If you’re traveling along Interstate 80 in Iowa and looking for a little diversion, there are plenty of popular roadside attractions that you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re interested in learning about Iowa’s history, exploring unique landmarks, or simply taking a break from a long drive, these roadside attractions are sure to provide a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. You might be surprised… Iowa has something for everyone.
Here are 5 of the top roadside attractions along Iowa’s I-80 that we suggest to visit:
1. Iowa 80 Trucking Museum
Located in Walcott, Iowa, the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum showcases the history of trucking in America. The museum features over 100 antique trucks, as well as exhibits on trucking memorabilia and artifacts. Visitors can also shop at the museum’s gift shop, which features trucking-themed items.
Admission: Admission to the museum is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 5-12. Children under 5 are free.
Hours of Operation: The museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the exception of major holidays.
Time to Visit: You can expect to spend around 1-2 hours exploring the museum’s exhibits and displays.
Directions: Take exit 284 off of I-80 and turn north onto Iowa 38. The museum is located on the east side of the highway.
Website: http://www.iowa80truckingmuseum.com/
2. Amana Colonies
The Amana Colonies are a collection of seven villages in Iowa known for their rich German heritage. The villages feature historic buildings, craft shops, and restaurants serving traditional German cuisine. Visitors can take a guided tour, shop for handmade goods, or attend a cultural event.
Admission: There is no admission fee to visit the Amana Colonies. However, there may be fees for guided tours or special events.
Hours of Operation: The Amana Colonies are open year-round, but hours vary by season and individual business. Generally, shops and restaurants are open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours during the summer months.
Time to Visit: If you’re interested in history and shopping, you may want to allow a full day to explore the Amana Colonies and visit various shops and museums.
Directions: Take exit 225 off of I-80 and head north on Iowa 151. The Amana Colonies are located approximately 5 miles north of the interstate.
Website: http://www.amanacolonies.com/
3. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum
Located in West Branch, Iowa, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 31st president of the United States. The museum features exhibits on Hoover’s life and career, as well as artifacts and documents from his presidency.
Admission: Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-15, and free for children under 6.
Hours of Operation: The museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the exception of major holidays.
Time to Visit: Plan to spend 2-3 hours at the museum to fully explore the exhibits and learn about the life and legacy of President Herbert Hoover.
Directions: Take exit 254 off of I-80 and head east on Herbert Hoover Highway. Follow the signs to the museum, which is located approximately 1 mile east of the interstate.
Website: http://hoover.archives.gov/
4. Freedom Rock
The Freedom Rock is a large boulder located in Adair County, Iowa, that has been painted with patriotic murals. The rock is repainted annually by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II, who started the tradition in 1999 as a way to honor veterans.
Admission: There is no admission fee to visit the Freedom Rock. However, visitors are encouraged to make a donation to support the ongoing maintenance and painting of the rock.
Hours of Operation: The Freedom Rock is located outdoors and can be visited at any time, though it is most visible during daylight hours.
Time to Visit: Visiting the Freedom Rock typically only takes a few minutes, but you may want to allow extra time to take photos and explore the surrounding area.
Directions: The Freedom Rock is located approximately 2 miles south of exit 76 on I-80. Take exit 76 and head south on Iowa 25. The rock is located on the west side of the highway in the small town of Menlo.
Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_Rock
5 World’s Largest Truck Stop
Located in Walcott, Iowa, the World’s Largest Truck Stop is a popular rest stop for truckers and travelers alike. The stop features a variety of amenities, including a convenience store, a food court, a movie theater, and a trucking museum. Visitors can also see the giant truck statue outside the stop.
Admission: There is no admission fee to visit the World’s Largest Truck Stop. However, there may be fees for certain amenities such as the movie theater or trucking museum.
Hours of Operation: The truck stop is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Some amenities such as the movie theater or trucking museum may have limited hours of operation.
Time to Visit: Depending on your interests, you could spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours exploring the various amenities and attractions at the truck stop.
Directions: Take exit 284 off of I-80 and head north on Iowa 38. The truck stop is located on the west side of the highway, directly across from the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum.
Website: http://www.iowa80truckstop.com/
