The 'Nordic Niche' of the Midwest, Iowa's Best Hidden Gem

While the small town of Decorah may not yet be at the top of your list of places to visit in Iowa, this small town is certainly worth considering if you’re planning a trip to the American Midwest. In fact, even if you haven’t yet been there, you may possibly already know of this charming, Nordic-inspired town thanks to its two best-known residents: HM and HD.

Fully named Hatchery Mom (HM) and Hatchery Dad (HD), these two bald eagles are among the world’s best-known raptors thanks to the town’s having set up a livestream of their goings on back in 2007. As of 2024, it’s estimated that more than 23 million online visitors from across the globe have tuned in to see the exploits of these wonderful creatures (but more on them in a moment).

In addition to its feathered ambassadors, Decorah is worth getting to know for its rich Norwegian-American heritage. Together, these two factors alone make this small town of just over 7,500 residents a cultural cornerstone of the Midwest that’s well worth visiting.

Decorah’s Nordic Roots

Located in the Driftless Area of Iowa, Decorah’s unique topography was shaped by ancient glaciers and features rolling hills interrupted by picturesque bluffs and babbling streams and rivers. The Upper Iowa River meanders through town, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and scenic exploration, making it a standout destination for modern-day visitors, as well as pioneers of the past.

For history buffs and those curious about Nordic traditions, Decorah became the heartland of America’s Norwegian roots when immigrants from Norway started settling in the area in the mid-19th century. Drawn by the promise of fertile land and opportunity, among them was Elling Eielsen, a prominent Norwegian Lutheran minister who played a key role in guiding settlers and organizing the first congregations in the area.

Industrious farmers, skilled artisans, and laborers, these Norwegian pioneers quickly adapted to the challenges of frontier life, building homes, schools, and churches that reflected their values, traditions, and, quite often, their architecture. The growing community also maintained close cultural ties to Norway, preserving its language, cuisine, and religious practices.

Decorah’s Norwegian American Heritage Lives On

Decorah’s Scandinavian legacy lives on through festivals like Nordic Fest, which is held every summer spanning three days. Drawing crowds of up to 70,000 people, the festival celebrates all things Norwegian, from authentic foods like lefse and lutefisk to music, folk dancing, crafts, and other traditions rooted in Norwegian culture. If you do go, it’s worth noting that accommodations and restaurants do book up, so advance reservations are highly recommended (check out Hotel Winneshiek, built in 1905 and still providing top-notch accommodations).

One of Decorah’s most notable landmarks, the Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum, is another great way to get to know the town, its people, and its culture. Featuring over 30,000 artifacts, historic buildings, and rotating exhibitions, this world-class museum celebrates the immigrant experience, showcasing everything from traditional rosemaling (Norwegian decorative painting) to the tools and textiles brought to America by the early settlers.

The Norwegian influence also lives on at Luther College, a liberal arts institution founded by Norwegian settlers in 1861. The college serves as an anchor for the town's educational life and a cultural center, hosting everything from lectures to concerts and art exhibitions year-round.

The World's Most Famous Eagles

The Decorah bald eagles are not only among the most famous eagle families in the world, they’re also among the best protected thanks to the stellar work of the Raptor Resource Project (RRP) which engages the public through workshops and educational initiatives. Although they recently moved to a new location after their original nest collapsed, their new nest continues to captivate millions globally, providing an intimate view into the daily lives of bald eagles. Started in 2007, the live stream has since become one of the most-watched wildlife channels online, drawing viewers of all ages to witness egg-laying, hatching, feeding, and fledging flights.

Also affectionately referred to as "Mom Decorah" and "Dad Decorah," these beautiful birds have raised numerous eaglets over the years, with each chick banded and studied to contribute to conservation research. The nest, a masterpiece of avian engineering measuring six feet across and weighing over a ton, is located on private property near a trout hatchery, a prime feeding ground for the eagles with a good supply of fish.

Notable events from past live streams include a 2011 moment when eaglets D12, D13, and D14 successfully fledged, emphasizing the project’s success in educating the public about raptor behavior. Little surprise, then, that the live stream’s popularity has made Decorah a hub for bird watchers, with visitors flocking to the town hoping to glimpse the eagles in person.

Other Fun Things To Do In Decorah

Sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers are also increasingly keen on Decorah. The annual Loop de Loop is a half marathon that follows the town’s Trout Run Trail and is popular with hardcore runners and amateurs alike. Fisherfolks are also spoiled with some of Iowa’s best fly-fishing, with the area’s cold, clear waters known to support healthy trout populations. Anglers from across the Midwest flock to the area for its idyllic fishing spots and well-maintained public access points.

Nature lovers will also appreciate Dunning’s Spring Park, where a short hike leads to a beautiful 200-foot waterfall, a scenic spot for picnics and photos. Nearby Ice Cave Hill Park features one of the largest limestone ice caves in the Midwest, a natural wonder that stays cool even in the summer months. Winter brings its own charm with the annual Holiday Lights at Pulpit Rock Campground. Now in its 20th year, thousands of lights illuminate the campground, transforming it into a winter wonderland while raising funds for local charities.

Downtown Decorah is also fun to explore. Highlights include Toppling Goliath Brewing, internationally recognized for its craft beers and offering tours and tastings. The Porter House Museum, set in a 19th-century Italianate-style home, provides a glimpse into the lives of the Porter family while housing a unique collection of butterflies and antiques.

The Final Word: Why Decorah is a Must-Visit in Iowa

Decorah, Iowa, is so much more than just another Midwest farm town. This dynamic community is every inch a cultural treasure, including its Norwegian American heritage. Decorah offers a unique blend of experiences that appeal to a wide range of travelers, whatever your interests. From the opportunity to follow the town’s feathered friends on its popular “Eagle Cam” to experiencing Nordic culture and traditions, Decorah delivers an experience that’s both enriching and memorable.