Elkader

Must Do's
Surrounded by the hills of the beautiful Turkey River valley, Elkader offers a relaxing escape. Explore local history at the George Maier Rural Heritage Center, Carter House Museum, Earthmoving Legacy Center and Motor Mill Historic Site. For modern day fun, catch a live performance at the renovated Elkader Opera House, tour the Big Springs Trout Hatchery or go shopping on Main Street. 

Outdoor Adventures & Exciting Eateries
Take advantage of the recreational opportunities the Turkey River Water Trail has to offer by kayaking, boogie boarding, tubing and fishing. For water thrills, race down the rapids at Elkader Whitewater Park. Relax in nature with a round of disc golf at Osborne Park,  enjoy the beauty of the river on the 4.4-mile Pony Hollow multi-use trail, and the 1.25-mile Elkader River Walk, a safe, handicap accessible walkway or explore the River Bluffs Scenic Byway.

Grab breakfast, lunch or coffee at Gear Elkader or a delicious brew at Deb's Brewtopia. Then, book a stay at the Cedar Street Suites to do it all over again tomorrow.

Community Highlights
Visitors also explore the historic unincorporated town of Osborne. Tour the native wildlife exhibit, picnic in one of the open shelters and shop at the welcome center gift shop for unique Iowa gifts. Visit during Osborne Heritage Days, one of Northeast Iowa’s most popular fall festivals. Held each year on the second weekend of October, Heritage Days brings the town of Osborne alive with old time foods like apple pie, buffalo stew, fry bread and lefsé. Also enjoy pioneer demonstrations of basketry, candle making, quilting, storytelling and flint knapping, or enter in the buffalo chip throw, chili cook-off and pumpkin decorating contests.