Best Things to Do in Mount Vernon, Iowa

If you’re looking for one of the best small towns in Iowa to explore, Mount Vernon deserves a shot at making the list. Located just east of Cedar Rapids along the historic Lincoln Highway, this charming community offers the perfect blend of small-town hospitality, scenic beauty, local shopping, and outdoor adventure.

Although I had driven through Mount Vernon many times, I rarely ever take the time to explore everything it has to offer. While compiling this list of the best things to do in the Mount Vernon Lisbon area, I realized just how much there really is to do and see in this area.

Between the beautiful brick-lined uptown district, locally owned boutiques, unique restaurants, nearby hiking trails, and historic landmarks, it’s the kind of destination that’s easy to spend an entire day exploring.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, searching for Iowa road trip ideas, or simply looking for new places to discover close to home, this guide covers the best things to do in Mount Vernon, Iowa, along with where to eat, shop, and what nearby attractions are worth adding to your itinerary.

Why Visit Mount Vernon, Iowa?

One of the things I enjoy most about visiting Mount Vernon is how easy it is to spend an entire day here without feeling rushed. You can start your morning with coffee, browse locally owned boutiques, walk through a beautiful college campus, hike wooded trails overlooking the Cedar River, and finish the evening with dinner downtown.

Mount Vernon is perhaps best known as the home of Cornell College, whose hilltop campus has overlooked the town for more than 170 years. The college brings beautiful historic architecture, mature trees, cultural events, as well as a vibrant atmosphere that blends in well with the rest of this community.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate nearby Palisades-Kepler State Park, one of eastern Iowa’s most scenic state parks. This park boasts towering limestone bluffs, wooded hiking trails, river overlooks, picnic areas, and camping, These are just some of the features that make it a favorite destination for families and nature lovers throughout the year.

History and architecture buffs will enjoy exploring Historic Uptown Mount Vernon, where beautifully preserved brick buildings now house boutique shops, restaurants, antique stores, coffee shops, and locally owned businesses.

If you’re a fan of Grant Wood, you won’t want to miss the American Gothic Barn, a unique roadside attraction inspired by one of Iowa’s most famous paintings. It’s one of those unexpected photo stops that makes an Iowa road trip even more memorable.

As a local, I see this barn regularly and it just never gets old. I still pull into the nearby driveway to get a picture occasionally.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just wanting to visit all of the Best Small Towns in Iowa, Mount Vernon offers far more than most visitors expect.

12 Best Things to Do in Mount Vernon, Iowa

From scenic parks and historic landmarks to boutique shopping and one-of-a-kind roadside attractions, there are plenty of fun things to do in Mount Vernon, Iowa. Whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or spending the weekend, these are the best attractions you won’t want to miss.

Explore Historic Uptown Mount Vernon

No visit to Mount Vernon is complete without spending time exploring the Historic Uptown Mount Vernon.

The heart of downtown is lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings filled with locally owned businesses. Walking through the district feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying everything that makes a modern small town worth visiting.

One of my favorite things about Uptown Mount Vernon is that nearly every storefront offers something different. Instead of finding chain stores, you’ll discover independent boutiques, antique shops, specialty stores, coffee shops, art galleries, and restaurants that give the town its unique personality.

Plus, these mom-and-pop shops make finding one-of-a-kind holiday gifts effortless. Whenever I can support local businesses while snagging something unique for the person who has everything, I jump at the chance.

The brick streets, colorful storefronts, seasonal flowers, and historic architecture make this one of the most photogenic downtown districts in eastern Iowa. If you enjoy taking your time while traveling, this is the perfect place to wander without a strict itinerary. You never know what unique shop, hidden courtyard, or local favorite you’ll stumble upon next.

Throughout the year, Historic Uptown also hosts community events, farmers markets, festivals, and holiday celebrations that make returning during different seasons worthwhile. So be sure to check your calendar before planning your visit to Mount Vernon.

Highlights include:

• Historic brick buildings
• Boutique shopping
• Antique stores
• Local restaurants
• Coffee shops
• Public art
• Seasonal festivals
• Beautiful photo opportunities

Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Historic Uptown Mount Vernon is the perfect place to begin your visit.

