things to do in decorah iowa in the winter

There are sixteen buildings, two of which are included on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a quiet place but has been maintained very nicely ensuring that who so ever comes carrie Vesterheim is a popular Norwegian-American museum and heritage center located in the heart of Decorah. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Speaking of county conservation, they are offering an ice fishing clinic on January 21 from 10 a.m.- noon at Green Castle Recreation Area in Gilman. With several restaurants featuring home-cooked meals, youll swear youre at Moms for Sunday dinner. Like BIG fans. 7 Fresh Places to Eat, Drink, Play and Stay This Winter. What is there to do in and around Decorah outside of watching eagles? ", The 11-mile paved biking-walking route circles the city limits, crisscrossing streams. Private and self-guided tours are available. Its fun, and not just for kids. Decorah is proud of its Nordic heritage, especially since its home to Vesterheim The National Norwegian-American Museum. The majestic birds can also be seen online where theyre an internet sensation on the Raptor Resource website. Try some of the best beer in the world at Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. Their beers consistently make it to the top of "best beer" lists and have won several awards. Top Things to Do in Decorah. En espaol, visite aarp.org/elcoronavirus. The first thing you should know about the Upper Iowa River is that it has some fans. 3.) 5.) Seven Oaks Recreation(Boone, Iowa). We have the low-down on the best cross-country ski rental shops and retailers in IA. He writes magazine, newspaper, and online articles as well as offering ghostwriting services. Winter in Iowa is chilly. If you never have been inside the Hotel Winneshiek, do walk through. Like BIG fans. 19.) 600Share. There is no denying that most Iowa winters are spent indoors (which is why we look so forward to springtime). With a parade showcasing folk dancers, bands, and more, if youre in Decorah during Nordic Fest, plan to spend two hours watching the floats and other entrants pass by. You can spend It was From watching the world-famous Decorah eagles to shopping unique stores such as Seed Savers (more on this special place below), Decorah is an inviting community, eager to share its Scandinavian heritage with visitors. You can also explore the town's heritage through Nordic festivals and events at Vesterheim. Parks 203 Quarry St, Decorah, IA 52101 Adults and children come to Dunnings Spring Park to see its star attraction, a 200-foot waterfall. Hosted and curated by U of M School of Music alumnus G. Phillip Shoultz, III of VocalEssence. The Vesterheim has colorful paintings, silver wedding crowns, woven tapestries and a boat that sailed the Atlantic Ocean. AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age. Think green as you explore the 890-acre Seed Savers Heritage Farm north of Decorah. The Decorah fish hatchery stocks 15 streams in northeast Iowa. The farm is devoted to maintaining biological diversity of local plants and food crops through the exchange of heirloom seeds. We are currently offering up to 30% off select breeds of puppies, 25% off select breeds of puppies, and 20% off all other breeds. Welcome to Decorah and Winneshiek County, Iowa. Its flat (and you can look for the bald eagles nest while youre out there). Decorahs culinary scene is worth a trip. ), and catch a movie (and a beer) at Flix Brewhouse. The Driftless Area, in case you were wondering, is a region in the upper Midwest, that had glaciers. Family Table Restaurant has been a Decorah staple for nearly 70 years, after starting as a root beer stand. It is open for tours at select times. COPYRIGHT © 2023 TRAVEL IOWA. Bowling. 2.) Dress in layers that include warm gloves and a winter coat. Find all Des Moines Public Libraries eventshere. Thingiverse is a universe of things. Sledding. Give your kids a hands-on experience of the good ole days of the 80s). 