Pella

While Iowa has many wonderful vacation towns, Esquire once named Pella as one of the most charming American towns most people haven't heard of but should visit. It's a welcoming community with delicious food, a plethora of recreational opportunities, and a distinct culture and heritage that residents are eager to share. Oh, and the town and residents' plant over a quarter-million tulips each year. This unique small town is less than an hour's drive southeast of Des Moines and has a distinct Dutch appeal. Pella, founded in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, is still infused with Dutch culture today. Pella exemplifies this, with Dutch windmills and (in season) tulips adorning the streets.

The Pella Historical Society maintains a number of attractions for visitors to enjoy Dutch traditions. The Vermeer Windmill, the tallest working windmill in North America, is one of these focal points. The historical society also looks after 22 buildings in Pella's Historic Village. Visit during Pella's Tulip Time Festival to see the city in full bloom. The city has over 200 tulip beds, many of which are in full bloom during this three-day event in early May. Thousands of visitors from across Iowa attend this spring festival to enjoy the flowering spectacles. A trip to Pella isn't complete unless you try some Dutch cuisine. Savory treats like cream horns, puff pillows, and Dutch letters are available at Jaarsma Bakery and Vander Ploeg Bakery.