Many thanks to the Danish Windmill who organized my stay, meals , and adventures while I was in Elk Horn. All thoughts and opinions are 100% authentic and my own. Please see the Disclosure Tab for more information.
I’ve lived in Iowa my whole life and had heard of Elk Horn, Iowa, but had no idea when I headed there for a recent visit that I would essentially become Danish for a few days. Ok, that might be a bit extreme, but for this German girl it was fascinating to learn about the Danes, their culture, and traditions. Whether you are a Dane, want to learn about the Danish, or just enjoy visiting and exploring small midwest towns, a stop in Elk Horn, Iowa is a must for your next trip!
If I told you that you could fill 2+ full days visiting a town of 650 people would you believe me? Yeah, I didn’t think so, but I’m here to prove you wrong! Check out my adventures in this amazing community!
Danish Windmill, VikingHjem, & Gift Shop
Probably the most iconic landmark in Elk Horn is the Danish Windmill. The windmill was brought to the US and Elk Horn in 1976. It was purchased by the people of Elk Horn in hopes of helping their small community to grow and flourish as well as giving a node to their heritage. The windmill dates back to 1848 and still works today! For a small fee of $3 for adults and $1 for children, you can enjoy a guided tour of the windmill, learn about its functions, and history! Fun fact: the original maker and founder of the danish butter cookies (the blue tin available at Christmas) used to purchase his flour from the mill that now sits in Elk Horn.
While you’re there, don’t miss checking out the Morning Star Chapel and the VikingHjem. They are both historic and unique. Imagine the Nordic Vikings gathering in the VikingHjem and enjoying some Viking Blod.
Before leaving, make sure to visit their gift shop! Lisa, the director of the Danish Windmill and museum travels to Denmark once a year to select Danish made items for their gift shop. From glassware to home decor to Danish foods, the selection is abundant.
- Danish Windmill – 4038 Main Street, Elk Horn
Museum of Danish America & The Friendship Walk
Located on the West side of town, on a small hill, you’ll find the Museum of Danish America. Head to this beautifully constructed and curated museum to learn about the history of the Danish heritage here in Iowa and the United States. Now, it’s home to an extensive collection of Danish history including interactive exhibits. One of their most prized possessions is the baby grand piano that belonged to Victor Borge.
One of my favorite was getting to design my own restaurant and see how my choices align with that of the new nordic cuisine and principles. Turns out….they don’t! I blame it on being 100% German! 😉 Make sure to stop by their gift shop for beautiful Danish gifts and t-shirts as well!
Also on grounds is adult outdoor fitness equipment, the Jens Dixen home, and the Friendship trail! The Friendship trail is a half-mile paved trail that leads from the Museum of Danish America to the heart of Elk Horn. It’s a great place to work off all the delicious food you’ll eat in town. It also serves as a great way to get from the museum to Bedstemor’s House.
- Museum of Danish America – 2212 Washington Street, Elk Horn
Bedstemor’s House
See how the early Danish immigrants lived at Bedstemor’s House. Bedstemor is Grandma in Danish and this house was built in 1908 by a Danish immigrant. It changed hands several times between the building and 1990 when it was deeded to the Museum of Danish America. It has been preserved beautifully and is open to the public to tour!
- Bedstemor’s House – 2105 College Street, Elk Horn
Museum of Danish America Genealogy Center
If you find yourself having Danish roots, a stop at the Genealogy Center is a definite must for you! Located on main street in Elk Horn, the ladies that work and volunteer here are quite something special! Trace your ancestors back to Denmark or find that long-lost relative by using their extensive collection! If you don’t want to do the research, they’ll do it for you for a small fee! Plus, you can take in the beautiful architecture including original beams and more!
- Geneology Center – 4210 Main Street, Elk Horn
Brun Ko Farm
Outside of Elk Horn, you’ll find this family run farm providing produce, meats, and more to the local residents and restaurants! Owned by Nathan & Emily Paulsen, Brun Ko (which means brown cow in Danish) was started about 4 years ago. Their goal is to help promote transparency, diversity, sustainability, community, and good food to the residents of the area!
