Travel Nursing Destination Spotlight: Iowa

Considered one of the safest states to live in the U.S., Iowa lays claim to several of the world’s largest objects, movie locations and, of course, the caucuses. Check out a few of the exciting places this state offers — and why you should take your next travel assignment here.

Live long and prosper

Riverside, Iowa, will be the future birthplace of James T. Kirk, captain of the starship Enterprise. Although he is a fictional character, the people of Riverside host a birthday party for the captain at a yearly event called Trek Fest. The University of Iowa is just a short drive up the road in Iowa City. If you love to shop, Iowa City’s downtown district is the place to be. Vintage clothing stores to high-end boutiques line the streets of this booming college town. The city also boasts several metro-area walking trails.

Step back in time

Iowa is home to several Amish and Mennonite communities. Discover more than 94 businesses located in Davis County, home to a conservative Old Order Amish community. With homemade furniture, gifts and food items, you simply cannot go wrong. For you history buffs, take a tour to follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, legendary explorers and frontiersmen. Along their trail is the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, where migratory waterfowl and grassland-birds nest along the banks of North America’s longest river, the Missouri.

Big city culture

Experience the atmosphere of the capital city of Des Moines. This metropolis has the feel of a family-centric suburb with events, sports and eateries. If you like to shake it up a bit, Des Moines offers a wealth of bars, concerts and wineries. The city is also home to the Des Moines Art Center, which hosts several new exhibits throughout the year. Blasting into the 21st century, the Science Center of Iowa offers its visitors an interactive experience for all ages. The 216-seat, six-story Blank IMAX Dome shows documentaries and Hollywood hits, and you can also take a walking or biking tour of the capital city.

Ready to explore the fascinating Hawkeye State? Check out our open travel nursing jobs in Iowa.