If you didn’t know already, I have a passion for Iowa. So much so, that my Junior year of high school I memorized all the Iowa high school logos on a website (accidentally) just by looking at scores each day. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that would become a huge butterfly effect for me.
To make a long story short, I decided to visit every Iowa High School in the state. It began with short, twice a week roadtrips. I got my picture taken with many schools on the eastern side of the state.
Soon I realized that I was going to have to get out of my
comfort zone, and expand west. In the summer of 2024, my parents and I went on a mini road trip of southern, western, and northwest Iowa. We went all the way from Keokuk to Council Bluffs, and even to west Lyon and Mason City.
It was amazing. I had so much fun learning and seeing what these sides of the state were like. It gave me such a better understanding of the people here.
I now have 50 schools left. Now on the doorstep of summer, I will finally be able to close the final gap and complete my entire journey. It’s been awesome, with so many friends I’ve met cheering me on and supporting me through all of my escapades.
Looking forward, I hope to be able to use this information that I’ve learned to continue to spread the knowledge of Iowa to others. Just in opportunities like this blog, I hope that I was able to inspire others to explore and interact with our great state.
Our agriculture is our main export. There are 7 pigs to every human in our state. That being said, I think that we take great pride in providing the rest of the country, nay, the WORLD with our supreme topsoil and farming experience. Most farms are and have been family run for generations now, and that’s something that has been passed down through those same families.
I have many friends who farm, and I know the hard work it takes. It’s year-round work, with hard stress on the body. We appreciate our farmers because we ARE farmers, and what it takes is a lot.
The “Iowa Nice”
One of the bigger reasons on this list is being “Iowa Nice.” What is it? Well, it essentially is the attitude of helping someone out or being nice and tolerant. In my experience as a midwesterner, people from Iowa whom I do not know often treat me quite kindly or are willing to help. It’s not a concrete thing, which makes it hard to explain or quantify. However, those in Iowa know that they indentify with this type of mentality.
Hard Work
A true hard worker is someone that is becoming harder and harder to find as time goes on. However, with the average Iowan I would argue this couldn’t be further from the truth. We as Iowans take immense pride in doing hard work, and that’s definitely worth something. Lots of the people here are farmers or come from agriculture, and that rubs off on the rest of the state.
I think about how Iowan athletes reflect hard work. Whenever Iowa or Iowa State plays other schools, you can just tell that the “Iowa hard work” is at play when they go to compete.
Small Towns
Small towns make the world go round. In this case, it makes Iowa go round. Our sense of community in small settings create strong bonds that have kept our communities together through decades. Regardless of financial, environmental, or other changes, you can always depend on an Iowan small town.
I remember in 2020 when a large storm hit the city of city of Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area, crippling resources vital to those there. My family and I went and helped with the storm cleanup, and there were many others like us that banded together to help those in need.
Starting our list off, the Villisca Ax Murder house is the claim to fame for this town. One night in 1912, the family residing in the house was attacked by someone wielding an ax. Although infamous and steeped in tragedy, it still is a cool place. You can even get a tour of the place or even an overnight stay (if you’re THAT brave.) Either way, it makes for a cool stop on a trip.
#4 Monticello, Iowa
This small town in Iowa is not unlike many others. However, what it may not have in a popping or eye-catching attractions, it makes up for in its vibrant Main Street and seasonal festivities. With many open stores still lining its Main Street, it also offers some great camping experiences in the summer with the addition of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone campsite. In late July, Monticello hosts The Great Jones County Fair, which is heralded for bringing in big names and attractions.
#3 Amana Iowa
Going to Amana, Iowa, feels like stepping in a Time Machine set to 1820. Not only are the houses there still kept to be accurate to the given time periods, but it truly feels like you’re in a place other than Iowa. New England perhaps?
Regardless, the nature surrounding the Amana colonies is absolutely stunning, and this little gem is absolutely something you should see.
