A trip to Iowa lets the visitor experience the heartland of America's Midwest. Here you will find authentic rural communities farming the land, far away from the invasion of mass tourism. Iowa is also a great destination if you enjoy outdoor activities. The wide-open spaces and sparkling lakes offer a great variety of recreational activities in a peaceful and uncrowded environment.

The town of Amana is home to an interesting 19th century German colony. Seven German villages, complete with German style architecture, still survive here today and offer a charming insight into 19th century immigrant life. Exhibitions tell the story of the immigrants' culture and local craft demonstrations keep traditions alive. Also in Amana is the Amana Heritage Museum. The museum consists of 19th century buildings which help to illustrate village life: a schoolhouse, washhouse and a doctor's residence. One German tradition brought to the villages was winemaking. Learn about this fascinating process at
Ackerman Winery and taste the sweet wines produced there.

Clear Lake is an ideal location for outdoor activities. Known as the place where Buddy Holly died in a plane crash, there are several family orientated attractions in the area including the Lady of the Lake paddleboat, Fort Custer Maze and the Clear Lake Fire Museum. The lake is great for sailing and fishing. Walking trails cross the surrounding countryside and there are several golf courses in the area.

Farming is important in Iowa and Cedar Falls is the place to come to experience a little of Iowa farming life. Here you will find such attractions as Hansen's Farm Fresh Dairy, a working dairy farm where you can see the milking and butter making process for yourself; Antique Acres, a charming museum featuring old-fashioned farm machinery; and John Deere Operations where a factory tour shows how modern farm equipment is manufactured. If you are lucky enough, you may catch the National Cattle Congress, an annual agricultural show which draws thousands to show off their finest stock and to enjoy the music, food and entertainment.

Iowa vacation rentals include log cabin and lake houses.

Self-catering holiday cottages and apartments to rent in Iowa: