In the heart of the Eastern Iowa Drift Plains, a region carved by ancient glaciers and enriched by fertile soil, lie some of the state’s most secluded and enchanting towns. Nestled among rolling hills, lush valleys, and the winding Mississippi River, these hidden gems offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, each town boasts unique attractions that beckon travelers seeking serenity and charm. Join us as we count down ten of the most secluded towns in this picturesque region, each offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Iowa’s rich heritage.
10. Marquette: Bluffs, Boats, and Secluded Beauty
Marquette, home to approximately 375 residents, is a quaint town cradled between towering bluffs and the majestic Mississippi River. Visitors can explore the Driftless Area’s unique geology at the nearby Effigy Mounds National Monument or enjoy panoramic views from the top of the bluffs. The town thrives on tourism, with industries centered around outdoor recreation, hospitality, and river activities. Marquette’s seclusion is accentuated by its rugged terrain and the dense woodlands that surround it, providing a peaceful haven away from the urban bustle.
Where is Marquette?
Situated in Clayton County in northeastern Iowa, Marquette rests along U.S. Highway 18, just opposite Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. The town’s location along the Mississippi River and nestled against limestone bluffs makes it feel worlds away from the nearest urban centers. Accessing Marquette involves scenic drives through rolling landscapes and winding roads, enhancing its secluded ambiance. Its proximity to natural attractions yet distance from major highways preserves its quiet charm.
9. Strawberry Point: Home to the World’s Largest Strawberry
Strawberry Point, with a population of around 1,200, is a delightful small town known for its friendly atmosphere and the world’s largest fiberglass strawberry towering over Main Street. Visitors can enjoy local shops, cafes, and the nearby Backbone State Park, Iowa’s oldest state park, offering hiking, fishing, and camping. Agriculture and small businesses form the backbone of the local economy. The town’s seclusion stems from its location amidst gentle hills and farmlands, offering a serene environment away from crowded cities.
Where is Strawberry Point?
Nestled in Clayton County, Strawberry Point lies along State Highway 3, surrounded by rolling countryside and agricultural fields. Its secluded feel arises from the expansive rural landscapes that envelop the town, providing a buffer from the noise and stress of urban areas. Accessible by country roads and scenic byways, the journey to Strawberry Point is as peaceful as the destination itself, making it a true hidden treasure in eastern Iowa.
8. Harpers Ferry: A Quiet Retreat by the River
Harpers Ferry, home to about 330 residents, is a tranquil town perched along the Mississippi River’s scenic bluffs. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like fishing, boating, and exploring the nearby Yellow River State Forest. The local economy revolves around tourism and outdoor recreation, catering to those seeking a peaceful getaway. Harpers Ferry’s seclusion is enhanced by its remote riverside location and the absence of large-scale commercial development, preserving its quiet, natural beauty.
Where is Harpers Ferry?
Located in Allamakee County in northeastern Iowa, Harpers Ferry is tucked away along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. The town’s off-the-beaten-path location, surrounded by dense forests and the expansive Mississippi River, contributes to its secluded atmosphere. Accessed primarily by winding rural roads, Harpers Ferry offers a serene escape, with the journey through lush landscapes adding to its charm. Its isolation makes it a serene retreat for those looking to disconnect.
7. Clermont: Historic Charm Amidst Rolling Hills
Clermont, with a population of just over 600, is a historic town nestled amidst the rolling hills of Fayette County. Visitors can explore Montauk Mansion, the historic home of Iowa’s 12th governor, or stroll through the well-preserved downtown with its 19th-century architecture. The town’s economy is rooted in agriculture and heritage tourism. Clermont’s seclusion comes from its rural setting, surrounded by farmland and woodlands, offering a peaceful environment steeped in history.
Where is Clermont?
Situated in northeastern Iowa, Clermont sits along the Turkey River and is accessible via State Highway 18. The town’s remote location, away from major highways and cities, contributes to its quiet ambiance. The scenic drives through rolling hills and pastures to reach Clermont enhance its hidden-gem status. Its placement amidst vast natural landscapes and historical sites makes it a secluded haven for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
6. Bellevue: Panoramic Views and Historic Streets
Bellevue, meaning “beautiful view,” lives up to its name with stunning vistas of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs. Home to around 2,200 residents, the town offers peaceful parks, a quaint historic district, and the Bellevue State Park, known for its butterfly sanctuary and scenic overlooks. Local industries include tourism, small businesses, and agriculture. Bellevue’s seclusion is due to its riverside location and the enveloping bluffs that create a quiet, picturesque setting away from crowded areas.
Where is Bellevue?
