Posted in Iowa Small Towns March 28, 2023 by Raymond Goldfield

With An Old-School Soda Shop, Historic Churches, And Retro Diners, A Visit To Wilton, Iowa Is A Delightful Step Back In Time

Iowa has many small towns that are worth a visit, especially in the east near the Mississippi River. However, many people may not have heard of the most charmingly retro small town in Iowa. Wilton is located a little over half an hour from Davenport, and this throwback city of just under 3,000 people has gained a cult following for its unique style. When you visit Wilton, many of the businesses feel like they came from a simpler time. You’ll find old-fashioned luncheonettes, 1950s-style ice cream shops – and even a confectionery that has been operating for well over a hundred years! The town’s architecture even looks like you’re stepping back in time, and you’ll find you can easily spend a full day discovering the unique charm of Wilton, Iowa.

They still do things slow and old-school in Wilton - and that's exactly why this charming small town is worth a visit.

The town has several parks, complete with playgrounds that are great for small children to blow off steam.

Wilton also has a larger number of churches than the usual town of its size. Even if you're not going in, many have stunning old-school architecture worth strolling by.

However, nowhere is Wilton's retro charm more apparent than in its restaurants - starting with the signature Wilton Cafe.

For lunch, you can get over-the-top burgers that combine the classic meal with Iowa comfort food.

The desserts include a famous Sundae Waffle that takes indulgence to a new level.

Another place for a retro meal is Arty's, which dishes up burgers and ice cream like the 1950s never ended.

The inventive selection of toppings and flavors make it well worth dropping by for a milkshake or soft-serve cone.

However, no destination in Wilton is more popular than Wilton Candy Kitchen, an old-school soda fountain that has been operating for 150 years, and in its current location more than a century.

Soda fountain, diner, confectionery, and neighborhood hangout - it's the soul of Wilton, and just one more reason you need to visit.

Have you visited Wilton, Iowa? Tell us your experiences in the most retro town in Iowa in the comments section! You can find out more about Wilton on the official town website. To plan for your visit to the town’s most famous destination, check out Wilton Candy Kitchen’s website and Facebook page. If all this talk of candy has your sweet tooth feeling extra hungry, consider a dessert road trip through eastern Iowa.

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Address: Wilton, IA 52778, USA

Address: Wilton Candy Kitchen, 310 Cedar St, Wilton, IA 52778, USA

Address: Arty's Ice Cream & Grill, 609 W 5th St, Wilton, IA 52778, USA

Address: Wilton Cafe, 116 W 4th St, Wilton, IA 52778, USA

Address: City Park, 401-499 E Wate St, Wilton, IA 52778, USA