1. Snake Alley: World's Most Crooked St.

Snake Alley in Burlington, Iowa is a unique street that has been declared the "most crooked street in the world" by the popular television series "Ripley's Believe It or Not". This alley is made up of five half-curves, four quarter-curves, and a steep incline, making it a total of five full curves in a 275-foot stretch. It is said that the curves were designed to make it easier for horse-drawn carriages to make the climb up the hill. Visitors to Snake Alley can experience the unique curves and steep incline for themselves, making it a must-see destination in Iowa.

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2. Madison County, Iowa's 6 Bridges

Madison County, Iowa is renowned for its six bridges, the oldest of which is the Imes Bridge. Built in 1876, the Imes Bridge is a single-span, Burr Arch truss bridge that spans the Middle River in Winterset, Iowa. It is the oldest of the six bridges in Madison County, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Imes Bridge is a popular tourist attraction, and is a reminder of the county's rich history.

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3. Iowa Law: Over 100 Years Old and Still Going Strong

In Iowa, a law that has been on the books since the early 1900s still stands today, making it illegal for a man with a moustache to kiss a woman in public. This law, which has been largely forgotten, is a reminder of the state's long history of conservative values and traditional gender roles. Despite the fact that the law is no longer enforced, it is still a part of Iowa's legal code, and serves as a reminder of the state's past.

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4. Iowa's Gold Dome Court House is a Stunning Sight

The Dubuque County Court House in Iowa is a unique building, as it is the only court house in the United States to feature a gold dome. This impressive structure stands out among the other court houses in the country, and is a testament to the grandeur of the state of Iowa. The gold dome is made of 24-karat gold leaf, and is a stunning sight to behold. The court house is a popular tourist attraction, and is a symbol of the state's rich history and culture.

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5. Iowa's Weird Laws

In 2013, Iowa had a law on the books that made it illegal for any person to kiss for longer than five minutes. Although this law is no longer upheld, it serves as a reminder of the state's unique and sometimes quirky laws. Iowa is known for its strict regulations, and this law is just one example of the state's commitment to upholding its laws.

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6. Birthplace of Iconic Motorhome: Winnebago Co., Iowa

Winnebago County, Iowa is the birthplace of the iconic motorhome and camper. It is here that the term “Winnebago” was coined, as this is where numerous campers and motor homes are built. The county is home to the Winnebago Industries, the leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles in the United States, and has been since the company was founded in 1958. The Winnebago brand has become synonymous with the RV lifestyle, and is a symbol of adventure and exploration for many.

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7. The Land of Rivers

The state of Iowa is bordered by two of the most iconic rivers in the United States: the Missouri River to the west and the Mississippi River to the east. These two rivers form the entirety of Iowa's eastern and western borders, creating a unique landscape of rolling hills and lush farmland. The rivers also provide a wealth of recreational opportunities, from fishing and boating to bird watching and camping. The rivers also serve as a vital source of transportation and commerce for the state, connecting Iowa to the rest of the country.

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8. Iowa Hotel Law Not Enforced

In Dubuque County, Iowa, a law exists that requires all hotels to have a hitching post and a water bucket outside the building. However, this law is not enforced, and many hotels in the area do not provide these amenities for their guests. This law is a remnant of the past, when horses were the primary mode of transportation and travelers would need a place to tie up their horses and provide them with water.

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9. Iowa - The Only State in the US with a Unique Name

Iowa is the only state in the United States whose name begins with two vowels - an 'I' and an 'O'. This unique characteristic sets Iowa apart from all other states, making it a truly one-of-a-kind place. The name Iowa is derived from the Ioway people, a Native American tribe that once inhabited the region. It is believed that the name was derived from the Ioway word ayuxba, which translates to "sleepy ones."

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10. Iowa's National Balloon Museum and Nordic Fest

Every year, Iowa plays host to two unique events that celebrate its rich history and culture. The National Balloon Museum is a regular event that showcases the state's vibrant hot air ballooning culture, while the Nordic Fest commemorates Iowa's Scandinavian ancestry with traditional music, food, and activities. Both events are a great way to experience the best of what Iowa has to offer.

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