The NTA membership includes destination marketing organizations in Dubuque, Waterloo and Des Moines. Each of those Iowa cities is home to a number of attractions, including the following three, which detail unique parts of the state’s story:
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (Dubuque)
The Mississippi River has played a vital role in the development of Dubuque, which is Iowa’s oldest city. Travelers can learn about river life as they explore the 10-acre campus that includes exhibits, animal encounter areas, aquariums and a historical dredge boat.
Grout Museum of History and Science (Waterloo)
The traditions of the Cedar Valley—its residents, landscape and history—is showcased through permanent and temporary exhibits at the Grout Museum. The attraction also is home to the only public planetarium in Northeast Iowa.
Terrace Hill (Des Moines)
This National Historic Landmark, which serves as the residence of the Iowa governor, is open for tours from March to December. During the guided walks, visitors learn about the circa-1869 mansion as they explore the first two floors and the gardens.
For more information on those destinations, contact the following NTA members:
- Whitney Sanger of Travel Dubuque
- Annette Freeseman of Experience Waterloo
- Katie Stien of Des Moines CVB
Top photo: Terrace Hill
Photo by terracehill.iowa.gov
Support for Courier articles provided by:
Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
