Search the best hotels in Iowa
About Iowa
Known for its vast landscapes, vibrant small cities and charming towns dotted along the mighty Mississippi River, Iowa is a wonderful destination for history buffs and outdoorsy travellers of all ages. Accommodation options range from pretty inns to swish city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whatever the scope and focus of your trip, the best places to stay in Iowa promise a friendly, welcoming base for an adventure to remember.
The state capital, Des Moines, is a cultural hotspot with stacks of drinking and dining options. Highlights for heritage aficionados include the State Historical Museum, the gold-domed State Capitol Building and the lovely East Village. The zoo, fairgrounds and science centre will appeal to little ones, whilst the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and hundreds of miles of forested riverside trails are perfect for nature lovers. Don’t miss historic Valley Junction, either. You’ll find a lively buzz in Iowa City, Dubuque - home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium - and Davenport, too, all friendly riverside hubs with lots to see and do.
To experience the magic of the Iowa Great Lakes Region, head to Okoboji, near the state’s northwest corner. This is a dream destination for sailing, kayaking, swimming and fishing — and it’s home to some of the best places to stay in Iowa for groups and families.
The Best Places to Stay in Iowa
FOR A CHARMING B&B
- Brown Street Inn offers six cosy guestrooms in a charming historic cottage within walking distance of many of Iowa City's top sights. Expect antique furnishings and a laid-back, welcoming feel. Perfectly placed for visiting the University of Iowa - and appealingly affordable. For history-minded couples.
- The Oakwood Inn is a pretty, Victorian-style inn offering modern comforts and period touches, including lovely four-poster beds. The shared veranda, perennial gardens and three-course breakfasts are particular highlights. A cosy, adult-only B&B for an Okoboji escape.
- Inn on Central has four contemporary rooms on Le Mars' main street, with Italianate interiors, kitchenettes and sitting areas. Some rooms sleep up to four guests, and simple breakfasts are include. For couples, friends or families.
For Chic Couples
- Des Lux Hotel is a brilliantly located downtown Des Moines pad with glamorous interiors featuring chandeliers, wooden panelling and deep jewel-like tones. The best rooms come with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, there's a superb spa and you can sip terrific martinis at the bar. For well-heeled couples.
- Surety Hotel promises a glitzy getaway in a Beaux Arts property with sleek interiors. Think lots of brass and velvet in the rooms, plus a tavern-style restaurant and hip bar. For chic couples looking to stay in the heart of Des Moines. Pets are also welcome.
- Hotel Julien, Dubuque offers an impressive range of facilities — think spa, indoor pool, hot tub and all-day restaurant — in a striking downtown Dubuque setting. Elegant and historic, this is a terrific choice for a central stay on a couples' trip, close to eateries and cultural attractions. The hotel's history stretches back to the mid-19th Century.
FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS
- The Highlander Hotel is a funky urban resort with all that sociable travellers might hope for. Splash about in the indoor pool, get competitive in the games room, browse the vinyl lending library and gather around the courtyard firepit for evening drinks. Spaces suit families and groups of friends. Relaxed, modern and fun-loving. A party favourite, on the outskirts of Iowa City.
- Hotel Chauncey promises stylish, monochromatic rooms and suites, ideal for friends or families travelling together. Kitchens, dining areas and living rooms make this a great choice for independent or longer-stay visitors. Book a room with a balcony for downtown Iowa City views. Wonderfully central!
- The Inn Hotel has been transformed into a cool, contemporary property with a funky Art Deco feel in Okoboji. The rooftop pool, trendy restaurant and lake views all add to the appeal. Great for families or groups who will appreciate the sociable vibe.
- Vintage Block Inn & Suites is a great value boutique motel, just steps from the lakeside in Okoboji. Suites have kitchenettes and flexible arrangements for group or family holidays. Some rooms sleep up to 10 people! Fun, informal and affordable.
- Hotel Grinnell offers a playful boutique base in a former school building. Expect original hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, custom artwork and nods to the property's past -- such as the Periodic Table restaurant. Complimentary bikes are fun for exploring town with friends or family. Return to relax around the firepit or play board games. Nab the Bunk Room if travelling as a big group!
