The northeast area of Iowa is known as the Driftless area due to its terrain that was caused by it not being glaciated and now it offers beautiful landscape of bluffs and valleys. Nestled in the center of this area is the community of Decorah, Iowa. From the great outdoors to delicious food, breweries, and much more there are many things to do in Decorah and we’re highlighting our favorites!
Country View Dairy
- 15197 230th St. – Hawkeye
Who doesn’t love fresh dairy products?! Country View Dairy is actually about 30 minutes South of Decorah, but we think it needs to be a stop on your visit to the area. This local dairy is making their own yogurt, milk, and frozen yogurt, and it’s all delicious! You can take a tour of their farm or just grab fresh products from their shop!
Saint Anthony of Padua Chapel
- 1120 Little Church Rd – Fort Atkinson
Take a slight detour of the main roads to the Saint Anthony of Padua Chapel. Located about 20 miles south of Decorah, this historic site dates back to 1849 when the chapel was built as the first Catholic mission north of Dubuque. You can check out the inside of the church and just enjoy the peace and quiet for a minute. The grounds also house a small cemetery and log cabin that was once part of the Indian Agency. This is a fun and quick historic stop.
Winneshiek County Freedom Rock
- 302 W Henry St – Calmar
We always think finding the Freedom Rocks in each Iowa county is a good idea! This rock pays tribute to Chief Winneshiek of the Winnebago Tribe as well as the nod to Veterans. It is also located along a beautiful paved bike trail so it’s a great place to park and ride!
Decorah Fish Hatchery
- 2321 Siewers Spring Road – Decorah
Located on the south side of Decorah, you’ll find the Decorah Fish Hatchery, which is so much more than just a fish hatchery. Not only can you explore the raceways of the growing Rainbow Trout, but you can also stop by their educational center and restroom. Anglers can fish along the Trout Run Creek and everyone will enjoy Siewers Spring which is Iowa’s second largest spring and features beautiful falls. You can also hop on your bike and take off on the Trout Run Trail which is an 11.5 mile paved trail that travels around the city of Decorah.
Phelps Park
- Upper Broadway St – Decorah
If you’re looking for great views of the valley’s of Decorah, head to Phelps Park which sits near the center of town! You’ll also find playgrounds, shelters, a fountain, and walking trail! As Decorah’s first park, you’ll find stone walled lookouts and more! It’s a beautiful park!
Toppling Goliath Brewing Co
- 1600 Prosperity Rd – Decorah
Thirsty?! Toppling Goliath Brewing Co is located in an industrial area on the outskirts of Decorah, but don’t be deceived. What you’ll find inside is an expansive brewer offering delicious food and brews! The staff is friendly and super helpful (they were very accommodating to my gluten allergy). It’s a great stop for a bite to eat or to enjoy a drink or two.
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Dunning Springs
- Ice Cave Road – Decorah
Ready for another hike and beautiful waterfall?! It’s time to head to Dunning Springs on the north east edge of town. You’ll have to park on Ice Cave Road and walk about 200 yards, but the result is the beautiful site of Dunning Springs falls. You can hike the trails up and around the falls or just enjoy the babbling brook that it feeds. It’s a beautiful site that is worth the walk!
The Whippy Dip
- 121 College Drive – Decorah
No road-trip for the Flints is complete without ice cream, so you knew this kind of stop would have to appear on our list of things to do in Decorah. While there are a couple options around town, our personal favorite it a classic, The Whippy Dip. They offer classic soft serve ice cream plus treats like shakes, sundaes, and tornadoes. This old school ice cream “drive-up” is a great stop that will make you to want to come back for more!
Convergence CiderWorks
There are a couple breweries and wineries in the area, but one of the unique stops is Convergence CiderWorks. While we love breweries, we love Cideries just as much! This one is in a historic building in Decorah that is not only offering delicious ciders (they aren’t too sweet and not too tart), but also uniquely crafted eats (more of a heavy snack menu). They frequently offer live music or special events! Grab a flight to try several ciders or settle down with a glass or two!
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Pinters Gardens & Pumpkin Patch
- 2475 State Highway 9 – Decorah
A stop at Pinters Gardens & Pumpkin Patch is a good anytime of year, but it’s extra special in the fall. During the spring and summer you’ll find an extensive selection of trees, shrubs, and plants in their greenhouse. In the fall you’ll also enjoy their Pumpkin Patch & Farm. They feature a corn maze, offer hayrides, a large jumping pillow, a petting zoo, large trikes, and more! In the fall, you can also snag apples from their orchard. Year round you can browse their gift sections and bakery with cupcakes, cookies, fudge, and more! My personal favorite is grabbing one of their amazing caramel apples!
Great Things to do in Decorah
Spending a day or weekend in the Decorah area is a great time. You have plenty of fresh air, delicious eats, and sites to enjoy while you explore this beautiful part of the state. There are many more great things to do in Northeast Iowa…check them out HERE!
Actually the best ice cream in Decorah is at the Sugar Bowl – in downtown or on the Luther campus.
Decorah is lucky to have so many great options for ice cream!