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Iowa. The first thought that comes to mind is corn, isn't it? Well, yes, there are some corn fields, but there is also so much more in this beautiful state: rolling hills, beautiful lakes, and the area attractions in our most prominent cities.
Let's start with the most obvious of cities: Des Moines, the state capital itself:
* Valley Junction- This great attraction is filled with antiques, gift shops, galleries, and great foods. They have various special events going on throughout the summer and fall months.
* Iowa State Fair- This fair lasting nearly two weeks is famous for its numerous rides, games, agricultural exhibits, and musical entertainment.
* Salisbury House- This beautiful 42 room mansion is modeled after King's House in England. Tours are a little over one hour and the cost per person is very low, compared with some other tours in the area. If you're looking for a wonderful castle to have your wedding at, consider the Salisbury House.
* Blank Park Zoo- See how animals from various continents lived. Go on an Australian Walkabout, visit the petting zoo, or learn about over 800 different animals live on display.
* Des Moines Botanical Center- This haven is for plant lovers! Featuring flowers from multiple regions and seasons, trees, shrubs and many other plant forms, this beautiful get-a-way will leave you breathless. Visit their gift shop to find colorful flowers, mementos, and treasures for flower lovers.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa:
* Brucemore Estate- This mansion is one of the focal points for major entertainment activities and tours in the Cedar Rapids area. You can visit the gorgeous gardens or take a tour of this stunning old home.
* Cedar Rapids Museum of Art- The museum holds a large variety of wonderful artists. Some of the works included here are: Grant Wood, Marvin Cone, and many more.
* The History Center- This new addition to Cedar Rapids is truly spectacular. View exhibits like the Mercy Medical Center's beginning, as well as the numerous collections found here and hundreds of historical artifacts.
* Czech Village- Visit this historic section of Cedar Rapids. Here you'll find wonderful foods to feast upon, unique gift shops like The Gingerbread House, and lots of interesting history. You can also visit the Czech & Slovak Museum to find things like the type of clothing made and worn long ago, as well as various exhibits about the culture and way of life.
* Science Station- Visit this extraordinary museum and find hands on activities, exhibits and displays for the whole family. The Science Station holds exhibits on sound, light, computers, dinosaurs and much more. If you're a teacher, bring your classroom for an overnight stay at The Science Station. You and your students will enjoy participating in plenty of firsthand experiments and activities.
Whether you're planning a weekend trip or a week long trip, Iowa has many wonderful places to visit. You can find out more information by checking out the visitor's bureau's for the area you're interested in. One caution about our weather, we're either hot or cold here. There is usually no in between, so pack your clothes accordingly. Plan a trip to visit our lovely state, because we're not just about corn.
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