Small-Town Spotlight

McGregor, Iowa

THE ROUTE TO MCGREGOR, IOWA, follows the Great River Road along the Mississippi River. On the way I see spectacular panoramic vistas, stunning limestone bluffs and ancient effigy mounds.

With steep bluffs on its north, south and west sides, and the river to the east, McGregor is affectionately referred to as the Pocket City. Because of the town’s position on the river, its history is boom and bust.

Entering town is like stepping back into the 1800s, when McGregor was a bustling stop on the river. Historic buildings dating back to those days line historic Main Street.

Today McGregor is quiet, until summer when it comes alive with tourists, road trippers, hikers and water enthusiasts. The natural beauty (it’s located in Iowa’s Driftless region) encourages outdoor activities, and downtown is home to quirky pubs, museums, restaurants, and artisan and antique shops waiting to be explored. Head to McGregor for the perfect weekend getaway.