Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Iowa's Fast-Growing City Is A Charming Midwestern Escape With Outdoor Fun And Local Sweet Treats

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 22:45:00 +0000

You'll visit this city near Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for its state fair, summer festival, golf, and trails - then stay for a cookie butter latte or sundae.

Nestled On The Mississippi River Is An Iowa City With Scenic Views, Midwestern Charm, And A Walkable Downtown

staff@islands.com (Tori Jane) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:45:00 +0000

Along the Mississippi River, a charming Iowa city pairs historic architecture and tree-lined streets with scenic trails and a downtown worth exploring.

What To Know Before Camping At Maquoketa Caves State Park

staff@islands.com (Brandy Jo Hastings) — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 10:45:00 +0000

Iowa's Maquoketa Caves State Park is a popular camping destination, but there are some critical things to know to ensure a smooth camping trip here.

11 Underrated Small Towns With Top-Notch Antique Shops

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 14:30:00 +0000

If you can spend a day lost in an antique shop, these towns will provide you with a fun getaway fillled with lots of shopping for vintage treasures.

'The Ice Cream Capital Of The World' Is A Charming Iowa City With Quaint Shops And Colorful Local Art

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Sample the finest scoops, hunt for giant cones, and visit a historic museum in this bustling town that makes over 150 million gallons of ice cream a year.

Near Des Moines Is Iowa's Fast-Growing Midwest City With Outdoor Fun, Shopping, And Local Eats

staff@islands.com (Madeleine Bee) — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 10:45:00 +0000

Just 20 minutes from Des Moines is Iowa's fastest-growing big city, offering a long paved walking trail, local outposts of cool shops, and farm-fresh dining.

Iowa's Lakeside State Park Is A Midwestern Outdoor Haven For Scenic Camping, Fishing, And Hiking

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 19:45:00 +0000

For a great nature escape between Des Moines and Omaha, head to this state park with a glacial lake, scenic camping, fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing.

Iowa's Scenic Midwestern State Park Near The Missouri Border Is A Gem For Lake Fun, Trails, And Camping

staff@islands.com (Neha Maheshwari) — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park in Iowa offers scenic trails, a swimming beach, boating, camping, cabins, and colorful fall foliage along the Des Moines River.

Between Cedar Rapids And Wisconsin Dells Is A State Park For An Idyllic Nature Escape With Camping And Trails

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:45:00 +0000

Nelson Dewey State Park offers blufftop campsites, Mississippi River views, short hiking trails, and Native American burial mounds in Wisconsin.

Iowa's Smallest State Park Is An Urban Gem With Scenic Lake Views And A Dark History

staff@islands.com (Eugenia Lazaris) — Sun, 04 Oct 2026 02:45:00 +0000

Small in size but big in charm, Iowa's smallest state park is a fascinating juxtaposition of gorgeous waters and brutal history.

The 10 Biggest Things That Surprise Tourists Visiting The Midwest

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:30:00 +0000

There are 12 states that are considered part of the Midwest region of the United States and even other Americans can have a unique cultural experience there.

One Of America's Best Beer Cities Is A Midwestern Gem With German Breweries And Oktoberfest Festivals

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 16:17:20 +0000

You don't need to head to Europe for a little taste of Germany - enjoy traditional beers, Bavarian cuisine, and Oktoberfest celebrations stateside.

Iowa Removed Nearly Every Fishing Limit At This Lake - But Only For A Limited Time

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 08:42:47 +0000

One local Iowa lake is offering anglers unlimited catches on bass, bluegill, and other fish species ahead of a planned renovation in the fall of 2026.

Forget Florida, Retire To This Landlocked Midwest Region With Roaming Bison, Scenic Lakes, And Outdoor Fun

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This often-overlooked region of the United States is home to thousands of lakes, state and national parks, and low prices suitable for adventurous retirees.

Between Des Moines And Okoboji Is Iowa's Charming Midwest City With Vibrant Parks, Tasty Eats, And A Nearby Museum

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 10:45:00 +0000

Think Iowa is a mere flyover state? Think again! This conveniently located Iowan city offers visitors culture and outdoor recreation in spades.

The Best Burger Spots Worth Visiting In Every State

staff@islands.com (Tess Kazenoff) — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Nothing feels as American than grabbing a delicious, juicy burger and fries. But what makes the best burger? We've pinpointed top contenders in every state.

Not Michigan, Not Ohio: This Midwest State Spends The Least On Housing In 2026

staff@islands.com (Kareem Gantt) — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 22:45:00 +0000

Although Michigan and Ohio are affordable Midwest hubs, this state is considered the most affordable for homeowners, per a 2026 WalletHub study.

Between Milwaukee And Madison Is Wisconsin's Charming Lake Lined With Quaint Eats, Serene Swims, And Fishing

staff@islands.com (Rachel Means) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 23:45:00 +0000

With a restaurant on an island and numerous bays for swimming or casting a line for bass and musky, this Wisconsin lake has plenty of waterfront recreation.

Forget Florida, Retire To This Quaint Midwest County Filled With Vibrant Parks, Charming Cities, And Outdoor Fun

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Instead of spending your golden years in Florida, consider retiring to a charming county in the Midwest, boasting small-town vibes and access to the outdoors.

Between Rockford And Cedar Rapids Is Iowa's Quaint City With Charming Stays, Local Eats, And Gift Shops

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 15:25:00 +0000

For a Midwest vacation with great food, tons of quaint shopping opportunities, and plenty of nature, you'll definitely want to check out this charming town.