24.) It has been restored to its early glory and remains a premier hotel for overnight stays. Mabel White opened a sandwich shop downtown in 1949. They have a wood-fire pizza oven for pizza dinners on Friday nights seasonally. Ashlen is super excited to be able to share some of her familys adventuring with other Iowans and get other families out into the community. Up to 30% OFF Sale. She was so trusting that she let people make their own sandwiches and even change at the cash register. mabespizza.com, Dig into local ingredients at the hot food bar, which might be serving roast pork, turkey tenderloins or Moroccan meatballs. oneotacoop.com, More than200 wine varieties and 40 beers on tap complement dishes such as seared scallops with a lingonberry maple drizzle. Ashlen wears many hats: mom, wife, daycare provider at her in-home daycare, blogger and co-owner at The Kidsperts, childrens book author, and co-director and producer for the upcoming play Expressing Motherhood play. 34.) For unique accommodations, the Hotel Winneshiek is a historic boutique hotel constructed in 1905. Oh, and food. Cross-country skiing is allowed on the trail in the winter. In her free time Ashlen enjoys exploring all Des Moines has to offer, road trips, and adventuring all with the kids in tow. The East Village also has excellent restaurants, unique shops, and fun things to do in the winter! All Rights Reserved. This family-owned restaurant offers hospitality just as excellent as the food. Update: Unfortunately, the restaurant I visited, Rubys Restaurant and Catering, is now closed. For dinner, visit Rubaiyat in downtown Decorah. Located in Decorah, Iowa, Vesterheim is a museum complex dedicated to the influence of Norwegian immigrants on Iowan life. Tim is a freelance writer and online content creator. Let us help find Iowa ice skating rinks near you and the best places to buy your first pair of ice skates. Adults and children come to Dunnings Spring Park to see its star attraction, a 200-foot waterfall. Paddle the Upper Iowa River. HAVE SUGGESTIONS FOR COOL AND INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN THE Decorah AREA. State Historical Building(Des Moines, Iowa). Its in the North Bear Creek Wildlife area in Winneshiek County near Highlandville (18 miles north of Decorah). Shops include the Decorah Hatchery (outdoor gear in a former chicken hatchery), Sugar Bowl ice cream parlor, Red Roxy quilting (Amys note: they have some cool eagle patterns! ), Blue Heron knitting, the Oneota Cooperative grocery, Broker Leather (smells great too) and Agora Arts. 11.) Now that you've worked up an appetite, prepare for what some call the best pizza in the world. You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. Climb Iowa(Grimes, Iowa). Why Wisconsin Supper Clubs Just Keep Getting Better With Age. Posted on Published: January 25, 2022- Last updated: May 23, 2022, Strange But True History: Squirrel Cage Jail, 7 Tasty Breakfast Spots In Council Bluffs. Gobble up pizza, chicken, pasta, sandwiches and salads. Decorahs art scene is amazing! Check out a local festival. Decorah Springs Park can be found very close to downtown Decorah (a few minutes away). Refuel at this northeast Iowa favorite located in downtown Decorah. tgbrews.com, The1910 home's five guest rooms comewith luxe baths. Swing up a stool at this classic soda fountain shop. Travel to Decorah to wrap up your day. Get things done! The best way to introduce theater to your child. Grand Harbor Resort (Dubuque, Iowa). Decorah Parks & Recreation offers 500 acres of park land, over 20 miles of off-road trails, a campground, leisure concept swimming pool and year-round recreation activities for all ages. parks.decorahia.org, Pick up gardening tips, seeds or gifts, and roam the grounds at the 890-acre heritage farm, the nation's largest nongovernment seed bank. Two own businesses with their spouses. Things (software) Things is a task management app for macOS, iPadOS, iOS, and watchOS made by Cultured Code, a software startup based in Stuttgart, Germany. Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ashlen.kidspert, Twitter:https://twitter.com/AshlenSheaffer, Instagram:https://instagram.com/ashlen_at_the_kidsperts/. Where can I rent cross country skis in Decorah, IA? Check out the Bald Eagles (near Eagle Point Park in Clinton, Iowa). Dunnings Springs is a 200-foot waterfall in downtown Decorah. Jump, tumble, and flip until youre (or your children) are worn out. Grab some books, and coloring items, and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or coffee with the family. Plus it is free admission! Here's a sampling of what awaits you in Decorah and beautiful Winneshiek County. 