The Perfect Weekend in Pella, Iowa: Dutch Charm in the Heart of the Midwest
This post is sponsored by Travel Iowa. There’s something special about Midwest towns that lean into their heritage, and Pella, Iowa is one of those places that immediately wraps you in its small town charm and history. Famous for its Dutch heritage, beautiful gardens, historic windmills, and irresistible bakeries, Pella is a small town with big character. Whether you’re coming for a family trip, a couple’s escape, or a fun weekend with friends, Pella has plenty of things to do, places to eat, and unique spots to explore, and our weekend in Pella felt like we stepped into a storybook fairytale.
Day 1: Arrival
We arrived in Pella on Friday afternoon, and headed straight to the Amsterdam Hotel, which is located along Molengracht Plaza, and is the perfect home base for exploring this darling town. This hotel is so charming, and its central location is perfect for walking almost anywhere you could want to go during your time in Pella.
Our first stop was Vander Ploeg Bakery to grab a couple of pastries, and then we wandered through Central Park, stopping to admire the topiaries and read the Storybook in the Park. Just across the street, the Scholte Gardens are free to stroll through, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy the blooms and pathways. You can also take a tour of the historic home daily between 1-4; admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
We walked to George’s Pizza for dinner, where we enjoyed some of their tasty pizza’s; the Hot Honey Pepperoni was a favorite! Then we ended the evening gathered in front of the Klokkenspel, watching the charming performance from the quaint benches in the cozy alleyway.
If you are traveling sans kids, check out de Kelder Speakeasy or the Cellar Peanut Pub to end the evening. If you are looking for another evening activity with kids, catch a movie at Pella Cinema, located right next to your hotel, or grab an ice cream cone from De Scoop during the summer months.
Day 2: Exploring Dutch Heritage & Downtown Charm
Saturday morning began with a latte from Iris Coffee before heading to the iconic Jaarsma Bakery, known for its legendary Dutch letters. Flaky, sweet, and almond-filled; they are an absolute must try! We enjoyed our coffee and breakfast in front of the Information Windmill located across the street in Central Park.
Then we headed to our morning activity: a fall candle making workshop at Thistles Flower Market. They offer so many unique classes throughout the different seasons that range from making custom flower arrangements or table centerpieces to candles and wall art. Definitely check out their offered classes before your visit!
After we finished our class at Thistles, we spent the rest of the morning browsing the shops downtown. There are so many adorable shops that were so much fun to explore! Some of our favorites were The Sanctuary (you can grab coffee here if you need a mid morning pick me up), Wild Bramble, Blush, Silver Lining and The Work of our Hands. We also stopped by Cranberry Stone Bakery and grabbed some cupcakes for dessert later that evening!
For lunch, we enjoyed Clover Leaf on Franklin. The gouda burger seriously might be the most delicious burger I’ve ever tasted- so dang good! Don’t miss their poffertjes- delicious Dutch mini pancakes that are a local favorite. We tried them with Nutella and maple syrup on top.
After lunch, we took a dive into Pella’s history at the Vermeer Windmill and Pella Historical Village. We took a guided tour through the Vermeer windmill, and learned so much about the Dutch history and how it came to Pella. Then we wandered around the historical village and explored buildings centered around Pella’s history, like a historic log cabin, blacksmith’s shop, bakery and sod house replica. The giftshop here has tons of fun Dutch and Pella themed souvenirs, so definitely check it out!
Before dinner, we made our way to the Wander Spelen Playground, which is an incredible inclusive playground with the same fun Dutch theme as the rest of the town. My kids went wild here- it’s such a great stop!
Then we wrapped up the day with a delicious meal at West Side Social. This is a restaurant and entertainment venue wrapped into one, and has an arcade, pickleball courts, golf simulator, and tons of outdoor seating and yard games. It’s the perfect spot to combine dinner with family fun.
Day 3: Gardens, Towers, and Lake Red Rock
On our final morning in Pella, we grabbed coffee from Smoky Row Coffee Co. and took another stroll through Central Park. Then we headed to Windmill Café for their brunch buffet.
After breakfast, we strolled through the picturesque Sunken Gardens Park. Make sure to spot the floating hippos, and pose in front of the beautiful windmill here. Then we stopped at Tuttle Cabin, the oldest building in Pella, where we learned the history of the early settlers of Pella. You can tour the building if you visit during the Tulip Time festival.
Then we headed out to Cordova Park to climb the Observation Tower and take in the sweeping views of the countryside and Lake Red Rock. Bring some quarters, because it cost 50 cents to enter the observation tower. There are tons of great hiking and bike trails here to enjoy some time in nature.
We circled back into town for a quick lunch, then headed home after the perfect weekend in Pella.
Why Pella needs to be on your must visit list
Pella is more than just a small town- it’s a destination full of Dutch-inspired charm, family-friendly attractions, and plenty of Midwest hospitality. Whether you’re here for the bakeries and windmills, the gardens and history, or the chance to explore Lake Red Rock and nearby trails, Pella makes for the perfect Midwest weekend getaway for families, couples or a girls trips.
If you’re planning your next Midwest road trip, be sure to add Pella, Iowa to the list. You’ll leave with full bellies, happy kids, and memories of a town that’s as welcoming as it is unique.
