2021 Edition

Charming main streets, sophisticated cities and gorgeous open-air prairies distinguish the Hawkeye State as a terrific option for group tours. Whether your group wants to savor an art gallery, embark on an agritourism adventure or discover centuries of engaging history, our state has activities that will appeal to you. Created in conjunction with the Iowa Group Travel Association (IGTA), this guide offers numerous ideas for tour planners tasked with preparing an unforgettable Midwestern itinerary. This is a resource you won’t want to skip!

Iowa’s 14 byways intersect the entire state and are a great option to consider if you’re planning a regional itinerary. In “Iowa’s Historic Byways,” we spotlight three routes and the incredible attractions you can find on them. Learn how local culture was shaped by the Mighty Mississippi along the Great River Road, discover Eastern European heritage on the Lincoln Highway and photograph the iconic covered bridges of Madison County. While on your motorcoach trip, be sure to enjoy the state’s hundreds of art galleries, studios and live music venues. Popular group tour stops include the Surf Ballroom (where Buddy Holly famously played his last concert), the American Gothic House and the Glenn Miller Birthplace Museum. Discover even more creative attractions in our “Artistic Iowa” feature.

Iowa has developed a strong agricultural legacy and continues to innovate with cutting-edge farms, delicious restaurants and educational centers that explain the harvesting process to visitors. In “8 Exceptional Agritourism Experiences,” we profile the historic reenactments at Living History Farms, the bison herd that lives on the Hawkeye Buffalo & Cattle Ranch and the tasty dairy treats available at the Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor in Le Mars. More memories await in the state’s metro areas, which we explore in “Iowa’s Sophisticated Cities.” Enjoy craft beer and hip nightclubs in Des Moines, admire classic Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in Mason City and learn about railroad history in Council Bluffs.