Visit Cornell College

Towering above downtown sits one of Mount Vernon’s most recognizable landmarks, Cornell College.

Founded in 1853, Cornell College has become one of Iowa’s most respected liberal arts colleges and plays a significant role in the character of the community. Even if you aren’t a prospective student, the campus is well worth visiting.

As you walk through campus, you’ll find beautiful limestone buildings, mature oak trees, manicured green spaces, and impressive views overlooking Mount Vernon. The peaceful atmosphere with plenty of shade makes it one of my favorite places for a relaxing walk in this area.

Visitors can explore much of the historic campus on foot while admiring the architecture and learning about the school’s long history in eastern Iowa.

Depending on when you visit, you may also find concerts, theater productions, lectures, art exhibits, or athletic events open to the public.

If you’re planning a self-guided walking tour of Mount Vernon, Cornell College should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

Don’t miss:

• Historic campus architecture
• Scenic hilltop views
• Walking paths
• Seasonal events
• Beautiful fall colors
• Campus photography

Hike Palisades-Kepler State Park

Just a few minutes outside Mount Vernon you’ll find one of the most beautiful outdoor destinations in eastern Iowa, Palisades-Kepler State Park.

Stretching along the Cedar River, this scenic park is known for towering limestone bluffs, dense hardwood forests, winding hiking trails, and breathtaking overlooks that showcase the natural beauty of Iowa.

Whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or a more challenging hike through wooded terrain, the park offers trails suitable for a variety of skill levels. Along the way you’ll pass rock formations, native wildflowers, peaceful picnic areas, and river views.

One of the things I love most about Palisades-Kepler State Park is how different it feels from what many people expect Iowa to look like. Instead of flat farmland, you’ll discover dramatic cliffs, wooded valleys, and rolling hills that make this one of the state’s most scenic parks.

The park is also a popular destination for camping, fishing, birdwatching, and family picnics. Anglers frequently fish the Cedar River for bass, catfish, walleye, and other species, while campers can enjoy peaceful nights surrounded by nature.

Autumn is especially spectacular here. The hardwood forest transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, making it one of the best places in eastern Iowa for fall color.

Things to do at Palisades-Kepler State Park:

• Hiking
• Camping
• Fishing
• Picnic areas
• Scenic overlooks
• Cedar River access
• Wildlife watching
• Nature photography

If you’re visiting Mount Vernon for the first time, I highly recommend setting aside a few hours to explore this incredible state park.

American Gothic Barn

One of the most unexpected attractions near Mount Vernon is the American Gothic Barn, a creative roadside landmark inspired by Grant Wood’s iconic painting, American Gothic.

Located just outside town along Highway 30, this barn doubles as a piece of art since it has been painted to resemble the famous artwork, American Gothic, making it one of the most unique photo opportunities in eastern Iowa.

Although it’s a quick stop, it’s one that many visitors remember long after their trip. If you’re already exploring the area or following the Lincoln Highway, it’s well worth pulling over for a closer look and of course, taking a few pictures.

As someone who enjoys discovering unusual roadside attractions, I love driving by this place. The artwork is incredibly detailed and serves as a creative tribute to one of Iowa’s most celebrated artists.

The American Gothic Barn also pairs perfectly with visits to other Grant Wood sites throughout eastern Iowa, making it a great addition to any Iowa art or history road trip.

Photography Tip: Because the barn sits close to the highway, keep your camera ready as you approach. It’s easier to spot once you’re nearby, and the best lighting for photos is usually during the early morning or late afternoon.

Whether you’re a Grant Wood fan, a photography enthusiast, or simply enjoy quirky roadside attractions, the American Gothic Barn is definitely worth adding to your Mount Vernon itinerary.

Lincoln Highway Heritage Area

History lovers won’t want to miss the chance to experience America’s first transcontinental highway.

Running through Mount Vernon, the Lincoln Highway helped connect communities across the country long before the interstate system existed. Today, driving this historic route offers a slower, more scenic way to experience eastern Iowa while appreciating the towns, farmland, and landmarks that have welcomed travelers for generations.

As you explore Mount Vernon, you’ll notice reminders of the highway’s rich history woven throughout the community. Whether you’re following the Lincoln Highway across Iowa or simply visiting for the day, it’s a fun way to add a little extra history to your road trip.

