Travelers Used To Flock to This Tiny Iowa Town for Its Healing Mineral Waters

Today, the small town of Colfax is just another charming central Iowa town, located about 30 minutes east of Des Moines. It has a population of around 2,200 and a quiet but thriving retail and dining scene. However, almost 150 years ago, this historic town in Iowa was a very different place. It was one of the most bustling small towns in Iowa, partially due to its success as a mining town. But what the residents found in the ground that made them a destination wasn't a seam of coal—it was mineral water. Soon, Colfax was home to a wildly successful healing spring that transformed its fortunes.

Today, Colfax is still known as "The Spring City," so let's take a journey back in time to explore the community's exciting past. Modern Colfax is a normal Iowa small town, and not many people beyond its city limits know about its unique, 19th-century history.

During those days, Colfax was a hub of industry and home to many successful coal mines. Soon, the town would strike pay dirt—but not in the way its residents may have expected. In 1875, coal miners discovered a well containing water with a high mineral content. The idea of mineral water being a cure-all was popular, and an industry would soon spring up around it. The word got out about the supposed healing powers of Colfax mineral water, and it wasn't long before the coal town became a tourist hub.

A massive bottling plant was opened, producing bottled mineral water for the masses who couldn't make it to Colfax. That soon turned into four bottling plants. Of course, was there any better way to experience Colfax mineral water than in person? Soon, hotels and spas became the town's top industry.

The mineral spring business was booming, turning Colfax into a destination with a total of nine hotels and spas. But then the Great Depression hit, and the good times were over. You can still pay homage to The Spring City's heyday with a visit to Mineral Springs Park on the edge of downtown—and even partake of the town's famous water (when the fountain is operating).

Today, the mineral springs no longer exist, but the town remains a charming tourist stop. The quirky eatery, Cratty Shack, is one of the favorite dining destinations in Colfax.

Do the massive portions have healing powers? Probably not—but they certainly will give you the energy to take on the day. Anything on the Cratty Shack menu is sure to warm your tummy (except, perhaps, the ice cream).

Have you visited Colfax or heard about its unique past? What are some of your favorite small towns in Iowa? We'd love to hear all about your picks over on our Nomination page.

If you want to learn more about the town's history and current offerings, you can visit the official Colfax website. For a look into Iowa's rail history, consider taking this unique train-themed day trip. When you're ready for your next small-town adventure in the Hawkeye State, head over to Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for help getting started.