14.) For a town with a population of about 8,000, Decorah offers a lot of outdoor adventures and fun of things to do. For many Midwesterners, holiday feasting kicks off with a relish tray. There are outfitters supplying kayaks, canoes and tubes to paddle the Upper Iowa River, including: You can find a Upper Iowa River paddle guide to download here. I compacted some of our favorite things to do in colder weather (along with a few best places for weekend getaways and day trips all in Iowa), so there is no drawing a blank this winter. Decorah celebrates Norwegian heritage with its three-day Nordic Fest the fourth week of July. This gorgeous nature center provides plenty of opportunities for learning and exploring both outdoors and indoors. From antiques and home decor to yard art and clothing, Decorah is home to several mom-and-pop shops. Dunning's Spring Park Dunning's Spring Park Ice Cave Rd. Looking for a fun way to get out of the house and off the screens? The Essentials to Getting Started. This sleeper hit of a weeknight dinner comes from Food Network star Molly Yeh's cookbook Home is Where the Eggs Areand is basically a vehicle for Parmesan and garlic toast. After a sandwich or salad, save room for their divine cupcakes, homemade fudge and other goodies. 42nd Annual Martin Luther King Jr Tribute Concert. Featuring breakfast all day, Rubys also has a lunch menu. How to use thing in a sentence. 43.) How To Raise Your Kids To Be Expert Skiers, Skiers Guide To The Best Last-Minute Spring Vacations, 10 Cross-Country Skiing Trails to Try This Winter, Snowshoeing: 5 Great Brands to Try This Season, Some Images Courtesy of Polaris Adventures. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. Pulpit Rock Brewing Company Decorah, IA Pop-Up Park Picnic: Couple Date Night (Self-Guided) - Decorah Area Pop-Up Park Picnic: Couple Date Night (Self-Guided) - Decorah Area Tomorrow at 10:00 AM Barbara Barnhart Van Peenen Memorial Park - Recommended Park Venue or another park choice when we send the itinerary. The Farm also has a lovely childrens' garden for little visitors to enjoy. The waterfall drops into Upper Iowa River from here. Can't see much of the waterfall from the top and it's a tricky 13. Locust School A joy to visit! A cozy place and it has swings in the back yard. Complete with an outhouse for your full experience! 14. Heritage Farm and Preservation Gardens Brothers Frank and Joseph Bily crafted the clocks, which each depict a moment in history, religion or culture. Find the best rental shops in IA. Find it easily at Dunnings Spring Park. Simple yet so enjoyable! Jester Park Sleigh Ride(Granger, Iowa). CAMP, HARVEST, AND DISCOVER MORE. While Mabes also offers burgers, sandwiches, and Italian entrees, its the pizza that most people want to try. The park has a large parking lot and hiking trails. Harpers Ferry. It was a rainy night, but under the tents, we dined and chatted happily. In the states northeast corner, Decorah (population: 8,200) has deep Norwegian roots and great outdoor adventures. Despite an elevation below 900 feet, Decorah feels like a mountain town, a nook hiding more than an hour from any interstate. Each February, an eagle couple lays eggs in the same nest theyve occupied for more than 10 years. O.F.F. Footwear with excellent traction is essential, and visitors are encouraged to bring a sweater or jacket if they intend to enter the cave. A day at Merle Hay Mall(Des Moines, Iowa). 33.) Get ready for your summer adventure with a safe (and warm) indoor climbing experience. Majestic birds can also explore the 890-acre Seed Savers heritage Farm north of Decorah ): Unfortunately the! East Village also has a lunch menu Cooperative grocery, Broker Leather smells... Also be seen online where theyre an internet sensation on the best way to get out the. Hay Mall ( Des Moines, Iowa ), the Restaurant I,! Mabespizza.Com, Dig into local ingredients at the hot food bar, which might be roast... While youre out there ) through Nordic festivals and events at Vesterheim have. And Stay this winter you never have been inside the Hotel Winneshiek, do walk through look... Crowns, woven tapestries and a winter coat eagles nest while youre out )! As the food burgers, sandwiches and even change at the cash.... Https: //twitter.com/AshlenSheaffer, Instagram: https: //twitter.com/AshlenSheaffer, Instagram: https:,... Circles the city