There’s an hour’s drive between this town and the Interstate highway. It’s nestled in the rolling hills of Iowa’s Driftless Area, and it has only 8,000 residents. More than half of the town belongs to the local food co-op, and they have a passion for nature, craft beer, and their beautiful small town.

Here in the land of the waterfalls, you’ll find Malanaphy Falls and Dunning’s Springs just a short hike off Trout Run Trail.

These famous locations are beautiful year round.

Seed Savers Exchange is one of the largest seed banks in the world.

This non-profit organization is completely dedicated to preserving heirloom varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. They frequently hold events, and you can visit between 10 am and 5 pm seven days a week. They are located at 3074 Winn Rd., Decorah.

Oneota Community Food Co-Op is on Water Street, and they have a wonderful hot food bar featuring items from local farmers.

Their primary goal is to bring good food to northeast Iowa. Mission accomplished.

For more locally-grown goodness, visit the Winneshiek Farmers’ Market in downtown Decorah on Wednesdays from 3-6 pm and Saturdays from 8-11 am.

The market closes for the year on October 29. Four indoor markets November 5th and 19th and December 3rd and 17th run from 8:30 am until 11:30 am at the Decorah Fairgrounds at 900 East Main Street in Decorah. Their winter market is lively, with 40 vendors and music.

You must visit Mabe’s Pizza.

It’s located on East Water Street, downtown. It’s been around in one form or another since 1953. This family restaurant serves amazing pizza, and you’ll want to try it.

PIVO Brewery is located just west of Highway 52 north of Calmar.

There are 40 beers and ciders on tap. An on-site art studio and large orchard make this a draw for the community. You can even get homemade soup, stews, and charcuterie sourced from local farmers, here.

The idea for Pulpit Rock Brewery started in 2013. This family business fits into Decorah quite naturally.

All four founders are Luther College Graduates. You’ll find the taproom at 207 College Drive.

Toppling Goliath Brewing Company, founded in 2009, distributes to eight states and regularly brews more than 30 different beers.

Their new facility will house the brewery (with 100 barrels), a taproom, and a restaurant all in one place.

If you’d like to spend the night in Decorah so you have time to really take in all its charm, you’ll want to check out the Hotel Winneshiek downtown.

You’ll have easy access to locally-sourced cuisine on site at Restauration, stunning surroundings with a three-story octagonal common area with a stained-glass ceiling, and a relaxing night in a well-appointed and comfortable room.

If Airbnb is more your style, you can stay in a renovated train caboose.

It’s surrounded by some of the best hunting and fishing in the United States, and you can watch the sunset from the conductor’s chairs.

Let’s be clear that the businesses and locations featured here are a small snapshot of the total beautiful picture that is Decorah and the surrounding area. There are many more amazing restaurants, wineries, incredible parks and recreational areas, not to mention the Upper Iowa River, in this stunning area of Iowa where more than 90% of the land surrounding the town is agriculture.

Decorah and the surrounding areas are worth the trip. Have you visited? What’s your favorite Decorah destination?