The Hawkeye State is a great place to explore, and there are so many hidden gems in Iowa that it might take a full year to find them all! Anyone who wanders off the beaten path in Iowa will be rewarded with amazing restaurants, farms, museums, and parks to discover. These are among some of the best-kept secrets in Iowa, including an amazing burger restaurant hidden in a gas station and an animal encounter on a rustic farm. While the top attractions in the state are well-worth visiting, those looking for non-touristy things to do in Iowa will be well-rewarded on this tour through the best hidden gems in Iowa.

1. Bub's Pie Shop - Algona

A laid-back rural restaurant specializing in Pie, Bub's Pie Shop is a diner that serves satisfying portions at low prices. In addition to the multiple specialty fresh-baked pies available each day, don't miss out on the lunch special. This is a great place to find rustic country cooking like scalloped potatoes with ham or beef noodle soup - just like mom used to make.

2. Three Pines Farm - Cedar Falls

Three Pines Farm is a traditional working family farm, but a big part of its business is in animal experiences for visitors. Guests can meet the friendly goats and llamas, engage in goat yoga, or have private dinners hosted on site. Flora the pig is also a favorite, and she'll nap just about anywhere! Don't forget to pick up some ice cream on your way out.

3. Lone Star

Sternwheeler - Le Claire

Located in the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Lone Star Sternwheeler is a unique work of engineering - it's the last intact wooden-hull sternwheeler, permanently docked at the museum. The boat has been lovingly preserved, allowing guests to go inside, stand at the wheel, and even see the vintage steam engine.

4. Eggs and Jam - West Des Moines

Possibly the most over-the-top breakfast place in all of Des Moines, Eggs and Jam is known for its massive, over-the-top plates. Pancakes and waffles tend to be sweeter - one is topped with a whole Reese's ice cream bar - while the breakfast burritos, omelets, and Bloody Marys are perfect for savory food-lovers while being no less elaborate.

5. Uncle Bill's Farm - Grinnell

One of the most popular farmers markets and pumpkin patches in Iowa, Uncle Bill's Farm is known for having multiple hidden gems. A train ride and the chance to meet baby chicks will enthrall kids, and there's even an old-fashioned cafeteria on the grounds serving up barbecue sandwiches and apple cider donuts. Make sure to say hi to Rolly the farm cat while you're there!

6. Three Bridges County Park - Marshalltown

Three Bridges County Park is exactly what it says on the tin - a place where you can meet and maybe cross three unique bridges. There's a rustic old stone bridge, a massive steel bridge still in operation, and a stomach-dropping swinging bridge that only the daring will brave.

7. Iowa's Best Burger Cafe - Kellogg

A gas station rest stop is always a welcome sight after a long drive, but Iowa's Best Burger Cafe takes things to the next level. This is an original, independently run restaurant that serves many house-made specialties. Everything is great here, but the iconic item has to be the pizza burger - a deep-fried breaded patty infused with cheese and herbs.

8. Alluvial Brewing Company - Ames

Iowa's first farm brewery is located on an organic farm near Ames, and that care works its way into everything they make here. Drop in for a tasting of the farm's signature small-batch beers, which are made with ingredients grown on the farm and from local farm partners. There's even a live music stage for summer night concerts.

9. Sidekick Coffee and Books - Iowa City

Maybe the most laid-back place in Iowa City, this charming bookstore is a great place to spend an afternoon - especially since you won't even have to leave for food and drinks. The real highlight here is the independent coffee shop, which serves unique pastries, sandwiches, and drinks. You can even have a coffee flight to sample several flavors.

10. La Rana - Decorah

Hidden on a downtown side street in the charming town of Decorah, La Rana is a tiny restaurant known as one of Iowa's best for its Mediterranean-influenced food. Quiches, fresh seafood, steaks, and unique wall art are all part of what makes this an essential Iowa dining experience.

11. Starr's Cave Nature Center - Burlington

Starr's Cave Nature Center is one of the best hidden gems in the state, and it contains so many things to do. There's a 3.3-mile trail that takes you past some fascinating rock formations, a small museum that regularly holds special exhibits, and a tiny cave that hosts a growing Iowa bat population.

12. Arnolds Park Amusement Park - Arnolds Park

Sure, Adventureland is the biggest and Lost Island is the newest, but we think Arnolds Park is the most quintessentially Iowa amusement park. This historic park is home to the famous Legend - a thrilling roller coaster built in 1927 and still going strong. Add in riverboat tours, carnival games, and a Maritime museum, and you can easily spend a whole day here.

Have you visited any of these locations in the Hawkeye State? What are your favorite hidden gems in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section! If you're looking for more hidden gems in the Hawkeye State to explore this year, check out this hidden gems road trip. And if you're planning to trek across the state to find some cool places to visit in Iowa, make sure you're well stocked up on road trip snacks! For another hidden gem of a destination, check out this historic Iowa City hotel.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/hidden-gems-2024/