The route is especially beautiful during the fall when the surrounding countryside is filled with colorful foliage, making it one of my favorite scenic drives in eastern Iowa.

Browse Polly Ann’s Vintage Market

If you enjoy antique shopping, don’t leave Mount Vernon without stopping at Polly Ann’s Vintage Market.

This charming shop is packed with vintage treasures, home décor, collectibles, furniture, and unique finds that make browsing just as enjoyable as buying. Every room offers something different, so it’s easy to spend far more time here than you originally planned.

One of my favorite parts of the store is the beautifully arranged vintage kitchen displays. As someone who loves retro cookware and old-fashioned kitchen essentials, I could have wandered through that section for hours. There are colorful dishes, nostalgic gadgets, and timeless pieces that bring back memories while inspiring new decorating ideas.

Even if you’re not actively shopping for antiques, Polly Ann’s is worth visiting simply for the experience. The thoughtfully curated displays make it feel more like walking through a vintage museum than a traditional antique store.

You’ll find:

• Vintage home décor
• Antique furniture
• Kitchen collectibles
• Seasonal decorations
• One-of-a-kind gifts
• Iowa-made treasures

Shop the Boutiques Along First Street

One of the best ways to experience shopping in Mount Vernon, Iowa is by spending an afternoon exploring the boutiques along First Street.

Instead of national chain stores, you’ll discover independently owned shops filled with clothing, home decor, handcrafted gifts, artisan products, books, jewelry, and locally made items that reflect the personality of the community.

Shopping locally is one of my favorite parts of visiting small towns because every purchase supports local business owners while giving you the chance to find something you simply can’t buy anywhere else.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, a thoughtful gift, or something special for your own home, First Street offers plenty of reasons to slow down and browse.

Expect to find:

• Boutique clothing
• Handmade gifts
• Home décor
• Jewelry
• Artisan goods
• Seasonal merchandise
• Friendly local shop owners

Find Hidden Treasures at Green Door

Bargain hunters should definitely add Green Door to their Mount Vernon itinerary.

Located inside a former school building, Green Door offers a shopping experience unlike anywhere else in the area. The spacious resale shop features gently used clothing, shoes, books, household items, seasonal decor, furniture, and countless unexpected treasures waiting to be discovered.

Part of the fun is never knowing what you’ll find. Every visit is different as new donations arrive regularly, making it a favorite stop for thrifters and treasure hunters alike.

Even if you’re only browsing, Green Door is one of those places that’s fun to explore because there’s always something interesting tucked away on another shelf or around the next corner.

Popular finds include:

• Clothing
• Housewares
• Books
• Furniture
• Holiday decor
• Vintage items
• Affordable home accessories

Visit Vintage 1891 Antiques & Collectibles

Another must-visit destination for antique lovers is Vintage 1891 Antiques & Collectibles.

This welcoming shop is filled with antiques, collectibles, glassware, vintage advertising, farmhouse décor, furniture, and nostalgic pieces that celebrate the past. Every booth has its own personality, making it easy to discover unique treasures throughout the store.

Whether you’re decorating your home, searching for vintage kitchenware, or looking for the perfect collectible, Vintage 1891 offers an ever-changing selection that keeps visitors coming back.

I always enjoy visiting shops like this because every trip feels different, and you never know what rare item might be waiting on the next shelf.

Don’t miss:

• Antique furniture
• Vintage decor
• Glassware
• Collectibles
• Farmhouse accessories
• Local antiques

Treat Yourself at The Sweet Tooth Candy Stoppe

After a day of exploring Mount Vernon, it’s hard to resist stopping for something sweet.

This candy store is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth with nostalgic candy, homemade fudge, ice cream, chocolates, and other delicious treats. Whether you’re cooling off with a scoop of ice cream on a warm summer afternoon or picking up candy to take home, I think this place is a fun stop for visitors of all ages.

If you’re visiting with kids, this will almost certainly become one of their favorite stops of the day.

