Visit Bluff Country

A guide to Historic Bluff Country

News

Houston County High School Art Show Opens with April 25 Reception at Mainspring

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Mainspring is pleased to announce the third annual Houston County High School Art Show opening on Saturday, April 25th with a celebratory reception from 4 – 6 pm; light refreshments will be provided.

Students from Caledonia, Spring Grove, and Houston High Schools will display a variety of art pieces they’ve created in the classroom over the last school year. The pop-up exhibit will open on Saturday, April 25th, with the reception for the student artists and their family and friends at 4 – 6 pm. The exhibit will also be open on Sunday, April 26th from 10 am – 2 pm.

About Mainspring’s Youth Education Programs:
Mainspring launched youth arts programming in 2023 to create a fun and inclusive environment for creative rural teens in Southeast MN. Youth artists engage in workshops where they complete hands-on art projects and learn from professional artists, and also come together to display their work at the annual Houston County High School Art Show.

Mainspring is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing arts and cultural experiences to the residents and visitors of southeast Minnesota. More information can be found at http://mainspringmn.org/.

Houston High School Art Show

The Cascading Wonders of Historic Bluff Country

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By Charlene Corson Selbee

Looking for a memorable day trip? Discover eleven unique waterfalls in historic Bluff Country, each offering its own distinct personality, from a towering 200-foot waterfall to an underground 60-foot marvel and a picturesque step waterfall. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty that awaits you.

It might surprise visitors and possible even residents to learn that the waterfalls result from a unique geological phenomenon. The true marvel lies in recognizing that the region was shaped thousands of years ago, when the last Ice Age bypassed the locally known Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, Southeast Minnesota, Southwest Wisconsin, and Northwest Illinois. The distinct topographical features, such as the waterfalls, bring visitors back time and time again to enjoy the wonders of Historic Bluff Country.

In Decorah, Iowa, explore three captivating waterfalls, Malanaphy Falls, Dunning’s Springs, and Siewer’s Springs.

Dunning Spring
Dunning Spring in Decorah, IA.

Malanaphy Falls, tucked within the Malanaphy Springs State Preserve, where it meets the Upper Iowa River, is just 10 miles upriver from Decorah. The waterfall can be accessed by foot through the picturesque forest or by canoe/kayak for a stunning view from the river. The eighth of a mile trail is well-maintained but is not accessible.

Dunning’s Spring Park, located on Quarry St./Ice Cave Rd. in Decorah, features Iowa’s tallest 200-foot waterfall and a one-of-a-kind rock bridge that crosses the stream, enticing visitors to climb to the top of the falls. There is ample parking next to the Upper Iowa River. Enjoy a short walk up the paved road. Visitors with disabilities can drive up the paved road to the falls.

Nearby, Siewer’s Springs along the Decorah’s Trout Run Trail offers a serene step waterfall experience and is a popular spot for trout fishing. Look up and you may see eagles flying overhead. Siewer’s Spring is promoted as the most accessible place in Northeast Iowa to fish. There are picnic tables, clean restrooms, sculptures, and the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery. The hatchery is open to the public 365 days a year.

Como Falls in Hokah, MN.

Hokah, Minn., is home to Como Falls, peacefully nestled behind the fire station, surrounded by tree-covered limestone bluffs, making it a peaceful park for a picnic. You can also walk to the park from the city’s swimming pool, a spring-fed, sand-bottom pool.

Winnebago Springs in Caledonia, MN.

Winnebago Springs, located on private property in the beautiful hills outside of Caledonia, Minn. The crystal-clear spring water gently bubbles over rocks and through soft, lush green grass. The spring joins one of many trout streams in Bluff Country.

Don’t miss the historic stone dam in Lanesboro, Minn. The dam on the Root River creates a scenic backdrop for this picturesque town and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Journey to Niagara Cave just minutes outside of Harmony, Minn., and watch as the 60-foot waterfall gracefully falls in a hypnotic display of natural beauty, creating a serene and picturesque underground setting.

The 10-foot Bridal Veil Falls are located within the boundaries of Pikes Peak State Park. The park is located above the Mississippi River town of McGregor, Iowa. The falls are accessible via a short half-mile walk along a wheelchair-accessible wooden boardwalk. Make sure to check out the 180-degree view of the Mississippi River from the Point Ann Overlook, which is also accessible.

Head south on the Great River Road National Scenic Byway to Spook Cave Campground, McGregor, Iowa. Beulah Spring Falls is located within the campground and is open from May to October. Don’t forget to hike the bluff above the falls. For more water fun, make sure to include time for a tour of Spook Cave. The cave is wheelchair accessible.

Located along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, Big Spring Nature Area, Guttenberg, Iowa, features a stair-step waterfall with water cascading down a 100’ limestone wall. Enjoy a casual walk alongside the spring or hike up the north side of the area.

Embark on this journey through Historic Bluff Country and witness the beauty of each unique waterfall-it’s a day trip you won’t soon forget. Don’t forget to snap a selfie and tag Visit Bluff Country.

Historic Lanesboro Dam at Mill Pond Overlook in Lanesboro, MN.

