There are few things more relaxing than a day of browsing a main street for unique stores and restaurants, and Iowa is full of charming small towns that are perfect for a day trip. The tiny town of Chariton may be home to the best small-town shopping in Iowa, with the area’s best stores and restaurants all being located within a few blocks of each other spread out over less than a mile. You won’t even get tired exploring this unique shopping district – including one of Iowa’s most iconic candy stores – but that doesn’t mean you won’t want to stop at some of the charming restaurants and coffee shops in the area. It’s the perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon and come back with some great souvenirs and unforgettable memories.

Chariton is a relaxing small town with some beautiful architecture, but the best thing to do here is to explore its shopping and dining district!
Cburnett/Wikipedia
If you want a faster way to get around, you can start your trip at the Connecticut Yankee Pedaller - an extensive bike shop that's perfect for those who want to explore the local park trails.
Connecticut Yankee Pedaller, Inc./Facebook
To fuel yourself for the day, head to The Porch - a charming neighborhood coffee shop with delicious pick-me-up drinks.
The Porch: A Neighborhood Coffee Shop/Facebook
The Porch is also a popular breakfast and lunch spot, and you'll definitely want to drop in for some of their house-baked cinnamon rolls.
The Porch: A Neighborhood Coffee Shop/Facebook

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Your next stop is That Place on Main, a unique antique and secondhand shop, where you can browse through hundreds of unexpected finds to pick out the perfect accent for your home.
That Place on Main/Facebook
No trip to Chariton is complete without a visit to Piper's - arguably Iowa's most iconic candy store and a town institution.
Piper's Grocery and Homemade Candies/Facebook
From fresh fudge to a daily lunch menu, Piper's is always full of surprises - and the perfect place to buy souvenirs for friends and family.
Piper's Grocery and Homemade Candies/Facebook
There is no better way to end your day in Chariton than with a visit to the Iron Horse - a neighborhood bar and grill located inside a historic hotel building.
Iron Horse Charitone/Facebook
The classic menu of steaks, pasta, and barbecue is packed with flavor, and you'll want to come back to try all the options!
Iron Horse Charitone/Facebook

Have you visited Chariton and explored its shopping district? Let us know about your visit, and tell us your pick for the best small-town shopping in Iowa in the comments section. If you’re planning a visit, you can check the Chariton website for more information, and make sure to drop by the Iron Horse’s Facebook page to learn about their latest specials. For another memorable small town in Iowa, why not discover what’s waiting in Marion?

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Featured Addresses
Chariton, IA 50049, USA
Piper's, 901 Braden Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA
The Porch: Neighborhood Coffee House, 705 Auburn Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA
The Iron Horse Charitone, 831 Braden Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA
That Place On Main, 101 N Main St, Chariton, IA 50049, USA
Connecticut Yankee Pedaller Inc,, 906 Court Ave, Chariton, IA 50049, USA