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

Iowa's Friendly City An Hour From Omaha Offers Downtown Shops, Museum Fun, And A Lakeside State Park

staff@islands.com (Megi Canco) — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

This tiny Iowa city is home to a handful of unique local shops, a free museum, and a state park with a cozy campground, hiking trails, and serene lake.

Between Omaha And Des Moines Is A Midwest City With Fun Shops, Quiet Trails, And Family-Friendly Outings

staff@islands.com (Makayla Maxwell) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:45:00 +0000

This Midwest city in Iowa, located between Omaha and Des Moines, is home to fun shops, quiet trails, and family friendly events and outings.

Iowa's Dazzling Lake State Park Is A Sunny Getaway With Swimming, Fishing, And Camping

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:25:00 +0000

Whether you're looking to escape the summer heat by dipping your toes in the water or cast a line in search of fish, this Iowa state park has you covered.

Between Sioux Falls And Omaha Is Iowa's Largest Remaining Prairie With Roaming Bison, Hiking, And Scenic Views

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000

Not only is this Iowa prairie home to a bunch of bison, but it's also a wonderful spot for some rugged hiking and a great place to enjoy a scenic view.

Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Visiting The Midwest

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Sat, 30 May 2026 12:30:00 +0000

From Wisconsin to the Dakotas, you'll be surprised at how much of Midwestern culture varies from other regions of the United States. Here's what to now.

Forget Florida, Retirees Are Flocking To This Affordable Midwest State With Charming Locales And Natural Beauty

staff@islands.com (Caitlin McAllister) — Fri, 29 May 2026 15:45:00 +0000

This Midwest state is attracting retirees and travelers with affordable living, scenic countryside, welcoming small towns, and peaceful outdoor adventures.

The Most Underrated Lake Towns In The Midwest In 2026

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Thu, 28 May 2026 14:30:00 +0000

While the Great Lakes are incredible to explore, these massive bodies of water aren't the only lakes prime for exploration in the Midwest region.

Iowa's Wildlife Refuge Near Omaha Straddles The State Border With Birdwatching And A Sunken Steamboat

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Thu, 28 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

A wildlife refuge that straddles the border of Iowa and Nebraska is home to a sunken steamboat and an abundance of birds and fish.

The Midwest's Most Underrated State Park Is A Hidden Iowa Gem With Dramatic Cliffs And Riverside Trails

staff@islands.com (Neha Maheshwari) — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:45:00 +0000

You really don't think Iowa when you think of hidden gems, but this state park in the hawkeye state is sure to change your mind.

Tucked Between Des Moines And Cedar Rapids Is Iowa's Charming 'Community Of Flags'

staff@islands.com (Atoosa Ryanne Arfa) — Mon, 25 May 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Just off Interstate 80, this Iowa travel spot features giant flag displays, a historic opera house, local diners, and unexpected roadside charm.

Iowa's Former Logging Town Is Now A Charming Midwest Village With Shops And Local Bites

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Sat, 23 May 2026 21:00:00 +0000

This Iowa village blends the old and the new with historical architecture, cozy restaurants and bars, and charming clothing and interior decor boutiques.

Iowa's Lovely State Park Near Des Moines Is A Lakeside Escape Known For Its Big Beach And Great Fishing

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Sat, 23 May 2026 15:25:00 +0000

Just a 30-minute drive from Des Moines is a state park escape with an 814-acre lake where you can fish, paddle, and lounge on the expansive beach.

The Midwest's Little-Known Nature Preserve Is A Secluded Escape With A Secret Waterfall And Rugged Beauty

staff@islands.com (Stephen Hanson) — Sun, 17 May 2026 23:00:00 +0000

In Iowa, this secluded woodland preserve features rugged ravines, rare fern-covered cliffs, and a hidden waterfall reached by an adventurous forest trail.

Near Des Moines Is Iowa's Serene State Park With Trails, Canoeing, And A Historic Lodge Walnut Woods State Park

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Wed, 13 May 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Iowa is known for being flat, but this stunning little outdoor escape has scenic trails through historic woods and plenty of waterfront activity to enjoy.

Between Des Moines And Cedar Rapids Is An Iowa State Park For Lakefront Camping, Fishing, And Hiking Trails

staff@islands.com (Neha Maheshwari) — Sun, 10 May 2026 12:25:00 +0000

According to visitors, this Iowa gem is jam packed with nature and activities, from lakeside camping and fishing to scenic trails that keep you exploring.

Iowa's Second-Largest Lake Is A State Park Beauty With Hiking Trails And Charming Beaches

staff@islands.com (Madeleine Bee) — Sat, 09 May 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Iowa may not be near a coast, but it has plenty of lakes. The second-largest of these is in a state park with plenty of outdoor fun available.

Hidden Between Cedar Rapids And Madison Is A Striking Underground Marvel With Sparkling Crystals

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Sun, 03 May 2026 21:45:00 +0000

This underground cave in Iowa features rare anthodite crystals, stalactites, a cool year-round interior, and guided tours through a limestone passage.

Tucked Between Kansas City And Des Moines Is A Scenic Iowa City With College-Town Charm And Quaint Shops

staff@islands.com (Olaoluwa Akinbayo) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:25:00 +0000

This small college town in Iowa offers visitors a charming campus, nature spots with hiking trails, and independent shops (including Amish and antiques stores).

One Of America's Oldest Amusement Parks Is A Nostalgic Iowa Gem With A Vibrant Boardwalk And Lake Views

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Near Iowa's top vacation lakes, a long-running amusement spot offers classic rides, waterfront views, and a nostalgic boardwalk atmosphere each summer season.

This Midwest City Could Pass For Europe, According To Visitors

staff@islands.com (Tosh Bene) — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:25:00 +0000

If you're looking for a taste of Europe without having travel overseas, plenty of visitors swear by this quaint Midwest city.