#2: Pella, Iowa
I can already feel the amount of people attacking me for calling Pella a hidden gem town. I know what you’re thinking. It’s so well known! Besides the PellaCorps and Vermeer corporations, who are known nationally for their products, there still is a lot there.
If you have never been to Pella, you really should go. It’s a very interesting place, with a small town feel and yet lots of culture change. It’s rooted in dutch culture, and around April they hold a massive celebration called “Tulip Time.” Certainly worth going to!
#1: Decorah
Perhaps as well known as Pella, rounding out this list is Deborah. If you’ve never experienced Decorah in person, then I’m sorry you’ve have such a bummer life. There’s almost too much to unpack here. Deborah is such an interesting town because it’s basically out in the middle of the forest and cliffs. It’s a large enough town that it’s self sustaining: it has a Walmart, groceries, and items that you would everyday need available, while also balancing many family-owned small businesses in the downtown area.
There’s ample trails to hike upon, which includes steep and awesome cliffs that give way to breathtaking views overlooking the town. I truly mean it when I say there’s no where else in Iowa like it. Getting the chance to stay up there in autumn when the air gets crisp and the leaves change colors, is an experience you won’t regret .
The Iowa State Fair is one of the biggest events in Iowa. Tens of thousands attend each year for the concerts, food, and overall experience. It takes place in mid-late August, and is widely considered an important event in Iowa culture.
Should you still attend in 2025? Here are my thoughts.
Still haven’t gone? DEFINITELY GO
If you’re a newbie to all things state fair, you HAVE to check it out. There’s really something for everyone. If you’re a foodie, there’s a great selection of both tasty and experimental foods there. The same goes for concerts and rides. The experiences there are simply so diverse.
Haven’t gone in 5-10 years? You should go!
If it’s been 5-10 years since you’ve been to the State Fair, you should get around to going. It’s worth it! There’s definitely enough that has changed since then that could warrant a trip there. New concert acts are always coming through. Even if you’re not a concert person memories can get fuzzy after some time. Book it with some friends and go!
You’ve been there in thelast 2-4 years
This one becomes up to you. For me, the State Fair is a rite of passage for every Iowan. It’s like a baby bird getting out of the nest for the first time. You have to at least have experienced the State Fair, even if you don’t remember when you did. If you go pretty regularly, you probably have a good idea of what you’re getting, moreso than the two options above.
You’ve been there last year
There’s usually 3 categories people fall into here. #1: You’re a diehard State Fair fan. You go every year, and you love celebrating it. It’s awesome. #2: You work at the State Fair in some capacity. You have an obligation that keeps you around it so you have to be there. #3: You just went there last year. That’s it. You just took your “once-in-a-while” trip and it ended up being last year.
Regardless, like the option above I would weigh your options. If you’re a diehard fan, you just keep living your little Iowa heart out. If you work it, maybe find some time in the quiet bits to find something you can enjoy and share will those close to you.
All in all, the State Fair is an awesome experience, and something think all Iowan’s should try.
Every year hundreds of students from across the state gather inside Drake stadium in Des Moines to compete at the highest level for multiple days at the end of May. In this article I hope that by giving you multiple, concrete reasons, I can convince you why state track simply trumps any other athletic experience in Iowa.
It’s the last “Event” of the year
Assuming your school didn’t have too many cancelations due to snow, the end of May would usually be the time that you would be wrapping up the school year. Even if there were snow days or cancelations that pushed your year back into June, it still makes for a great ending. That being said, state track allows for athletes to finish off the academic year with a final race, throw, or jump. It’s a great momentum generator for summer.
It’s the most diverse state experience
If you’ve ever been to state track, you know just how big it can get. Starting early in the morning and ending in the early evening, it likely has at least one runner from every school in the state. Isn’t that pretty special? No other sport in the state can replicate that. There’s something super special about looking around the stands and seeing all the little pods of different schools scattered throughout the stands.