Located in Jackson County in eastern Iowa, Bellevue lies along U.S. Route 52, nestled between the Mississippi River and rolling hills. The town’s secluded feel is enhanced by the surrounding natural features that create a barrier from larger cities. Accessible via scenic routes that wind along the river, getting to Bellevue offers breathtaking views that underline its peaceful isolation. Its location makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
5. Lansing: Scenic Beauty and River Adventures
Lansing, with a population of about 1,000, is a charming town known for its stunning river vistas and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking in the nearby Mount Hosmer Park, which offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley. The local economy is supported by tourism, fishing, and small businesses. Lansing’s seclusion is attributed to its location amid the Driftless Area’s rugged terrain, providing a tranquil environment away from bustling urban centers.
Where is Lansing?
Situated in Allamakee County, Lansing is located along the Great River Road in northeastern Iowa. The town is nestled between the Mississippi River and the bluffs, contributing to its secluded ambiance. Accessible by scenic highways that meander along the river, reaching Lansing involves a picturesque journey through untouched landscapes. Its relative isolation and breathtaking surroundings make it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
4. Sabula: Iowa’s Only Island City
Sabula, known as Iowa’s only island city, has a population of approximately 550 residents. This unique town offers tranquil beaches, fishing spots, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The main industries include tourism and outdoor recreation, with visitors drawn to its sandy shores and the nearby Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Sabula’s seclusion is inherently tied to its island status, surrounded by water and accessible by bridges, providing an isolated retreat unlike any other in the state.
Where is Sabula?
Located in Jackson County, Sabula sits on an island in the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa. Its remote charm is bolstered by its position as a literal island, separated from the mainland and neighboring Illinois by waterways. Accessible via U.S. Highway 52 and a causeway, getting to Sabula involves crossing scenic bridges over the river. The town’s unique geography ensures a quiet, secluded environment that’s a world apart from the nearby mainland.
3. Guttenberg: German Heritage on the Mississippi
Guttenberg, home to around 1,900 residents, is a town rich in German heritage, evident in its well-preserved limestone buildings and traditional architecture. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront, explore the historic Lock and Dam No. 10, or visit the Guttenberg German Fest. The economy revolves around tourism, small businesses, and manufacturing. Guttenberg’s seclusion is due to its location along the Mississippi River and nestled among the bluffs, offering a peaceful atmosphere steeped in history and culture.
Where is Guttenberg?
Situated in Clayton County along State Highway 52, Guttenberg lies in northeastern Iowa along the Mississippi River. The town’s secluded feel is enhanced by the surrounding bluffs and waterways that create a natural barrier from larger urban areas. Accessible via scenic routes that showcase the Driftless Area’s unique landscapes, the journey to Guttenberg is filled with picturesque views. Its combination of natural beauty and historic charm makes it a hidden gem off the beaten path.
2. Elkader: A Charming Town with a Historic Stone Bridge
Elkader, with a population of nearly 1,200, exudes a quaint atmosphere enriched by its unique namesake honoring Emir Abdelkader of Algeria. The town features the historic Keystone Bridge, an impressive stone arch structure over the Turkey River, and a vibrant downtown with shops and eateries. Local industries include agriculture, small businesses, and tourism. Elkader’s seclusion arises from its setting in a valley surrounded by rolling hills and its distance from major highways, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Driftless Area.
Where is Elkader?
Located in Clayton County, Elkader is nestled along the Turkey River in northeastern Iowa. The town is accessible via State Highway 13, but its position amid undulating hills and lush landscapes gives it a secluded feel. The drive to Elkader involves traversing scenic byways that wind through the countryside, enhancing the sense of escape. Its hidden location makes it a serene destination for those looking to enjoy small-town charm and natural beauty.
1. McGregor: Iowa’s Hidden Riverside Gem
McGregor, home to about 800 residents, is a picturesque town set along the Mississippi River, surrounded by towering bluffs and rich woodlands. Visitors can explore Pikes Peak State Park for stunning river views, visit the historic downtown with its 19th-century architecture, or take a ride on the Mississippi. Tourism, hospitality, and small businesses drive the local economy. McGregor’s seclusion is amplified by its location in a deep valley and the enveloping natural features that create a serene and private atmosphere.
Where is McGregor?
Situated in Clayton County directly across the river from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, McGregor is accessible via U.S. Highway 18. The town’s secluded nature is due to the surrounding bluffs and forests that shelter it from the outside world. Reaching McGregor involves scenic drives through the Driftless Area’s distinctive landscapes, enhancing its status as a hidden gem. Its combination of natural beauty and relative isolation makes McGregor a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility along the Mississippi.
