Decorah, Iowa
Located in northeast Iowa, Decorah blends its rich Norwegian heritage with a landscape shaped by rivers and limestone bluffs. Tucked into the heart of the Driftless Region, Decorah feels cradled by its natural borders, with limited sprawl and a distinctly small-town character. In downtown, independent boutiques, bookstores, outdoors stores, restaurants, and cafés line Water Street, creating a walkable stretch that feels vibrant and historic. At the center of the town’s cultural identity is Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, the largest museum in the U.S. dedicated to one immigrant group. The museum provides a deeper understanding of the town’s Norwegian roots through interactive exhibits, historic buildings, rotating galleries, and folk art workshops. Just outside of town, the trails of Dunngings Spring Park wind through wooded bluffs to a 200-foot waterfall, while the Decorah Fish Hatchery invites visitors to feed the fish, visit the Siewers Spring, and cast a line for salmon. It’s also a starting point for the Trout Run Trail, an 11-mile loop that circles around town and showcases the rolling terrain.
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Between exploring the natural surroundings and immersing yourself in the town’s history, Decorah’s food scene offers a variety of options. Impact Coffee serves nitro cold brew coffee on tap. Don Jose is the place to go for lunchtime margaritas and tostadas. Mabe’s Pizza has been a local staple since 1953. For upscale dining, La Rana Bistro offers a seasonal menu of pastas and small plates made with locally sourced ingredients. The craft beer scene isn’t to be missed. Toppling Goliath Brewing Company’s taproom features more than 20 beers on tap and an outdoor patio. Pulpit Rock Brewing Company pairs contemporary brews with striking can art, which has become part of its identity.
Lanesboro, Minnesota
Lanesboro is surrounded by nature. Located in the Root River Valley in southeastern Minnesota, it’s a place where the landscape shapes the pace—rolling bluffs, lush forests, winding rivers, and long stretches of quiet make it easy to slow down. The Root River Trail draws cyclists for its gentle, scenic ride through farmland and wildflowers. For those hoping to get out on the water, tubing and kayaking offer a relaxed way to spend an afternoon. Downtown, historic brick buildings line the streets, and local shops and restaurants give the town a welcoming place to gather. Start your morning at Lanesboro Pastry Shoppe for breakfast, a pastry, and a cup of coffee. Pedal Pushers Café serves house-roasted coffee alongside burgers, sandwiches, and salads made with locally sourced ingredients, in addition to a rotating selection of craft beer. For a more elevated option, Juniper’s Restaurant offers river views and a scratch-made menu that frequently changes but also includes burgers, pastas, poutine, and cheese curds. For a night cap, head to High Court Pub for craft beer and signature cocktails.
Viroqua, Wisconsin
Viroqua is situated in the heart of the Driftless Region, where rolling hills, winding country roads, and a strong agricultural identity define the landscape. With one of the highest concentrations of organic farms in the country, small-scale farms and local producers shape much of daily life. The Viroqua Farmers Market is a centerpiece of the community for farmers, artisans, and residents alike. The historic storefronts of independent shops line Main Street, giving downtown a distinctly local feel. Beyond town, the surrounding countryside invites exploration with scenic drives, hiking trails, paddling, and trout fishing. After a day outdoors, Viroqua’s food scene reflects the region’s agricultural roots. Located in a former gas station that dates to the 1940s, Wonderstate Coffee serves exceptional coffee that’s ethically sourced and roasted in house. Driftless Cafe serves seasonal, locally sourced dishes. Noble Rind Cheese Company focuses on artisan cheese and small plates while highlighting regional producers. And for a casual evening, Driftless Axe & Arcade pairs craft drinks with a laid-back atmosphere.