Individual-based success
You would think that a sport based on individuals’ success wouldn’t be as entertaining as the fierce storylines and action of a team sport. You may be right, depending on your own opinions and choice of watching that sport. I would argue that track can have all of that and more. Not only are there favorites for teams to win the meet itself, but often times it’s the individual athletes (or relays) that are the most fun to watch. There are so many star athletes that finally get their chance to showcase their talents and athleticism on a large stage
It’s worth something
Every Iowa High School State sporting event means something. However, there’s just something about state track that’s just above the rest. It’s cool being able to go to state track. It’s the experience. Traveling down to Des Moines is special. The weather is usually great, with plenty of sun.
If you’ve ever driven through Iowa, you’ll know that it’s not always the most exciting car ride of your life. That being said, with all that expanse of space, towns across Iowa have decided to create some neat attractions to draw people in. Here are 5 of my personal favorites.
#5: Albert the Bull
Albert the Bull stands to be the Worlds Largest Bull. Residing in Audubon, Iowa, this 45 ton bovine is a wonder to be seen. Just pull off I-80 and take a look for yourself! Created after the image of the perfect Hereford bull, Albert certainly is worth a photo op.
#4:The Future Birthplace of Captain Kirk
Calling all Star Trek fans! The birthstone of the famous James T. Kirk resides in the small town of Riverside, Iowa, along with a Star Trek museum. Each year people from all around the world come to Riverside to celebrate “Trek Fest”, an annual celebration of all things Star Trek.
#3: Surf Ballroom
The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa is quite the interesting location. Upon arriving, you’ll notice that the building and the area around it still emulates everything pre-1960. Not only that, but it is also more famously known for being the last place Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper performed before they died in a tragic plane crash in 1959. It’s in a beautiful location, with just a few houses blocking it from an open view of Clear Lake.
#2: World’s Largest Truck Stop
HONK HONK HONK!! The World’s Largest Truck Stop feels like something only Iowa would be able to pull off. It’s so silly and far fetched, it just works. You’d think that this place is no better a normal gas station, but you’d be dead wrong. It feels more like a mall than a gas station. It has over 900 parking spaces, and gets more than 5000 visitors daily. If you haven’t seen it yet, you should!
#1: The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption
This is personally one of my favorite things about Iowa. I like to call the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption a hidden gem, but I’m sure people in the area and across the state are well aware of it.
For those who aren’t though, this spectacular shrine is located in West Bend, Iowa. It’s a handmade conglomeration of 9 different shrines, all connected depicting the life of Jesus. Even if you don’t find yourself religious, the sheer craftsmanship that would even go into something like this is amazing. It looks like Atlantis, but in Iowa.
I sat down and decided it was time to talk college. Specifically, the colleges of Iowa. According to Wikipedia, the greatest source on the internet, there are 56 colleges and universities in the state of Iowa. That’s simply too many to fit on my list and quite frankly, some just aren’t worth ranking. For example: Palmer Chiropractic, which is in Davenport, Iowa, is a school specifically for chiropractors. That’s not to say that it’s not worth ranking, but it just doesn’t match up to the way these other schools do. I decided to rank them, as well as give my thoughts as to why they are where they are.
Without further ado, the rankings.
S Tier
These schools are the ones you know. They’re the big names, all Division 1 athletics, and when people think about Iowa, they think of these schools. They represent the state well, and a large majority of students that attend Iowa college choose one of the S tier schools.
A Tier
Just a step down from S tier we have A tier. These schools are ones that might not have the notoriety that the S tier has, but they make up for it in their own unique way. They might be a competitive sports school, a nice place to get an education, or really just a place with a lot of personality. You might have heard of these schools, and that really says something.
B Tier
These schools are solid! They aren’t the best, but they are still a solid pick. They have a lot going for them, and the people going to them would say the same. There’s reason’s people still go to those schools. It could be to keep competing in a sports setting, or even more for the private academics. Either way, these schools hold their own.
