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S.P.O.R.T.S. 2012
USAW Wrestling Pre-Season Nationals at the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls
Situated in America's heartland, Iowa boasts historic sites, cultural attractions, top-notch sports facilities and everything in between. This vast array of opportunities is what makes the Hawkeye State so inviting, according to state officials. "Iowa is an appealing sports destination for the same reason it is an appealing vacation destination," said Shawna Lode of the Iowa Tourism Office. "Iowa is an affordable state to visit, home to friendly people and easy to navigate. Visitors to Iowa can expect a hassle-free, memorable experi- ence. Our landscape includes bustling metropolitan centers and quaint rural villages. Our communities play host to a range of sporting events from the Olympic Wrestling Trials to community fun runs."
SKATE THE DAY AWAY Visitors of all ages can ice skate the day away in the open air at Brenton Skating Plaza in Des Moines. The plaza is open for skating from November through March and offers figure and hockey skates for rent. www.brentonplaza.com
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What's Going On… Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids in eastern Iowa offers numer- ous tournament-ready facilities, such as the 20-field Tuma Soccer Complex; the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena, which boasts two sheets of ice, a 3,850-seat NHL Arena and an Olympic ring with viewing for 400; and the 10,000- seat Kingston Stadium, which features an outdoor track and field and a multi-purpose field. The city has received four James Farrell Awards of Excellence for hosting Amateur Softball Association national tournaments,
most recently for the ASA Men's Major 16" Slow Pitch National Tournament in 2010. Hotel rooms: 2,900 Hotel tax: 14 percent On the way: The Cedar Rapids
Convention Complex is currently under con- struction in downtown Cedar Rapids. The construction includes the renovation of the U.S. Cellular Center Arena and the former Crowne Plaza Five Seasons Hotel. The com- plex will feature a new exhibit hall, ball- rooms, meeting rooms and pre-function
SCULPTURE PARK The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is situated in downtown Des Moines near the Des Moines Art Center and has been open since September 2009. The 4.4-acre park features artwork by 21 of the world's most celebrated artists. Guided tours are available but not required to view the sculptures. Admission is free. www.desmoinesartcenter.org
52 August 2012 EXPLORE
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Des Moines Art Center / © Cameron Campbell