Swedish roots, lakeside recreation, and small-town charm Stanton is a destination that invites travelers to slow down. With its painted-white homes, strong Swedish heritage, and easy access to Viking Lake…
Continue readingSpend 48 Hours in Pella, Iowa
Spend 48 Hours in Pella, Iowa
Dutch heritage, charming canals, and small-town elegance
Pella feels like stepping into another country without leaving Iowa. With storybook architecture, deep-rooted Dutch traditions, incredible food, and easy access to outdoor recreation, two days allow you to fully savor everything this community offers.
Spend Two Days in Pella
Day 1
Downtown Pella & Dutch Traditions
Morning: Central Park & Coffee
- Begin your day at Central Park, the heart of Pella, surrounded by Dutch-inspired buildings and vibrant seasonal blooms.
- Grab coffee at Smokey Row Coffee House, Iris Coffee Company, or The Sanctuary, which also offers books, gifts, and home décor.
- Watch the Klokkenspel, a musically animated clock that performs daily and delights visitors of all ages.
Late Morning: History & Heritage
- Visit the Pella Historical Village and tour the Vermeer Windmill, the tallest working grain windmill in the United States.
- Walk through the historic village to see traditional buildings and demonstrations.
- Stop by the Scholte House Museum to tour the gardens and learn about Pella’s founder. Enjoy coffee or treats at Maria’s Tea Room.
Lunch
- Windmill Café for Dutch comfort food
or - Butcher’s Brewhuis at Int’Veld’s Meat Market for bologna specialties and elevated pub fare.
Afternoon: Shopping & Canals
- Explore the Molengracht Canal area with its working drawbridge and Dutch-style waterways.
- Shop downtown favorites including Pella Paperie, Hometown Variety, Simple Treasures, Blush, Thistles Flower Market, 9Lilas, and Hall Tree Boutique.
- Sweet stop at Jaarsma Bakery for a Dutch letter, or Van Veen Chocolates for handmade confections.
Evening
- Dinner at Liberty Street Kitchen, known for its upscale menu and patio.
- Drinks at The Cellar Peanut Pub, home to 50 craft beers on tap, or wine tasting at The Wijn House.
- Optional late-night stop at De Kelder Speakeasy, hidden beneath a historic building.
Stay
- The Amsterdam Hotel, located along the Molengracht Canal for a truly immersive stay.
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Day 2
Outdoor Adventures & Local Favorites
Morning
- Breakfast downtown or pastries from Jaarsma Bakery.
- Drive to Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest reservoir.
- Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, boating, or lakeside views.
- Bike or walk the Volksweg Trail, which connects Pella to the lake and follows the Des Moines River.
Lunch
- Picnic at Lake Red Rock
or - Return to town for lunch at Nederlanders, featuring gourmet hot dogs and golf simulators.
Afternoon
- Visit Frisian Farms Cheese House just outside of town to watch cheese-making and sample local cheeses.
- Explore Central College’s campus, known for its beautiful grounds.