There are so many charming small towns in Iowa just waiting to be explored. One of the most interesting and unique towns you’ll find in Iowa is like a tiny little slice of Europe, tucked away in eastern-central Iowa. St. Donatus is known as a Luxembourger village, and, trust me, you’ll really think you’re in Luxembourg when you pay it a visit. Read on to learn about all of the charming things to do in St. Donatus Iowa. 

This sleepy little town has only a population of 135, but it’s big on charm, with its Luxembourg heritage, historic architecture and amazing scenery.
Flickr/Phil Roeder
The town was settled by Luxembourgers over 150 years ago, and it is named after Saint Donatus of Muenstereifel, the patron saint of protection against lightning.
It is known for its status as a Luxembourger village and is populated mostly by descendants of immigrants from Luxembourg.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
The village is chock full of beautiful old architecture, dating back to the 1850s. One of the crown jewels of the village is the St. Donatus Catholic Church.
Flickr/SD Dirk
This glorious old church was originally modeled after the St. Boniface Church in New Vienna in 1858. After a fire destroyed the interior of the church in 1907, a new church was constructed, using the preserved exterior stone walls that survived the fire. The new construction was completed in 1908, and the new church’s stone bell tower was constructed from stone from a nearby quarry.
The nearby St. Donatus Cemetery contains some amazing, elaborate old tombstones that are worth a visit.
Flickr/Phil Roeder
St. Donatus is also home to the Pieta Chapel, at the end of the Way of the Cross trail.
Flickr/Phil Roeder
Make sure to visit the trail and check out the 14 brick stations along the way. Each station contains an original lithographic print portraying Christ’s passion.
Don’t be surprised if you see a stray sheep along the way, and make sure to savor the glorious view at the end of the trail.
Flickr/Phil Roeder

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The chapel itself contains a statue of the pietà, portraying Mary cradling her son on her lap after the crucifixion.
Flickr/Phil Roeder
Another must visit is the St. John’s Lutheran Church, a beautiful twin-spired church built in 1919.
Flickr/Phil Roeder
After exploring the local architecture, make sure to stop for some Luxembourg flavor at Kalmes Restaurant.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
This family owned restaurant has been serving the community for over 160 years, and it’s currently run by its fourth generation of family members.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
The menu contains a wide array of mouthwatering sandwiches, burgers, and of course, Luxembourg classics, like Wiener Schnitzel Veal and Luxembourg Ground Steak. They’re located at 100 Main St., St. Donatus, IA.
If you want to make a weekend of it, make sure to experience some Luxembourg hospitality at the charming Gehlen House Inn.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
This historic inn is located in what once was the local community center.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Directly behind the inn is a barn, most notable for the fact that it is one of only a few stone barns in Iowa. Located at 101 Main St., St Donatus, IA.

Have you visited St. Donatus, Iowa? What did you think? For more of Iowa’s charming small towns and cities, take a look at our list of breathtaking scenic cities in Iowa. You just have to see them to believe it!

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Discovering Iowa

Sara Dager | March 24, 2023

What are the most charming small towns in Iowa? 

For all of the local whimsy that you can handle, you'll want to spend the day (or a few) in one of these charming small towns in Iowa:

  • Pella has a lot of Dutch history so you can enjoy Dutch pastries, stroll along a canal and visit a windmill here. There is even a tulip festival every year!
  • The Amana Colonies are a collection of seven tiny German villages that offer fantastic dining, local artisans to shop from, and a winery that makes dandelion wine.
  • McGregor is quite tiny but with Pikes Peak State Park to explore and a riverboat cave tour to take, you're sure to work up a good appetite for all of the great food they have on offer.

Which road trips through Iowa should I take? 

Don't forget the snacks when you're heading out on the open road for these amazing themed road trips through Iowa. There is something for every kind of adventurer:

  • The waterfalls in Iowa road trip is a handy loop so whichever stop you begin at you will end at. It is over eight hours of driving but you'll see eight gorgeous waterfalls along the trip. It makes for the perfect weekend!.
  • The ghost towns in Iowa road trip is a zippy five hour drive with seven stops at ghost towns in various states of disrepair. You'll be fascinated, if a little creeped out.
  • The Iowa small towns road trip is chock full of local charm. You'll visit ten towns, each with their own fun quirks and traditions, and drive about nine hours.

Are there any good hikes in Iowa to go on? 

If you want to really take in all of the beauty the state has to offer, go on one of these scenic hikes in Iowa. Make sure to bring your water bottle:

  • Effigy Mounds is a scared area to Native Americans with over 14 miles of hiking trails and inspiring views.
  • Maquoketa Caves State Park is perfect for hikers with six miles of trails, densely forested lands, and of course, caves to explore!
  • Mines of Spain State Recreation Area has some gorgeous overlooks, over 21 miles of trails, and in the winter you can go cross country skiing!

 

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Saint Donatus, St Donatus, IA, USA