7 Christmas Towns In Iowa That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
By Raymond Goldfield|Published November 07, 2023
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Raymond Goldfield
Author
Raymond Goldfield is a life-long New Jersey resident and an avid traveler and foodie who can be usually found on the Jersey Shore during the offseason or checking out the latest seasonal flavors at The Bent Spoon in Princeton. He has been working for Only In Your State for since early 2022, where he writes for New Jersey and Iowa and edits the Mid-Atlantic region. He can also be found writing about pop culture for GeekDad. When at home, he enjoys reading comic books and is part of The Rabbitt Stew podcast team. While New Jersey is his home base, he travels regularly and has visited Virginia, Florida, Maine, Minnesota, and Canada as well as all of NJ's border states. Ultimate travel goal? Visit all the best buffets in the United States.
There’s a chill in the air, the days are getting shorter, and those neighbors who always get an early start already have the twinkling lights up. And of course, the most important hallmark of the holiday season is here – pumpkin spice and cider are giving way to peppermint, cocoa, and eggnog on the menus! I always get in the holiday spirit when this time comes around, and there are some amazing Christmas towns in Iowa that are gearing up for the holiday season. Some of these destinations are laid-back and rustic, offering beautiful lights and a charming community spirit. Others really go all-out, transforming the town into a winter wonderland or hosting top-line attractions that Iowans look forward to all year. No matter what you’re looking for, there are so many places to go for Christmas in Iowa that it’s impossible to not feel the spirit.
Winterset is one of Iowa's most famous towns - home to the covered bridges of Madison County. They look stunning covered in snow, and that's just the start of what this town has waiting for you. A rustic Christmas market, a parade featuring live animals and colorful floats, and a delightful Santa meet-and-greet for kids make this town feel like it's right out of a storybook. It's our favorite town for an old-fashioned Christmas in Iowa.
Wyoming is a laid-back town with a population of just over 500, but it's definitely worth a visit around the holidays. The center of the town is the Wyoming, Iowa Historical Museum, which hosts special dinners and an exhibit of seasonal trees and decorations. The entire main street is decked out with retro light displays, horse-drawn carriages can be seen along the street, and it feels like it's right out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Boone is a small city near Des Moines best known for its recreational train rides - and none of those would be complete without a ride to the North Pole. This is one of the most popular areas in all of Iowa during the holiday season, as families line up for the Santa Express. This charming train ride features all the stunning views you're used to from the train ride, plus seasonal treats and a meeting with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Atlantic is located in a fairly quiet area of Iowa, which means that it has a great rustic vibe. But that doesn't mean this town isn't bustling come the holiday season - it's actually known as the Christmas Capital of Iowa, thanks to a massive light display and a kickoff ceremony that includes fireworks. Want to spend the day here? You'll find an ice skating rink for graceful types, and a visit with Santa at an old log cabin for the kids. The Atlantic Lion's Club might even have some freebies when you're in town.
Le Mars is one of Iowa's most charming small towns, and during the holiday season it transforms into the only Christmas Village in Iowa. Head to the Pioneer Village Christmas Wonderland for a day of food, fun, and music. This annual event is best known for Santa's Workshop, a massive display of well-lighted and colorful trees surrounded by local vendors selling their holiday wares. You can meet the Jolly Old Elf, and finish the night with a horse-drawn carriage ride!
Storm Lake is a popular resort town during the warmer months, but during this time of year, it's known as Iowa's official home for Santa Claus. That's because it's home to Santa's Castle, an annual festival and attraction that allows young (and young at heart) visitors to meet the big man in an immersive experience. Located at the historic Carnegie Library, it features a massive display of antique and animated Christmas characters and a massive miniature railroad.
7. Amana Colonies
Amana Colonies, 622 46th Ave, Amana, IA 52203, USA
The Amana Colonies are a peaceful German village in Iowa best known for amazing food and regular festivals that make it worth visiting throughout the year - so, of course, they'll have an amazing Christmas! The European vibe of the town is only enhanced under a blanket of snow, the many restaurants and bakeries are offering seasonal Christmas treats, and special winter games and activities are offered. This community is so beautiful, a Hallmark Christmas movie was filmed here a few years back!
Which of these Christmas towns in Iowa are you looking forward to visiting this year? What are your favorite things to do for Christmas in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section! Make sure to bring a warm winter coat for your holiday adventures.
Is all the festivity getting you in the gift-giving mood? Check out OnlyInYourState’s guide to the best gifts for travelers for your holiday shopping.
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