But tucked among its small towns and quiet corners are hidden gems—destinations that reward the curious traveler with unique history, charm, and memorable experiences. For those looking to step off the typical tourism trail, here are five under-the-radar spots worth adding to your itinerary.
1. Our Lady of Grace Grotto – West Burlington
In the heart of West Burlington sits an extraordinary work of devotion and artistry: Our Lady of Grace Grotto. Began in 1929 by two Benedictine priests, the grotto is a lovingly constructed stone and concrete structure featuring mosaics, statues, and intricate religious imagery. Its design was inspired by the famed Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa, but on a smaller, more intimate scale.
Visitors are welcomed into a serene setting that feels worlds away from the surrounding neighborhood. The grotto is surrounded by landscaped gardens and benches, making it a peaceful place for reflection, photography, or simply appreciating the craftsmanship that went into its creation. While it’s an especially meaningful site for those with a spiritual connection, the artistry and community history behind the grotto make it an appealing stop for any traveler interested in Iowa’s cultural heritage.
2. The Anne Frank Connection – Danville
It might surprise many to learn that the small town of Danville, Iowa, holds a direct link to one of the most poignant and tragic stories of the 20th century. The Danville Station Museum is home to the “Anne Frank Connection,” an exhibit that explores the unlikely connection between two sisters in Danville and Anne Frank and her sister Margot in Amsterdam.
The exhibit is dedicated to the brief relationship between the Frank and Wagner sisters, including reproductions of their pen pal letters, as well as to a glimpse into the world-changing events surrounding them.
Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of Anne Frank’s life and the broader context of World War II through a uniquely local perspective. The museum itself also preserves other aspects of Danville’s history, making it a valuable stop for those interested in both global and small-town narratives.
3. Des Moines County Freedom Rock – Mediapolis
The Des Moines County Freedom Rock in Mediapolis is a powerful tribute to local veterans. Painted by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II, each Freedom Rock tells a story through vivid, hand-painted murals that honor the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces.
The Mediapolis rock features imagery that is specific to Des Moines County’s military history, incorporating scenes, faces, and symbols that resonate with veterans and their families. It stands as both a work of public art and a site of remembrance. Travelers can view the rock up close in an intimate setting with plaques and landscaping. For those following the Freedom Rock Tour across Iowa, this stop provides not only a visual highlight but also a chance to connect with the stories of local service members.
4. Appleberry Orchard – Donnellson
If your visit to Southeast Iowa falls in the autumn months, or if you simply enjoy rural charm, Appleberry Orchard in Donnellson is a must-visit stop on your travels. With apple tree “roots” going back more than a century, (the first apple tree planted on the property dates back to 1852), this family-run orchard offers a delightful mix of agritourism and hands-on fun.
In the fall, rows of apple trees burst with fruit ready for picking, while pumpkins fill the fields in a blaze of orange. The orchard also features a corn maze, wagon rides, gaga ball pit, and more, making it a favorite for families. Inside the farm store, visitors can sample fresh-pressed cider, caramel apples, homemade jams, and other seasonal treats.
Even outside peak harvest times, Appleberry Orchard offers a glimpse into the rhythms of rural life in Lee County. It’s a destination where visitors can slow down, enjoy the changing seasons, and savor the flavors of the Iowa countryside.
5. Cobblestone Alley – Burlington
Burlington is known for its historic architecture, scenic riverfront, and of course the iconic Snake Alley, but one of its most charming hidden treasures is Cobblestone Alley. Tucked away in the city’s downtown, this narrow passageway is paved with original cobblestones that date back to the 19th century. Gazing up along its uneven stones, you can imagine the days when horses and carriages clattered through Burlington’s busy river port district.
The alley is embedded in a district filled with historic brick buildings that have been preserved and adapted for modern use, offering an atmospheric backdrop for photographs. Its location makes it easy to include in a walking tour of Downtown Burlington, perhaps paired with a visit to nearby Snake Alley or the city’s riverfront parks. Cobblestone Alley is a reminder that sometimes the smallest details in a place’s landscape can hold the richest sense of history.
Exploring Beyond the Obvious
What ties these five destinations together is their ability to represent the diversity of Southeast Iowa’s attractions: special spaces created through community devotion, small-town museums with world-spanning connections, works of public art that honor local heroes, family farms that open their gates to visitors, and historic details that transport you to another time.
While many travelers come to Southeast Iowa for its better-known events and landmarks, those who take time to explore these quieter, lesser-known spots are rewarded with experiences that feel personal and authentic.
So next time you find yourself in this corner of the state, step off the main road and discover the places that make Southeast Iowa truly unique.
Des Moines County Freedom Rock
