Does it seem like you spend half your time on vacation checking your cell phone? Sometimes, you really need to get away from it all – and the best way to do that is a stay in a charming small town with enough to keep you occupied. Welcome to Eldora, Iowa – a town of around 2,600 people that combines a modern town with a celebration of Iowa’s country heritage. With beautiful parks, fascinating attractions, good food, and some unique places to stay, it’s the perfect place to disconnect from technology and enjoy a taste of off-the-grid living in Iowa. It’s an ideal destination for a weekend getaway in Iowa – but you might just find you want to stay longer.

Established in 1853, Eldora still has an old-fashioned feel that is pure Iowa.
Eldora Iowa
Premier Iowa Tree Surgeon/Google
The county park and pool, though, are all modern and are a great place to spend a hot summer or fall day.
City of Eldora, Iowa/Facebook
On the outskirts of the town, you'll find their top attraction - the Hardin County Farm Museum, filled with old-fashioned farm machinery.
Hardin County Farm Museum/Facebook
This museum adjoins a working farm, so kids and kids at heart will love seeing the massive machines in action.
Eldora Iowa
Hardin County Farm Museum/Facebook
If you want a more relaxed activity, head just outside of town to beautiful Pine Lake State Park.
Management/TripAdvisor
One of the state's least-visited state parks, it has some great easy-to-navigate trails that are perfect for beginners.
Meagan R/TripAdvisor

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Eldora has only one unique restaurant, but the Firehouse Saloon and Grill is an old-school dive with great food.
IggysTravelers/TripAdvisor
Featuring a massive pork tenderloin sandwich and other country-style favorites, it'll fill you up after a day of exploring.
IggysTravelers/TripAdvisor
If you want to spend your stay in the lap of luxury, pay a visit to the White House Bed and Breakfast - an old-school inn with classic hospitality.
Barbara/AirBNB
The rooms are themed after classic European cities like Madrid, making them perfect for a romantic getaway.
Barbara/AirBNB
If you want a more rustic getaway, head on down to Rock-n-Row Adventures Campground, where you can pitch a tent.
Eldora Iowa
Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing/Google
You're only a short walk away from the best river tubing area in central Iowa!
Eldora Iowa
Rock-n-Row AdventThe Amana Coloniesures Iowa River Tubing/Facebook

Have you explored Eldora, Iowa? Let us know your favorite towns or locations for off-the-grid-living in Iowa. If you’re planning your own getaway in this small town, make sure to visit Eldora town’s website for more information. If you want to explore another unique Iowa small town, consider a visit to this historic town.

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More to Explore

OFF GRID LIVING IN IOWA & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | March 15, 2023

Aside from Eldora, are there more off-grid communities in Iowa?

The Buckeye State is a great place for living off the grid. In fact, Iowa is ranked as one of the top locations for off-grid living in the country. Here are the best off-grid communities in Iowa:

  • Mount Pleasant, Henry County
  • Lucas, Lucas County
  • Pisgah, Harrison County
  • Dow City, Crawford County
  • Keokuk, Lee County
  • Castana, Monona County
  • Prole, Warren County
  • Moorhead, Monona County

Besides off-grid communities, Iowa has a lot of places for the perfect off-grid escape. Here is a previous article with information about some fun off-grid adventures in Iowa.

What are the best destinations for off-grid living in Iowa?

If you’ve grown weary of big-city living, and ready to take a break from technology for a bit, here are the best destinations for off-grid living in Iowa:

  • Sophie’s Nest, Decorah
  • Grumpsters Log Cabins, McGregor
  • Loess Hills Hideaway Cabins, Moorhead
  • 806 River Cabin, Whiterock Conservancy, Coon Rapids
  • Sustainable living cabins, Fontana Park in Hazleton

Here’s an article with more information about the best destinations for off-grid living in Iowa.

What are some of the best small towns in Iowa?

Known for its rolling hills as well as picturesque farmland, Iowa is filled with lots of small towns. Some are great for day trips as well as living off the grid. And here are the 10 best small towns in Iowa for your next adventure:

  • St. Donatus, Jackson County
  • The Amana Colonies, Iowa County 
  • Bentonsport, Van Buren County
  • Orange City, Sioux County
  • Decorah, Winneshiek County
  • Dyersville, Delaware and Dubuque counties
  • Elkader, Clayton County
  • New Sharon, Mahaska County
  • Brooklyn, Poweshiek County,
  • Jewell Junction, Hamilton County

Be sure to check out this previous article to learn more about the best small towns in Iowa. 

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Eldora, Iowa, USA
Hardin County Farm Museum, Washington Street, Eldora, IA, USA
Pine Lake State Park Trail, Eldora, IA 50627, USA
Firehouse Saloon & Grill, 1202 19th St, Eldora, IA 50627, USA
The White House of Eldora B&B, 900 10th St, Eldora, IA 50627, USA
Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing, 23539 1st St, Eldora, IA 50627, USA