This midwestern state is nicknamed the Hawkeye State honoring a Native American chief, Black Hawk.
- Capital – Des Moines
- Admitted to the Union – December 28, 1846 (29th State)

We visited a few places in this state in 2020 when we were on a road trip, driving from Pittsburgh to Portland. We stayed for 1 night in town of Cedar Rapids which was close to Amana Colonies. On the 2nd night, we stayed in Des Moines.