All too many people who visit eastern Iowa are merely passing through, but there are plenty of reasons to stop in and explore the area. The rolling hills, lush valleys and winding rivers that characterize the region reward nature lovers, while the small cities that dot the landscape entertain the more urban minded. Eastern Iowa maintains and celebrates its historic settlements and yet looks to the future, creating new tradition
Live Action
- As the hometown of the University of Iowa, Iowa City is equal parts Hawkeyes sports fanatics and counter-culture music lovers. Catch an exciting basketball game at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena or join the sea of fans wearing black and gold while rooting for the Hawks football team at Kinnick Stadium. Alternatively, a number of downtown music venues book local and national acts while nearby record stores sell their albums. Expect to see rock 'n' roll bands at the dive bar Gabe's and anything from folk performers to comedians at the historic Englert Theater.
Historic Homestead
- Between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, eastern Iowa's largest city, seven historic German villages make up the Amana Colonies. Members of these small villages lived a communal life from 1855 to the mid-1930s. Today, shops where meat is cured, quilts are made on looms and furniture is made by hand -- as it has been since the villages were settled -- are open to the public. Make your first stop the Amana Colonies Visitor Center in Amana, and also explore the villages on a self-guided tour.
- Breathe Fresh Air
- Roughly 5 miles southwest of Mount Vernon, Palisades-Keplar State Park encompasses 840 acres of hardwood forest surrounding the Cedar River. Hike the 6-mile trail that winds through the park to observe wild animals, wildflowers and dramatic tree-lined bluffs that overlook deep ravines. During warmer months, campers flock to the 44-site campground with four family-sized cabins. The Cedar River presents boating opportunities -- use the ramp at the south end of the park -- while the nearby dam is a spot to catch bluegill, catfish and bass.
Bottoms Up
- Home to several breweries, wineries and distilleries, eastern Iowa enjoys a burgeoning craft-alcohol scene. The Great River Brewery makes Roller Dame Red Ale and Farmer Brown Alein Davenport, the Tabor Home Vineyards Winery produces the full-boded red Iowa St. Croix and the slightly sweet Barn Dance Red outside of Baldwin and the Mississippi River Distilling Company distills small-batch gin and "Pride of the Wapsi" strawberry vodka, among others. Stop by the sites to tour their facilities and/or taste some of their concoctions.
