Iowa Hotels

Iowa: Where Heartland Heritage Meets Natural Wonders

Iowa, USA, invites you to explore its charming blend of academia and rustic beauty. Discover vibrant university towns buzzing with youthful energy and cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in scenic landscapes, from rolling farmlands to serene rivers, perfect for outdoor adventures. Enjoy local festivals, historic sites, and warm Midwestern hospitality. Whether you're strolling through college campuses or exploring quaint small towns, Iowa offers a refreshing escape with a unique academic allure. Experience the heartland's genuine charm and let Iowa's inviting spirit guide your journey.

Discover great hotels in Iowa

Iowa offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to luxury hotels. Travelers can enjoy comfortable amenities, inviting lounges, and scenic surroundings in many hotels in Iowa. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Iowa:

1. The Warrior HotelOpens in a new window: This striking 5.0-star hotel in Sioux City offers a refined experience with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Enjoy distinctive features such as a rooftop bar, exquisite architectural design, and a welcoming ambiance perfect for leisure travelers seeking a luxurious escape. The hotel is celebrated for its modern amenities including heated toilet seats and well-appointed rooms, ensuring a smooth and high-quality stay. Enjoy curated experiences and expressive design that sets the stage for an unforgettable visit.
2. Revel Hotel Des Moines UrbandaleOpens in a new window: This elegant 4.5-star hotel in Urbandale, with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, is tailored for leisure travelers who value comfort and luxury. Featuring exceptional amenities such as an inviting pool area, high-end breakfast selections, and meticulously maintained spaces, this property provides a seamless experience. The hotel's refined atmosphere and professional service create a memorable setting for guests who appreciate a sophisticated and indulgent vacation.
3. Hotel Fort Des MoinesOpens in a new window: This modern 4.5-star hotel in Urbandale boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10 and caters to leisure travelers seeking a blend of contemporary style and high-quality comfort. With express check-in and spacious, exceptionally clean rooms, the hotel offers a refined setting complete with curated experiences and stylish design elements. The focus on a luxurious vacation experience is evident in every detail, ensuring a smooth and memorable stay.

Where to stay in Iowa

In Des Moines, Clear Lake, Cedar Rapids, Iowa offers vibrant experiences: Des Moines boasts sports, live music, festivals, and diverse entertainment near iconic sites like the State Capitol; Clear Lake charms with lakeside sunsets, live music, and serene parks; Cedar Rapids impresses with trendy dining, museums, and family-friendly vibes. For first-time visitors, Des Moines is ideal for its dynamic urban appeal.

1. Des MoinesOpens in a new window: Des Moines is the vibrant heart of Iowa, brimming with cultural experiences and exciting events. It’s known for its lively sports scene, hosting everything from basketball games to football matches. You can immerse yourself in local festivals and live music performances throughout the year. A must-see is the Iowa State Fairgrounds, famous for its annual fair, where you can enjoy rides, food, and entertainment. The Iowa State Capitol Building is another highlight, offering stunning architecture and guided tours. For shopping enthusiasts, the downtown area features a variety of boutiques and shops. Adventureland offers a fun-filled day for families, with rides and attractions that cater to all ages.
2. Clear LakeOpens in a new window: Clear Lake offers a charming lakeside escape perfect for relaxation and entertainment. Its beautiful sunsets over the water create a picturesque backdrop for any traveler. You can enjoy live music at the Surf Ballroom and Museum, a historic venue that has seen performances from legendary artists. Clear Lake State Park is ideal for outdoor activities, including leisurely walks and picnics by the beach. The local cafes are perfect for enjoying a peaceful afternoon. With a laid-back atmosphere and a focus on arts and culture, Clear Lake is a delightful destination for those seeking a mix of nature and entertainment.
3. Cedar RapidsOpens in a new window: Cedar Rapids is a dynamic city known for its cultural offerings and family-friendly attractions. With a variety of museums and theaters, it’s a great place for those who appreciate the arts. You can experience live music and performances at various venues throughout the city. For those who love shopping, Cedar Rapids boasts trendy boutiques and local shops. The Hawkeye Downs Speedway Expo Center hosts exciting events and races, making it an entertaining spot for thrill-seekers. Whether you're exploring local art, enjoying a show, or indulging in the dining scene, Cedar Rapids provides a rich tapestry of experiences to enjoy.

Things to do in Iowa

Iowa offers lively live music, scenic biking trails, and charming theaters in quaint countryside settings. Enjoy a relaxing day at natural parks or explore the town hall and cathedral in historic towns. Whether hiking through a national state park or camping under starry skies, Iowa is your next getaway destination.

• Dyersville – This charming city offers a unique blend of countryside charm and cultural experiences. One of the must-visit spots is the Field of Dreams, where you can stroll through the iconic baseball field made famous by the movie. Enjoy outdoor activities like biking around the scenic landscape or camp under the stars for a classic American experience. If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, check out local live music and theater performances that showcase the vibrant community spirit.
• Bode – A visit to Bode introduces you to a quaint town atmosphere with historical significance. Explore the impressive Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, a captivating series of grottoes that illustrate biblical stories in a stunning natural setting. After soaking in the cultural aspects, unwind in the recreational area or catch a film at the local cinema. This small town has a welcoming vibe that makes it easy to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
• Maquoketa – Nestled in nature, Maquoketa is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The highlight here is the breathtaking Maquoketa Caves State Park, where you can hike through scenic trails and explore fascinating cave formations. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure or a peaceful escape, this park has it covered. Additionally, the city hosts various entertainment options, including local opera performances, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local arts scene.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Iowa

1. Book for the cheapest times: Visiting Iowa on a budget is a fantastic way to unpack a mix of history, culture, and natural attractions. Travelers can enjoy affordable stays in January, November, and December when hotel prices may drop, making it a great value for money trip. A stay of at least 2 days is ideal to explore key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in Iowa, ensuring you experience all the rich heritage and scenic beauty the state has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Hotels.com may offer big savings on hotels in Iowa through its Deals section, where travelers could find hotel deals to suit their needs. For those seeking last-minute options, the Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window area may reveal discounted rooms as travel dates approach. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool in the app is a handy comparison tool that helps you compare hotel prices and amenities, keeping you informed if prices drop or rooms become available. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you're more likely to see opportunities for a cost-effective getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find better rates for your stay in an Iowa hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and potentially greater value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If it appears to be on the higher side, we can suggest more budget-friendly dates that may help you uncover a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the heart of major cities in Iowa often provides the convenience of being close to local attractions, but it generally comes with a higher price tag. In contrast, accommodations in smaller towns and rural areas are more likely to be affordable. For those looking to save on lodging, opting for hotels outside the city center can often yield better rates, although this may necessitate extra travel to reach key destinations. Additionally, exploring nearby cities can uncover a wealth of attractions and activities while offering more budget-friendly options for your stay.

Best time to go to Iowa

Iowa has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. The peak travel months to visit Iowa are March, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.