Elkader was founded in 1846 and was named after Algerian leader Abd al-Qadir al Jaza'iri. The historic town has received the Great American Main Street Award and is home to a Cultural & Entertainment District that lies between the bluffs of Clayton County on the Turkey River.
- The river offers a great place for canoeing, tubing, and trout fishing. The Turkey River features the Elkader Whitewater Park! Click here for details!
- Nine National Registry of Historic Places can be found in Elkader, including the Keystone Arch Bridge, Carter House Museum, Motor Mill (built on the banks of the Turkey River), and the Elkader Opera House (home to the Opera House Players).
- Explore all the hidden treasures within and around Elkader, Iowa, the county seat of Clayton County and sister city to the Mascara, Algeria. Enjoy the many antique and specialty shops or catch a movie in the cinema or with careful planning, you can take in a performance at the Elkader Opera House.
- Elkader has also recently been named a Best Old House Neighborhood by This Old House Magazine! Elkader was the only community in Iowa to receive this award.
