Many small towns in Iowa have a unique cultural heritage, representing the immigrant community that first settled in them. But while countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Ireland are commonly represented around the United States, St. Donatus may be one of the only “Little Luxembourg” in the whole country! Come along as we explore the many exciting things to do in St. Donatus, Iowa, a tiny town of a little over 100 residents that is not only a unique little enclave but also a one-of-a-kind getaway.

Driving through St. Donatus, Iowa feels like traveling into a tiny European village.
Gehlen House Inn and Barn/Facebook
And it's no wonder, as this small town has a size of only around a third of a square mile.
Weary travelers looking to stay in "Little Luxembourg" almost always stop at the Gehlen House Inn, a small bed and breakfast.
Gehlen House Inn and Barn/Facebook
It is one of the most romantic inns in the state.
Inside, you'll enjoy a luxurious night's sleep in an old-fashioned room.
Gehlen Barn & Inn Facebook Page
But the main attraction of the complex isn't in its sleeping arrangements.
The Gehlen House Barn is the oldest still-standing barn in Iowa...
Gehlen House Inn and Barn/Facebook
...and the owners offer regular tours of the historic complex.
There's also an old-fashioned tavern on-site.
Gehlen Barn & Inn Facebook Page
So belly up to the bar for your taste of wine, beer, or bourbon.
The specialty is the craft beer on tap...
Gehlen House Inn and Barn/Facebook
...including several locally-brewed blends.

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After a good night's sleep, you'll want to go explore the town's top architectural sight - the Saint Donatus Catholic Church.
Iowa40z/Wikipedia
It's been standing since 1858, survived a fire in 1907, and is one of the most beautiful churches in Iowa..
The small Pieta chapel is another church in town and it has been standing since 1885.
Iowa40z/Wikipedia
Largely unchanged with time, and the whole area is worth a tour.
Make sure to stop by the peaceful St. Donatus Cemetery.
Phil Roeder/Wikipedia
Like many cemeteries, it features ornately carved statues paying tribute to the long departed.
For dinner, everyone in the area knows to line up at Kalmes Restaurant and Catering.
Kalmes Restaurant Bar & Catering/Facebook
Kalmes Restaurant and Catering is where you can still experience a taste of Old Europe.
One of the only Luxembourg-style restaurants in the country, it serves a full menu of American standards...
Kate Illinois1/TripAdvisor
... and European specials like schnitzel and Luxembourg ground steak. Foodies love this place!
While the restaurant usually serves a reasonably-priced a la carte menu...
jim budde/Google Maps
... keep an eye out for their all-you-can-eat buffet specials!

Have you paid a visit to St Donatus yet? If so, what was your favorite part? Would you agree that it is one of the most charming small towns in Iowa? We’d love to read about your experiences in the comments section below. If not, there’s no time like the present. The town may only have a few attractions, but they’re all worth a visit.

Make sure to visit the Kalmes Restaurant and Catering website and the Gehlen House Inn and Barn website as well as the Inn’s Facebook page to find out more about their offerings.

If you like culinary adventures, be sure to check out these 10 famous restaurants in Iowa that are so worth waiting in line for!

If you’re still in the mood for more Iowa adventures, take a look at this video about the top tourist attractions in the state:

 

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More to Explore

Adventures in Iowa

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | March 19, 2023

Where can we find other small towns in Iowa?

  • Fort Madison is a popular destination for foodies, as the town has an amazing culinary scene.
  • Pella is the place to experience Dutch culture, including during the annual Tulip Festival.
  • Lansing is a quaint riverside town that is known for its picturesque water views and a campground only a few minutes away from the water.

Read on to learn more about the other many other charming small towns in Iowa.

Where can we go for a romantic getaway in Iowa?

  • Marquette is a great getaway with cozy inns, a winery, a museum, restaurants, and a great deal more.
  • Decorah was once named as "most beautiful town in Iowa" and features natural springs and lots of wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Bellevue is home to several historic structures including a restored mill and it is also where you’ll find beautiful Bellevue State Park.

Read on to learn more about some other places to go for a romantic getaway in Iowa.

Where can we go fishing in Iowa?

  • East and West Lake Okoboji in Dickinson County together span 11,366 acres and are teeming with more than 40 species of fish.
  • Clear Lake in Cerro Gordo County is where you can catch an abundant variety of fish, including walleye, yellow bass, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other varieties.
  • Lake Ahquabi near Indianola is the place to cast your line for largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappies, and more.

Read on to learn more about the other exciting places to go fishing in Iowa.

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Featured Addresses
Saint Donatus, St Donatus, IA, USA