Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Iowa (Currently Open)
Iowa may not be the first destination that springs to mind when you think of luxury getaways, but that’s part of the charm. Across the Hawkeye State, you’ll find historic landmarks, boutique stays, and scenic resorts that showcase the best places to stay in Iowa, each offering distinct character, local culture, and comfort. In this guide, I’ll walk you through 15 iconic hotels and getaways in Iowa—all currently open—that span the state geographically and stylistically: perfect for curious tourists, families, locals seeking stay-cations, and enthusiasts chasing memorable stays.
Introduction
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer road-trip through Iowa, the accommodation you choose can elevate the entire experience. From restored early 20th-century hotels to lakeside resort hideaways, these properties embody craft, history, and place. I’ve selected hotels that offer more than a bed—they provide story, comfort, regional flavor, and unique services. As you scroll, you’ll see:
Options across multiple regions of Iowa (east, west, central, north)
Historic gems, boutique style, resort retreats and family-friendly stays
Key highlights so you know why each is iconic and what makes it memorable
Pro tips for choosing, booking and maximizing your stay
Let’s dive into Iowa’s lodging gems.
1. **Hotel Julien Dubuque – Dubuque (Northeast Iowa)
Located in Dubuque’s Old Main District, Hotel Julien Dubuque stands as one of the most prominent historic hotels in the state. hoteljuliendubuque.com+1
Why it’s iconic
Originally opened during the mid-19th century, rebuilt in 1915 in Beaux Arts style. Travel Iowa+1
133 guest rooms range from elegant kings to themed suites (e.g., the famous Al Capone suite). hoteljuliendubuque.com
Modern amenities meet historic architecture: full-service spa, indoor pool, proximity to riverfront attractions.
What to know
Ideal for couples, heritage travellers, or anyone wanting a “stay with story.”
Use as a base for exploring the Mississippi River bluff region and Dubuque’s riverside culture.
Consider a room with a river view for added ambiance.
2. **Historic Park Inn Hotel – Mason City (North-Central Iowa)
For architecture lovers and design enthusiasts, this hotel offers something truly special: the only remaining hotel designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The Historic Park Inn Hotel+1
Why it’s iconic
Built 1910, Wright’s Prairie Style architecture; 27 unique rooms preserve design integrity. The Historic Park Inn Hotel
Boutique lodging experience with restaurants and a design-forward vibe in a small city setting.
What to know
A stay here is more than a night—it’s an architectural experience.
Combine with a tour of other Wright-designed buildings in Mason City for a full day of design immersion.
Book early—limited rooms due to boutique size.
3. **The Warrior Hotel – Sioux City (Western Iowa)
Westward in Sioux City stands The Warrior Hotel, a restored Art Deco icon blending period charm with modern luxury. Travel Iowa+1
Why it’s iconic
Built 1930 in Art Deco style; a dramatic downtown landmark. Wikipedia
Features rooftop bar, bowling alley, full-service spa—so it’s not just lodging, it’s experience.
What to know
Western Iowa may feel off-the-beaten-path—but this hotel offers luxury and destination appeal.
Great for a weekend getaway where the hotel is part of the attraction.
Downtown location makes it convenient for exploring Sioux City’s cultural spots.
4. **Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection – Davenport (Eastern Iowa / Quad Cities)
In the vibrant Quad Cities region, Hotel Blackhawk blends historic grandeur with boutique comfort. Hotel Blackhawk+1
Why it’s iconic
Originally opened 1915; renovated to maintain luxury status and historic character. Wikipedia
Central location on the Mississippi river front, adjacent to theatre district and big events.
What to know
Perfect for travelers wanting both city amenities and historic ambiance.
Suitable for families or event-goers thanks to spacious rooms and facilities like an indoor pool.
Ideal for a longer road-trip stop in the eastern Iowa corridor.
