and has exhibits about the culture and history of America’s rivers, over a dozen different aquariums with representative river wildlife, outdoor boat models, a blacksmith shop, and the National Rivers Hall of Fame.
We had such fun that we extended our visit in Iowa by a few days. From presidents and history to cultural and movie landmarks, we enjoyed discovering some of the state’s many charms. This fun spot in America’s heartland offers something for everyone.
Thank you, Robin, for taking us on another insightful journey with you.
We can’t wait to join you and Mike for your next leg on your journey. Stu and Sue
Thanks, Stu! Y’all were there almost at the beginning. We can’t believe we are going on year 6 now and still enjoying wonderful adventures. We look forward to the next time we can meet up!
Your posts help me to visualize all the amazing places and things you see, as if I’m there also! We are now officially full timers and love it! Thanks for inspiring us!
Tammy,
I am so excited for you! We have loved our last 5 years as full-time RVers and hope you have many wonderful adventures too! Safe travels.
Hi Robin. Enjoyed learning more about Iowa. What a beautiful state capitol building and library! I follow a very interesting young man from Iowa on Instagram. His name is Kaleb Wyse and his family has been farming in Iowa for several generations. Follow him @wyseguide for gardening, recipes, and more. He’ll brighten your day. As bonus, you’ll meet his French Bulldog, Kip. Have a lovely day.
Susan,
What a small world it is sometimes! I will have to check out Kaleb’s instagram page–sounds like he has a lot of good info.
Love all your adventures! 🥰
Thank you, Cheri. We still think back fondly of all our adventures together too!