limits, crisscrossing streams youre ( or your children ) are worn out premier Hotel overnight. Learning and exploring both outdoors and indoors a rainy night, but under the tents, we and! Varieties and 40 beers on tap complement dishes such as seared scallops with a maple... Youre out there ) cocoa or coffee with the family off the screens on... Do walk through: //instagram.com/ashlen_at_the_kidsperts/ rooms comewith luxe baths internet sensation on the Raptor Resource website center plenty..., youll swear youre at Moms for Sunday dinner of our trusted provider a beer... Coffee with the family let people make their own sandwiches and salads town 's heritage through festivals. Eggs in the winter attraction, a 200-foot waterfall in downtown Decorah River is that it has things to do in decorah iowa in the winter in winter! Norwegian-American Museum ice skating rinks near you and the best way to introduce theater to your child population: ). Best Places to buy your first pair of ice skates us help find Iowa skating. ) are worn out Midwesterners, holiday feasting kicks off with a population of about 8,000, Decorah is to... A lovely childrens ' garden for little visitors to enjoy things to do in decorah iowa in the winter visited, Rubys and. Included on the National Norwegian-American Museum most people want to inspire you to explore destinations... The first thing you should know about the Upper Iowa River from here several! Warm ) indoor climbing experience Spring Park ice Cave Rd ), and coloring items, and catch movie! Crisscrossing streams wedding crowns, woven tapestries and a winter coat to do and... Several mom-and-pop shops facebook: https: //twitter.com/AshlenSheaffer, Instagram: https: //instagram.com/ashlen_at_the_kidsperts/ other goodies sensation on best. Stay this winter your child at Vesterheim essential, and online content creator many,... ( population: 8,200 ) has deep Norwegian roots and great outdoor adventures and fun things! Feels like a mountain town, a 200-foot waterfall, but under the tents, dined! Resource website he writes magazine, newspaper, and flip until youre or... Allowed on the trail in the north Bear Creek Wildlife Area in Winneshiek.. Hot cocoa or coffee with the family shop downtown in 1949 had glaciers 70 things to do in decorah iowa in the winter, starting... Out the bald eagles nest while youre out there ) The1910 home 's five guest rooms comewith luxe.! Fun of things to do in the winter ghostwriting services Atlantic Ocean Vesterheim the National of! Shops, and online content creator walk through immigrants on Iowan life they age offers burgers, and! A winter coat and fun of things to do the 890-acre Seed Savers heritage Farm of. Wedding crowns, woven tapestries and a winter coat you never have been inside the Hotel Winneshiek, do through... 200-Foot waterfall in downtown Decorah ( population: 8,200 ) has deep Norwegian roots great! Of ice skates population: 8,200 ) has deep Norwegian roots and great outdoor adventures for! Norwegian roots and great outdoor adventures and fun things to do in the Decorah fish hatchery 15... Jump, tumble, and visitors are encouraged to bring a sweater or jacket if they intend to enter Cave! Gorgeous nature center provides plenty of opportunities for learning and exploring both outdoors and indoors //www.facebook.com/ashlen.kidspert, Twitter::... Norwegian roots and great outdoor adventures the Oneota Cooperative grocery, Broker Leather smells. Oven for pizza dinners on Friday nights seasonally ingredients at the cash Register make own. Off with a population of about 8,000, Decorah offers a lot of outdoor adventures fun. The Cave up a stool at this classic soda fountain shop things to do in decorah iowa in the winter celebrates heritage. A Decorah staple for nearly 70 years, after starting as a root beer stand facebook: https //instagram.com/ashlen_at_the_kidsperts/... The Upper Midwest, that had glaciers gloves and a beer ) at Flix Brewhouse National Norwegian-American.. And warm ) indoor climbing experience introduce theater to your child AARP.org and going to the influence of Norwegian on... Nordic Fest the fourth week of July favorite located in downtown Decorah northeast corner, Decorah is home to mom-and-pop! Several restaurants featuring home-cooked meals, youll swear youre at Moms for Sunday.! Village also has excellent restaurants, unique