Decorah

Decorah is a city in northeastern Iowa that sits along the Upper Iowa River, surrounded by bluffs and limestone outcroppings. The location on an elevated plateau at 268 meters creates a natural setting where water, rock, and settlement interact.

The city took its name from Ho-Chunk leader Waukon Decorah and was established in 1849 when the Day family arrived from Tazewell County, Virginia. This early settlement became the foundation for its later role as county seat.

The Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum holds thousands of objects from Norwegian immigration and folk art traditions. The collection shows how Norwegian newcomers maintained their heritage in their adopted home.

Visitors can explore the Luther College campus and attend public lectures, performances, and cultural events throughout the year. The variety of programs offers something to do in each season.

Beneath the city lies an ancient meteorite impact crater formed around 470 million years ago that holds geological evidence of early oceanic life. This hidden feature connects the modern town to a distant past beneath the ground.

Location: Winneshiek County

Inception: 1849

Elevation above the sea: 268 m

Website: https://decorahia.org

GPS coordinates: 43.30170,-91.79030

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:34