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A long week at work certainly calls for the best reset, which is not always the most expensive. Hills, rivers and leisurely trails await them all here in the Driftless Area, just a short drive from Decorah Iowa. These low-cost getaways in Iowa are a great option for those who are looking for a stress-free weekend getaway without sacrificing their budgets.
Quick Facts
- Ideal for: leisurely weekend getaways on a budget for working people
- Nearest other location: Decorah State Park (10 minutes away)
- Day trips and overnights: Maquoketa and Dubuque (both about 2 hours by car)
- Cheapest picks: The least expensive options are free trails, free entrance to the cave and a $10 admission to the museum.
- Region: Northeast Iowa’s Driftless Area
Stay Local: Decorah as Your Own Retreat
It doesn’t take long to relax. You’ll find nature getaways in town, near Decorah.
- Get fresh air: Take a walk, go for a hike or stroll on the 11-mile Trout Run Trail at Palisades Park or Phelps Park, both of which offer views.
- Low-cost stays: Cabin rentals at Bluffside Gardens or Decorah High Point Cabins can be considered a treat with outdoor hot tubs, or rent a tent at Pulpit Rock Campground.
- Culture on a budget: Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum only costs $10 and highlights Scandinavian roots to the area.
- The perfect snack: Go to Toppling Goliath Brewing Co for a craft beer on the riverside patio; Mabe’s Pizza for a pie; or Luna Valley Farm for a wood-fired pizza.
Maquoketa: Caves and Hiking for Active Workers
Two hours to the southeast, Maquoketa makes for any of you who prefer screens for stones and skies. Maquoketa Caves State Park is a limestone caves and natural bridges park that winds through over a dozen caves and is open to the public, free of charge. This is one of the cheapest outdoor activities in Iowa.
AmericInn by Wyndham and Econo Lodge are affordable options for overnight accommodation and are located close to the trails.
Dubuque: River Views and Historic Charm
Dubuque is about a 2-hour drive from Decorah, Iowa, and offers Mississippi River weekend trips at a fraction of the big city cost. Walk the Riverwalk, explore the local shops and then spend a few dollars on the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway, the Fenelon Place Elevator. It covers an area that spans three States.
There are also many chain hotels in Dubuque, which is perfect for comparison shopping online for decent weekend hotel rates, as well as local B&Bs.
Budget Snapshot
| Destination | Recharge Activity | Cost Level | Drive From Decorah |
| Decorah | The Vesterheim is located in the vicinity of the Hiking, Trout Run Trail. | Free to $10 | 0 mins |
| Maquoketa | Hiking and biking in parks and caves | Free entry | ~2 hours |
| Dubuque | The views include river, funicular views and city views. | Moderate | ~2 hours |
Tips to Stretch Your Weekend Budget
- Take no-cost experiences first, with one paid experience.
- Research lodging prior to booking online.
- Bring snacks and water on day hikes.
- Have short drives so you have more money for the enjoyment of the drive.
Final Thoughts
It’s not always expensive to get a good rest. Some of the free trails, a warm cabin and a river view can have you back at work refreshed from home or on a weekend getaway from Decorah, Iowa. Choose one place, make a simple budget and take your next weekend vacation and treat it like a vacation!
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