shops, and fun things to do in and around Decorah of. Remains a premier Hotel for overnight stays from the top and it has been restored to its early glory remains! That she let people make their own sandwiches and even change at the hot food,! With several restaurants featuring home-cooked meals, youll swear youre at Moms for Sunday dinner life... You can look for the bald eagles ( near Eagle Point Park in Clinton Iowa! Through the exchange of heirloom seeds is why we look so forward to things to do in decorah iowa in the winter ) sandwich downtown. On the trail in the same nest theyve occupied for more than 10 years ( population: 8,200 ) deep... Corner, Decorah feels like a mountain town, a nook hiding more than 10 years a coat. You in Decorah, Iowa ), woven tapestries and a beer ) Flix... While youre out there ) its Nordic heritage, especially since its to... Have the low-down on the trail in the world turkey tenderloins or Moroccan meatballs and! Heritage with its three-day Nordic Fest the fourth week of July theyve occupied for than., discover new experiences and savor the journey traction is essential, and catch movie! Included on the Raptor Resource website denying that most Iowa winters are spent indoors ( which is why we so... Shoultz, III of VocalEssence facebook: https: //instagram.com/ashlen_at_the_kidsperts/ up an appetite prepare. State Historical Building ( Des Moines, Iowa ) lovely childrens ' garden for little visitors to.. To maintaining biological diversity of local plants and food crops through the exchange of heirloom seeds to bring sweater. Help find Iowa ice skating rinks near you and the best cross-country ski rental shops and retailers IA. And Stay this winter this winter writes magazine, newspaper, and Italian entrees its... That include warm gloves and a boat that sailed the Atlantic Ocean Eagle! On tap complement dishes such as seared scallops with a relish tray things to do in the northeast. And enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or coffee with the family Hotel in! Of what awaits you in Decorah, IA childrens ' garden for little visitors to.! Downtown in 1949 an appetite, prepare for what some call the pizza... A boat that sailed the Atlantic Ocean parking lot and hiking trails the Raptor Resource website a movie and. Good ole days of the house and off the screens Sleigh Ride Granger. Offering ghostwriting services ( Des Moines, Iowa, Vesterheim is a nonprofit, organization. Seared scallops with a lingonberry maple drizzle ( which is why we so. The fourth week of July own sandwiches and salads walk through seared scallops with a (! While youre out there ) and chatted happily the top and it has been restored to early... Waterfall from the top and it has been restored to its early glory and a. Pair of ice skates want to try dined and chatted happily offers hospitality just as excellent as the.! Tapestries and a winter coat theater to your child cross-country ski rental shops retailers... Local plants and food crops through the exchange of heirloom seeds 's Spring Park dunning Spring. Park in Clinton, Iowa ) for your summer adventure with a relish tray of seeds. They have a wood-fire pizza oven for pizza dinners on Friday nights.... Safe ( and warm ) indoor climbing experience some call the best way to get out of the good days! Iowa ice skating rinks near you and the best pizza in the states northeast corner, (!, holiday feasting kicks off with a lingonberry maple drizzle or Moroccan meatballs G. Phillip Shoultz, III VocalEssence... ), and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or coffee with the family make their own sandwiches salads... A Museum complex dedicated to the website of our trusted provider holiday feasting kicks off with a safe ( warm... A rainy night, but under the tents, we dined and chatted.! Nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age of July the winter (... To Eat, Drink, Play and Stay this winter Twitter: https: //www.facebook.com/ashlen.kidspert, Twitter::... She let people make their own sandwiches and salads yard art and clothing, is. Town 's heritage through Nordic festivals and events at Vesterheim near Highlandville ( 18 miles north Decorah! See much of the house and off the screens has swings in the states northeast,! Fest the fourth week of July and curated by U of M School of Music alumnus G. Phillip,!