Dutch History and Family Fun: Visit Pella, Iowa, All Year Long

Dutch History and Family Fun: Visit Pella, Iowa, All Year Long

Looking for a taste of the Netherlands close to home? A trip to Pella, Iowa, is just the ticket. From a vibrant tulip festival in the spring to a Hallmark-worthy Christmas celebration, Pella transforms every season, keeping its Dutch heritage alive throughout the year. History, culture, and modern delights converge, making every trip to Pella one for the books.

Discover Dutch Roots

Pella’s Dutch roots run deep. Dutch craftsmanship is on display at every corner of the town, with the crown jewel being the tallest working windmill in North America—imported from the Netherlands, this majestic structure is meticulously maintained by skilled millers from its homeland. Pella’s architecture is based in the Netherlands, with special codes for buildings and businesses bringing authenticity to the town’s charm.

A journey through the Pella Historical Museum, boasting 22 buildings, unfolds the history of Dutch pilgrims who settled in the Iowa Prairie. Engaging STEM activities for children and families are scattered throughout the museum, ensuring a blend of education and fun. Explore the boyhood home of Wyatt Earp, an unexpected but fascinating piece of American Wild West history tucked away in this quaint town, and check out the home of Pella’s founder, still well-preserved after 176 years.

Adventures Year-Round

Fields of Flowers

Pella’s renowned Tulip Time festival in May is a spectacle that draws visitors from far and wide. Over 300,000 tulips burst into a kaleidoscope of colors, transforming the city into a floral wonderland. Not to worry: if you can’t make it during Tulip Time, a live TulipCam provides a virtual front-row seat to witness the blossoming beauty.

Christmas in Pella

For a dose of holiday magic, experience Christmas in Pella, reminiscent of a scene from a Hallmark movie. The 60th Annual Tour of Homes in 2023 promises a visual feast as four homes decked out in festive splendor will open their doors to visitors. The charming Kerstmarkt, Pella’s Dutch Christmas Market, adds to the enchantment with cozy stalls along the Molengracht Plaza offering homemade wares, paintings, cookies, and more. Sinterklaas’s arrival on the first Saturday of December marks the beginning of a festive season filled with shopping, dining, and ‘Gezellig’ drinks.

Beyond the festivities, Pella offers a treasure trove of year-round activities. The historic downtown is a shopper’s paradise, with unique boutiques and shops lining the streets. The abundance of parks, including those surrounding Iowa’s largest lake, Red Rock, make Pella a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pella Opera House, with its unique history, shows the town’s commitment to the arts. Hosting weddings, special occasions, and year-round shows for music lovers, it adds a touch of sophistication to the town.

Pella’s diverse culinary scene caters to all tastes and all ages. From a speakeasy and rooftop bar overlooking the square to high-end restaurants on Molengracht, the town offers a variety of dining experiences, complete with bartenders who have mastered the art of mixology. There’s plenty of fun to be had for the whole family: enjoy simulation golf, gourmet hot dogs, award-winning bakeries, and Dutch food to your heart’s content.

Whether you’re captivated by history, enticed by culinary adventures, or seeking a picturesque escape, Pella invites you to explore its unique charm all year long. Come for the tulips, stay for the culture, and leave with memories that last a lifetime.

Learn more and start planning your trip at visitpella.com