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.
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Iowa (Iowa)
A 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.
Okoboji (Iowa)
Adult-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.
Okoboji (Iowa)
Great-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.
Des Moines (Iowa)
Large 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.
Des Moines (Iowa)
A 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.
Iowa City (Iowa)
Colonial-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.
Sioux City (Iowa)
An 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.
Okoboji (Iowa)
Iconic 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.
Iowa
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.
Iowa City (Iowa)
Funky 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.
Des Moines (Iowa)
Cool 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.
Dubuque (Iowa)
Historic 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.
Iowa City (Iowa)
Stylish 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.
Iowa
Repurposed 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.
Des Moines (Iowa)
A 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.
Davenport (Iowa)
Contemporary 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.
Des Moines (Iowa)
Contemporary-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.
Davenport (Iowa)
Luxe 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.
Iowa (Iowa)
This '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.
Iowa
Playful 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.