Discover the Iowa behind American Agriculture.

A living, interactive landscape of more than 100 agricultural and historical adventures is waiting just down the road.

silos and smokestacks national heritage area map

Your Next Adventure Is Closer Than You Think

Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area is a collection of places across Northeast Iowa you can visit to discover the story of American agriculture. From farms and museums to historic sites and other unique destinations, each place helps bring to life the role Iowa and its people have played in shaping America through agriculture and innovation.

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Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area is Perfect For…Well…Everyone!

Experiencing Agricultural Industry

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Honoring Iowans & Their Heritage

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Exploring Prairies & Wild Places

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Hit the Road with Our Travel Itineraries

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Our Story: Rooted in Iowa, Recognized by the Nation

About us

What started in 1991 as an urban revitalization project in Waterloo quickly blossomed into something much bigger. We discovered a rich tapestry of agricultural stories stretching far beyond city limits.

Today, Silos & Smokestacks is a federally designated National Heritage Area dedicated to preserving and celebrating Iowa's massive contribution to world agriculture. We partner with local communities to keep this vital, working landscape alive for generations to come.

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FEATURED

Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Walcott, IA

The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum was a dream of Iowa 80 Truckstop founder, Bill Moon. This collection of vintage vehicles features over 120 rare trucks from all walks of life! […]

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There’s More to Discover

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What’s Happening in the Heritage Area

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FEB 6 – DEC 4

Remember and Reminisce, first Friday of every month

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10 – 12 AM

OCT 10

Nurse Exhibit Grand Opening

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11 AM – 2 PM

OCT 10

Strolling with the Spirits 2026

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3 – 4 PM

OCT 11

Organ Concert Featuring Sidney Shide

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2 – 3 PM

Junior Ranger

Do you love a challenge? Are you ready to explore America’s agricultural story in a fun and interactive way? The Silos & Smokestacks Junior Ranger Program invites kids, families, and curious minds of all ages to discover the people, places, and innovations that feed the world.

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CampSilos

CampSilos is an educational website highlighting the development of American Agriculture. Targeting students in grades 4-8, the site provides online educational material related to; prairies, early agricultural technology, pioneer farm life and the story of corn.

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