For Business Travellers
- The Rewind Hotel is a well-equipped business base. Interiors are smart and modern, with a swimming pool, 24-hour gym, onsite Italian restaurant and expansive event spaces. Affordable and appealing, with a regular shuttle service to Des Moines city centre.
- Hotel Millwright, once a working mill in Amana, has been reimagined as a modern business hotel with rooms and self-catering studios featuring high ceilings, minimalist furnishngs and industrial touches. Function rooms, sociable living areas and big gardens make this a great event or conference venue. Ideal for business travellers looking to stay longer.
- Hotel Revel is a cool, contemporary spot in outer Des Moines. Expect modern art pieces and minimalist rooms with space for couples or groups of friends. Great for business trips or city breaks, the hotel has lovely outdoor seating areas with firepits, a fun pool table and meeting spaces for gathering together. The complimentary 5pm drinks help to kick off the party!
- The Current sits just two blocks from the Mississippi River in Davenport, and has a glamorous contemporary feel. The rooftop bar and restaurant are a real highlight. Ideal for business trips, the hotel boasts board rooms, exhibition spaces, an indoor pool and an upscale lounge.
- Hotel Blackhawk is an excellent downtown Davenport hotel for business or leisure travellers. You'll find a bowling alley, arcade, indoor pool, spa, gym and swimming pool, as well as ample meeting facilities. Swanky black and white rooms are smart and comfortable.
FOR AN APARTMENT
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
- Fly to Des Moines International Airport, Eastern Iowa Airport, Fort Dodge Regional Airport or another regional hub, before travelling to your destination by car or bus.
- Iowa is a wonderful state to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
- Travel between June and September for hot, humid summers. Consider visiting in the spring or autumn for slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Des Moines.
- Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in neighbouring Illinois.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Best Hotels in Iowa
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Graduate Iowa City Iowa City 230 rooms from €89
Local exploring - Located on the Ped Mall, the hotel is perfect for Hawkeye supporters in IowaSights nearby - Englert Civic Theater and the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History are just a 10-minute walk from this hotelRestaurant - Gene’s is a restaurant and bar styled like a retro diner and Poindexter serves coffee and pastriesLocal markets - Buy local produce at the Iowa City Farmer’s MarketRecommended by - TabletA sophisticated retro hotel on Ped Mall. Chic and spacious rooms feature tartan checkered throws and curtains. Bathrooms come with vintage wallpapers and Malin + Goetz bath products. Sip on handcrafted cocktails in the lobby surrounded by packed bookshelves and dine at the old-school diner. See More
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The Oakwood Inn Okoboji (Iowa) 11 rooms from €98
Active Holiday - The Iowa Great Lakes area is made up of 6 interconnect lakes; come here for sailing, watersports, swimming, fishing & kayakingTotal relaxation - The peaceful environment of the area, plus large gardens and adult-only environment make for a tranquil stayFishing - Fish over 12,000 acres, looking for walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch and bluegillSailing - The inn has boat-trailer parking and the owners will happily advise on the best spots for boating, kayaking and canoeingAdult-only Victorian-style inn surrounded by acres of oak savannah. Decor effortlessly blends modern comfort with period-touches; think cream shingle facade, Art Deco four-posters & spa tubs. Rooms look over perennial gardens & give onto a shared veranda. Check-in for romance with antique style. See More
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Vintage Block Inn & Suites Okoboji (Iowa) 54 rooms from €117
Local exploring - Whether it's wineries, amusement parks, golf, sailing, museums, watersports or hiking trails, there's plenty to do in the areaValue chic - Affordable, laid-back, comfortable and considered base to explore all of the area's many family-friendly attractionsSit-out Terrace - Relaxed outdoors area designed for outdoor family fun area boasts firepits, picnic tables, BBQ grills and yard gamesFamilies - Many rooms sleep up to 10 making this ideal for large families or close groups of friendsGreat-value boutique motel steps from Okoboji lakeside. Recently refurbished rooms and suites feature floral murals, cosy furnishings and kitchenettes; many offer sleeping arrangements for large parties. Enjoy the outdoor pool, large popular yard & bar. Designed for fun and informal family holidays. See More
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The Rewind Hotel Des Moines (Iowa) 137 rooms from €118
