6 Of The Most Overlooked Towns In Iowa
Located in the country's Upper Midwest region, the state of Iowa, while not a major US travel destination, is certainly worth exploring. While many of the 12 million tourists who visit each year (a drop in the ocean compared to Florida's 137 million annual visitors) are here to explore attractions like the state capital of Des Moines, still others know that the best places to visit in Iowa are its often overlooked small towns.
Together, these less-visited spots of "The Hawkeye State" offer a unique and authentic glimpse into the state's rich history and culture, not to mention its best scenery. From the Norwegian charm of Decorah to the Danish spirit of Elk Horn, these communities celebrate their heritage with museums, festivals, and landmarks that invite exploration… and appreciation. Find out more about six of the most overlooked towns in Iowa.
Elk Horn
Its location, roughly midway between Des Moines and Omaha, Nebraska, makes Elk Horn an excellent place for a day trip or weekend getaway if visiting either of these larger neighbors. Established by settlers from Denmark in 1901 and affectionately referred to as "The Heart of Dane Country," evidence of the community's Danish roots is everywhere apparent. The Danish Windmill, built in 1848 and transported from Denmark and reassembled here in the 1970s, is one of the most notable European touches in Elk Horn. This still-operating structure is now a popular museum and features traditional Danish milling and craftsmanshipdisplays.
The Museum of Danish America is another top attraction in Elk Horn. Built in the style of a traditional Danish timer-framed hall, it does a great job of preserving the history of Danish immigration to the United States with exhibits that detail the Danish-American experience. Those who visit during the annual Tivoli Fest, held over the Memorial Day weekend, will also get to sample authentic Danish food, music, and dancing, while a Christmas visit will coincide with Julefest, marking the beginning of the traditional Nordic holiday season.
McGregor
McGregor's location on the banks of the Mississippi River in northeast Iowa is indeed scenic. Those in the know will visit for its proximity to Pikes Peak State Park, a 960-acre reserve boasting stunning views of the Mississippi River and its valley. A popular spot for hiking and bird watching, the park's trails lead to Point Ann, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the Midwest. McGregor's proximity to the Effigy Mounds National Monument is another plus, making these over 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans an easy side trip.
Another must-visit is the Spook Cave and Campground, a unique natural attraction offering exciting boat tours through a water-filled cave. These fun guided tours illuminate the cave's geological features and history, making for an unforgettable underground adventure. The town's historic Main Street is also fun to explore, especially its riverfront area.
Amana
Situated in eastern Iowa, Amana - formally known as the Amana Colonies - is an interesting collection of seven villages centered around "Main Amana." Established by German Pietists in 1855, it's still known for its communal way of life and offers a fascinating blend of historical insight and cultural experiences. To learn more, visit the Amana Heritage Society Museum for a deep dive into the history of the Colonies with its exhibits about their founding, daily life, and transition from communal living to the present day.
The colony is also known for its craftsmanship, with many artisan shops, local woodworking and furniture-making businesses, and woollen mills and wineries offering an array of quality handmade products. The Amana Colonies also host a variety of festivals throughout the year to celebrate their German heritage and communal spirit, including Maifest in spring, the Amana Colonies Wurst Festival (all those sausages!), and the fall Oktoberfest (all that beer!).
Decorah
Decorah is a charming enclave of European culture and natural beauty in the northeastern part of the state that's only 150 miles southeast of Minneapolis. This time, it's the turn of the Norwegians, who settled here in the late 1800s and brought a little bit of Norway with them. Visitors can get a taste of this cultural influence at the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, one of the largest museums dedicated to a single immigrant group in the United States. Highlights include a collection of over 24,000 artifacts offering a deep dive into Norwegian-American history, art, and culture, along with fascinating displays about the experiences of these early immigrants.
Do you prefer the great outdoors? Highlights include the Decorah Fish Hatchery, with its exhibits on fish conservation and management, as well as the nearby Dunning's Spring Park, with its waterfall and Ice Cave. Hikers should head to the Trout Run Trail, a scenic 11-mile loop around Decorah.
Le Claire
Le Claire is located just a few miles outside Davenport along the picturesque banks of the mighty Mississippi River in Iowa, directly opposite Rapids City, Illinois. Top attractions in Le Claire include the Buffalo Bill Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the life and times of William Frederick Cody (better known as Buffalo Bill), who was born here. The museum also features exhibits relating to the history of the Mississippi River and the town's rich heritage.
Another must-visit attraction is the Antique Archaeology store, made famous by the History Channel's American Pickers. Fans of the show and antique lovers alike will enjoy exploring this unique shop, which specializes in vintage and collectible picks gathered from across the nation. If time permits, book a ride aboard the Riverboat Twilight, which offers excellent scenic tours along the Mississippi.
Dyersville
Next stop… Dyersville, just 25 miles west of Dubuque, and a must-visit for both film and baseball fans. This pleasant small town is most famously known as the home of the Field of Dreams Movie Site, a landmark that has captivated baseball fans and moviegoers alike since the iconic film's release in 1989. Today, this picturesque location invites visitors to step onto the famous diamond cut out of a cornfield, relive their favorite moments from the film, and even enjoy a game of catch.
Dyersville is also home to the National Farm Toy Museum, a unique museum that showcases thousands of farm toys, models, and dioramas, making it a fascinating visit for collectors and families. The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is another must-see, a stunning redbrick church built in 1889 near downtown Dyersville.
The Final Word
These often bypassed small towns in Iowa are a rich mosaic of European-American culture and state history that should definitely be explored. From the movie-set baseball fields of Dyersville to the Nordic heritage of Decorah, the Germanic traditions of the unique Amana Colonies, as well as the Danish influences in Elk Horn, these communities weave a rich tapestry of the American experience. Together, these six most overlooked towns in Iowa will inspire visitors to venture beyond the typical travel destinations.
