It's no secret that Decorah is a hidden gem here in Northeast, Iowa! However, many couples don't think of it as a romantic getaway for two. We strongly disagree! Your next "honeymoon" could be a lot closer than you think. Check out our top spots for the *perfect* staycation here in Northeast Iowa, and thank us later! (;
Best Dinner Spots:
Love outdoor hangs, wood fire pizza, organic + local ingredients, + beautiful views? Well we have just the place for you! Luna Valley Farm is a certified organic farm with scenic views of cattle, sheep, pigs, and gorgeous sunsets. With some of the best pizza + on tap beer, this spot is definitely not one to miss. Bring a blanket, board games, or just you + your significant other for a truly romantic dinner date.
Hello fine dining! Twin Springs Supper Club is nestled in the scenic hills of Decorah, with stunning views and mouth watering food. Their menu has all kinds of locally sourced options such as steaks, chops, and seafood. Not to mention, they make one mean cocktail with a menu full of speciality drinks. You may want to pack your best dress for this one, this restaurant is sure to be a fancier date night than usual!
Craving sushi, but don't want to travel far? We have you covered! Koreana is a Japanese style restaurant located in the heart of downtown Decorah. Enjoy a dinner full of authentic asian cuisine, good cocktails, + super friendly service! Not to mention, you can explore all that the downtown has to offer after dinner, or take a walk by the river at sunset!
Best Places To Stay:
This hidden gem is straight out of a Nicholas Sparks novel! The Scandinavian Cottage located right outside Decorah is truly the best way to reconnect with not only each other, but also nature! Located on acres of hiking trails through winding pine forests, fresh water springs, and beautiful gardens, this little cottage is hard to beat. Not to mention, there is a private porch-- perfect for wine + good conversations, a hidden garden claw foot tub to take a cold plunge in, friendly animals, apple trees to pick from, and a relaxing hot tub with gorgeous sunset views.
Love camping, but don't want to deal with bugs, no showers, and sleeping on the ground? Well, we have just the place for you! Not only does Luna Valley Farm have pizza, but they also have gorgeous "glamping" tents! These tents are luxuriously comfortable, and make for the perfect "honeymooners" getaway. The owners of this gorgeous farm said it better than we ever could;
"Pitched on an oak savanna valley side, our platform tents are furnished with rough sawn hardwood floors, a king bed with luxurious linens and places for you to sit and read or write or simply relax. Each tent includes a private patio where you can listen to the birds sing and watch the sheep graze. Our tents are 12x14 and are furnished with a king sized bed, night stands, dresser and bedside lamps. Both ends of the tent can be tied open to allow beautiful summer breezes to pass through. On the back side of the tent you have a 12x13’ private patio with two adirondack chairs and a table where you can watch the birds or read a good book." - Maren Beard (owner)
Take a walk back in time at the historical Leytze's Corner Bed & Breakfast. Built in 1892, this B&B was originally a church. In 1922, it was converted to an English Tudor Home. The first floor has been miraculously preserved in its original state, while the rest of the home is furnished with 1920's antiques and furniture. This stay is also conveniently a very short walk to downtown Decorah, where you can grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, or just enjoy the stunning views!
Things To Do (For Two):
Bring your bikes or hiking shoes for this one! The Decorah fish hatchery is a must visit for you + your boo. Not only do you get to see the fish there + enjoy beautiful views, but it's also a great start to your trek on trout run trail. The 11-mile loop winds through Decorah, past dikes, farmlands, and stunning limestone bluffs. Don't have a bike, but would love to ride? No worries! Bike rentals can be found at Decorah Bicycles.
Thirsty from your long hike or bike ride? Pulpit Rock is the place to stop! A newer brewery to the Decorah area, Pulpit Rock specializes in unique IPA's, delicious pastry sours, + a rotating tap list that is hard to beat. Not only do they have adventurous flavors of beer, but they also have an open concept tap room to outdoor patio area with an endless line up of live music to listen to!
No doubt one of the most well-know things to do in the area is spend time on the Upper Iowa River. One of our favorites for couples is a nice kayaking trip to really kick back and relax! Nominated as a national Wild and Scenic River in the 1960's, this river lives up to its reputation. Pack a lunch, bring a book, or just sit back and enjoy the view while kayaking this remarkable route. No kayaks? No problem! There are rentals all over the area, but one of our favs is
Craving something sweet from being outside all day? We feel you! The Sugar Bowl is located right downtown and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! With 50-60's inspired decor and antiques, this stop is more than just an ice cream cone, it's an experience.
Packing your bags yet?
We hope you enjoyed reading about all that Decorah has to offer for a honeymooner's weekend away! With sunshine, outstanding food + drinks, breathtaking views, + cozy stays, you will leave this "staycation" feeling refreshed + rejuvenated!
Thanks for reading! See you next week,
Michaela