5. **The Black Hawk Hotel – Cedar Falls (Northeast Iowa)
An ingrained piece of Iowa’s lodging history, The Black Hawk Hotel offers heritage and comfort in one. Travel Iowa+1
Why it’s iconic
Continuously operating since the 1850s in various incarnations; rebuilt 1914 in Second Empire/Mission style. Travel Iowa
Boutique feel in a college town setting—walkable downtown, charming local businesses.
What to know
Good for those seeking a quiet, historic hotel outside major metro bustle.
A strong choice for pairing city exploration with a sense of lodging heritage.
Check for special historic-room packages.
6. **The Highlander Hotel – Iowa City (Southeast Iowa)
A fun twist on the “iconic hotel” concept—The Highlander Hotel brings retro family-friendly resort vibes near the University of Iowa. Historic Hotels
Why it’s iconic
Originally 1967; restored with a “retro revival” flair—arcade, big indoor pool, designer touches. Historic Hotels
Blend of modern comfort + nostalgic aesthetic, great for families and groups.
What to know
Located just outside Iowa City proper (in Iowa City suburb) so many local restaurants and entertainment nearby.
Room styles vary—choose for fun factor (court-yard, pool view).
Consider when you want a memorable stay that’s lively and energetic rather than historic hush.
7. **The Merrill Hotel & Conference Center, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel – Muscatine (Southeast Iowa)
Located on the Mississippi River in Muscatine, The Merrill is a modern icon combining luxury resort amenities with scenic location. iowabesthotels.com
Why it’s iconic
Offers upscale resort-style lodging in a smaller city context; couples luxury + regional heritage.
Great for romantic getaways, spa weekends, or scenic river-breaks in Iowa.
What to know
Perfect for those seeking luxury without large-city chaos.
Use as a base for exploring the Mississippi riverfront and outdoor scenery.
Check for package deals that include spa treatments or river-view upgrades.
8. **The Oakwood Inn – Okoboji (Northwest Iowa)
If you’re heading to the Iowa Great Lakes region, The Oakwood Inn offers a peaceful, adult-focused boutique stay with charm. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Victorian-style inn with modern comforts and classic touches—ideal for couples.
Proximity to lake activities, nature, and small-town relaxation.
What to know
Located in a resort region—expect higher rates in peak season.
Ideal for adult getaways, anniversaries or slower paced stays.
9. **The Rewind Hotel – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
For a stay in Iowa’s capital city that leans modern and stylish, The Rewind Hotel stands out. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Contemporary design, strong value, good amenities for business or leisure.
Great central location for exploring downtown Des Moines, arts, food and nightlife.
What to know
Ideal choice in Des Moines if you want boutique style in a city center location.
Consider if you’re pairing business-travel with a stay that feels less “chain hotel” and more “something special.”
10. **Hotel Pattee – Perry (West-Central Iowa)
Stepping a little off the major corridors, Hotel Pattee is a hidden gem of historic boutique lodging with art collection and themed rooms. Travel Iowa
Why it’s iconic
Opened 1913; each of its 40 rooms is individually decorated and themed—inspiring and charming. Travel Iowa
Art collection in the lobby, historic architecture, and personal touches set it apart.
What to know
Great for those seeking unique character rather than typical hotel chain experience.
Location is less central for big-city convention travel, but ideal for scenic routes or romantic escapes.
Consider staying here as part of a loop through western Iowa or connecting to natural attractions.
11. **Graduate Iowa City – Iowa City (Southeast Iowa)
A stylish boutique hotel with local flavor, the Graduate Iowa City appeals to travelers who want something vibrant, context-rich and design-forward. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Located near the University of Iowa, offering energetic surroundings, modern design, and local culture.
Great for friends groups, cultural visits, arts and dining explorations.
What to know
Though not “historic” in the same sense as some older hotels, this stay packs character and modern amenities.
Perfect for city stays where you’ll explore museums, theatre, cafés.
Book early in university event weekends.
