Top Rated Attractions in Pella

Located in the historic town square of Pella, Vermeer Windmill is often described as the tallest operating windmill in the country. Built by Lucas Verbij, this beautiful Dutch smock mill stands on a four-story base. Along with being an iconic landmark, the windmill is also fully operational. This lofty tower is open to tours, with wheelchair-friendly access points. Visitors can explore five floors: where the second and third floor has interesting exhibits and displays.

Pella Opera House, located in the heart of downtown Pella, is one of the most historic locations in the city. First constructed in 1860, the building was destroyed after a horrific fire accident. Under the architect Henry DeGooyer, the building was restructured in a Romanesque Revival style that has hosted many theatrical performances. Having undergone renovation for the third time in 1990, the Opera House was listed to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. Ever since -this historic landmark has been serving as a wedding venue and hosting live-stage performances. Enjoy a live performance or a self-guided tour of the building.

The Pella Historical Village is one of the city's most unique and fascinating attractions. This historic village, which is managed by the Pella Historical Society and Museums, consists of 22-buildings dated back to the 1800s. The historic village, featuring the heritage of early settlers from the Netherlands, is an intriguing museum that exhibits heritage buildings such as a miniature Holland village, Sod house, a model of pioneer settlers' house, and Wyatt Earp's home town. Visitors are encouraged to take the guided tour or simply walk on the grounds of this fascinating attraction.

The Scholte House and the Garden is one of the charming attractions in the city. This beautiful mansion is one of the oldest structures built by the pioneer families of Pella. Built in 1847-48 by Hendrik Peter Scholte for his wife Maria, the self-guided tour takes you on an interesting story of the family, and visitors can see the original artifacts of the family. Walking through the wonderful Tulip garden is truly a delight.

Surrounded by charming Dutch architecture, Molengracht Plaza is a beautiful attraction located in downtown Pella. This business district expanded over 100,000 square feet (9,290 Square meters), representing an authentic Dutch square. Opened in 2001-the complex is home to some of the most delightful boutiques, stores, bakeries, retail/office space, still retaining the old world charm. The highlight of Molengracht plaza is the beautifully designed Dutch canal with a working drawbridge. Visitors are often seen to spend a day relaxing in the dutch style.

Klokkenspel is one of the most charming attractions one can come across. It is a musical performance that features eight mechanical figures dancing historical moments of Pella. This free attraction can be viewed from the courtyard side of Franklin Street in the historic downtown of Pella. Performed at regular intervals-the entire program lasts about 10 minutes where visitors can enjoy the performance from the courtyard that is decorated with flowerbeds, stone benches, and Dutch tiles.