Discover a piece of Holland in the heart of Iowa at Pella. Founded by Dutch immigrants in the late-19th Century, this small town to this day retains its unique architecture and cultural heritage. From the Vermeer Mill to the Pella Opera House and the Tulip Time Festival held each year, there is plenty to see and do during your visit. Visitors flock to the town during festive seasons of Tulip Time, the Sinterklaas Christmas Parade, and the Kermis Summer Festival to experience Dutch cuisine, music, crafts and more. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake, where they can boat, hike, bike or fish, while history buffs can check out Pella Historical Village and the Scholte House Museum.
Located in Iowa's Delaware County and western Dubuque County, Dyersville is a city whose history dates back to 1851. Named after James Dyer, an early immigrant in the region, the city is famous among movie buffs for being the filming location for the 1989 movie "Field of Dreams". Also home to a Roman Catholic basilica called the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, Dyersville also makes for a religious destination. Other attractions in the city include the National Farm Toy Museum and the Dyer-Botsford Historical House and Doll Museum.
Decorah is a charming quaint city influenced by the Norwegian-American culture, located within Iowa's Winneshiek County. Established in the 19th Century, the city is a delightful treat for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Dotted with quirky art shops, rejuvenating spas and clothing stores, it makes for an ideal family tourist destination. Some of the noteworthy attractions in town include the Twin Springs Park and Phelps Park. For history buffs, Decorah is home to the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum and Porter House Museum. It is also known for hosting a festival called the Nordic Fest, dedicated to its Norwegian culture.
Located in Iowa's Madison County, Winterset is a historic city that was platted in 1849. Originally called Summerset, the name of the city was later changed to Winterset, thanks to its cool climate. Home to a number of covered bridges, the city attracts many history, culture and architecture enthusiasts to its charming abode. Some famous covered bridges in Winterset include the Cedar Covered Bridge, Roseman Covered Bridge and Holliwell Covered Bridge. It is also home to another iconic landmark, the Clark Tower. Other attractions in Winterset include the Iowa Quilt Museum and John Wayne Birthplace Museum.
Located in Iowa's Scott County, Le Claire is a picturesque city on the banks of the beautiful Mississippi River. An exciting destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Le Claire is home to plenty of attractions that make it a thriving tourist town. Outdoor lovers and adventurers can experience activities like pelican and bald eagle watching, embark on a cruise adventure on the Riverboat Twilight, go bar hopping or look for great BBQ joints, or participate in the annual Tug Champions Fest. For history buffs, the town is home to the Buffalo Bill Museum and Cody Road Historic District.
Bentonsport is a picturesque little village located in Iowa's Van Buren County. Situated on the beautiful Des Moines River, Bentonsport was platted in 1836. The Bentonsport National Historic District beautifully preserves the heritage of the village through a number of historic landmarks and structures, such as the Cowles House, Bentonsport Academy, Mason House Inn, and the Presbyterian Church. Dotted with quirky local shops, bed and breakfasts, historic inns, craft shops, and lovely rental cottages, the village makes for a charming escapade from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Located in Iowa's Clayton County, McGregor is a city located on the beautiful Mississippi River. Founded in 1847 by Alexandar MacGregor, the city quickly flourished as a thriving riverside settlement. Nicknamed "The Pocket City", McGregor is home to a historic commercial district that is a gorgeous blend of cozy local shops and eateries, historic 19th-century landmarks, and lively bars. Its picturesque location also makes it a treat for outdoor enthusiasts, who can visit the Pikes Peak State Park located nearby. For history buffs, McGregor is home to the McGregor Historical Museum.
Located in Iowa's Shelby County, Elk Horn is a picturesque city whose history dates back to 1901. Named after the Elk Horn Creek, Elk Horn features a gorgeous landscapes defined by classic Danish structures, thanks to its Danish ancestry and settlements. The Museum of Danish America in the town explores its Danish roots through a variety of exhibits, making for a delightful treat for history and culture buffs. Elk Horn also hosts a number of festivals and events that celebrate its prized heritage. Other attractions include the Danish Windmill and Bedstemor's House.
Located in Iowa's Linn County, Mount Vernon forms part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area. Platted as a town in 1847, Mount Vernon is a stunning blend of fine restaurants and eateries, lodging options, local shops, boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks. The Palisades-Kepler State Park, which makes for one of the popular attractions, provides a variety of recreational activities for the entire family to enjoy. Another famous attraction is the American Gothic Barn, which makes for a great photo-ops stop.
Named after William of Orange, you could be forgiven for thinking you are in Holland while in Orange City. Named Holland originally, Orange City is famous for hosting the Tulip Festival with great fervor each May for three days. The city maintains its old-world Dutch charm through a number of historic structures and storefront architecture. Many of the buildings possess typically Dutch architectural elements. Today, this city has still retained its vibe and continues to enthrall all visitors with its quaint café-bars, cobbled paths and leafy avenues. For history buffs, it is home to the Dutch American Heritage Museum, and families can enjoy attractions like the beautiful Windmill Park.
Okoboji is a popular summer destination in Iowa. Located in Dickinson County, Okoboji is home to a number of luxurious resorts, thanks to its proximity to the Iowa Great Lakes as well as other major regional tourist attractions. The glacier-sculpted lakes are a major destination to enjoy waterside activities, with the magnificent West Okoboji Lake at the center. Come winter, the region turns into a wonderland, also offering plenty of winter sports to try out. Dotted with little eateries that offer local delicacies, Okoboji makes for an eventful getaway in the state.
Located north of Waterloo, Waverly is part of the Bremer County. The Cedar River flows right through the heart of this city. Visitors can spend the day at the river-facing Kohlmann Park. It features the Shades of Rhythm Amphitheater, a playground, a trail and several shaded areas. Along with golf clubs like Prairie Links Golf Club and Waverly Golf Course, this city is also home to other recreational areas like Wartburg Lacrosse Field and Walston-Hoover Stadium.