While race fans from around the country have gathered in Knoxville for the Nationals this week, local businesses in Pella are enjoying a rush of visitors as they take in the Tulip City.
Dean Smogoleski of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, has frequented the streets of Pella over his numerous visits to the county for the Knoxville Nationals since 2000. Smogoleski was in town with a group of fellow fans stopping to get famous Pella bologna and Dutch baked goods. He recommends the trip to Pella for those staying this week for the Nationals.
“You’ve got to see it at least once,” he says.
Pella Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Karen Eischen says the influx of Knoxville Nationals visitors rivals some of the busiest tourism seasons in Pella, including the holidays and the weeks leading up to Tulip Time.