The Iowa Valley Scenic Byway winds 124 miles through the heart of Iowa, tracing the Iowa River valley through a landscape shaped by glaciers, agriculture, and generations of river-town culture. Rolling farmland gives way to wooded bluffs and limestone outcroppings as the route passes through charming communities where historic downtowns, covered bridges, and grain elevators tell the story of rural Midwestern life.

Travelers will discover the Amana Colonies, a cluster of seven villages founded by German settlers in 1855, where handcrafted furniture, hearty communal-style dining, and old-world traditions thrive. The Coralville Lake area offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the river valley and exposed Devonian-era fossil beds that draw geology enthusiasts from across the country. Small towns along the way reward curious visitors with local museums, antique shops, and roadside farm stands.

Spring brings wildflower-covered hillsides and migrating birds, while autumn transforms the river corridor into a brilliant display of gold and crimson. Summer offers the fullest experience, with festivals and farmers markets in nearly every town.

Allow a full day to drive the byway at a leisurely pace, with stops for meals, short hikes, and exploring the communities that make this route unforgettable.

Explore Nearby

• High Point Monument — State Park in New Jersey
• High Point State Park — State Park in New Jersey
• Cliff Ridge Hang Gliding Area — Public Land
• Stony Point Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Tarrytown Light — Lighthouse in New York