A beloved Northeast Iowa river town, visiting Decorah can make anyone feel like they’re in a cheesy romance movie. This quaint community boasts stunning museums, awe-inspiring arts and amazing shopping, plus thrilling outdoor adventures and uniquely-Decorah flavors and attractions. If your visit is short, here are some must-hit spots.
Day 1
Do: Vesterheim, The National Norwegian-American Museum
Embark on an immersive journey into area’s rich Norwegian heritage at the Vesterheim. Its world-class collections showcase over 33,000 artifacts across 12 historic buildings, sharing the stories behind the immigrants’ experience, folk art, cultural traditions and Norwegian influence in the Midwest. The museum also hosts folk art classes in traditional crafts such as rosemaling, weaving and woodworking.
Do: Explore Downtown Decorah
Take a stroll down Decorah’s Water Street to browse its collection of specialty stores, antique shops and galleries that make this community a shopping destination. Shop new releases at Dragonfly Books, all things kitchen at Ace Kitchen Place, handcrafted works at Agora Arts, outdoor apparel and great at Decorah Hatchery and more.
Eat: Toppling Goliath
You won’t want to miss out on a visit to Toppling Goliath, whose world-renowned brews and delicious food make for a perfect dinner destination. Grab a table inside the taproom or on their pet-friendly patio and pair your salad, sandwich, burger, bowl or pizza with a flagship beer like the Pseudo Sue pale ale or Dorothy’s lager.
Stay: Hotel Winneshiek
Located in the heart of downtown Decorah, the restored Hotel Winneshiek offers a perfect blend of 21st century comfort and 19th century charm. The hotel opened in 1905 and today still boasts a marble and terrazzo lobby, limestone pillars and a three-story octagonal rotunda with stained glass ceilings. Each room features period pieces and classic décor alongside modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and the onsite Hotel Winn Bar.
Day 2
Eat: Magpie Café & Coffeehouse
Start your morning in the unique and relaxed atmosphere of Magpie Coffeehouse. This community staple has been serving Decorah residents and visitors delicious specialty coffees, made-from-scratch baked goods and all-day breakfast since 1994. Locals especially love their breakfast burritos, cinnamon rolls and avocado toast.Do: Trout Run Trail
Get your daily exercise in by walking or biking the 11-mile loop of the Trout Run Trail. Start at Trout Run Park’s Bowstring Bridge and head south to discover stunning scenery. The trail passes two waterfalls, trout streams and limestone bluffs, making for an epic afternoon adventure.Eat: Koreana Japanese Restaurant
Whether you’re a novice or expert in Japanese cuisine, Koreana will wow your tastebuds. Start with an incredible appetizer and be sure to save room for a hearty entrée. Get outside your comfort zone by ordering original menu items such as a sushi roll with a side of flames.Do: Seed Savers Exchange & Heritage Farm
For historical adventure unlike anything else, stop by Seed Savers Exchange & Heritage Farm. Dedicated to preserving garden heritage, this farm grows, saves and shares rare heirloom seeds throughout its 890-acre property. Wander through the display gardens, which showcase 20,000 plant varieties, or hike the area’s trails and fish the trout streams that pass through.BUILD YOUR
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