A Visit to Orange City

Today, we’re taking a detour off the beaten path and venturing to a charming little town in Northwest Iowa: Orange City!

This town boasts a rich Dutch heritage, named after Prince William of Orange. It’s everywhere you look, from the architecture to the shops and even the food. To really delve into the history, we started out day with a self-guided walking tour found on the Orange City website. It takes you past all the unique buildings downtown, like the beautiful courthouse and leads you right to Windmill Park, which quickly became my favorite spot!Windmill Park is a beautiful representation of Dutch heritage. You’ll find six scale models of historic windmills, each representing a different period in Dutch history. There are informational signs to learn about each windmill and a band shell designed after castles in Gelderland, which hosts events throughout the summer. Did you know the flags flying here represent each province in the Netherlands? And those stunning flower beds? They’re filled with thousands of tulip bulbs imported directly from the Netherlands, blooming each May for the famous Tulip Festival. In the summer, beautiful annuals are planted in their place.

We also explored the windmill replica that houses the Orange City Chamber office, and then popped into the Dutch American Heritage Museum downtown. Here, we learned all about the town’s iconic street organ, the annual tulip festival, and even the history of those famous wooden shoes – they even showed us how they’re made!

Feeling inspired by all things global, we headed to Hands Around the World. This shop is a treasure trove of handcrafted items from artists everywhere, from food and crafts to décor – a truly unique shopping experience! A trip to Orange Citywouldn’t be complete without indulging in some tasty treats! You won’t want to miss Brad’s Bakery Bistro. They have fresh-baked bread, pastries, macarons, cakes, and all sorts of delicious goodies. I couldn’t resist their strawberry vanilla Italian soda – it was amazing! Speaking of souvenirs, stop by Woudstra Meat Market to find that special something to commemorate your trip. They house custom goodies from Next Door Boutique including hand towels, ornaments, apparel, and more.

Since Orange City is home to Northwestern College, we took time to explore their beautiful campus. It’s a lovely place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere and finish the day relaxing. Thank you all for joining us on this adventure to Orange City! This quaint Dutch town truly stole our hearts, and we hope it inspired you to plan your own trip off the beaten path. Stay tuned for our next adventure!

ORANGE CITY TRAVEL GUIDE

Discover Family-Friendly Adventures in Northwest Iowa: A Journey of Fun and Wonder!

Welcome to northwest Iowa, where family-friendly adventures await around every corner! Whether you’re seeking thrilling amusement park rides, awe-inspiring sites, or simply a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, this region has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top ten family-friendly vacation ideas that will make your trip to northwest Iowa unforgettable:

  1. Arnolds Park Amusement Park (Dickinson County)
    Experience the charm and rich history of Arnolds Park Amusement Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country. Nestled on the shores of West Lake Okoboji, this park offers a delightful blend of classic rides, exciting games, and lakeside entertainment that will keep the whole family smiling. Check out our Off the Beaten Path video to find other fun activities to do while you are in the area.
  2. Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption (Palo Alto County)
    Prepare to be mesmerized by the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend. This breathtaking religious site features nine grottos adorned with stunning minerals, portraying scenes from the life of Jesus. Often hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” it’s a must-visit destination for families seeking inspiration and wonder.
  3. Ice Cream Capital of the World (Plymouth County)
    Indulge your sweet tooth in Le Mars, also known as the “Ice Cream Capital of the World.” Take a tour of the Wells Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and treat your taste buds to a delectable array of ice cream flavors, sundaes, and milkshakes. After you get your sweet treats, check out all of the alley art & historical murals throughout LeMars. It’s the perfect way to cool off and enjoy some quality family time. Our Off the Beaten Path video can point you to all the best stops in LeMars!
  4. Ride the Waves at Local Water Parks (BV County & Sioux County)
    Dive into adventure in Storm Lake, where you’ll find a host of family-friendly activities. Visit King’s Pointe Resort for waterpark fun, challenge your skills at Pirates Pointe Mini Golf, or ride the waves at Siouxnami Waterpark in Sioux Center. Here is a quick video from Off the Beaten Path to show you all the must-see attractions in Sioux Center. Even if you can’t hit everything on the list, there’s no shortage of fun for all!
  5. Discover Algona’s Nativity Scene (Kossuth County)
    Immerse yourself in history and art at Algona’s Nativity Scene, where 65 life-sized figures depict scenes from the Christmas story. Created by German prisoners of WWII, this unique attraction offers a glimpse into the past and celebrates the spirit of creativity and resilience.
  6. Sioux City Museums (Woodbury County)
    Delve into the rich cultural heritage of Sioux City by exploring its museums. From the fascinating exhibits at the Public Museum to the inspiring artwork at the Sioux City Art Center, there’s plenty to discover. Don’t miss the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and the Sargent Floyd River Museum for a deeper understanding of the local history. Check out this short video from Off the Beaten Path for a quick tour around town for more places to stop!
  7. Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center (Woodbury County)
    Connect with nature at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, where interactive exhibits, scenic hiking trails, and educational programs await. After exploring the center, make sure to stop by the Sioux City Railroad Museum nearby for an added dose of excitement.
  8. Heartland Museum (Wright County)
    Dive into Heartland history at the captivating Heartland Museum in Clarion. Explore exhibits showcasing the Midwest’s agricultural heritage and pioneering spirit. From vintage machinery to cultural artifacts, there’s something for all ages. Engage in hands-on activities and discover the stories that shaped the Heartland. After a visit to the Heartland Museum check out this Off the Beaten Path video to add in some other must-see stops in Clarion!
  9. Clear Lake Surf Ballroom (Cerro Gordo County)
    Pay homage to music history at the Clear Lake Surf Ballroom, where legendary artists once graced the stage. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Clear Lake and embark on a 1 ½ hour cruise aboard the Lady of the Lake cruise ship. Experience the serene beauty of this natural spring-fed lake while creating cherished family memories. Be sure to watch this Off the Beaten Path video and plan the rest of your stops in Clear Lake.
  10. Orange City (Sioux County)
    Experience the charm of Orange City with its iconic windmills dotting the landscape. Take a stroll through town and marvel at everything to see in Windmill Park, which pays tribute to the region’s Dutch heritage. Off the Beaten Path can help you decide on other must-see stops.  Just watch this short video to plan your visit!

Northwest Iowa is brimming with family-friendly adventures just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking thrills, inspiration, or simply some quality time together, this region offers endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on a journey of fun and wonder in northwest Iowa!