Sweet favorites include:

• Ice cream
• Old-fashioned candy
• Chocolates
• Fudge
• Seasonal treats
• Gifts for candy lovers

Attend Heritage Days or Seasonal Festivals

If your schedule is flexible, consider planning your visit around one of Mount Vernon’s annual events.

Heritage Days is one of the community’s biggest celebrations, bringing together residents and visitors for live music, local food vendors, family activities, entertainment, parades, and plenty of small-town fun.

Throughout the year you’ll also find farmers markets, holiday celebrations, art events, community performances, and seasonal festivals that bring extra energy to Historic Uptown.

No matter when you visit, it’s worth checking the local events calendar before your trip. You may discover a festival, concert, or community gathering that turns a great day trip into an unforgettable one.

Popular annual events include:

• Heritage Days
• Holiday celebrations
• Farmers markets
• Live music
• Community festivals
• Seasonal events
• Family-friendly activities

Take a Scenic Drive Through Eastern Iowa

One of the best parts about visiting Mount Vernon isn’t just the town itself, it’s everything surrounding it. Some of the most beautiful backroads in eastern Iowa branch out from Mount Vernon, making it an excellent starting point for a scenic road trip.

As you leave town, the landscape quickly changes from historic downtown streets to gently rolling farmland, wooded hills, limestone bluffs, and winding country roads. Every season offers something different.

Spring brings wildflowers and fresh green fields, summer showcases endless rows of corn and soybeans, autumn transforms the countryside into brilliant shades of red and gold, and even winter has its own peaceful beauty after a fresh snowfall.

While exploring Iowa, you never know when you’ll stumble across an old barn, a historic church, a covered bridge, or a tiny town you’ve never heard of before.

If you’re planning an eastern Iowa road trip, consider extending your drive to nearby communities like Lisbon, Solon, Ely, and Anamosa, or follow portions of the historic Lincoln Highway for an even more memorable adventure.

Best Restaurants in Mount Vernon, Iowa

After spending the day exploring downtown, shopping, or hiking at Palisades-Kepler State Park, you’ll probably be ready for a good meal. Mount Vernon may be a small town, but it has a dining scene worth checking out with everything from barbecue and Mexican cuisine to cozy cafés and upscale dining.

Big’s BBQ

If you’re craving slow-smoked barbecue, Big’s BBQ is a local favorite known for tender meats, hearty portions, and classic comfort food. Whether you order brisket, pulled pork, ribs, or one of their signature sandwiches, it’s a satisfying stop after a day of sightseeing.

The Local

The Local offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu featuring elevated comfort food made with fresh ingredients. It’s a great place for lunch with friends or a relaxed dinner after exploring Mount Vernon’s attractions.

Si Señor Mexican Restaurant

Si Señor has been one of my favorite stops in the area for years. The generous portions, friendly service, and flavorful Mexican dishes make it an easy recommendation whether you’re stopping in for lunch or dinner.

Lincoln Winebar

If you’re looking for a slower-paced evening, Lincoln Winebar offers a cozy setting to enjoy a glass of wine, craft beer, or a thoughtfully prepared meal. It’s an easy favorite for date night or celebrating a special occasion while visiting Mount Vernon.

Beyond the drinks, the wood-fired pizza here is the talk of the town, a couple of neighboring towns, too. Word on the street is that the wildly popular Cedar Rapids pop-up, Fancy’s, serves the exact same pizza.

Having only tried Fancy’s so far, I can’t officially confirm the rumors yet, but testing the theory in person is at the absolute top of my list for my next trip to Mount Vernon.

Seasonal Cafés & Bakeries

One of the best parts about small-town travel is discovering locally owned cafés and bakeries. Keep an eye out for seasonal pastries, homemade desserts, and fresh baked goods that showcase the hospitality Mount Vernon is known for.

Best Coffee Shops & Sweet Treats in Mount Vernon

Every great road trip deserves a coffee break, and Mount Vernon has plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy one.

Fuel art and espresso Coffee House

Fuel Coffee House is the perfect place to begin your day with a handcrafted coffee, espresso drink, or fresh pastry before exploring town. The relaxed atmosphere makes it just as inviting for catching up with friends as it is for planning your next stop.

