2025 Iowa Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Located in the Greenville Municipal Airport in Greenville, IA, the Iowa Aviation Museum preserves and shares the state’s aviation history. Within the museum is the Iowa Aviation Hall of Fame which pays tribute to and honors Iowans who have significantly impacted the field of aviation. On display at the museum, there are an astounding series of vintage planes. Included in the exhibitions are a 1941 Australian Tiger Moth, a 1946 Piper J-3 Cub, a 1928 Curtiss Robin, a 1946 Taylorcraft BC2, and many other amazing aircraft. If you’re planning your visit to the Iowa Aviation Museum, be advised that the museum is only open from April through November. The Museum also hosts special events each month so be sure to check out the events calendar before your visit. Whether traveling with history or aviation buffs, Iowa Aviation Museum is a family-friendly attraction that doesn’t disappoint. Address: 2251 Airport Rd, Greenfield, IA 50849, United States

This awe-inspiring Catholic shrine situated in the heart of West Bend, IA is a bucket list item for many religious travelers. Founded by German immigrant Father Paul Matthias Dobberstein, the shrine was inspired by a promise he made to the Blessed Virgin Mary. As a child he came down with a debilitating case of pneumonia; from his sickbed, he prayed to Mother Mary for healing. He promised that if he were to overcome the sickness, he’d build a shrine in Mary’s honor. Thus the conception of the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption. In addition to being a devout and studied priest, Dobberstein was intrinsically artistic. For over a decade he hoarded beautiful and precious stones. It was with these materials that he began building the Grotto in 1912. Set in a vast and verdant expanse of IA farmland, Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption invites Christians to be hearers of the Word and thinkers and doers of Christ. Today, group and private tours are available throughout the year. Tours take about three hours and are one of many amazing sites to see in Iowa. Address: 208 1st Ave NW, West Bend, IA 50597, United States