Pella, Iowa: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Pella, Iowa houses the tallest working windmill in the United States? This charming Dutch-inspired town of just 10,000 residents welcomes over 150,000 visitors during its annual Tulip Time Festival. Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Pella offers a unique blend of Dutch heritage, stunning architecture, and family-friendly attractions that make it feel like you’ve traveled to the Netherlands without leaving the Midwest.

Planning Your Trip to Pella

Getting to Pella

Pella is located approximately 45 miles southeast of Des Moines, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway. Most visitors arrive by car, as the town is conveniently situated just off Highway 163. If you’re flying in, Des Moines International Airport is your best option, with flights available from major cities across the United States. From there, you can rent a car for the scenic 45-minute drive to Pella.

When to Visit

While Pella is beautiful year-round, timing your visit can enhance your experience. Spring (particularly May) is the most popular time to visit during the annual Tulip Time Festival when thousands of tulips bloom throughout the town. Summer offers warm weather perfect for outdoor activities at nearby Lake Red Rock. Fall brings stunning foliage, while winter transforms the town into a charming holiday destination with festive decorations and events.

Where to Stay

Pella offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Choose from popular hotel chains like Country Inn & Suites or Royal Amsterdam Hotel in the downtown area for convenience. For a more unique experience, consider staying at one of the charming bed and breakfasts like Strawtown Inn or The Dwelling. Nature lovers might enjoy the cabins at Horn’s Ferry Hideaway near Lake Red Rock, just 10 minutes from downtown Pella.

Top Attractions in Pella

Vermeer Windmill & Historical Village

The Vermeer Windmill is the crown jewel of Pella and a must-visit attraction. Standing as the tallest working windmill in the United States, this authentic Dutch windmill was actually built in the Netherlands, then disassembled and shipped to Pella for reconstruction in 2002. The five-story windmill offers guided tours where you can learn about the milling process and climb to the top for panoramic views of Pella.

Adjacent to the windmill is the Pella Historical Village, featuring 18 historic and reconstructed buildings that showcase Pella’s Dutch heritage. Explore the boyhood home of Wyatt Earp, a replica of the first church in Pella, and the Werkplatts where traditional wooden shoes are made. Don’t miss the Miniature Dutch Village exhibit, which displays a detailed miniature Dutch town through all four seasons.

Molengracht Plaza & Canal

Built in 2001, the Molengracht Plaza replicates an authentic Dutch square complete with a canal holding approximately 100,000 gallons of water. This charming area in Pella’s central business district features Dutch-inspired architecture, scenic bridges, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying a meal at one of the canal-side eateries.

Scholte House Museum

Step back in time at the Scholte House Museum, the 175-year-old home of Pella’s founder, Dominie Hendrik Peter Scholte. This well-preserved historic home contains original furnishings, artwork, and personal items belonging to the Scholte family. The extensive gardens surrounding the house are also worth exploring, particularly during spring when the tulips are in bloom. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into Pella’s founding and early Dutch settlement.

Klokkenspel

The Klokkenspel is a unique attraction in downtown Pella featuring mechanical figures that perform to music from a 147-bell carillon. These animated figures depict important scenes from Pella’s history. Performances occur five times daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. It’s a charming spectacle that both children and adults will enjoy, so plan your downtown exploration to catch one of these performances.

Outdoor Recreation at Lake Red Rock

Just 10 minutes from downtown Pella lies Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This 15,000-acre reservoir offers numerous recreational opportunities throughout the year. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming are popular summer activities, with two main beaches at North Overlook and Whitebreast. The lake is known for excellent fishing, with species including walleye, crappie, and bass.

Nature Playscape & Family Activities

Families with children will appreciate the Nature Playscape near North Overlook Beach. This natural playground features logs, rocks, and other natural elements for climbing and creative play. The area around Lake Red Rock also offers picnic facilities, campgrounds, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it perfect for family outings and multi-day adventures.

Dutch Cuisine & Local Dining

No visit to Pella is complete without sampling the authentic Dutch cuisine and treats that reflect the town’s rich heritage. Pella is famous for its bakeries, with Jaarsma Bakery and Vander Ploeg Bakery being local institutions that have been operating for generations. Be sure to try a “Dutch letter” – an S-shaped pastry filled with almond paste that represents the Dutch “S” for Sinterklaas (St. Nicholas).

Top Dining Spots

Beyond the bakeries, Pella offers a variety of dining options that showcase both Dutch cuisine and American favorites. Smokey Row Coffee Co. is perfect for breakfast or a casual lunch with coffee and sandwiches. For authentic Dutch dishes, try Dutchfix or the Windmill Café. Butcher’s Brewhuis offers excellent sandwiches for lunch, while In’t Veld’s Meat Market and Ulrich’s Meat Market provide quality meats and specialty items for picnics or cooking at your accommodation.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Downtown Pella is a shopper’s delight with its charming stores offering everything from Dutch imports to locally made crafts. The stores around the town square and Molengracht Plaza feature distinctive Dutch architecture and a variety of unique merchandise. Bring home authentic souvenirs like wooden shoes, Delft blue pottery, or tulip-themed items to remember your visit.

Specialty Shops

Don’t miss Wijn House for a selection of local wines and wine-related gifts. The Work of Our Hands offers international crafts with information about their origins and creators. For home decor with Dutch flair, visit Blush by Simple Treasures. Book lovers should stop by The Book Nook for reading material about local history and Dutch culture. Many shops also offer demonstrations of traditional Dutch crafts, adding an educational element to your shopping experience.

Seasonal Events & Festivals

Tulip Time Festival

Pella’s signature event is the annual Tulip Time Festival, typically held in early May when thousands of tulips bloom throughout the town. This three-day celebration of Dutch heritage features parades with participants in traditional Dutch costumes, folk dancing, Dutch street organ music, and demonstrations of Dutch crafts. The festival also includes a flower show, art exhibitions, and plenty of Dutch food vendors. It’s a spectacular time to visit, but be sure to book accommodations well in advance as this popular event draws visitors from across the country.

Christmas in Pella

Winter transforms Pella into a magical holiday destination with Dutch-inspired Christmas decorations throughout downtown. Central Park features a tunnel of lights and festive displays, while shops along Franklin Street showcase holiday merchandise and decorations. The annual lighting ceremony in late November kicks off the season, and various holiday markets and events take place throughout December. The combination of Dutch traditions and American Christmas celebrations creates a unique holiday experience.

Practical Travel Information

Visitor Information

The Pella Visitor Center is located in a small windmill in Central Park on the town square. Staff can provide maps, brochures, and recommendations for your visit. For the most up-to-date information on events and attractions, visit the Visit Pella website before your trip. Many attractions have seasonal hours, so it’s wise to check operating times in advance, especially if visiting during the off-season.

Why You Should Visit Pella, Iowa

Pella, Iowa offers a unique blend of authentic Dutch heritage, beautiful architecture, and Midwestern hospitality that makes it a truly special destination. Whether you’re exploring the Vermeer Windmill, sampling Dutch pastries, enjoying the tulips in spring, or relaxing at Lake Red Rock, Pella provides a European-inspired experience without leaving the United States. From families seeking educational and fun activities to couples looking for a charming getaway, Pella welcomes all visitors with open arms and wooden shoes. Start planning your visit today and discover why this Dutch treasure in the heart of Iowa continues to captivate travelers year after year.