From this small farm you’ll find beef, pork, vegetables, lamb, honey, and eggs. Give them a call or shoot them a message to stop out and learn their story and see their farm!
- BrunKo Farms – 2920 Falcon Ave, Exira
Danish Countryside Vines & Winery
Located between Elk Horn & BrunKo Farms, you’ll find Danish Countryside Vines & Wines! This family-run vineyard was started back in 2003 in a 100 year old barn belonging to the Peterson family. Fast forward to 2016 and Loren Christensen (son-in-law of the Peterson’s) took over the business. Now there are making 20 different kinds of wine!
Stop by anytime during their business hours and they are happy to talk to you! They love to share about the wine making process, farm on which their vineyard sits, and the wines they produce. Tours are $15 per person and last about 45-60 minutes and include tasting 5 of their 20 wines!
It is clear when visiting with Loren that is passionate about what he is doing and the wines they are producing.
The part where I crush it and ferment it is very cerebral. The part where I add the flavors to make the wine you drink is very personal.
– Loren Christensen, Owner of Danish Countryside Vines & Wine
As an added touch, they offer free live music once a month, March through October! And did I mention that their wine is delicious?! From red to white to fruit wines, they offer a little bit for everyone!
- Danish Countryside Vines & Wines – 1425 Littlefield Dr, Exira
The Little Mermaid & Sculpture Garden
Head north out of Elk Horn about 3 miles to Kimballton. Here you’ll find the Little Mermaid & Sculpture Garden. Author Hans Christian Anderson was a Danish author who wrote several children’s fairy tales. Located in Kimballton, you’ll find a Little Mermaid sculpture and fountain reminiscent of that in Denmark.
This one was originally purchased in the late 1970’s by the residents. Now she is accompanied by a fountain and 8 additional sculptures representing the fairy tales of Anderson.
In addition to these sculptures and fountain, make sure to check out the Audubon County Freedom Rock!
And I personally love the Kimballton mural on a downtown building! A stop in Kimballton is a fun little trip out of Elk Horn!
- Little Mermaid Sculpture Park – 214 N Main, Kimballton
Abundant Shops
When you’re done with the cultural portion of your Elk Horn trip there are plenty of shopping opportunities.
The Old Danish Workshop is located across the street from the Danish Windmill and full of handmade pieces. Gene, the creator of these pieces is on hand to answer questions or take special orders.
- Old Danish Workshop – 4038 Main Street, Elk Horn
Next to the workshop, you’ll find The Nest Egg! This boutique for ladies shares a building with a hair salon. Don’t be deterred by this as they offer adorable clothes and accessories.
The Egg Krate is a flea market lovers gold mine. This large store is full of a variety of booths offering antiques and rehabbed goods! Plus, some baked snacks!
- The EggKrate – 2104 Broadway Ave, Elk Horn
If you’re a quilter, head over to the Log Cabin Quilting! The selection of materials and supplies for quilting is endless! Plus, this unique space (in a renovated lumberyard) is available for rent for quilting retreats!
- Log Cabin Quilting – 2109 Broadway Ave, Elk Horn
Time to Visit Elk Horn
You don’t have to travel to a large city to enjoy culture, history, wine, and shopping. Head to Elk Horn in East Central Iowa for a few days of fun! While you’re there, you won’t go hungry as Elk Horn offers several places of excellent food to delight your appetite. The folks of Elk Horn will welcome you to their town with open arms and share their culture, traditions, and more with you!
If you really want to embrace the Danish culture, head to Elk Horn for one of their festivals. Their Tivoli Fest is held over Memorial Day weekend and JuleFest takes place the weekend of Thanksgiving! These events both include Danish traditions and food!
Whether you visit on your own or attend one of their events, a great time is bound to be had! And while you’re in the area, go see my friends in Audubon as it’s a short 20 minute drive!
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Towns with a strong ethnic heritage are so great to visit! The art and history are always so interesting.
They really are! And this one is quite exceptional.
What a gem!
It really is! You would love it!
I’ve seen the Little Mermaid statue in Denmark! It’s on a rock in the river…if you want to get near it you have to boulder hop (which of course I did!). I love the way their Freedom Rock has the mermaid on it too, that’s really cool!
This town looks so awesome I want to visit!