5 One-of-a-Kind Small Towns in Iowa
A state known for its expansive natural resources, Iowa is a top producer of corn, soy, and other crops, deeply rooted in agriculture. But beyond its abundant soils, the state boasts stunning landscapes and fascinating historical attractions in eye-catching destinations. Among these, you will find quirky, one-of-a-kind small towns in Iowa that are unlike anywhere else. From Maharishi Vedic City to Dyersville, pack your camera and prepare to capture the sights!
Maharishi Vedic City
Discover a unique community that follows the principles of Veda, ancient texts focused on natural law and balance, in Maharishi Vedic City. All structures in this planned community have room placements designed according to the movement of the sun.
One example of its notable architecture can be seen at the Maharishi Vedic Observatory, where ten astronomical instruments are arranged in a circle, aligned with the stars, moon, and sun, and can be used to calculate their real movements. While you are in town, book Ayurvedic treatments at The Raj Ayurveda Health Center and Spa. This retreat offers personalized service and treatments, accommodating only 15 guests at a time.
Burlington
Welcome to Burlington, one of Iowa's most distinctive small towns. Here, you will find Snake Alley. This winding wonder, built in 1894, features five half-curves and two quarter-curves, making it one of the most crooked streets in the world. The alley drops roughly 58 feet, over a span of 275 feet between Columbia and Washington Streets. Besides this unique attraction, Burlington is filled with enticing sites.
Huck's Harbor, a family-friendly water park, features water slides, an activity pool, a lazy river, and a splash pad, along with a variety of tasty refreshments, including flavored shaved ice and adults-only tiki drinks. Despite the name, a walk through Mosquito Park is quite pleasant, offering remarkable views of the Mississippi River from this high bluff.
West Bend
For a small town with a population under 800, West Bend is quite expensive. This destination is home to what is often considered the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Study the intricacies of the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, the largest man-made grotto in the world. The grand collection of minerals is valued at over $4.3 million, featuring gems from around the globe, as well as shells, fossils, and petrified specimens. This site is actually a series of nine separate grottos.
It even caught the attention of Walt Disney for Disneyland, although his engineering consultants advised that this landmark could not be replicated. After exploring the grounds, see what daily special is on the menu at the Wagon Wheel Cafe. Whether it is hearty burgers, pies, or themed pizzas, you will be in for a treat. For something sweet, West Blendz serves tasty shakes, soothing teas, and flavorful waffles and acai bowls in a welcoming environment.
Audubon
A list of the most unique, one-of-a-kind towns in Iowa would not be complete without Audubon. The city is known for its peculiar animal paintings and landmarks, including Albert the Bull. Weighing 45 tons and rising 30 feet tall and 33 feet long, this is the world's largest bull sculpture. Snap pictures with Albert before you continue to explore downtown, where over 200 bird mosaics are embedded in the brick sidewalks.
You can dive deeper into birding and local history at the Nathaniel Hamlin Park & Museum, unlocking stories that span from 1850 to the present day. Visit the "Audubon" Room, which holds a collection of birds and animals, see the Victorian parlor, discover windmill displays, and find out what other attractions await.
Dyersville
Welcome to Dyersville, a small city where Hollywood movies and farm toys truly come to life. Known as the “Farm Toy Capital of the World,” it is home to the National Farm Toy Museum, where standout exhibits and special shows showcase the history of agriculture.
From there, head on over to the Field of Dreams Movie Site. See the famous diamond, visit the original farmhouse, or play catch with skilled Ghost Players on this set from the 1989 movie. While you are in town, search for quirky souvenirs and gifts to take back home in Plaza Antique Mall, where over 250 booths and cases of antiques and collectibles await.
If you would like to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and head on a vacation filled with intriguing attractions unlike any you have seen before, the Hawkeye State is the perfect place to explore. From the carefully placed, astronomical instruments of Maharishi Vedic City, to the exquisitely designed mineral grottos of West Bend, and the distinct collections of Dyersville, you will be in for a special adventure in each of these five one-of-a-kind small towns in Iowa.
