8 Picture-Perfect Towns in Iowa
Iowa, located in the Midwestern United States, is known for its vast cornfields and rolling plains. On December 28, 1846, it was welcomed as the Union's 29th member state and nowadays boasts a population of over three million proud Iowans. The state plays a vital role in the country’s elections, with its first-in-the-nation caucuses. Iowa encapsulates the quintessential Midwest America: a swath of sprawling farmlands and rural communities steeped in tradition. Agriculture remains the lifeblood that drives traditional living styles, and community ethics lie at the heart of each town. These eight towns are some of the more beautiful, picture-perfect towns to see in Iowa.
Decorah
Decorah is in a curious part of the country called the "Driftless Area," a region unaffected when glaciers retreated up north thousands of years ago. The area has rugged terrain, a stark contrast to neighboring land flattened and covered by glaciers during the last Ice Age.
In the less distant past, Norwegian settlers made the land near present-day Decorah their home, and the town has maintained strong ties to that heritage ever since.
This connection is remembered annually at the Nordic Fest, which shows off Norwegian culture through two of the best things around, food and music.
As well, the town is home to the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, the largest museum in the United States dedicated to a single immigrant group.
An interesting local landmark is the “Ice Cave,” one of the largest ice caves in the Midwest. Cold air gets trapped inside during the summer, so the cave keeps its ice well into the hot season.
Dyersville
“If you build it, they will come...” Those who have seen the film Field of Dreams may already be familiar with this quote and the quaint town of Dyersville. This town proudly holds the claim to fame as the filming location of several scenes from the 1989 classic featuring Kevin Costner. The movie was set amidst America's cornfields, reflecting the spirit of Midwest life.
The town's skyline is dominated by the dual spires of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, contrasted by the boundless Iowan sky. Famed for its Gothic design, this church has captivated people for over a hundred years. The town's beauty extends from the church and cornfields to its commercial district. Inside Dyersville, the Commercial Historic District commands recognition and is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. Boasting a selection of buildings from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries, this neighborhood is a great place to check out on a comfortable day outside.
Amana Colonies
Established in 1855, the Amana Colonies form a distinct group of towns originally built as a communal society. While the communal aspect of the towns ended decades ago, the town's culture remains strong. Some of the first settlers were German immigrants; that connection remains today. Traditionally, marked by timber framing and engaging antiquated plans, German architectural traits are prominently displayed.
For fans of German food fare, the cuisine at Amana Colonies will not disappoint. This region is a grand tribute to classic German food – think schnitzel, sauerkraut, and an assortment of traditional sausages. A deep exploration of the area's rich local past is possible at the Amana Heritage Museum, which teaches about the region's distinctive collective way of life and heritage.
If you want some artisan furniture to take home, the Amana Furniture Shop is full of skillfully made timber creations. When visitors come to check out the merchandise, they can also watch the skilled artisans at work, using techniques passed down over generations.
Okoboji
Located in the far north of Iowa, Okoboji owes its unique geographical makeup to the retreat of enormous ice masses. Near town is a collection of beautiful glacial lakes created thousands of years ago by those same melting glaciers on their journey north.
West Okoboji Lake is particularly famous for its intensely blue waters, a rarity in the Midwest. Believed to hold excellent water purity, the lake provides an idyllic setting for activities such as boating, angling, and taking a refreshing dip.
Craving a hint of nostalgia? Okoboji’s got just the ticket with its classic carnival ambiance. A part of Midwestern history, Arnold's Park has been delivering amusement and entertainment since its start in the late 19th century. It even has a classic wooden roller coaster. Just remember to wait a few minutes after eating before going on!
A quick 10-minute journey will take you to Dickinson County Nature Center for something different than a carnival. This environmental space offers educational opportunities and outdoor activities for all ages, making it an excellent site for the family.
McGregor
Not every town has an iconic American river right next door. McGregor sits next to the Wisconsin/Iowa border, where the Mississippi River cuts through the American Midwest.
