Famous Places in Sioux County, Iowa

As its name implies, Sioux County in northwest Iowa has a history extending back to the Sioux tribe. But starting in 1869, Dutch immigrants settled the area. Several of the county's most famous places celebrate Dutch heritage, culture and traditions. Sioux County -- characterized by rolling, forested hills and rich farmland -- also has outdoor attractions that draw visitors from throughout and beyond the region.

Orange City

• Orange City, named for the Dutch royal House of Orange, celebrates its heritage through the Dutch Storefront Program. In the downtown business district, many structures have been built or renovated to look like buildings in the 18th- and 19th-century Netherlands -- reflecting the architectural trends brought by early settlers. Complete with a windmill, this district provides a cultural backdrop for the town’s Tulip Festival held each May. Dating to the 1930s, this three-day event includes Dutch folk dancing, an evening concert, parades, and a Tulip Queen and Court.

Heritage Village

• In 1990, the town of Sioux Center celebrated its centennial. Heritage Village, built for this event, contains replications of historic structures from throughout Sioux County, including a blacksmith shop, sod house, church, sawmill and -- in keeping with the area’s Dutch heritage -- windmill. Visit Heritage Village during the county youth fair every July, during the mid-September Harvest Festival and at other times by appointment.

Oak Grove and Rivers Bend Parks

• Oak Grove Park, near Hawarden in Sioux County, encompasses Big Sioux County Park and Oak Grove State Park. With more than 430 acres, the park provides opportunities to fish, hike, picnic and camp. Rivers Bend Park in the town of Rock Valley occupies more than 90 acres that previously served as a gravel and sand quarry. Visitors can camp, fish, swim and play sand volleyball. In a region characterized primarily by rich farmland, these two parks are famous throughout the area for their natural and recreational offerings.

Sioux Golf & Country Club

• Alton, another Sioux County town, is home to a historic nine-hole golf course -- Iowa’s oldest continuously operating golf course held under private ownership. It dates to 1888 when a local farmer set up a few holes in his pasture, and the course expanded over the years. The clubhouse was constructed in 1949 but has recently been renovated to include a 250-seat banquet hall. Amongst Iowa golf aficionados, the course has garnered fame as one of the state's classics.

Northwestern and Dordt Colleges

• Many of the area's Dutch residents belonged to the Reformed and Christian Reformed traditions, and adherents of both started colleges in Sioux County. Dordt College, operated by the Christian Reformed church, opened in Sioux Center in 1955. In Orange City, the Reformed church established Northwestern College, which graduated its first class in 1961. While these colleges may not be nationally prominent, they remain well-known within their respective denominations.

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Points of Interest in Eastern Iowa

All too many people who visit eastern Iowa are merely passing through, but there are plenty of reasons to stop in and explore the area. The rolling hills, lush valleys and winding rivers that characterize the region reward nature lovers, while the small cities that dot the landscape entertain the more urban minded. Eastern Iowa maintains and celebrates its historic settlements and yet looks to the future, creating new tradition

Live Action

• As the hometown of the University of Iowa, Iowa City is equal parts Hawkeyes sports fanatics and counter-culture music lovers. Catch an exciting basketball game at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena or join the sea of fans wearing black and gold while rooting for the Hawks football team at Kinnick Stadium. Alternatively, a number of downtown music venues book local and national acts while nearby record stores sell their albums. Expect to see rock 'n' roll bands at the dive bar Gabe's and anything from folk performers to comedians at the historic Englert Theater.

Historic Homestead

• Between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, eastern Iowa's largest city, seven historic German villages make up the Amana Colonies. Members of these small villages lived a communal life from 1855 to the mid-1930s. Today, shops where meat is cured, quilts are made on looms and furniture is made by hand -- as it has been since the villages were settled -- are open to the public. Make your first stop the Amana Colonies Visitor Center in Amana, and also explore the villages on a self-guided tour.
• Breathe Fresh Air

• Roughly 5 miles southwest of Mount Vernon, Palisades-Keplar State Park encompasses 840 acres of hardwood forest surrounding the Cedar River. Hike the 6-mile trail that winds through the park to observe wild animals, wildflowers and dramatic tree-lined bluffs that overlook deep ravines. During warmer months, campers flock to the 44-site campground with four family-sized cabins. The Cedar River presents boating opportunities -- use the ramp at the south end of the park -- while the nearby dam is a spot to catch bluegill, catfish and bass.

Bottoms Up

• Home to several breweries, wineries and distilleries, eastern Iowa enjoys a burgeoning craft-alcohol scene. The Great River Brewery makes Roller Dame Red Ale and Farmer Brown Alein Davenport, the Tabor Home Vineyards Winery produces the full-boded red Iowa St. Croix and the slightly sweet Barn Dance Red outside of Baldwin and the Mississippi River Distilling Company distills small-batch gin and "Pride of the Wapsi" strawberry vodka, among others. Stop by the sites to tour their facilities and/or taste some of their concoctions.

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