Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area (U.S. National Park Service)

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Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area

Northeast Iowa is a patchwork quilt of stories that describe the personality of the landscape, richness of the soil, and history of farming. Silos & Smokestacks ties this colorful agricultural heritage together. No other region in America shares our rich agricultural legacy. Dairy farms, museums, vineyards and tractor assembly tours await your visit.

		Historic Sites Visit Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area’s historic sites to learn about where the pioneers went to school, operated mills, worked the land and more. The historic sites also offer opportunities to learn about famous Iowans who made a global impact, including Herbert Hoover, Henry Wallace, Carrie Lane Chapman Catt and Grant Wood. More

		Museums Several museums and art galleries in Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area tell the story of American agriculture through exhibits and works of art. A number of them include hands-on activities and living history experiences. More

		Farm Sites What better way to learn about American agriculture than actually experiencing a working farm? Several sites and attractions in Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area offer opportunities to watch or participate in activities on a farm, including feeding animals, milking cows, and other chores. More

		Nature Sites The land of northeast Iowa is an important part of the agricultural heritage of the region. From broad rolling prairies and limestone bluffs to hardwood forests and wild river valleys plunging into the Mississippi River, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area offers wonderful vistas. Several sites and attractions within the Heritage Area offer interpretation of the landscape in addition to stunning views. More

Write to

209 W. 5th Street, Suite E
P.O. Box 2845
Waterloo, Iowa 50704-2845

E-mail Us

Phone

Information
(319) 234-4567

Fax

(319) 234-8228

Climate

Iowa experiences a climate with extremes of both heat and cold. The average annual temperature at Des Moines is 50°F (10°C) while for some locations in the north the figure is under 45°F. Winters are brisk and snowfall common, the capital receiving an average of 36.3 inches per season. Spring ushers in the beginning of the severe weather season, as well as bringing increased precipitation and warming temperatures. The Iowan summer is known for heat and humidity, with daytime temperatures sometimes exceeding 100°F (37.8°C).