9 Iowa Small Towns With Unmatched Friendliness
Iowa might be famous for its agricultural heritage and countryside life, but it also has a unique sense of Midwestern hospitality that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Away from bustling cities like Des Moines, the Hawkeye State is filled with quaint little towns with friendly, down-to-earth residents. They do an excellent job of making newcomers feel like they belong from the moment they set foot in the town.
Furthermore, their slow pace of life, rich natural settings, and strong sense of community create a sweet spot to explore local attractions at a comfortable pace. It is also an opportunity to experience an authentic feel for rural America. From Decorah's rich Norwegian heritage to Winterset's picturesque bridges, these small towns in Iowa have unmatched friendliness.
Mount Vernon
This suburban community near Cedar Rapids provides a worthy break from the hustle and bustle of the city. It welcomes tourists to experience its rich arts and culture scene, with a chance to do this alongside friendly townsfolk at the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Theatre. This quaint venue showcases a mix of classic and modern stage presentations by talented performers. Several eateries and diners throughout downtown ensure newcomers never have to go hungry. You can stop by Big's BBQ and Brew Pub to enjoy mouth-watering smoked meats and local beers.
Those who love movies can join fellow enthusiasts in catching the latest Hollywood releases at Bijou Theatre, which features a small yet welcoming 70-seat capacity. Meanwhile, Palisades-Kepler State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its 840-acre territory, where recreation like hunting, hiking, and picnicking awaits.
West Branch
West Branch's claim to fame is that it is the hometown of President Herbert Hoover, and its residents pay tribute at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, which exhibits a cluster of old buildings and personal memorabilia highlighting his early life. West Branch also hosts Hoover's Hometown Days to celebrate a long-tenured heritage with several fun activities.
West Branch's proximity to Iowa City provides an excellent reprieve from the metro areas. The pedestrian-friendly downtown district provides several points of interest. At Main Street Antiques & Art, guests can shop for vintage furniture, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and other souvenir items. Those who appreciate the outdoors can head to Beranek Park for a laid-back picnic in a lush oasis. The area is ideal for hikers, picnickers, and walkers.
Grinnell
Grinnell is an inclusive college town in Poweshiek County, known for its numerous festivals and lively art scene. There is always an event around the corner to bring people together, such as the Grinnell Farmers Market on Thursdays and Saturdays. This friendly gathering attracts local farmers and crafters looking for customers for their assorted merchandise. Grinnell also celebrates Music in the Park through a series of concerts to celebrate local arts.
The Grinnell Craft Brewhouse is a popular gathering spot downtown, where high-spirited patrons enjoy tasty craft beers. Meanwhile, nature enthusiasts may prefer to take lazy walks along scenic trails of the Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve. This 450-acre sanctuary is also home to various native wildlife, resulting in exciting viewing experiences.
Orange City
Orange City is a town of Dutch descendants united by a mutual sense of heritage and a strong sense of community. It hosts multiple festivals to celebrate its unique culture, highlighted by the annual Tulip Festival. This sees the townspeople honoring their Dutch roots through folk songs, dances, costumes, and an impressive lineup of family-friendly activities. Several green spaces embody the serene atmosphere dominating this adorable town, including Windmill Park. Thousands of colorful tulips and six replica windmills make this outdoor space a favorite among residents and tourists.
Orange City is an excellent stop for vacationing families, welcoming them to spend quality time at KinderZone through a mix of play and learning. Sports enthusiasts can watch a charged-up college football game at Northwestern College's Korver Field.
Decorah
Decorah's unmatched friendliness stems from its hospitable townsfolk and charming Norwegian heritage. It has a walkable downtown area with numerous points of interest. Guests can learn more about its European roots at the National-Norwegian American Museum, whose vast collection of at least 30,000 artifacts chronicles the Norwegian experience in the region since the early days. Further, Decorah celebrates its Scandinavian identity every July with Nordic Fest, which features traditional costumes, dances, and songs.
The town's thriving beer scene beckons newcomers with tasting opportunities at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company. Also, Dunning's Spring Park provides outdoorsy visitors with a tranquil green setting, including a gorgeous waterfall and limestone cliffs.
LeClaire
LeClaire's setting on the scenic banks of the Mississippi River reflects the infectious charm that sweeps throughout this Scott County town. Guests can take an easygoing cruise on the river, courtesy of the Riverboat Twilight. Walking along the quiet downtown streets, you can find multiple hangouts with welcoming patrons and a fun atmosphere. Green Tree Brewery is pretty popular, serving great-tasting craft beers at its indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the calm waters of the Mississippi.
LeClaire is famous for its Wild West heritage, being the birthplace of Buffalo Bill. This iconic gunslinger has a museum dedicated to him, and those interested in his larger-than-life persona can learn about it at the Buffalo Bill Museum. Finally, LeClaire hosts the annual LeClaire Eagle Festival each winter, featuring ice carving and eagle watching.
Shenandoah
Shenandoah boasts a wide spectrum of attractions to ensure all visitors have something exciting to do. Its colorful backstory is told by the Greater Shenandoah Historical Society, which runs a museum with piles of historical archives and artifacts collected from the community over the decades. Art lovers find a mutual interest inside Park Playhouse, which stages engrossing theatrical presentations by the Southwest Iowa Theatre Group.
Elsewhere, movie fans will find affordable ticket prices at Legacy 3 Theatre. Shenandoah is famous for its farm-to-table cuisine, and guests can sample some of the tastiest local dishes at Sanctuary Restaurant, which serves sumptuous American grub in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Winterset
Winterset is home to a network of covered bridges that give the town a sense of rustic charm. This makes it stand out among contemporaries in Madison County and draws admirers looking to snap dramatic photos of treasures like the Historic Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge and the Hogback Covered Bridge. Every October, the townspeople take over the downtown streets to celebrate the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival during two days of craft exhibitions, car shows, live music, great food, and multiple family fun activities.
Celebrated Hollywood star John Wayne was born in Winterset, and fans can explore an amazing tribute to the entertainer at the John Wayne Birthplace. Lastly, those who crave time alone in a quiet green area will enjoy the environment at Winterset City Park.
Harlan
Harlan has been called one of the happiest places in Iowa, and this becomes apparent for any newcomer to the town once they start exploring local attractions. It hosts several festivals throughout the year, but the main spectacle comes in October during the annual Harlan Harvest Fest. This exciting event plays out along the historic town square and features kids' games, street vendors, trolley rides, and more. The Shelby County Historical Museum documents the area's history with a vast catalog of documents dating back centuries.
Meanwhile, those who want to step outside can find numerous recreational opportunities at the 422-acre Prairie Rose State Park, including camping, boating, and hiking. Alternatively, they can practice their golf swing on the nine holes of Rosman Glendale Farms Golf Course.
Final Thought
Iowa doesn't get enough credit for its trademark Midwestern hospitality, which should be an excellent reason to visit this humble destination. Beyond its booming agricultural scene, the Hawkeye State demonstrates its welcoming attitude through fun festivals, serene natural spaces, inviting cultures, and a slow pace of life, best embodied by the above small Iowa towns. Whether discovering Dutch heritage in Orange City or cruising on the Mississippi River in Le Claire, each destination makes you feel like you belong.
