Iowa is a heartland state of rolling prairies, covered bridges, and charming small cities anchored by a surprisingly vibrant Des Moines arts and food scene. Home to the world-famous Iowa State Fair, Grant Wood country, the Field of Dreams movie site, and the historic Amana Colonies, Iowa rewards visitors who look beyond the cornfields to find genuine Midwestern character.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Amana Woolens
Hand-woven wool blankets, throws, and sweaters made at the Amana Woolen Mill (220 48th Ave, Amana)
Price: $30-200 (≈$30-200)
Iowa Craft Beer
Cans from Toppling Goliath, Exile Brewing, or Confluence Brewing; available at many grocery stores and breweries
Price: $10-18/six-pack (≈$10-18)
Iowa Sweet Corn Popcorn
Iowa-produced gourmet popcorn flavors at the State Fair, specialty shops, and Hy-Vee supermarkets
Price: $6-12/bag (≈$6-12)
Hawkeye Gear
University of Iowa Hawkeyes merchandise at the UI Spirit Shop (26 S Clinton St, Iowa City) and statewide
Price: $15-80 (≈$15-80)
Iowa State Fair on a Stick
Licensed State Fair merchandise with iconic blue ribbon motifs; sold at the fair (August) and year-round at iowastatefair.org
Price: $5-30 (≈$5-30)
Prairie Lights Books
Iowa City's legendary independent bookstore (15 S Dubuque St); excellent Iowa authors section and literary gifts
Price: $10-40 (≈$10-40)
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Des Moines Farmers Market
One of the Midwest's largest outdoor farmers markets; 300+ vendors with Iowa-grown produce, baked goods, and crafts
Where: Des Moines
Hours: Saturday 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, May-October; Wednesday 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM select weeks
Iowa City Farmers Market
University town market with organic produce, artisan bread, local honey, and Iowa crafts
Where: Iowa City
Hours: Saturday 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM and Wednesday 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM, May-October
Amana Colonies Gift Shops
Hand-woven woolens, German Christmas ornaments, Amana-brand appliances, local wine and beer from Millstream Brewery
Where: Amana
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; shorter hours in winter
Malls & modern shopping
Air-conditioned, international brands, and food courts.
Jordan Creek Town Center
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Coral Ridge Mall
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM