Best places for a long life

Residents of these 25 counties enjoy some of the highest life expectancies in the U.S.

Bridge in Ames

The Story begins in the city of Ames, on the campus of Iowa State University. The school's Memorial Union Workspace program offers classes and studio space to the public, including programs in pottery, music, and - yes - basket-weaving.

Also on campus, the nationally respected Reiman Gardens is open seven days a week and offers a butterfly garden, as well as indoor and outdoor botanical exhibitions.

Iowa is the nation's first caucus state during presidential primaries, when residents get plenty of opportunities to tell the candidates first-hand how they feel.

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