As home to the “World’s Largest Town Square,” the community of Centerville in southern Iowa has quite the reputation to live up to – and the shops, restaurants and hotels that line the streets surrounding a beautiful county courthouse exceed expectations.
Shop the Centerville Square
Start your shopping therapy at The Gypsy Quarter, located at the northwest corner of the Centerville square. With 10,000 square feet of shopping spread over three floors, you’ll want to spend a couple of hours exploring the quality items ranging from boutique clothing to trendy home décor. The main floor features several brands and sizes of clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories for women, juniors, men and kids. Upstairs is a decorator’s dream – with styles ranging from modern farmhouse to traditional. Finally, hit the “bargain basement” for deals on last season’s items.
Take a break for lunch at Lucile’s Steak & Spirits, located in The Continental Hotel on the east side of the square. The black and white striped awning and perfect porch welcome diners into a restored historic hotel building. The lunch menu offers a variety of soups, sandwiches and comfort food classics like the Smothered Hot Beef Platter.
After lunch, head to Mystique Vintage & Unique where their expertly curated collection of both vintage and modern items will inspire you with gift ideas for everyone. While shopping, take part in an Iowa wine tasting (certain days and times only) or sample Door County Coffee.
Just a few doors down is The Hall Tree, featuring stylish women’s clothing. In addition to jeans, dresses, shoes and jewelry, the Hall Tree also has a fun collection of antique items.
More shops to explore on the square include Jim Irelan Men’s Wear (which has been located on the Centerville square for 66 years), Brown’s Shoe Fit, Claudia’s, Bonnie’s Needful Things and Owl Pharmacy. Stop in at one of two bakeries on the square for an afternoon pick-me-up – Flower-Tique/Covered in Flour Bake Shop or Lula’s Bakery. If you’re looking for furniture or other items for your home, check out Your Square Deal (furniture and appliances), Gilworth Furniture, Iowa Sit & Sleep, Funky Junk, Discovery Corner (used furniture) and R & M Furnishings. Two thrift stores are also located on the square - The Hope Chest and Second Time Around.
After a full day of shopping and walking the “world’s largest square,” have dinner at George & Nick’s Pizza & Steakhouse, a staple of the community for 50 years. A hand-cut steak or scratch-made pizza are sure to satisfy.
Wrap up your day by checking in to one of the beautiful lodging options located directly on the Centerville square. The Continental and Tangleberries both provide apartment-style luxury suites with views of the square.
More Dining Options
- North Side Diner - Open Tuesday-Sunday for breakfast and lunch.
- Gordie's Bar & Grill - Breakfast, lunch and dinner, open late.
