Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1039775
IOWA Its no small wonder water activities play a significant role in Iowa tourism when your eastern and western borders are the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Boating and camping are abundant on the states' many lakes, which include Saylorville Lake, Coralville Lake and Clear Lake. The U.S. Cellular Center in Cedar Rapids features 80,000 sq. ft. of meeting space that can hold up to 10,000 guests. The 6,900-seat arena hosts sporting events, concerts and conven- tions. Iowa's capital city, Des Moines is on virtually every list of the "best." – One of the best places for business, the best bang-for-your-buck, most livable and healthiest. The Fort Des Moines Museum and Education Center honors the U.S. Army's first officer candidate class for African Americans. Des Moines offers miles of trails, free festivals, wineries and breweries and ice skating on Brenton plaza. INDIANA Bloomington, home to Indiana University is a vibrant col- lege town with a thriving arts community, music and sports scene. The town features two award-winning wineries and a culinary experience second to none. The African American Arts Institute inside the Neal-Marshal Black Cultural Center houses three performing ensembles. Evansville's Riverfront/Dress Plaza is a great place for a leisurely stroll, outdoor concerts and spectacular views of the Ohio River. The African American Museum is a must visit. In September its the Downtown Jazz and Wine Festival. The state's second largest city, Ft Wayne's features an award-winning Children's Zoo. The Three Rivers and the Johnnie Appleseed festivals are among the city's most popu- lar events. Indianapolis is known for its sports, from the Indianapolis 500 to the NFL, NBA and host city for Big Ten Tournaments. Tour the NCAA Hall of Champions and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museums. ILLINOIS Chicago is one of America's most beloved cities. The hometown of President Barack Obama, Chicago is a mecca for shopping along the Magnificent Mile and 900 North Michigan Shops. The Windy City is known for culturally rich mouthwatering cuisines from around the world. With great nightlife, theater, museums and sports you'll never run out of things to do. Located in Chicago's western suburbs, Lisle has been con- sistently voted one of the best places to live. Lisle features several hotel properties with meeting space ranging from 10,000 to 25,000 sq. ft. Moline's annual East West Riverfest held in September is a 10-day celebration of art, culture, history and the Mississippi River. The festival features concerts, live theater and river tours. Peoria's Grand View Drive is the World's Most Beautiful according to President Teddy Roosevelt. Rockford's CoCo Key Water Resort is one of the states largest indoor water parks. Chicago Lakefront Indianapolis, skyline over Monument Circle Des Moines is the capital and the most populous city in the U.S. state of Iowa. Photo Credit: Chicago CVB B M & T ••• September/October 2018 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 20 Photo Credit: Sean Pavone Photo Credit: actionsports