Iowa is a state full of small towns. Although we do have some pretty great cities, the small towns are what really make up our state's unique personality. We told you about some great small towns in this article, and now we're bringing you 10 more little towns in Iowa where life moves a little slower and the sense of community is strong:
1. Anita
With a population of just over 1,100, Anita is a true small town. The very popular Lake Anita State Park sits just outside of town lines. Anita's adorably ironic town slogan is "A Whale of a Town."
2. Belle Plaine
With a population of 2,534, Belle Plaine is a bit larger than some of the other small towns here. It exudes a small-town feel, however, with quiet streets and friendly people. Random fun fact: there's a river that flows beneath the town!
3. Belmond
Belmond, in Wright County, is home to 2,376 people. It's a beautiful little town that values green public spaces and features a gorgeous paved walking trail right through the town.
4. Cascade
This beautiful eastern Iowa town of 2,207 calls itself "The Place We Call Home." Cascade has a fantastic downtown shopping district and plenty of great festivals every year to keep residents entertained.
5. Clear Lake
Clear Lake is one of the best small towns in Iowa -- and it's criminally overlooked! It sits on the shores of the beautiful Clear Lake, which brings in lots of tourist traffic. This town was the location of the last performances of Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and The Big Bopper before their tragic plane crash in 1959.
6. Clermont
Just 585 people call Clermont home, giving the town a close-knit feel. Clermont sits on the banks of the Turkey River and boasts a number of historic sites, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring.
7. LeClaire
Situated right on the Mississippi River, LeClaire is a beautiful little town that's one of the larger locales on this list, with a population of 4,710 as of 2020. One of the best small towns in Iowa, LeClaire features lots of stunning 19th century architecture. LeClaire is the home of Antique Archaeology, the antique store owned by the star of the show "American Pickers."
8. Marquette
With a tiny population of just over 400, Marquette is home to Lady Luck Casino, a winery, antique shops, and a beautiful river boardwalk. For nature lovers, Pikes Peak State Park and Effigy Mounds National Monument are both nearby.
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9. Shenandoah
This sweet little southwestern Iowa town is another "big little city" -- it's home to a little over 4,700 people. With great public schools and a low cost of living, Shenandoah, Iowa, is an excellent place to settle down and raise a family.
10. Winterset
Located in Madison County, Winterset is a gem of a small town in Iowa. It's also home to six covered bridges made famous by the book and movie The Bridges of Madison County. Winterset is the birthplace of silver screen legend John Wayne.
Small Iowa towns are some of the sweetest places you'll ever visit. Stop on by any of these places to enjoy the scenery and be treated like a neighbor. What do you think; are these not the best small towns in Iowa? If we missed your favorite little locale, please share it with us in the comments below!
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