Iowa’s Most Underrated Tourist Attraction Just a Few Miles from Cedar Rapids

Here in East-Central Iowa, one area has been a popular destination for decades. However, sometimes it's underappreciated nationally.

A website has named the Amana Colonies as the most underrated tourist attraction in Iowa. It's not under-appreciated or overlooked in this part of the state though. The colonies were founded in the 1850's, and have been a popular destination for as long as anyone can remember. Especially popular annual festivals in the seven small village towns include Winterfest, Maifest, Octoberfest, and my favorite, the Prelude to Christmas. Whether you want an escape from the craziness of some of Iowa's larger cities or are just looking for a great meal, the Amana Colonies always fits the bill. Their popular restaurants are known far and wide for not only great food, but lots of it, typically served family style. The unique shops of the Amana Colonies are also popular and when out-of-state friends and family come to visit, it's one of the first stops many people make.

I found that the choices for neighboring states are indeed places I haven't heard of. Soudan Underground Mine State Park in Minnesota... Illinois' Robert Allerton Park... and the Apostle Islands of Wisconsin, just to name a few. You can see the complete list here.

[via Supercompressor.com]