Business meetings - Grand Ballroom and break out rooms make up 5,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space. Presidential Suite has its own conference roomGroups - Great value packages offer fun activities and amenities for hen dos, girly weekends away and relaxing getawaysRestaurant - Atmospheric Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse channels 1950s Rat Pack era, serving classic surf, turf and cocktailsSights nearby - Top city sites include Iowa State Capitol, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and Living History FarmsLarge modern hotel with indoor pool, 24-hour gym, on-site Italian restaurant, shuttle service and fab event facilities. Clean contemporary aesthetic blends bright colour palette and homely decor in well-appointed and light-filled rooms. Works equally well for business trips or relaxing getaways. See More
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Hotel Fort Des Moines (Iowa) 290 rooms from €121
Local exploring - Situated right in the centre of Des Moines, The Fort is ideally located for exploring all of its highlightsLocal markets - Des Moines is famous for its farmers' market where you can find the best local produceCity Style - Beautiful retro reimagining of an iconic hotelRestaurant - Proudfoot & Bird offers a varied international menu with dishes using the best local produceA Des Moines icon which has been lovingly restored to create a dazzling luxury hotel. Interiors are full of features which bring its grand past to life including retro light fittings and ornate furnishings, yet rooms and suites feel smart and modern. A chic city stay ideal for business or leisure. See More
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Brown Street Inn Iowa City (Iowa) 6 rooms from €126
Local exploring - Leafy Brown Street Historical District is wonderfully tranquil yet easy to get to downtown Iowa City on footValue chic - Stay in a well-located and inviting home-away-from-home without breaking the bankSights nearby - Attractions in the area include Kalona Amish Settlement, Herbert Hoover National Historical Site and Devonian Fossil GorgeRestrictions on children - Children aged 12 years and above are welcomeColonial-style cottage in a quiet city suburb walking distance from the sites. Well-appointed and elegant rooms feature antique furnishings, brightly coloured walls and homely touches. Feel like part of the family across a range of welcoming public areas. Ideal for visiting the University of Iowa. See More
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The Warrior Hotel Sioux City (Iowa) 148 rooms from €130
Local exploring - Explore The Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Betty Strong Encounter Center, Sioux City Railroad Museum & Sioux City Art CenterCity Style - Art Deco-inspired furnishings, deep soaking tubs and original artwork give a sleek city vibeSights nearby - Stone State Park has a great trail system for hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers and, in winter, cross-country skiersRestaurant - Woodbury's: An American steakhouse serves the best of the Mid West from land and seaAn elegant hotel in downtown Sioux City. Rooms blend Art Deco flair with sleek lines, warm textures and rich colours. There's an American steakhouse and a rooftop bar with panoramic vistas, plus a luxurious spa, indoor pool and retro bowling alley. A comfortable oasis close to the city buzz. See More
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The Inn Hotel Okoboji (Iowa) 38 rooms from €130
Romantic Break - Rooftop swimming, craft cocktails and sexy suites make this a great option for couplesLocal exploring - Beautiful base for exploring West Okoboji Lake area with fab on-site facilitiesSwimming Pool - Cute rooftop swimming pool rocks on-trend vintage Palm Springs vibe; enjoy striped loungers and poolside cocktailsRestaurant - The Beach Club Lounge serves fresh modern fare and artisan cocktails in a retro Caribbean-themed tropical settingIconic hotel transformed into a cool boutique gem with an Art Deco theme. Stylish interiors blend jewel tones, mid-century furnishings & dashes of leopard print. A rooftop pool, on-trend Beach Club restaurant & lake views make this a top choice in the area. Great-value stay with a retro-chic vibe. See More
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Inn on Central Le Mars, Iowa 4 rooms from €130
Families - Both the Sonata and Symphony Suites can sleep up to four guests, making this a good option for families or friendsLocal exploring - Well-placed for exploring; walk to Main Street's shops, restaurants and cafesSights nearby - Known as the icecream capital of the world, no visit is complete with a trip to The Blue Bunny Ice Cream ParlourRomantic - Good for couples.Contemporary rooms on Main Street. Situated above Le Mar's event centre, the decor is themed around entertainment; think Italianate-style furnishings and ornaments. Light and airy rooms come with full kitchens or kitchenettes and a simple breakfast is included. Comfortable centrally-located base. See More
