So many people think of Iowa as a flyover state, without realizing how much we’re hiding in the heart of the country. There are so many tiny towns in Iowa that deserve to be shared with the world! One such town is the Mississippi River town of LeClaire, located just half an hour from Davenport. When it comes to the best tiny town in Iowa, it’s hard to top this charming oasis.
You might recognize the town as the base for TV’s “American Pickers.” Their Antique Archaeology store is right on the riverfront.
Flickr / H. Michael Miley
All along the waterfront, you’ll find shops, galleries, and cafes.
Flickr / David Wilson
You can find local, Iowa-made art in the galleries along Cody Road, like Isabel Bloom, pictured here.
Facebook / LeClaire Iowa
You’ll be sure to find unique, locally made gifts and trinkets at Grasshoppers, located in a historic house downtown.
Facebook / LeClaire Iowa
LeClaire is home to Green Tree Brewery, Mississippi River Distillery, and Wide River Winery’s tasting room.
Facebook / Green Tree Brewery
The brewery, distillery and winery frequently sponsor live music events on weekends, or in the summer.
Facebook / Wide River Winery Tasting Room
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, including Blue Iguana Cantina, which is located in the original LeClaire City Hall.
Facebook / Blue Iguana
The town is proud of its history, and you can learn a lot about the river, Quad Cities, and midwest life at the Buffalo Bill Museum.
Facebook / Buffalo Bill Museum
The town puts on amazing events throughout the year, like their popular car show, “Vettes for Vets”. It’s one of the best car shows in the state!
Facebook / LeClaire, Iowa
Every year, the Bierstube “Dogtoberfest” is a huge hit, too. The event raises money for local animal charities.
Facebook / Bierstube LeClaire
If you’re looking to get out on the river, you can take a Twilight Riverboat Cruise! They offer short sightseeing tours or longer, overnight cruises up to Dubuque.
Facebook / Twilight Riverboat - Mississippi River Cruise
Photographers often flock to the nearby Lock and Dam 14 on the Mississippi River, hoping to catch the shot of a lifetime.
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
In the summer, pelicans make this a fishing spot, and in the winter, the majestic bald eagle shows up in droves.
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
From shopping, to local art, to dining and stunning sights - is there any doubt that LeClaire is a little slice of paradise?
Flickr / Shannon McGee
What do you think is the best tiny town in Iowa? There are always plenty of small towns worth exploring – have you been many? If you’d like to see more of the Hawkeye State, Take This Road Trip Through Iowa’s Most Charming Small Towns For An Amazing Experience. You’ll never look at Iowa the same way again!
Flickr / H. Michael Miley
Flickr / David Wilson
Facebook / LeClaire Iowa
Facebook / Green Tree Brewery
Facebook / Wide River Winery Tasting Room
Facebook / Blue Iguana
Facebook / Buffalo Bill Museum
Facebook / LeClaire, Iowa
Facebook / Bierstube LeClaire
Facebook / Twilight Riverboat - Mississippi River Cruise
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
Flickr / Shannon McGee
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