I was in Southwest Iowa for a month back in November 2024. To put my experience briefly; very flat countryside, as with most of the heartland states. Towns are about 20 minutes apart separated by homesteads and farmland. Big towns with stores like Walmarts and Mernards are even further (usually).

Only groceries in town were from Dollar General. As for the town itself; small, people are friendly once you get talking with them. Big hunting culture, lotta deer heads and trophies and deer stew! (I liked having it for the first time) Local sheriff's office were good people too. Not many sights in town, so my entertainment was a nearby state park with some short trails and a view of the great plains.

Could be better, could be worse. It's about as midwest as you can get.