Vesterheim Opens New Exhibit Featuring Artist Lars Fletre

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Visit Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, on Free Second Saturday, April 11, for the opening of the new exhibit “Lars Fletre: Resistance, Resilience, Artistry,” plus family craft activities.
The exhibit opening will be from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. with a gallery talk in the Museum Building at 2:30 p.m. followed by refreshments in Hanson Vesterheim Commons. Come and meet many of Fletre’s family members who will be joining from around the country! This exhibit is supported by Rob and Evy Alsaker and Robert and Elizabeth Norheim.
Known for his wide range of artistry in sculpture, woodcarving, painting, and glass, Lars Fletre was born in Voss, Norway, in 1904. He immigrated to Chicago in 1923 and went back and forth between Chicago and Norway throughout his life, establishing studios and businesses in both countries. Fletre’s art reflects themes of migration, labor, and social realism, blending Norwegian tradition with American experience. His legacy endures through a diverse body of work rooted in empathy and craftsmanship.
Be inspired by Lars Fletre’s artwork for some hands-on creativity! During Free Second Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., visitors will have the chance to make their own floral or freehand design on an acrylic coaster inspired by the sandblasted glass designs of Lars Fletre.
Vesterheim offers Free Second Saturdays every month with free museum admission and a community activity, supported in part by a grant from McElroy Trust with additional gifts from The Depot Outlet and Black Hills Energy.
Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in the conversation of the American immigrant journey through the lens of the Norwegian-American experience. Vesterheim offers innovative and interactive exhibits, classes, and programs, both at the dynamic campus and park in scenic Decorah, Iowa, and online at vesterheim.org and Vesterheim social media. For more information on exhibits, classes, programs, tours, membership opportunities, and ways to donate and volunteer, connect at vesterheim.org, (563) 382-9681, and Vesterheim, 520 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379.

Twin Springs Supper Club Honored as One of the Midwest’s Best Supper Clubs

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Twin Springs Supper Club of Decorah has been recognized as one of the Best Midwest Supper Clubs in the 2026 Best of the Midwest Awards from Midwest Living, celebrating the restaurant’s role in carrying on a beloved regional dining tradition.

Known for its classic supper club atmosphere, Twin Springs offers an experience rooted in comfort, consistency, and connection—where guests gather to enjoy a well-prepared meal in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The restaurant has built a loyal following among locals and travelers alike.

Hand-selected by the magazine’s editors, the Best of the Midwest Awards honor nearly 150 established and emerging leaders in travel and hospitality across the region. The awards span 16 categories, recognizing exceptional hotels, restaurants, vacation destinations, resorts, and travel experiences throughout the Midwest and beyond that define the region’s character and appeal.

“We are extremely honored and thankful to be recognized alongside so many outstanding Supper Clubs.” said owner Roumel Reynon. “We want every guest that visits our restaurant to experience remarkable dining and genuine hospitality. We are so fortunate to be part of a wonderful community in Decorah.”

Located in the scenic Driftless Region of northeast Iowa, Decorah has become a destination for its locally driven restaurant scene, where chefs and owners create memorable dining experiences rooted in quality, creativity, and community—complemented by the area’s heritage, arts, and outdoor beauty.

The full list of 2026 Best of the Midwest Award winners will appear in the Spring 2026 issue of Midwest Living and is available online at: midwestliving.com.

Decorah Recognized in Midwest Living’s 2026 Best of the Midwest Awards

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Decorah has been named a winner in the 2026 Best of the Midwest Awards presented by Midwest Living. The recognition highlights Decorah as a standout destination in the region for Best Small Towns, celebrating the community’s vibrant culture, outdoor beauty, and welcoming spirit.

Hand-selected by the magazine’s editors, the Best of the Midwest Awards honor nearly 150 established and emerging leaders in travel and hospitality across the region. The awards span 16 categories, recognizing exceptional hotels, restaurants, vacation destinations, resorts, and travel experiences throughout the Midwest and beyond.

“We’re honored to see Decorah recognized by the editors of Midwest Living,” said Alyssa Ritter of Visit Decorah. “Visitors come here for so many reasons—exceptional local dining, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and easy access to the outdoors—and this recognition reflects how those experiences come together to create something truly special.”

Located in the scenic Driftless Region of northeast Iowa, Decorah is known for its rich Norwegian-American heritage, thriving arts scene, locally owned shops and restaurants, and miles of trails and waterways that draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round for day-trips, weekend getaways, or intentionally-longer experiences.The full list of 2026 Best of the Midwest Award winners will appear in the Spring 2026 issue of Midwest Living and is available online at: www.midwestliving.com/best-midwest-small-towns-2026.

Dr. Nancy Coleman Gives Online Presentation about Vesterheim Exhibi

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Visit the exhibit, “Pioneering Pages: Forming the New American Woman,” open at Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, until May 18.
            The exhibit tells the story of “Kvinden og Hjemmet” (Woman and Home), a national magazine for women published in the late 1800s in Iowa by Norwegian immigrant sisters Ida and Mina Jensen. The magazine offered information to help Norwegian immigrant women adapt to American ways of life, but it was much more! By and for women, the publishers and writers advocated for women’s education, equality, and suffrage.
            In connection with the exhibit, everyone is invited to join Dr. Nancy Coleman for a free online presentation on March 22 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Register for the Zoom link at vesterheim.org.
Nancy Coleman has worked with a team of Norwegian scholars to shed light on an important part of the story of Norwegian immigration history through this exhibit at Vesterheim.
The exhibit is supported by a generous gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from the Tomson Family Foundation.
Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in the conversation of the American immigrant journey through the lens of the Norwegian-American experience. Vesterheim offers innovative and interactive exhibits, classes, and programs, both at the dynamic campus and park in scenic Decorah, Iowa, and online at vesterheim.org and Vesterheim social media. For more information on exhibits, classes, programs, tours, membership opportunities, and ways to donate and volunteer, connect at vesterheim.org, (563) 382-9681, and Vesterheim, 502 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379.