Iowa was settled by many different groups in the 1800s, and that’s given the state such a unique vibe! We love the old German vibes of the Amana Colonies, the charming Dutch culture of Pella and Danish culture of Elk Horn, the urban vibe of Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village, the cultural heritage of Decorah’s Norwegian roots, and the bucolic small-town feel of Iowa’s “Little Luxembourg”, Saint Donatus. However, these many waves of immigrants not only brought their culture to the Hawkeye State, they formed their own unique cultures here. You can see this with a visit to the Hamburg Historic District, a unique German village in Davenport, Iowa established by upper-class German immigrants in the mid-19th century. That’s just the beginning of what there is to see for those looking for a tour of Davenport’s German roots!

One of Iowa's most impressive historic areas, the Hamburg Historic District was the home of German immigrants during the 19th and 20th centuries - and they made their mark.
Farragutful/Wikipeida
The district's most unique feature is the Ripley Steps. Due to the steep grade of one of the streets, the sidewalk changes into a staircase!
Farragutful/Wikipeida
Many of the historic buildings are still standing despite the years, like this old German Methodist Episcopal Church.
Farragutful/Wikipeida
You can see the distinct German character in many of the impressive mansions, like the Charles Biederbecke House.
Farragutful/Wikipeida

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Once you're done exploring the district, you're within walking distance of the German American Heritage Center & Museum, the state's biggest museum dedicated to German immigrants.
Augusto Grazioli/Google Local
Inside, you'll find a fascinating array of exhibits dedicated to the culture, clothes, and businesses of this wave of German immigrants.
German American Heritage Center & Museum, 712 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802, USA
German American Heritage Center & Museum/Google Local
What better way to end a day of exploring Davenport's German roots than with a visit to a beer garden? Armored Gardens awaits!
Jonathan Hynes/Google Local
This sleek, modern brewpub is a great place to sample some of the latest IPAs, and it also has a full menu.
Armored Gardens/Facebook
While this isn't a specifically German restaurant, you'll find German ingredients like muenster cheese, sausage, and sauerkraut in many of the dishes. And what better way to celebrate the Hamburg Historic District than with a hamburger?! (Keep an eye out for the over-the-top burger of the month!)
Armored Gardens, 315 Pershing Ave, Davenport, IA 52801, USA
Armored Gardens/Facebook

Have you explored the Hamburg Historic Village before? Let us know your favorite spots at this German village in Davenport, Iowa in the comments section! You can find out about the current exhibits at the German American Heritage Center & Museum on the official website, and keep an eye on the Facebook page of Armored Gardens to see what they’re serving up! If you’re staying the night in Davenport, Hotel Blackhawk is the town’s most storied hotel. If you want to keep the Teutonic tour going, head to Amana to discover why this town has Iowa’s best German food.

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Hamburg Historic District, Davenport, IA 52802, USA