7 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Iowa

Iowa is a quintessential Midwest state, riddled with charming small towns that reflect the essence of nature, history, culture, and hospitality. These small towns boast charm and character, especially their outdoor scenery and historical heritages. However, a few stand out from the pack, such as Pella, renowned for the massive Lake Red Rock, and Okoboji, for its picturesque lakes. Decorah is also captivating with its many bluffs and a stunning ice cave. Thus, visitors have more than a handful of options to explore, and there is something to do for almost every type of traveler. Without further ado, learn more about seven charming small towns in Iowa to visit.

Le Claire

Le Claire is a beautiful town elegantly laid by the shores of the Mississippi River, where it draws visitors to its impressive bald eagle sights. The town is a premier destination for watching majestic bald eagles hovering above the Mississippi River, a sight to behold and capture with a camera. For even more adventures, the Le Claire Levee and Boat Ramp offers access to the river with rental boats for boating adventures.

For history buffs, the Buffalo Bill Museum by the river reminds visitors of how life was in the Mississippi River in its early development days. The Cody Road Historic District is an alternate historic destination, featuring more than 60 structures with views of the Mississippi. If visiting with the family, relax at Hollyhock Park to enjoy picnics while the kids play at the playground.

Eldora

Eldora, the county seat of Hardin County, flaunts the motto "Come and Explore," and true to this slogan, a visit here is a call for exploration. For starters, the town lies by the Iowa River and invites visitors to enjoy gentle walks on the river bank or to go tubing and canoeing on the waters. The town is also home to the Pine Lake State Park, featuring Upper and Lower Pine lakes. While both lakes are sufficient visual pleasures, they are stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish for fishing expeditions, with 10 miles of hiking trails and campgrounds.

Don't forget to visit the Hardin County Farm Museum (offering information about the area’s agricultural history) and the Eldorado Welcome Center & Railroad Museum (to learn more about the area’s railroad history).

Clear Lake

Clear Lake sits at the shores of its namesake lake, where it glows in quaint allure and attracts tourists from far and wide. To begin an unforgettable vacation here, stroll along the lake’s waterfront walkway for sightseeing and airy relaxation. The lake is also a prime spot for fishing, boating, water skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, sailing, and kayaking. Away from Clear Lake, visitors can head to the Central Gardens of North Iowa, a magnificent garden park with 20 themed gardens. This destination is ideal for picnics, and meetings, and events are also held in the gardens year-round.

For a bit of history, head to the Clear Lake Fire Museum to learn more about early fire fighting days or go to the Iowa Trolley Park Museum to enjoy historic rides on a Handcar. If there is more time, grab popcorn and go to the Clear Lake Theater to enjoy thrilling movies.

Winterset

The small town of Winterset in Madison County is renowned for being the birthplace of famous actor John Wayne yet, its beautiful covered bridges are more charming. Once here, visitors can check out its most remarkable covered bridges including the Holliwell Covered Bridge (built in 1880), Roseman Covered Bridge (built in 1883), and Cedar Covered Bridge (built in 1883). Next, have fun at Winterset City Park which features several playgrounds, tennis courts, a campground, and picnic tables. The park also houses the historic Clark Tower, a 25-foot castle-like tower that offers panoramic views of the town.

Afterward, enjoy a movie at the Iowa Theatre and if there is still time, proceed to learn about the famous actor John Wayne at the John Wayne Birthplace Museum.

Pella

Pella is one of the most famous and prettiest small towns in Iowa remarkable for its Dutch roots. While here, experience a slice of the Netherlands at the Pella Historic Village and Vermeer Mill which features the iconic Vermeer Windmill, one of the tallest working windmills in North America. In addition, the historic area is home to a log cabin, and the 150-year-old East Amsterdam School Museum featuring school memorabilia from the past. For scenery, visit Central Park to enjoy a leisure stroll through colorful tulip beds and flowering trees. The Brinkhoff Park is another gorgeous spot worth visiting as it has many flower beds, a windmill, and picnic tables for relaxation.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake is just a few miles west of the town offering boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, camping, and hiking adventures. For something different, head to Cordova Park and climb the 106-foot-tall observation tower for dreamy views of the entire town scenery.

Okoboji

Okoboji lies on the east shores of West Okoboji Lake in the Iowa Great Lakes region and is as charming as they come in the Midwest. The West Okoboji Lake is flanked by recreational parks, such as Pikes Point State Park (featuring swimming beaches and a playground) and Gull Point State Park (featuring hiking trails and beaches). Kenue Park is another exciting outdoor destination in town to have fun as it hosts picnic areas and nature trails. Away from the outdoor experiences, visitors can head to the Okoboji Summer Theatre to chill and enjoy fascinating theatrical performances.

For history lovers, visit and have fun at the nearby Historic Arnolds Park Amusement Park, one of the longest-running amusement parks in the world. Next, go to Iowa Rock ‘n’ Roll Music Association Museum and see its collection of rock ‘n’ roll artifacts dating from the 50s and 60s.

Decorah

Decorah stuns effortlessly on the banks of the Upper Iowa River while its many limestone bluffs and hills complement an already charming scenery. Here, visitors will be met with lots of outdoor parks, which include Chattahoochie Park (with a picnic shelter and access to the river for canoe and fishing) and Twin Springs Park (with picnic tables, hiking trails, and a beautiful stream). Will Baker is another park in Decorah worth a separate mention for its iconic pulpit rock that offers panoramic views of the entire town. The Decorah Ice Cave State Preserve is another irresistible attraction in town and adventurous visitors can walk into the caves to explore and marvel at the geology. For even more outdoor adventures, head to Dunning's Spring Park featuring wooded areas for hikes and a beautiful waterfall surrounded by limestone cliffs.

In town, walk through the historic commercial district with architecturally stunning buildings many of which date from the 19th century. Before leaving, visit the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, home to the largest collection of Norwegian-American artifacts in the world.

Experience old-world charms, Midwest vibes, natural beauty, endless fun, and unforgettable moments in the charming small towns of Iowa. These towns offer an escape from the hustle of life and set the tone for relaxation. Their scenic beauty is unspoiled, history is preserved, and warm locals make every visitor feel welcome. Hence, they are also the most ideal places to enjoy the magical sights and sounds of Iowa through adventures, tours, and tailored experiences.