Take a short trip down to the Pikes Peak State Park for a good view of the iconic Mississippi. Not only will travelers get some stellar views of the river, but they will also be able to see dramatic viewpoints of the surrounding valley.
In the other direction, up north, there is an important Native American heritage site called the Effigy Mounds National Monument. It has approximately 200 burial mounds (the handiwork of local tribes) and dates back to the Late Woodland Period, extending roughly from 650 until 1300 CE.
McGregor's core exhibits various architectural styles that showcase its vibrant history and cultural legacy. Their Main Street is an example of its historic architecture. It is lined with buildings dating back to the mid-19th century, echoing diverse architectural styles that have flourished in the region. One of the standouts is the McGregor-Marquette Center for the Arts, housed in a beautifully restored 1874 brick building. It is a place where community members can engage with and appreciate different arts forms.
Pella
Back in 1847, a group of immigrants from the Netherlands seeking religious freedom came to Iowa and established Pella. Leap ahead almost two hundred years, and the town's connection to the original settlers is still strong.
Every year, Pella embraces its Dutch roots during the Tulip Time Festival. It is a joyful union of community, culture, and nature, where traditional clothes are worn, processions line the streets, and countless tulips bloom in all their spring glory. The community also has the Vermeer Mill, an authentic windmill used for grinding wheat. It is considered to be the tallest working windmill in the country!
The landmark is tucked away within a section of Pella Historical Village, another example of the town working to preserve its Dutch heritage. For those seeking adventure in nature, Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest body of water, is an ideal spot for angling and sailing activities. The lake also has a weaving collection of trails visitors can take for hikes around the beauty of the water.
Bentonsport
Bentonsport belongs to the Villages of Van Buren, an assembly of 11 historic and significant settlements. Heading down the Des Moines River, travelers will know they have reached Bentonsport upon seeing the remarkable iron bridge reaching across the river. The Bentonsport Bridge is a wrought iron Pratt truss bridge constructed in 1883. It also serves as a scenic viewpoint and continues to symbolize the village's historical connection to river commerce and transportation.
The Bentonsport Historic District is known region-wide for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. This area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with critical structures like the Mason House Inn, originally built in 1846 as a hotel and tavern, and the Bentonsport Presbyterian Church, an excellent example of early Gothic Revival architecture.
The town is also a master of turning something old into something new. The old truss bridge has found a new purpose as a pedestrian crossing, and the old mill location in Bentonsport has been ingeniously reimagined into a stunning rose garden.
Iowa Falls
The town, blessed with the stunning backdrop of Iowa River and spectacular cliffs around, has been suitably coined "The Scenic City."
Jumping on the Empress Boat Cruise is a good way to see some of this gorgeous scenery. The Empress is a riverboat riding up and down the Iowa River, lending out views visitors here will not get any other way.
If heights do not bother you, Iowa Falls is home to a swinging bridge, a slightly adventurous way to view the river and nearby areas.
For some local history, check out a significant Victorian-era dwelling known as The Thompson House, which stands as a perfectly maintained snapshot of history in Iowa Falls. This residence stands as a living testament to the architectural history from the closing years of the 19th century stretching into the early parts of the 20th. Everyone craves some peace and quiet on a trip. While in Iowa Falls, unwind at the Calkins Nature area; enjoy strolls with birds soaring above and nature's serenity.
Iowa, a state rich in history and natural beauty, shows off an array of communities to any visitors passing through. From its Driftless Area terrain to its stunning glacial lakes, Iowa offers a vast collection of physical landscapes. Whether exploring Hollywood history blended with Midwestern spirit, savoring Dutch culture, or admiring well-preserved 19th-century architecture, Iowa's towns each have a reason to get you to stay and enjoy. Do not sleep on a chance to travel the Midwest. When going out to explore, consider Iowa and the beauty and charm of its communities!
