Where do we go when we really want to get away from it all? It’s great to find a town that’s truly in the middle of nowhere, and it doesn’t get more middle-of-nowhere than the north of Iowa. This is the area of Iowa, near the Minnesota border, that is the furthest away from Iowa’s big cities and top tourist attractions – but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. To the contrary, the most remote small town in Iowa, Northwood, is a great under-the-radar destination. This charming town of just over 2,000 is often nicknamed “The Top of Iowa,” and it’s home to a quirky visitor’s center, a beautiful park, and a delicious supper club. It’s the perfect place to kick back after a long drive and disappear into small town life, in a world that the locals have come to love.

Perfectly laid back and a little bit retro, Northwood is one of those small towns that just feels like home.
Fernkes/Wikipedia
The signature attraction in Northwood, located on the rural outskirts of the town, is the Top of Iowa Welcome Center.
Osman Leal/Google Local
This is often called the best welcome center in Iowa, and it's easy to see why - it's a two-story wonder featuring a little museum and snack bar, plus amazing decor.
Top of Iowa Welcome Center, 4705 Wheelerwood Rd, Northwood, IA 50459, USA
Cindy Hoglind/Google Local

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For those seeking outdoor recreation, head to the town's small county park - Swensrud Park.
Darrin Ochsner/Google Local
As the name indicates, you'll find some unique Nordic-style designs here, as well as several charming small trails to follow.
Swensrud Park, 8th St S, Northwood, IA 50459, USA
Darrin Ochsner/Google Local
For dining, it doesn't get more unique than Signatures Supper Club - a decidedly retro steakhouse with a frequently changing menu.
Michelle Hartman/Google Local
No matter what's on offer during this season, the menu always trends towards hearty Iowa comfort food with influences from Minnesota, whose border is only a few short miles away.
Signatures Supper Club, 728 Central Ave, Northwood, IA 50459, USA
Shanna Davison-Phillips/Google Local

Have you visited Northwood, the most remote small town in Iowa? Tell us about your visit, and let us know your favorite hidden-gem small towns in the Hawkeye State in the comments section! You can visit the Northwood town website for more details on this charming small town, and check out the website of Signatures Supper Club for more info on this unique destination. Northwood is also home to the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Northwood, only minutes away from the visitor’s center!

Want to visit other far reaches in Iowa? Check out this unique northwestern park or this delicious southeastern barbecue joint.

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Northwood, IA 50459, USA