Drive 187.2 miles • 3 hours, 39 minutes

Enriched by the heritage of settlers looking for a safe haven, Iowa beckons visitors to experience the wonders of its natural beauty along with its legacy as a welcoming destination.

1. Des Moines

Starting Point • Entertainment, Food, Nature

Des Moines puts its best foot forward when it comes to the fine and performing arts. The Des Moines Symphony, Metro Opera and Simon Estes Amphitheater compete for attention with the Science Center of Iowa and Blank IMAX Dome Theater. Blank Park Zoo entices visitors to enjoy Wednesday nights (summer only) with food and craft beers. For more summer concert fun, visit Historic Valley Junction for the weekly Farmers Market.

2. Amana Colonies

106.2 miles, 1 hour, 58 minutes • History, Shopping

The story of the Amana Colonies, a cluster of communities founded on the concept of collective living founded by German immigrants, is told at the Amana Heritage Museum, one of Iowa’s top attractions. Visit one of the seven historical sites, including the Communal Kitchen and Copper Shop in Middle Amana. Or stop by the General Store in High Amana to see goods and merchandise reminiscent of the 1800s.

3. Davenport

81 miles, 1 hour, 41 minutes • Entertainment, Nature

This vibrant Iowa town occupies a rare stretch of the Mississippi River that runs east to west, resulting in spectacular sunsets over the water—Mark Twain even dubbed it the “land of sunsets.” Visitors can witness this phenomenon via Skybridge, a 50-foot-high pedestrian span that provides stunning views through floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Equally spectacular are the music festivals and theatrical offerings found throughout the city year-round.