When you live at Vennehjem, you have two front doors; one into our vibrant and engaging lifestyle community and one into the scenic and active Northeast Iowa community. The people living at Vennehjem are caring, friendly folks who are actively enjoying their lives in a wide variety of ways. Some volunteer at local organizations, some mentor individuals in the community, some have chosen to simplify, simplify, simplify and spend their days relaxing. They pursue their personal interests and develop connections with the people around them. The people living at Vennehjem are able to live life to the fullest, knowing their neighbors are there to support and encourage them.

When you wish to explore the wider community, you will find some of the most scenic landscapes and diverse attractions in Iowa. Within one day, you can see the Smallest Church in America, the 1893 Home of Czech Composer Antonin Dvorak, the largest Norwegian-American Museum in America, one of the childhood homes of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and the only pioneer fort in America to protect a Native American tribe from another Native American tribe! WOW!

You will find a large selection of golf courses to choose from, several fishing areas with many well-stocked trout streams, a trout hatchery, an extensive hiking and biking trail system that continues to grow and link beautiful natural areas like Phelps Park, Dunning's Spring, and the Ice Caves. You can get along swimmingly at outdoor and indoor pools in the area or canoe your way through the county on the Upper Iowa River! In the winter, don't forget your skis as the slopes call to you from a number of facilities in the area.

Decorah has historic downtown district with goods to cater to any taste. Unique shops, boutiques and specialty stores accent the offerings you'll find. Clothing shops for women and men provide a wide spectrum of options from the hottest trends to timeless, casual gear!

In Northeast Iowa, we know how to celebrate! At any given weekend, you'll be bombarded with choices for events, festivals and cultural celebrations. The biggest event is in July with Nordic Fest, a celebration of the rich Norwegian heritage of Decorah, where 10,000 people or more come to enjoy the music, food and spirit of our Norwegian founders who have made their mark on this area.

Northeast Iowa doesn't sit back when the sun sets, but kicks up its heels! Evenings offer just as many opportunities with a multi-venue movie house, bowling lanes, Luther College's concerts and live music, dramatic and dance performances, a wide variety of seminars and classes like those offered at Vesterheim Museum, great dining experiences and so much more! We invite you to peruse the multitude of options awaiting you by visiting the Decorah Area Website; www.decorah-iowa.com. You won't be disappointed!