11 Underrated Iowa Towns That Deserve A Second Look

If you want to spend a quiet afternoon in a place that's off the beaten path and a bit underrated, check out this list. There's no shortage of Midwestern fun to be had in these quaint Iowa towns.

1. Le Claire

This town has it all; epic views of the Mississippi River, a historic downtown shopping area, great restaurants, and it is home ot the Mississippi River Distilling Company.

2. Bentonsport

You must see the Villages of VanBuren area this fall. Bentonsport is just one of the cute little towns, here. There are plenty of local shops to wander through.

3. Bonaporte

This town once won the "Great American Main Street Award" and it's easy to see why. The Bonaparte Retreat is a great place to stop for lunch.

4. Emmetsburg

This beautiful lake town has its own Blarney Stone from Ireland. The views, the water, and the cute town are all perfect reasons to visit.

5. Ida Grove

Did you know there was a town full of castles right here in Iowa? There's even a giant pirate ship on Lake LaJune.

6. Maquoketa

Explore the area's natural resources at the Hurstville Interpretive Center, see a movie the 61 Drive-In Theatre, or spend an incredible evening seeing live music at Codfish Hollow Barnstormers.

7. McGregor

This town, situated in northeast Iowa, is surrounded by steep bluffs and the Mississippi River. It's breathtaking.

8. Orange City

Sinterklaas Day isn't until December, but this quaint Dutch-themed town has amazing architecture, the Sioux County Historical Museum, and the Blue Mountain Culinary Emporium.

9. Spirit Lake

Located in the middle of Iowa's Great Lakes region, this town is a fun place to spend the day. Shopping, dining, fishing, boating, hotels, and more. It's all right here!

10. Stone City

This old quarry town is one of the only sources of dolomite limstone in the world. The town is made of this stone and was once home to the artists' colony where Grant Wood stayed.

11. St. Donatus

This town is a small representation of Luxembourg, with the historic Gehlen House Inn, the amazing Pieta Chapel, and the Kalmes Restaurant. Try the famous Kraut Sausage.

Ready for a road trip? Iowa is beautiful in the fall; it's a great time for a little getaway!