Have you ever been to Elkader, Iowa? This northeast Iowa town of around 1,200 people is one of the best small towns in Iowa – known for its unique cuisine, charming attractions, friendly locals, and classic small-town vibe. But that name doesn’t really seem like Iowa, does it? While the town may be pure Hawkeye State charm, it also has a unique cultural legacy linked to a country halfway around the world – and you can still see evidence of this rich tradition all around town. So, get ready for a day trip through one of Iowa’s most unique small towns that you’ll never forget.
From the moment you set foot in downtown Elkader, you’ll know this is an Iowa classic — but did you know it’s the midwest town with the most Algerian influence anywhere?
Kevin Schuchmann/Wikipedia
The town is named after the former Algerian military leader Abdelkader ibn Muhieddine, whose battle against French colonial forces in the 19th century inspired the locals at the town’s 1846 founding.
Etienne Carjat/Wikipedia
Elkader has a long history and that can be clearly seen in the Motor Mill Historic District, where a limestone grist mill has been carefully preserved.
Mmbcross/TripAdvisor
For a very different kind of history, visit the Turkey River Mall — a massive four-story antique store.
Management/TripAdvisor
What will you find inside? How about everything. This place has a collection of goods like you’ve never seen.
The Turkey River Mall/Facebook
Make sure to check what’s playing at the Elkader Opera House — the old-school music house is a can’t-miss visit for theater lovers.
Management/TripAdvisor
Elkader’s General Store and More is another old-school institution featuring daily lunch specials and just about everything under the sun.
General Store and More/Facebook
The real starring attraction here is the massive candy bar, with every nostalgic favorite you can remember.
General Store and More/Facebook
If the weather is nice, why not work up an appetite at the Elkader Whitewater Park? This is a great place for kayaking and cooling off.
TravelIowa
Of course, you can’t leave Elkader without experiencing Algerian food — and there’s no better place in the midwest than Schera’s!
Mlt_scorp/TripAdvisor
This authentic North African restaurant features traditional salads, skewers, dips, and desserts. Plus, a few Iowa favorites if some members of your party aren’t feeling adventurous.
Mlt_scorp/TripAdvisor
Have you paid a visit to Elkader yet? Let us know all about your trip to one of the best small towns in Iowa in the comments section. If you want to know more about Elkader before your next visit, make sure to stop by their town website. For another small-town adventure, why not visit Iowa’s Little Germany?
Kevin Schuchmann/Wikipedia
Etienne Carjat/Wikipedia
Mmbcross/TripAdvisor
Management/TripAdvisor
The Turkey River Mall/Facebook
General Store and More/Facebook
TravelIowa
Mlt_scorp/TripAdvisor
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Address: Elkader, IA 52043, USAAddress: Elkader Opera House, 207 N Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, USAAddress: Elkader Whitewater Park, 211 S Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, USAAddress: Elkader General Store And More, 107 N Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, USAAddress: Schera’s Algerian American Restaurant, 107 S Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, USAAddress: Turkey River Mall, 102 S Main St, Elkader, IA 52043, USAAddress: Motor Mill Historic Site, 28518 Galaxy Rd, Elkader, IA 52043, USA
