Weird, Wacky, Wonderful: Discover The 13 Most Bizarre Destinations In Iowa!
Get ready to embark on a weird, wild and wacky adventure through Iowa’s most bizarre, weirdest, and totally wonderful destinations! 🌽🛸 #IowaOddities #DiscoverIowa
Ames, Iowa – Known for its vast cornfields and warm hospitality, Iowa is also a treasure trove of oddities waiting to be discovered. From a city inspired by ancient wisdom to a restaurant that pays homage to the undead, the Hawkeye State is full of surprises. Join us on a journey through the weirdest places you can possibly visit in Iowa!
1. A Tree in the Middle of the Road
Kicking off our list is the famous tree that stands smack-dab in the middle of the road, marking the border between Cass County and Audubon County. This peculiar landmark is a testament to Iowa’s quirky charm and is a must-see for anyone who appreciates life’s oddities.
2. Meditation Meets Higher Education
At Maharishi University in Fairfield, students can explore the depths of their minds while pursuing their academic goals. The university is known for its focus on Transcendental Meditation, a technique popularized by meditation guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Don’t miss the Golden Dome of Pure Knowledge and the Maharishi Tower of Invincibility, two iconic structures on campus that are sure to inspire inner peace.
3. A City Built on Ancient Wisdom
Maharishi Vedic City, located near Fairfield, is a small city developed based on ancient Vedic literature. The city follows a unique lifestyle, banning the sale of non-organic food and the use of non-electric cars. It’s a fascinating example of how ancient teachings can be applied to modern living.
4. A Church with a Haunting Past
The Mars Hill Church in Bloomfield may look like a quaint log cabin church, but it has a spooky history that will send shivers down your spine. Near the church is Cry Baby Bridge, where locals say a young mother once threw her baby into the water. Legend has it that on certain nights, you can hear the sound of a baby screaming as you cross the bridge. The area is also known for ghost and UFO sightings, making it a magnet for paranormal enthusiasts. While you’re at it, don’t miss the Little Brown Church.
5. Behind Bars: A Unique Museum Experience
Step into the Squirrel Cage Jail Museum in Council Bluffs for a glimpse into an unusual form of incarceration. This jail, the only one of its kind west of the Mississippi, has been transformed into a fascinating museum that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
6. A Treasure Trove of Gems
The Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend is the largest man-made grotto in the world, home to the most extensive collection of precious stones and gems found in one location. This awe-inspiring attraction is a testament to human creativity and the beauty of nature.
7. Nature’s Icy Wonder
Hidden away in Decorah, Iowa is the breathtaking Ice Cave, frozen year-round thanks to the glacier it sits on. While it does start to melt a bit during the summer months, it’s still an incredible sight to see. Bundle up and explore this chilly marvel for yourself!
8. Pizza with an Asian Twist
Fong’s Pizza in Des Moines has a funny backstory. Legend has it that the new owners bought a Chinese restaurant but didn’t want to change the decor, so they decided to serve pizza instead. The result is a delightfully quirky fusion of Asian-inspired decor and delicious pizza. It’s a combination that works surprisingly well!
9. A Popcorn Ball of Epic Proportions
Sac City, Iowa is home to the world’s largest popcorn ball, weighing in at a whopping 3,100 pounds. This massive snack is a sight to behold and definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in the area.
10. Brains and Burgers
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines is the perfect spot for fans of zombies and delicious burgers. This unique restaurant is decked out in zombie-themed decor and serves up mouthwatering burgers that are to die for (pun intended). It’s a great place for a spooky date night or a fun outing with friends.
11. Celebrating the Hobo Life
The charming town of Britt, Iowa is home to the National Hobo Museum, a one-of-a-kind attraction that pays tribute to the nomadic workers who once rode the rails across America. Britt also hosts the annual National Hobo Convention, where a hobo king and queen are crowned each year. It’s a quirky tradition the whole family will enjoy!
12. Beam Me Up, Iowa!
Calling all Trekkies! Did you know that Captain Kirk, the beloved character from Star Trek, will be born in Riverside, Iowa in the 23rd century? This small town has embraced its future claim to fame and even has a sign marking the spot of Kirk’s future birthplace. It’s a must-see for any fan of the iconic sci-fi series.
13. A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Iowa
Waterloo, Iowa has the perfect solution for those craving Italian food without the means to travel to Europe. A local graffiti artist has transformed an abandoned warehouse into a stunning replica of the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Now, you can feast your eyes on Michelangelo’s masterpiece while indulging in delicious cuisine at Capella Magna, formerly known as Galleria de Paco. It’s a dining experience that’s truly out of this world!
Conclusion
From the quirky to the downright bizarre, Iowa is filled with hidden gems that are sure to leave you in awe. Whether you’re a fan of the paranormal, a lover of unique architecture, or simply someone who appreciates life’s oddities, the Hawkeye State has something for everyone.
These weird, wacky, and wonderful destinations are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring the strange and fascinating side of Iowa. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to embark on a journey through the most peculiar places the state has to offer. Who knows what other mysteries and surprises await you in the heart of America’s heartland? 🌽🛸
🗣 Which of these weird destinations in Iowa sounds fun to you? Have any we missed? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
