With colder and shorter days, a little weekend winter getaway in Winneshiek County is the perfect solution for everyone! Decorah and neighboring communities around the county welcome you to rest, relax, and retreat all winter long. Read on to explore great winter options in three Winneshiek County communities.
CALMAR
Stop by the Prairie Farmer Trail, PIVO Brewery, and The Smoky Dough.
Enjoy a walk or go cross-country skiing along the beautiful Prairie Farmer Trail. This 20 mile paved trail connects the towns of Calmar, Ridgeway, and Cresco. After your outdoor outing, warm up and enjoy refreshments at PIVO Brewery, which is conveniently located right along the trail. PIVO offers award-winning beers, along with a diverse menu of ciders, ales, sours, lagers, and IPAs. It’s a great place to catch up with friends and sample some of the finest craft beers from Northeast Iowa. Once you’ve finished at PIVO, head over to The Smoky Dough for a selection of smoked meats, pizza, sandwiches, and a warm, small-town welcome.Â
OSSIAN
Visit Blooms on Main & Ossian Perk, Collective Memories Boutique, and Bambino’s
Blooms on Main & Ossian Perk is a charming, locally owned flower and coffee shop. Discover a variety of hand-arranged bouquets, home decor, seasonal plants, and a full-service coffee bar. Next, stop by Kollective Memories Boutique to warm up and get creative! It’s a great spot for ceramic painting, a popular activity among locals. After time exploring Ossian, head over to Bambino’s, a bar and grill that showcases the best of local cuisine. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Bambino’s offers a menu filled with comforting dishes and delicious specialties that highlight the community’s love for great flavors. Bambino’s was awarded Best Burger in Iowa in 2021.
DECORAH
Stay at an area hotel or vacation home rental
The Decorah Area is home to 5 hotels and more than 125+ vacation home rentals. Need a few commendations? Consider renting the beautiful Twin Springs Lodge or booking a stay at Bluffside Gardens. Both have flexible sleeping options for whatever size group you’re traveling with and are conveniently located within a short drive of Decorah’s Downtown District.
Shop Small in Downtown Decorah
Explore the charming shops in Decorah’s Downtown District for a memorable small-town shopping experience. Each store offers something unique, and you’re sure to find a special treasure while supporting local businesses.
Eat and Drink Local
From cozy cafes to award-winning breweries, Decorah is a food lover’s paradise. Enjoy the flavors of the region at spots like Impact Coffee, Toppling Goliath Brewing, Family Table, Rubaiyat, and T-Bock’s Sports Bar & Grill. No matter where you go, you’re in for a great meal and a warm welcome.
Visit the Holiday Lights
Don’t miss the Holiday Lights at Pulpit Rock Campground, a magical drive-through light display open nightly each year from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Best of all, it’s a free-will donation fundraiser benefiting Helping Services for Youth and Families. Experience the holiday magic from the comfort of your car!
Embrace the Outdoors
Whether you’re walking, hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, Decorah offers endless outdoor adventures. Explore Decorah Park & Recreation scenic spots like Van Peenan Park, the Decorah Community Prairie, and Carlson Park to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Driftless region.
Discover Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum & Folk Art School
A must-see in Decorah, Vesterheim is the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School. With exhibits celebrating Norwegian-American heritage, folk art, and immigration, this world-class museum is a true gem. Explore over 33,000 artifacts, wander through Heritage Park — home to 12 historic buildings, and even try your hand at a class at the Folk Art School. You don’t have to be Norwegian-American to appreciate the history, beauty, and creativity Vesterheim has to offer!
