The town's Main Street is surrounded by limestone bluffs. The Turkey River, a popular spot for fishermen and canoers, runs right through downtown.
Elkader is one of the oldest towns in Iowa, with more than two dozen buildings listed in the National Historic Registry. A limestone bridge over the Turkey River is also a historic landmark. They don't make bridges like this anymore.
The county courthouse along the banks of the Turkey River looks like something out of an Old West movie.
Even more impressive, this town of 1,400 people has a restored opera house for community theater performances, a single-screen movie theater that now shows 3D movies (including Avatar!), a coffee shop and an antique mall.
I'm already planning another trip up to this beautiful town this summer. I have a feeling there is a lot more to discover.
Oh, this looks like a very quaint charming town! I've been to a lot of states but never Iowa and I would love to visit there. Pretty impressive for a small town and it reminds me of Woodstock, IL, opera house and all. Thanks for the tour, very interesting!
ReplyDeleteIf you do visit Iowa, I recommend traveling through Northeast Iowa along the Mississippi River. The towns there are absolutely beautiful! If you have more time, stop by Des Moines. We have a beautiful State Capitol and lot of fun shops nearby. And you'll never find a better travel bargain!
ReplyDeleteIt's gorgeous, somehow reminds me of places in Colorado. We are from Texas and were married in Decorah and ended up visiting Elkader as well. Decorah is charming also.
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