Arts

Iowa also has a thriving music and theater scene. Symphonies draw classical music lovers, and the Des Moines Metro Opera is a world-famous repertory company. Broadway shows such as "Miss Saigon," "Cats" and "The Phantom of the Opera" include Iowa stops on their tours. Big name musical acts -- Van Halen, Garth Brooks, The Rolling Stones and Elton John have all played to sell-out Iowa crowds.

Plus, there are hundreds of smaller venues around the state where you can see everything from one-act plays to red-hot blues bands. Come summertime, you can even find the arts outdoors. Grab a blanket or a lawn chair to enjoy "Jazz in July" concerts or "Shakespeare in the Park."