Anything to see driving through Nebraska and Iowa?
 

We will be returning to the East Coast from California mid-August probably by the fastest route on interstates. Does anyone have any suggestions as to sites that might warrant a quick stop in Nebraska or Iowa. It will be our first time passing through those states.
Thanks for any help.

Children of the corn?

Sorry, I live in Missouri, I couldn't resist.

Omaha Zoo.

Don't know your route, but when I think of Iowa I think of the Amana Colonies.
http://www.amanacolonies.com/welcome/index.html

Dubuque, IA is also a neat old river town.

The best, most scenic part of Nebraska is off of the interstate. Sounds like you're in a hurry, though, so here are my I-80 suggestions.

Kearney--the archway monument, built over the interstate. It commemorates the pioneers' journey and struggles--kind of a neat 1 hour stop (www.archway.org)
Sidney--the flagship Cabela's store. Grab a buffalo burger while you're there.
Omaha's Henry Doorly zoo is arguably the finest zoo in the midwest and is worth a stop if you have some free time.

Just west of Des Moines you should take Route 169 (from Interstate 80) south to Winterset. It's a quintessential Midwestern small town, quite handsome and friendly. In that immediate area are the covered bridges of Madison County - really bucolic and beautiful.

If you decide take this short detour be sure to watch, or re-watch, the film <i>The Bridges of Madison County</i> before your journey.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'd like to see some sights just to break up the trip. My husband loves Cabela's so would enjoy a stop there.

Anyone have any other tips???

I second the vote for the Amanas - great German food, crafts, smoked meats, wines.

If you are a lover of blue cheese, visit the Maytag Dairy in Newton, Iowan.

Keith

ole's:
http://www.olesbiggame.com/

How long a stop is required to see the Amana colonies?

We liked Field of Dreams in Dyersville, and also Maid Rite for the sandwiches.

You could spend a weekend at the Amanas, or you could have lunch, visit the smokehouse and one of the wineries in a bit over two hours.

If they may interest you, there is also an operating woolen mill and a small handcrafted furnature factory.

Keith