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Pella, Iowa's Sunken Garden Windmill with orange tulips blooming in the foreground

Things to Do in Pella, Iowa — A Local's Guide

by Alie Muller-Heit in The Thistles Edit

Things to Do in Pella, Iowa — A Local's Guide

As a lifelong Pella resident, I get asked all the time for restaurant recommendations, favorite downtown shops, and the things locals think you shouldn't miss. Honestly, I could talk your ear off about all of it — but today I'm narrowing it down to make it a little more manageable.

Our Dutch Heritage

Our entire town is a beautiful display of our Dutch culture. Downtown looks like you've wandered into a European city — even our Casey's and Walmart have Dutch fronts on their buildings. The real showstopper is the Vermeer Windmill, the tallest working windmill in the United States. It was built in the Netherlands and brought to Pella to showcase our Dutch heritage — tours let you walk inside, and on the days they run the blades, you can watch it actually grind flour. The Pella Historical Museums also maintain beautiful gardens and buildings worth touring alongside the mill, including our founder's home, the Scholte House. And if you're able to visit during Tulip Time, we have the Pella Historical Society and Museums team to thank for the fabulous job they do hosting our three-day festival celebrating our Dutch heritage.

Stay in the Know

I'd also suggest checking the Downtown Pella District Facebook page for fun events hosted by our downtown shops, and Visit Pella for additional activities and all the details on where to eat, drink, shop, and stay.

Get Outside at Lake Red Rock

Just outside town is Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake. It has incredible nature trails, beautiful sunsets, and great campsites if you want to make a whole weekend out of your visit.

Shop & Treat Yourself Downtown

Downtown Pella shopping is a must — between the clothing boutiques and home decor stores, there's something for everyone. And don't forget to stop by the meat markets Ulrichs and In't Velds and Vander Ploeg Bakery and Jaarsma Bakery for Dutch treats along the way.

Eat & Drink Like a Local

A couple of our favorite spots downtown: The Bread Board for lunch, and George's Pizza — we always suggest the George's Special or their pasta (“it's where the locals have eaten since 1974,” as their logo says). For something a little cozier, De Kelder Speakeasy, tucked under Clover Leaf on Franklin, has elevated drinks and truly delicious homemade appetizers. And if you're after a good happy hour, The Cellar Peanut Pub with more than 50 craft beers and nationally known for their Bloody Mary is a great place to start. We also have The Wijn House filled with Iowa wines, and for a great cocktail and dinner Liberty Street Kitchen. 

Catch Some Live Music

If you like live music, the Pella Opera House hosts a variety of shows — everything from kid-friendly performances to tribute bands. One of my favorites is when the Pork Tornadoes come to play.

Bring the Kids

If you've got little ones, I'm especially proud of our Kiwanis playground, Wonder Spelen — just a few blocks from Thistles and downtown Pella. It's the first and only all-inclusive children's park in Pella, with restrooms and a fenced-in play area so kids can run safely.

Soak in Our City Parks

Our city parks are beautifully maintained all year long. At Thistles, we're lucky to sit right across from Central Park — we love watching the seasons change there, taking a walk, or just enjoying a picnic.

 

Plan Your Visit with Thistles

While you're here, let us be part of your day. We host gift experiences, private parties, group and tour bus experiences, and workshops and classes right here in Pella. We offer chocolate and wine tastings, flower arranging, and a Tulip Bulb Masterclass covering the history of Pella — a fun addition to any day trip. Reach out today to schedule your experience.

— Alie

Tags: Gift Experiences Group Activities Iowa Day Trip
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