Iowa, a state located in the Midwestern United States, is known for its rich agricultural heritage, vibrant arts and culture scene, and friendly locals. With a total area of 56,272 square miles, the state is the 26th largest in the US, and is home to over three million residents. If you’re planning a visit to Iowa or just looking to learn more about the state, a printable map of Iowa can be an excellent resource to guide your exploration.
Printable Map of Iowa
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Iowa is a diverse state with many unique cities, towns, and natural attractions to explore. Des Moines, the capital and largest city, is known for its cultural offerings, while Cedar Rapids is home to a thriving arts scene. Other notable cities include Ames, home to Iowa State University, and Iowa City, the state’s literary capital. But beyond its urban areas, Iowa is also home to numerous natural attractions, including the Loess Hills, the Mississippi River, and the Bridges of Madison County.
Using a printable map of Iowa can help you navigate the state’s many attractions, both natural and man-made. Whether you’re interested in exploring Iowa’s many museums, art galleries, and historic sites or just looking to take in the state’s natural beauty, a map can be an invaluable tool.
If you’re planning a visit to Iowa or just looking to learn more about the state, here are 20 fun facts about Iowa to get you started:
- Iowa is known as the Hawkeye State, a nickname inspired by a character in James Fenimore Cooper’s book, The Last of the Mohicans.
- The Iowa State Fair, held annually in Des Moines, is one of the largest state fairs in the US, attracting over one million visitors each year.
- The Iowa State Capitol, located in Des Moines, features a golden dome that is taller than the US Capitol.
- Iowa is home to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, honoring the 31st President of the US, who was born in the state.
- The Amana Colonies, a group of seven historic German villages located in eastern Iowa, were founded in the 19th century and are now a popular tourist destination.
- The iconic American Gothic painting, featuring a farmer and his daughter, was painted by Grant Wood, a native of Anamosa, Iowa.
- Iowa is home to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, which celebrates the cultural heritage of these two nations.
- The Field of Dreams movie site, located in Dyersville, Iowa, attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to see where the famous film was shot.
- Iowa is a leading producer of corn, soybeans, and pork, and is also home to many wineries and craft breweries.
- The Iowa Great Lakes region, located in the northwestern part of the state, is a popular summer vacation spot, known for its numerous lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- The Iowa River flows for over 300 miles through the state, and is popular for fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities.
- Iowa has a rich history in the sport of wrestling, and is home to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Waterloo.
- The Effigy Mounds National Monument, located in northeastern Iowa, is home to over 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans.
- Iowa’s state bird is the American Goldfinch, while its state flower is the wild rose.
- The Iowa Speedway, located in Newton, is a popular NASCAR track that hosts several races each year.
- Iowa is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and Grinn ell College.
- Iowa is the only state in the US whose east and west borders are entirely formed by rivers – the Mississippi River to the east and the Missouri River to the west.
- The Iowa State Cyclones and the University of Iowa Hawkeyes are the state’s two most prominent collegiate sports teams, with a long-standing rivalry between them.
- Iowa is home to numerous covered bridges, including the famous bridges of Madison County, which were the subject of a best-selling novel and subsequent movie.
- The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum features a replica of the Oval Office as it appeared during Hoover’s time in office.
These fun facts about Iowa are just a small sampling of the many unique and interesting things that the state has to offer. Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Iowa or just passing through, there’s always something new to discover in this diverse and fascinating state.
By using a printable map of Iowa, you can easily plan out your journey and explore all that the Hawkeye State has to offer. From its charming small towns to its bustling urban centers, and from its natural wonders to its cultural treasures, Iowa is a state full of surprises and delights that are just waiting to be discovered.
