63 Interesting Facts about Iowa

Iowa is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by Minnesota to the north, Illinois to the east, Missouri to the south, Nebraska to the west, and South Dakota to the northwest. The state has a population of approximately 3.2 million people and its capital city is Des Moines. Agriculture is a major industry in Iowa, with the state being one of the top producers of corn, soybeans, and pork in the country. The state’s fertile soil and moderate climate make it an ideal location for farming, and its agricultural sector contributes significantly to the state’s economy. Other major industries in Iowa include manufacturing, healthcare, and finance.

Iowa is home to several renowned universities, including the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa. These institutions are known for their strong academic programs and research initiatives, particularly in the fields of agriculture, engineering, and medicine. The state of Iowa is also known for its rich history and cultural landmarks. It is home to several historic sites, such as the Amana Colonies and the Effigy Mounds National Monument, as well as vibrant cities and towns with unique cultural offerings. Iowa’s diverse population and vibrant communities make it a great place to live, work, and visit.

Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines

There are many interesting facts about Iowa. Let’s take a look at 63 interesting facts about Iowa.

1. Iowa was the 29th state to be admitted to the United States.
2. The state’s name is derived from the Native American word “Ayuhwa,” which means “sleepy ones.”
3. Iowa is often referred to as the “Hawkeye State.”
4. Iowa is the only state in the U.S. whose east and west borders are completely formed by rivers.
5. The Mississippi River borders Iowa to the east, and the Missouri River borders it to the west.
6. The state’s largest city is Des Moines, followed by Cedar Rapids and Davenport.
7. The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest state fairs in the country.
8. Iowa is known for its corn and soybean production, as well as its pork industry.
9. The American Gothic House, the backdrop for the famous painting “American Gothic” by Grant Wood, is located in Eldon, Iowa.
10. The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is located in West Branch, Iowa.
11. Iowa is the birthplace of famous actors John Wayne and Ashton Kutcher.
12. The world’s largest popcorn ball was made in Sac City, Iowa.
13. The Field of Dreams movie site is located in Dyersville, Iowa.
14. Iowa is home to several notable universities, including the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.
15. The Iowa State Cyclones and the University of Iowa Hawkeyes are the state’s two major college sports teams.
16. Iowa’s state bird is the Eastern Goldfinch.
17. The state flower is the Wild Rose.
18. The state tree is the Oak.
19. Iowa is the largest producer of ethanol in the U.S.
20. The tallest building in Iowa is the Principal Financial Group Building in Des Moines.
21. The Iowa State Capitol building is located in Des Moines and was built in the late 1800s.
22. The Iowa caucuses are the first presidential nominating event of the election season.
23. The world’s largest strawberry is located in Strawberry Point, Iowa.
24. Iowa is home to several historic covered bridges.
25. The Iowa Great Lakes region is a popular tourist destination for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
26. The Iowa State Fairgrounds also host the annual Drake Relays track and field event.
27. The Amana Colonies are a group of historic German villages located in Iowa.
28. Iowa has more than 10,000 miles of rivers and streams.
29. The Hawkeye Point observation tower is the highest point in Iowa.
30. The Iowa Hawkeyes football team has played in the Rose Bowl several times.
31. The National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library is located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
32. Iowa has a state fossil, the crinoid.
33. The largest Danish settlement in the U.S. is located in Elk Horn, Iowa.
34. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources manages over 80 state parks and recreation areas.
35. The Mississippi River is home to several species of fish, including catfish, bass, and walleye.
36. The Loess Hills are a unique geological feature in western Iowa.
37. Iowa’s state rock is the geode.
38. The world’s largest strawberry shortcake was made in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
39. The Iowa State Fairgrounds also host the annual Iowa Craft Beer Festival.
40. The Amana Colonies are known for their handcrafted furniture and goods.
41. The Iowa State Cyclones basketball team has played in the NCAA Tournament several times.
42. The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, is famous for being the last venue where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson performed before their fatal plane crash.
43. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art houses the largest collection of Grant Wood artwork in the world.
44. The Iowa Great Lakes region includes several lakes, including West Okoboji Lake, East Okoboji Lake, and Spirit Lake.
45. The Meskwaki Settlement in Tama County is home to the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa.
46. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is located in Dubuque, Iowa.
47. The Ames Straw Poll, a non-binding presidential straw poll, was held in Iowa every four years before being discontinued in 2015.
48. The Bily Clocks Museum in Spillville, Iowa, features a collection of intricate hand-carved clocks.
49. Iowa is home to several casinos, including the Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel and the Isle Casino Hotel in Waterloo.
50. The Iowa State Fair is famous for its food, including corn dogs, deep-fried butter, and funnel cakes.
51. The Iowa State Fairgrounds also host several other events throughout the year, including the Iowa Beef Expo and the World Pork Expo.
52. The High Trestle Trail Bridge in Madrid, Iowa, features a unique lighting display at night.
53. The National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum is located in Knoxville, Iowa.
54. The Iowa State Cyclones wrestling team has won several NCAA championships.
55. The Bridges of Madison County, a novel by Robert James Waller, is set in Iowa.
56. The Iowa Hawkeyes basketball team has played in the NCAA Tournament several times.
57. The Iowa State Fairgrounds also host the annual Iowa State University Horticulture Field Day.
58. The Iowa State Capitol building features a gold dome.
59. The Iowa Hawkeyes wrestling team has won several NCAA championships.
60. The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is located in West Branch, Iowa.
61. The Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, offer visitors a glimpse into Iowa’s agricultural history.
62. The Iowa State Cyclones women’s basketball team has made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
63. The Iowa State Fairgrounds also host the annual Iowa State Fair Antique Show.

Iowa is a state full of interesting facts and unique features. From its important role in the presidential election process to its rich agricultural history, Iowa has much to offer visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re interested in exploring the state’s natural beauty or learning about its cultural heritage, Iowa has something for everyone. With its friendly people and welcoming communities, Iowa is truly a great place to call home.