Sometimes, you just need to get away from it all – and that includes the tourists! That’s about the time to pack everyone in the car and head to the best small town in Iowa. Decorah is located in the quiet northeastern area of the Hawkeye State, and the town of around 7,700 people has gained a reputation as a peaceful haven filled with natural beauty. If you take a weekend trip here, you’ll find some of the state’s most unique natural features, including a charming hidden waterfall. You’ll be able to indulge in some of the state’s best cuisine and wine in a relaxed setting before heading to one of Iowa’s best stand-alone hotels. It’s a great way to unwind from the stresses of everyday life, and discover just what makes this out-of-the-way small town so special.
As soon as you set foot in Decorah, you can feel the stresses of everyday life melting away as you settle into the town’s unique atmosphere.
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On the outskirts of the town, you’ll find its Ice Cave system - an ancient location that lets you peer back into Iowa’s geological history.
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From there, you’re only feet away from Dunning’s Spring Park - a beautiful small waterfall that’s relaxing to watch no matter the time of year.
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Back in town, you’ll want to spend a whole afternoon exploring Vesterheim - the massive Norwegian-American heritage museum, which boasts a network of historic buildings.
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For dinner, you’ll definitely want to score a reservation at Rubaiyat, the town’s acclaimed Mediterranean steakhouse.
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The hearty prime rib is the main attraction, but the lighter fish and seafood preparations are packed with regional flavor.
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A relaxing activity for the grown-ups is a tasting at Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, the area’s best tasting room.
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The seasonal wines here are packed with local fruit flavor, and you’ll definitely want to take a bottle or two home.
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The best place to lay your head in Decorah is the Hotel Winneshiek, a luxurious historic hotel that has been totally restored.
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Combining modern comfort and amenities with classic luxury and style, it’s the ideal place to rest, recharge, and get ready for another day of exploring Decorah.
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Have you visited Decorah on a weekend getaway before? Let us know about your visit, and tell us your pick for the best small town in Iowa in the comments section. To find out more about what Decorah has to offer, you can visit the official town website. For another small-town getaway, don’t forget to visit Iowa’s own winter wonderland.
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Address: Decorah, IA 52101, USAAddress: Dunning’s Spring Park, Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USAAddress: Ice Cave Road, Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USAAddress: Rubaiyat Restaurant, 117 W Water St, Decorah, IA 52101, USAAddress: Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, 1966 337th St, Decorah, IA 52101, USAAddress: Hotel Winneshiek, 104 E Water St, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