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The Highlander Hotel Iowa City (Iowa) 97 rooms from €144
Families - Designed for week-day parties and family weekends; kids will love the laid-back feel, indoor pool, games and outdoor spaceWeddings - Great location for a slightly alternative rock star wedding; think large pool, sociable courtyard and anything-goes vibeSwimming Pool - The largest indoor pool in the area, its ideal for swimming lengths, kids playing or wild day partiesRestaurant - The pool area's Snack Shack offers comfort food and light bites. Complimentary coffee and soda station is available 24/7Funky urban resort located in former illustrious party hot spot. Indoor pool with a sociable games area and snack bar is the heart of the property; there's also a firepit courtyard and vinyl lending library. Range of rooms works for friends, groups & families. Fab spot for relaxed fun-loving guests. See More
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Hotel Revel Des Moines (Iowa) 110 rooms from €149
Business meetings - Bright, light-filled meeting rooms with state-of-the-art tech are great spaces for business and eventsRestaurant - Relaxed Revel Lounge, just off the lobby, offers light bites, drinks and pool table. Enjoy farm-fresh cuisine from 11am onwardsSights nearby - It's a five minute walk to nearby Living History Farms 500-acre open-air museum dedicated to the state's farming historyGreat walks - Stretch your legs on the scenic trail around Gray's LakeCool and contemporary hotel in outer Des Moines. Of-the-moment decor manages to feel both fresh and homely; think modern art, cosy seating areas and a funky terrace. Floor-to-ceiling windows with tree views bathe minimalist-style rooms with natural light. Ideal base for business or short breaks. See More
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Hotel Julien, Dubuque Dubuque (Iowa) 133 rooms from €149
City Style - With a traditional feel yet modern levels of comfort, this works equally well for business or leisureSpa - Boutique Potosa spa offers treatments inspired by Native American Medicine Wheel. There's also a salon with beauty treatmentsSwimming Pool - The indoor pool is suprisingly large given central downtown location. Relax on poolside loungers or in the whirlpoolWhirlpool Bathtub - Whirlpool Suites come with tubs large enough for two. The Capone Suite also features a whirlpool tubHistoric downtown hotel offering an impressive range of facilities. Classically elegant rooms and roomy public areas styled with traditional decor offer top-notch comforts. Expect a free shuttle, all-day dining restaurant, happening bar, spa, indoor pool, and hot tub. A deluxe one-stop destination. See More
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Hotel Chauncey Iowa City (Iowa) 51 rooms from €152
Local exploring - Whether in town for work or play, the central downtown location means almost everything is walking distanceValue chic - A total steal for so much square footage in the centre of town plus high-spec interiorsSights nearby - Catch a game or watch a show at Kinnick Stadium and Carver-Hawkeye ArenaViews - All rooms boast amazing downtown Iowa City viewsStylish loft-style living in the heart of downtown. Minimalist monochrome suites offer incredible vistas over the urban landscape; enjoy views from large balconies and the rooftop terrace. With kitchens, dining and living areas, this is an ideal choice for long stays or independent travellers. See More
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Hotel Millwright Amana, Iowa 65 rooms from €161
Local exploring - Well-located base to explore unique culture of Amana colonies; learn about their German heritage and rich craft traditionsWeddings - A wedding venue with a difference; celebrate across a range of historic rooms including Merino Loft and Carding StudioBusiness meetings - Conference centre, range of function rooms with character and outdoor space make this well-suited to an off-siteRestaurant - The all-day Indigo room serves sandwiches, soups, entrees and craft beers. Relax with light bites and bourbon at Electric ThreadRepurposed mill transformed into a modern boutique hotel within Amana colonies. Rooms and self-catering studios and suites combine loft interiors with industrial heritage touches. With function rooms, sociable living areas and large gardens this works for both business, events and leisure stays. See More
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Hotel Blackhawk Davenport (Iowa) 130 rooms from €170