C Tier
These schools are just okay. They’re not bad, but they aren’t good. They are those schools that seem to just be hanging out. How do you articulate that? These schools definitely have some character, but it’s next to nothing compared to those above. If you go to one of these, it’s more often than not to keep playing a sport, not because you want to.
D Tier
This tier is tough. There’s a lot of schools above you, but you’re not quite the worst yet. It’s a tough place to be. Some of the schools here could have been in C tier, but it’s simply too competitive. Likewise, the worst schools in this category aren’t quite bad enough to drop to F. These schools are here likely because of the personalities that attend them, or simply the lack of notoriety or competitiveness that the categories above them share.
F Tier
What can I say about F tier. These schools STINK. They’re down here for a reason. If you go or went to these schools and loved it, I’m sorry. Not really. I have yet to hear many good things about attending these schools. It’s not to say you’re better off not attending college, but these schools are a rough look to say the least. Some of these may be a hot take, but I stand by each choice and why I put them in this category specifically.
Iowa isn’t exactly known for having famous people. We’re mostly known for our great agriculture, scenery, midwest values, or simply put: corn. However, that doesn’t mean we don’t have our own set of people that have reached a high level of fame outside of agriculture. That being said, I decided to find 5 of those very same figures you may not know are from Iowa!
#5: Danai Gurira
Born in Grinnell, Iowa, in 1978, Danai is both a citizen of Zimbabwe and the United States. Her parent both worked for Grinnell college before moving around the midwest and back into Zimbabwe for some time.
She would come back to the U.S. for her post-secondary education, and soon after would break into the world of acting. In 2012, she officially joined the cast of the hit show: The Walking Dead as the character Michonne. In 2018, she took the role of General Okoye in the Marvel classic: Black Panther, which has gone on to earn 1.3 billion dollars worldwide.
#4: Johnny Carson
Johnny Carson was born in 1925 in Corning, Iowa. He lived in Iowa until he was 8 years old and then grew up in Nebraska. He originally wanted to be a magician, and while serving in the Navy he realized he had a talent for entertaining others.
He is known best for his late night talk show The Tonight Show, which he hosted for nearly thirty years. Bringing in celebrities of all walks of life, Johnny pioneered much of the late-night broadcast we see today.
#3: Elijah Wood
Born in Cedar Rapids in 1981, Elijah Wood started acting from a very early age. His family sold their local store for him to pursue acting in California, which in turn resulted in him being very successful.
Elijah held major roles in movies when he was a child actor, but then went on to host even bigger projects. In 2001 he received the role of Frodo in the Lord of the Rings franchise, one of the biggest movie franchises ever. Shortly after, he would go on to voice act in the movie Happy Feet, which also received rave reviews.
#2: Adam Devine
Where are my pitch perfect fans at? Adam Devine is most well known for his role in the extremely popular Pitch Perfect movie, where his character Bumper is the main villain. Before that though, he was born in Waterloo, Iowa before growing up in Lincoln Nebraska. When he was 11, he was hit my a concrete truck that almost cost him his life.
Adam has gone on to star in other shows and movies, and can be seen in many cameos throughout Hollywood. He is known for his unique comedic style, which he helped shape during the show Workaholics.
#1: John Wayne
John Wayne was born in Winterset, Iowa, in 1907. He moved out to Southern California at an early age, but went on to be one of the most well known male actors of all time. He has appeared in 179 productions, and has claimed great success as a pioneer in the Western genre.
After his death, he was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor one can achieve. You can still visit his house in Winterset though, and still watch his many western movies online.
If you’re like me, then you enjoy a good bracket challenge.
Before March Madness kicks off, we as Iowans get a two straight weeks of competitive basketball.
First, the Iowa High School Girls State Basketball Tournament starts in late February and typically goes into early March. There are 5 total classes and LOTS of competitive basketball, you can tell the sport is growing.
