Iowa is pretty much the face of small-town America, and we have countless numbers of them scattered across the state - too many to count, in fact. Each one is charming and unique in its own way. Sometimes, the smallest towns are the ones that are the ones that have the most character! Like these 10 small towns in Iowa:
1. Swedesburg
Swedesburg is an unincorporated community in northern Henry County near Mt. Pleasant. Though the town may be small, it has strong Swedish roots, which it proudly displays throughout the town. Swedesburg is home to the Swedish Heritage Museum, as well as a giant Dala horse and a giant straw goat - both symbols of Swedish culture.
2. Pocahontas
Pocahontas is a community of 1,732 people in northwest Iowa. Pocahontas, which was named after the Native American princess, features a giant replica of her, as well as some other unique sights. Be sure to check out the famous Kaleidoscope Factory while you're there.
3. Saint Donatus
Better known as Luxembourg in America, the quaint and historic village of St. Donatus is completely unique, and a must-see destination in Iowa. The town of 135 people, located in Jackson County, is best known for its old-world European feel, as it is reminiscent of the European country of Luxembourg, from which the founders of the town came from over 150 years ago. While you're in town, check out the beautiful Pieta Chapel, have a Kraut Sausage at Kalmes Restaurant, admire the old Gehlen Barn, and if you want to make a weekend of it, stay at the historic Gehlen House Inn.
4. Walnut
Walnut, a town of 785 people, may be small, but they have a big reputation for antiques - it's even been named "Iowa's Antique City." Be sure to check out the various antique stores while you're in town.
5. Greenfield
Greenfield, population 1,930, is home to four entries on the National Register of Historic Places - the E. E. Warren Opera House, the Adair County Courthouse, the Adair County Democrat/Adair County Free Press building, and Hotel Greenfield. Legend says that Hotel Greenfield is haunted - book a room to find out for yourself.
6. Stuart
The town motto of Stuart, population 1624, is: "Home to 1600 good eggs and a few stinkers." Popular hangouts in this tiny town include Stuart Bowl and Foxy's Den Restaurant.
7. Missouri Valley
Missouri Valley is a town of about 2,800 people in western Iowa. While you're here, check out their charming main street and grab a bite to eat at the retro "Penny's Diner."
8. Silver City
Silver City is a tiny town of about 245 people in western Iowa. While you're here, go for a walk on the Wabash Trace Trail, and grab a bite to eat at "The Hood."
9. Kimballton
Kimballton, population 322, is one of the two Danish settlments in Iowa, along with Elk Horn. The area is famous for its Danish heritage, which they celebrate with their Tivoli Festival. If you're a fan of fairy tales, be sure to check out their Little Mermaid statue.
10. Fertile
Fertile is a tiny town of 370 people located along the Winnebago River. The area offers canoeing, fishing and other outdoor opportunities, as well as a beautiful park, Rhodes Island Park, which is a perfect spot to spend a sunny day.
Who's up for a road trip?! What are some more small towns to add to the list?
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