Business meetings - Impressive range of different spaces means the property can work for meetings, events, board rooms, private dining & receptionsFamilies - Two-Bedroom suites are ideal for families with two bathrooms, spacious living areas and full kitchen. They sleep up to sixGames room - For cocktails, bowling and arcade games head to the hotel's Blackhawk Bowl and Martini Lounge. Ideal for private partiesWeddings - There is nowhere quite like the hotel's Gold Room for an upscale city wedding; it's been hosting events since 1915Contemporary downtown hotel with first-rate facilities. As well as a business centre & meeting rooms, bowling alley, arcade, indoor pool, spa, gym, barbershop and hot tub will keep you occupied during downtime. Dine onsite at the bistro or enjoy a relaxed upbeat Martini Lounge. All-round five star. See More
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Des Lux Hotel Des Moines (Iowa) 51 rooms from €170
Romantic Break - Spoil yourselves with a stay in one of the top suites; expect roaring fireplaces, cosy down duvets and two-person whirlpool tubsLocal exploring - Des Moines downtown is steps away. Walk in a matter of minutes to restaurants, trendy neighbourhoods, bars and cultural sitesSpa - The extensive fitness and wellness area includes whirlpool, sauna, steam room, gym and massage facilitiesBusiness meetings - Host meetings and events in the glamorous Presidential Suite & Atrium and Board RoomA conveniently located hotel with impressive wellness and fitness facilities in Des Moines downtown. Recently renovated, contemporary interiors with historic influences blend glitzy chandeliers, Edwardian-style wooden panelling and deep jewel tones. Select rooms boast fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. See More
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Surety Hotel Des Moines (Iowa) 137 rooms from €174
Business meetings - Five diverse spaces offer venues for functions of all sizes and styles; ballroom, courtyard, meeting rooms and solariumCity Style - Successfully combines well-preserved authentic 1913 architectural features with on-trend modern interiors and vibeRestaurant - Mulberry Street Tavern offers contemporary take on classic comfort food in open-kitchen and buzzy bar settingSights nearby - Visit Iowa State Capital, Botanical Garden, Blank Park Zoo and 1920s Salisbury HouseContemporary-luxe downtown hotel in iconic Beaux-Arts property. Mid-century interiors give a sleek fresh feel to rooms and suites while double-height ceilings and crown moulding create a welcoming light-filled lounge. Enjoy cityscape views and atmospheric dining at tavern-style restaurant and bar. See More
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The Current, Davenport Davenport (Iowa) 78 rooms from €216
Business meetings - Offers a series of upscale venues including an exhibition space, gallery, private dining rooms, board rooms and rooftop spaceRoof terrace - UP Sky Bar is a wonderful multi-purpose space offering everything from sunrise yoga to late-night pilates and cocktailsLocal exploring - Part of the city's exciting riverfront redevelopment, the area is buzzing with restaurants, bars and things to doCity Style - Balancing history, luxury comforts and contemporary culture in the heart of the cityLuxe modern city hotel located two blocks from the Mississippi River with impressive rooftop restaurant and bar, indoor pool, gyms, hot tub, gallery and club lounge. Situated in a historic building, rooms channel contemporary glam with original artwork, fluffy bathrobes and spoiling amenities. See More
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The Merrill Hotel Muscatine, Iowa 122 rooms from €240
Local exploring - A prime central spot in Muscatine, overlooking the mighty MississippiBusiness meetings - A range of conference options and meeting rooms with river viewsViews - Don't miss the opportunity to book one of the riverview rooms for a window overlooking the MississippiRestaurant - Maxwell's On The River champions fresh, local, seasonal fare in its classic American dishesThis 'Pearl of the Mississippi' boasts modernist interiors, great river views, and classic American dining in downtown Muscatine. Rooms are light and airy, public areas have floor-to-ceiling windows, and the hotel boasts a heated indoor saltwater pool. A romantic riverside option. See More
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Hotel Grinnell Grinnell, Iowa 45 rooms from €241
City Style - Suites boast luxe amenities like showers for two, fluffy bathrobes, hand-crafted furniture, thoughtful in-room tech & Smart TVsWeddings - With polished wood floors and basketball court markings, the former gymnasium has been converted into a venue with a differenceGroups - The Bunk Room is perfect for a sports team, group of friends or large family; it's home to 10 bunkbeds!Sights nearby - Kids will love the Grinnell Mutual Family Aquatic Center; it boasts a lazy river, two water slides and diving boardsPlayful boutique hotel set in a former school building. Stylish rooms feature sleek canopy beds, original hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings and custom artwork. Expect lots of fun school-themed touches; dine at the Periodic Table restaurant or get married in the gym. A cool modern downtown option. See More