These 10 Towns In Iowa Have The Best Main Streets You've Got To Visit
By Michaela Kendall|Published December 30, 2015
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Michaela Kendall
Author
Michaela is a born and raised Iowan. She writes for a newspaper by day, and writes content for websites by night. In her spare time, she enjoys reading a good book, or just binge watching Netflix.
There’s nothing more charming than a small town, and Iowa is full of those. But just what about small towns do we love? Maybe it’s the tight-knit community, maybe we like them because they’re not too crowded, or maybe we like them because of the picturesque Main Streets – a spot where everyone gathers, there’s always something going on, and a place where you can show your community pride by supporting local businesses. Like the towns themselves, these 10 Main Streets in Iowa are unique, full of character, and a must-visit for travelers far and wide.
Okay, so these first three aren't "small" towns, but their Main Streets are truly wonderful. Cedar Falls' Main Street is absolutely charming, and you will find countless things to keep you busy here, from stopping for some treats at Main Street Sweets, to doing a little shopping at one of the countless shops and boutiques.
Dubuque is another place known for its beautiful Main Street, filled with places to eat, shop, play and explore. L. May Eatery or 1st & Main are good places to check out if you're hungry, and afterwards, do a little shopping at the boutiques and shops that line the street.
Main Street in Ames is a great place to spend an afternoon. Grab a coffee at Cafe Diem, maybe a few chocolates at the Chocolaterie Stam, and then spend the day shopping, dining, and exploring.
The Main Street in Mount Vernon is also a great place to check out. Once a year, in the beginning of May, they have a special festival called Chalk the Walk, where people create beautiful chalk art on the road. It's a really fun and unique thing to see, and an added bonus to visit their awesome Main Street.
Decorah is a particularly fun place to visit, and is a little taste of Norway in Iowa. Visit their Main Street and explore the Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum, do some shopping at Eckheart Art Gallery and Antiques, or grab a bite to eat at Restauration & The Tap Room.
Le Mars is best known as the Ice Cream Capital of the World, but they also have a pretty sweet Main Street. While you're there, check out their library, community theater, and street murals, then grab a bite to eat at one of the many tasty restaurants here.
The little Dutch town of Pella is one of the best places to visit in Iowa, especially during the springtime. One of the best things to do on your visit is to walk around and explore the Main Street. Make sure you check out Jaarsma Bakery to grab yourself a Dutch letter, tour one of the many windmills, take a walk in the park, or do some antique shopping at one of the many stores here.
Greenfield is known for Lancaster Square with its thriving shops and businesses, and also for it's cultural and historical offerings. While you're here, check out the Warren Cultural Center and the historic Hotel Greenfield.
Main Street in Corning is a charming place, full of history and culture. While you're there, check out the Corning Opera House and the Kline Museum, then spend the rest of the day shopping, dining, and exploring.
Fort Madison is a lovely town, with a lovely Main Street. Next time you're in Fort Madison, check out one of their many beautiful parks or the Fort Madison Art Center, and then grab a bite to eat at 10th Street Station before doing some shopping on Fort Madison's bustling Main Street.
We know this list just barely scratches the surface, and there are so many more charming Main Streets here in Iowa. What are some more commendable Main Streets you would add to this list?
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