6 Cozy Towns to Visit in Iowa

The Hawkeye State of Iowa is a core component of the Midwestern United States, and its cultural and natural beauty make it a truly wonderful place to discover firsthand. Whether encountering American history, appreciating small-town culture, or simply taking in the beautiful geographic splendor, Iowa and its cozy small towns have something of interest for any visitor. So while the major urban centers like Des Moines may still dominate discussion, Iowa’s most charming and pleasing smaller towns are awesome destinations for any road trip. Stop by and come see some of the very best of the Midwestern US through an exploration of the great State of Iowa!

Decorah

Home to a modest population of just over 7,500 inhabitants, the charming town of Decorah can trace its modern history to the 1840s, though Indigenous peoples long occupied the area. The seat of Winneshiek County, the town, is just south of the border with Minnesota, and it remains unique in Iowa for its concentration of Norwegian Americans. Filled with loads of cultural attractions, guests can enjoy a number of ethnic Scandinavian restaurants, shops, and other businesses in town, while a day spent at the Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum is an awesome way to learn about the past.

At this interactive place, visitors can learn about the pioneer life and the important role of Norwegian settlers in this part of the country, through a series of fascinating artifacts and exhibits. Meanwhile, for those visiting in the summertime, do not miss the beloved Nordic Festival. Here live entertainment, cultural dances, music, Scandinavian vendors, food, and much more fill the day, for a most fun and cultural experience for the entire family.

Winterset

Known as the birthplace of American cinema icon John Wayne, the cozy town of Winterset is the most welcoming place to enjoy a weekend getaway. The seat of Madison County, just over 5,000 residents call this community home. A scenic destination, guests can marvel at the many covered bridges in the area that have found global fame. In October, these historic structures are even featured in an entire festival dedicated to them and their place in the Midwest’s culture.

Other attractions in town include Winterset City Park, the Clark Tower Castle Lookout, and the Madison County Historical Complex, which creates very special photo opportunities. Finally, visiting Winterset would not be complete without stopping at the John Wayne Birthplace Museum. With an extensive collection of memorabilia, personal items, and insights into the actor’s life and career, this is one museum that no fan of the movies will want to miss out on.

Pella

Pella was founded by Dutch immigrants in the 1840s, and today this town of nearly 10,500 residents maintains an inviting Dutch cultural ambiance. Just some 40 miles from the city of Des Moines, Pella makes for a great weekend trip destination, and guests can enjoy a charming small-town atmosphere with an ethnic flavor. Visit landmarks like the Vermeer Windmill and the Molengracht Canal, that transport visitors back to the Netherlands without ever leaving the United States.

Add in a fine assortment of restaurants specializing in Dutch cuisine, cute local shops, and galleries, and experiencing this European culture in an American setting has never been easier. Finally, for those who visit Pella in the springtime, make sure to take in the sights and smells of the annual Tulip Time Festival. In addition to the beautiful collection of flowers, the Dutch heritage is lovingly celebrated here with live music, food vendors, and other cultural exhibits, that make this one of the most memorable outings that all ages can appreciate.

Okoboji

Located along the shores of West Okoboji Lake, the same-named Iowa town also lies near the border with Minnesota. Home to a humble population of just under 800 residents, Okoboji forms part of the Iowa Great Lakes Region and is a very popular summer destination for Iowans and other tourists alike. Enjoy opportunities for sailing, swimming, sunbathing, and other watersports, while a cozy and inviting small-town ambiance creates the ultimate vacation experience.

Other notable ways to have fun in Okoboji and the area include a day trip to the nearby Arnold’s Park Amusement Park. Featuring carnival rides, prizes, food vendors, and more fun for the whole family, this is one of the most wholesome outings that anyone of any age can enjoy in the Hawkeye State.

Elkader

The seat of Clayton County, the town of Elkader, was established in the 1840s and named for an Algerian revolutionary. Today, the home of just over 1,200 inhabitants, this charming community remains a most scenic and historically alluring place, perfect for a sojourn. Located along the banks of the Turkey River and surrounded by pleasant streams, lush, wooded hills, and picturesque tracts of farmland, there is never a shortage of beautiful imagery to be appreciated when in Elkader. Meanwhile, the town’s historic character is also on display, and guests can explore a number of stand-out landmarks, many of which are named on the National Register of Historic Places.

These include the Carter House Museum (1850), the Keystone Bridge (1889), and the Opera House (1903), amongst others, located in the historic district. Add a cute collection of local restaurants, shops, and other businesses, and Elkader stands out as a wonderful and cozy town.

Eldora

Eldora is the seat of Hardin County, and its modern history dates back to the 1850s. Home to just over 2,600, the town is a nice place to enjoy the outdoors and learn more about the region’s 19th-century history. Enjoy time spent at the nearby Pine Lake State Park and the Iowa River, where activities on the water and in nature keep guests of all ages entertained. From swimming, hiking, cycling, camping, picnicking, and more, a delightful set of memories awaits.

Meanwhile, in the Eldora Historic District, buildings like the First Congregational Church (1894) and the County Courthouse (1892) bring visitors back in time and are included on the National Register of Historic Places.

When visiting the Midwestern United States, the Hawkeye State of Iowa should certainly be on the list of any traveler wanting to experience some of the best in cultural and geographic Americana. From river views to historic centers, the cozy, charming, and welcoming small towns of Iowa are wonderful places of discovery. Whether it is the cultural heritage of towns like Decorah and Pella, or the scenic beauty of Elkader and Okoboji, these and other great Iowa towns are awesome reminders of what makes the State such an intriguing and memorable vacation destination. So come see the Hawkeye State and appreciate its Midwest character outside of the big cities, where special memories for all ages of visitors await!