The Sweet Tooth Candy Stoppe

Whether you’re craving ice cream on a warm summer afternoon or searching for nostalgic candy to take home, This sweet shop is worth a stop. It’s a fun place to browse, especially if you’re traveling with kids or anyone who enjoys old-fashioned sweets.

Local Bakeries

Depending on when you visit, you’ll also find bakeries serving homemade cookies, cinnamon rolls, muffins, pies, and other baked treats. Picking up something fresh to enjoy during your drive is never a bad idea.

Best Shopping in Mount Vernon

Shopping is one of the things that makes Mount Vernon stand out from many other small Iowa towns. The walkable downtown is filled with independently owned businesses where you’ll discover items you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you’re searching for antiques, handmade gifts, books, vintage décor, clothing, or locally crafted artwork, you’ll have no trouble filling an afternoon exploring the shops throughout town.

Some favorites include:

• Polly Ann’s Vintage Market
• Alice’s Wonderland
• Vintage 1891 Antiques & Collectibles
• Green Door
• First Street boutiques
• Home décor stores
• Bookstores
• Artisan gift shops

I always recommend taking your time here. Some of my favorite finds have come from stores I almost walked right past.

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, Mount Vernon makes an excellent home base for exploring more of eastern Iowa. Many popular attractions are less than an hour away, making it easy to turn your day trip into a full weekend getaway.

Lisbon

Just a few minutes away, Lisbon offers small-town charm, local businesses, and the popular Sauerkraut Days festival each summer.

Solon

Known for Lake Macbride State Park, local restaurants, and community events, Solon is another worthwhile stop nearby.

Cedar Rapids

Visit Brucemore, NewBo City Market, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, and many of the city’s excellent restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues.

Marion

Explore charming boutiques, Lowe Park, seasonal festivals, and one of the area’s fastest-growing downtown districts. They are currently building up the “uptown” area and adding new apartments as if they are planning a huge influx of residents but no new parking, so plan accordingly when visiting this area.

Sutliff Bridge

One of Iowa’s most picturesque historic bridges, the Sutliff Bridge is a favorite destination for photographers, history lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the Cedar River.

Ely

Ely is home to charming small-town shops, annual festivals, and easy access to the Cedar Valley Nature Trail.

Springville

Spend some time exploring another charming small town with local parks, restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere just a short drive from Mount Vernon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Vernon, Iowa

Continue Exploring Iowa

If you’re enjoying discovering Iowa’s hidden gems, here are a few more destinations you won’t want to miss:

• Best Things to Do in Kalona, Iowa — Explore one of Iowa’s most charming Amish communities filled with unique shops, museums, and homemade food.
• Best Things to Do in Anamosa, Iowa — Discover the hometown of Grant Wood, Wapsipinicon State Park, historic landmarks, and scenic drives.
• Best Things to Do in Strawberry Point, Iowa — Visit the World’s Largest Strawberry and explore one of northeast Iowa’s most charming small towns.
• Maquoketa Caves State Park — Hike through caves, limestone formations, and one of Iowa’s most spectacular state parks.
• Pappajohn Sculpture Park — Stroll among world-class outdoor sculptures in downtown Des Moines.
• Brucemore — Tour one of Iowa’s most beautiful historic estates in nearby Cedar Rapids.

Whether you’re planning an afternoon getaway, a weekend road trip, or checking another destination off your Best Small Towns in Iowa list, Mount Vernon offers something for every type of traveler. Bring your walking shoes, your camera, and an appetite, you’ll likely leave already planning your next visit.

About the Author

The Hobby Wife

As an avid gardener, dedicated homemaker, and culinary enthusiast, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to every aspect of homemaking, recipes, travel, and gardening. My journey is deeply rooted in a love for nature, food, and exploration, which I share through my engaging content.

With years of experience cultivating a vibrant garden and crafting delicious recipes, I specialize in creating farm-to-table homestyle dishes that highlight the freshest ingredients. My culinary creations are inspired by my extensive travels, allowing me to infuse a variety of flavors from my travels into my kitchen.

Through my blog, I aim to inspire others with practical gardening tips, mouth-watering recipes, and unique travel experiences. Whether you're looking for garden-to-plate cooking ideas, copycat recipes, or advice on homemaking, I provide a trusted source of information and inspiration.

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