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 The Bridges of Madison County 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