Not to be outdone, however, the boy’s State Tournament begins the week after. With just 4 total classes, we get to witness another slew of big games, moments, and memories. These two unions create an atmosphere and environment that makes the whole state put everything on hold and watch, and it’s exciting.
So how do you know what teams to pick and cheer for?
There’s some key things you need to know before making your picks.
1: General info and stats
What’s a bracket challenge without doing your research? For this, be sure to check out https://www.gobound.com/ia to see points, rebounds, size, and all the factors that can indicate whether a team might win or lose.
2: Schedule
Arguably the most important part of the challenge is determining who has the harder schedule. With teams coming in from all over the state, it’s important to know how to value them. How does a team with an easier schedule and great record stack up against a team with harder competition but more losses?
For me, I personally give an edge to those who play a harder schedule. The farther down in classes you go, you will see the benefit of playing harder games show through a less impressive record.
3: The Rankings are not always correct
The rankings that are released are done so very quickly after the final playoff games are tallied. This is done so as to setup the State Tournaments efficiently and effectively. However, sometimes it seems rushed or not thought through.
The people creating the seeding often have bias or may favor certain teams over others. It’s not a downright outrage, but it’s nice to have an accurate tournament. The rankings can be used as an indicator, not as a final tally. After doing my own bracket challenges and predictions, about 60-70 of the time the seedings are correct.
4: Beware the undefeated
More times than not, teams that come into the state tournament undefeated are not who they say they are. They may be a top team in the state, but likely are overinflated to a point where they may not have the ability to win. They have won all of their games by 20 or more, and have’t stuck around to hang with anyone in a close game. This hurts them, as in the postseason when games get tough and you find yourself down, they struggle to comeback and win.
However, some teams really ARE just that good. I often see this at the 4A and 5A levels. It’s not to say a team can’t be good because they’re undefeated, it just can really depend based on games.
5: Be careful betting against the CIML (Central Iowa Metro League)
We’ve seen time and time again the dominance in the Des Moines area, which means there can be upset value in teams seeded higher than a Des Moines area school. It’s not always a surefire bet, but just know more often then not Des Moines stays dominant.
Besides Des Moines, there are other areas of the state that are really tough to not consider in matchups. For example, northwest Iowa is extremely competitive at smaller levels, and even southeast Iowa has some 3A teams that are known to disrupt teams from making deep state runs.
Combine all 5 of those elements, and you’re ready to make your bracket! Just remember that just like March Madness, you can do all that research and still be wrong! Take it from me!
Two drastically different parts of the state. Or are they really?
Growing up, I had no idea what western Iowa really held. In fact, it seemed to make sense to me that no one in their right mind would live any farther west than Des Moines. Up until that point I had thought there wasn’t much out there.
Eastern Iowa has 7 cities with a population of over 20,000 people, whereas western Iowa has only 3 cities. If you include Fort Dodge, which when looking directly at a map, seems to fall on the western side of the state. This being said, I had thought that there wasn’t anything in western Iowa.
In eastern Iowa, the geography is very forgiving. Like any part of the midwest, there’s a cornfield in every direction. More than that though, there are rolling hills, and beautiful river valleys all the way from Muscatine to Lansing. The other half of the state contains much of the same, but with one major landmark: Loess Hills. These formations were formed in the last 30,000 years from glacial movement and wind depositing silt and soil.
To my surprise, there was much to reconsidered.
Journeying throughout much of the south and northwest of Iowa on a roadtrip excursion this past summer, I saw lots of what I was wrong about.
People DO live there! More than that, that side of the state is essentially the same. Apart from the drastic Loess Hills on the very western side, which are basically mini-mountains, it looks the same. This was really shocking for me. Granted, things looked slightly different, but for the most part it was the same.
I realized at this point that western and eastern Iowa are not so different after all.
