Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Cedar Falls and Waukee

Are you planning a road trip between Cedar Falls and Waukee? This stretch of highway in Iowa features some amazing attractions that you won't want to miss. Check out our top five favorite places to stop and explore!

Halfway Point: Marshalltown, IA

Marshalltown is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs on your journey between Cedar Falls and Waukee. This charming Midwestern town offers plenty of small town charm, with a variety of unique shops and restaurants to explore. Visitors can also take a stroll through Riverside Cemetery, which features the final resting place of many notable Iowans.

Now, without further ado, here are our top five picks for must-see attractions on your road trip:

1. Cedar Rock State Park

Located just off highway 20, Cedar Rock State Park is a beautiful example of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School of architecture. The park's main attraction is the Cedar Rock House, a Usonian-style home that was designed by Wright in the late 1940s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home and learn about Wright's philosophy of organic architecture.

2. Amana Colonies

The Amana Colonies are a unique community of seven villages that were founded by a group of German immigrants in the 1850s. Visitors can explore the villages and learn about the history of the community, which was originally founded as a religious commune. Highlights of the Amana Colonies include the Amana Heritage Museum, the Amana Woolen Mill, and the many restaurants and shops that showcase the area's traditional crafts and cuisine.

3. High Trestle Trail Bridge

The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a must-see destination for any bicycle enthusiast. This stunning bridge spans the Des Moines River and offers incredible views of the Iowa countryside. The bridge features a unique LED lighting system that creates a dazzling light show at night.

4. Reiman Gardens

Located on the campus of Iowa State University, Reiman Gardens is a vibrant oasis of flora and fauna. The gardens feature a variety of diverse plant collections, including a butterfly wing, a herb garden, and a rose garden. Visitors can also check out the Hughes Conservatory, which houses exotic plants from around the world.

5. Living History Farms

Living History Farms offers a fascinating glimpse into what life was like on an Iowa farm in the 19th century. The farm features a variety of replica buildings, including a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, and a general store. Visitors can also tour a working farm and learn about traditional agriculture techniques.

Best Route

For the ultimate Iowa road trip, we recommend starting in Cedar Falls and driving west on highway 20. Make sure to stop and explore each of our top five destinations along the way! Once you reach Waukee, you can turn around and make the return trip, or continue on to explore more of Iowa's charming small towns and scenic landscapes. Happy travels!