12. **Inn Hotel Okoboji – Okoboji (Northwest Iowa)
Another excellent choice in the Iowa Great Lakes region, the Inn Hotel Okoboji mixes lake-resort energy with boutique style. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Rooftop pool, stylish design, lake-view opportunities—all in a relaxed resort town.
Ideal for family trips or groups seeking classic “Midwest lake getaway” feel with elevated style.
What to know
Summer is peak; visit shoulder seasons for more value and fewer crowds.
Combine stay with boating, sailing, lakeside dining for full experience.
13. **Brown Street Inn – Iowa City (Southeast Iowa)
For a quieter, historic-inn option, Brown Street Inn in Iowa City offers charm and comfort in a heritage cottage setting. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Cozy, antique-filled cottage stay within walking distance of downtown Iowa City.
Ideal for couples, history-lovers, or those wanting base for cultural exploration.
What to know
Simpler than full-service hotel—so check for amenities and preferences.
A strong value choice in a great neighborhood.
14. **The Fort Hotel – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
Blending historic roots and modern luxury, The Fort Hotel offers stylish stay in Iowa’s capital. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Historically significant lodging; elevated with modern touches and design.
Great for business travelers who appreciate aesthetic, or leisure travelers in the city.
What to know
Central location means easy access to dining, theater, museums.
Book ahead for major events in Des Moines (fair, conventions) to secure best rate.
15. **Inn on Central – Le Mars (Northwest Iowa)
Rounding out the list is a hidden-gem stay: Inn on Central in Le Mars. While smaller in scale than some others, it offers memorable ambiance and local flavor. The Hotel Guru
Why it’s iconic
Boutique inn with character, in a small town setting; fine for couples or quiet getaways.
Opportunity to pair with regional scenery, small-town exploration, and a slower pace.
What to know
Best suited for travelers seeking calm, charm and regional authenticity.
Use as a base for exploring north-western Iowa rural landscapes or connecting to lakes/trails.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Stay
Since we’ve reviewed 15 standout stays, here are some tips to help you pick:
Region matters: Want lake-time? Go Okoboji stays. Urban and arts? Iowa City or Des Moines. Historic downtown? Dubuque, Davenport, Mason City.
Style vs. budget: Historic luxury (Hotel Julien, Warrior) means premium rate. Boutique inns offer strong value.
Travel purpose:
Romantic getaway → Oakwood Inn, Hotel Pattee
Family stay → Highlander Hotel, Inn Hotel Okoboji
Business or city culture → The Rewind, The Fort, Hotel Blackhawk
Historic appeal: If architecture and story matter, pick Historic Park Inn or Blackhawk.
Group size / amenities: For groups or longer stays, look for suite-style rooms.
Seasonal demand: Resort areas fill up in summer; city hotels may spike during conventions or fairs—book early.
Why These Stays Are Searchable and Evergreen
From an SEO perspective, the topic of “iconic hotels and getaways in Iowa” hits a few sweet spots:
“Best places to stay in Iowa” is a high-search term for travelers planning Midwest routes.
“Historic hotels in Iowa”, “luxury resort Iowa Great Lakes”, “boutique hotel Iowa City” are all viable long-tail variations.
These hotels carry story (historical architecture, restored properties) which adds value for sharing and referencing.
The geographic spread ensures that someone searching “hotels in Dubuque”, “hotel in Sioux City”, “lake resort Iowa” can find relevant results.
Because these hotels are currently open and regularly featured in travel media, content remains evergreen and clickable.
Practical Booking & Stay Tips
Here are some actionable tips to optimize your stay and booking:
Check historic-hotel packages: Many offer special weekend packages, “heritage stay” deals or seasonal discounts.
Ask about room upgrades: For historic hotels with themed rooms (Hotel Julien, Hotel Pattee) or boutique design (Graduate Iowa City), upgrading enriches the experience.
Off-peak travel: Stay Monday–Thursday or off-season to capture lower rates and fewer crowds.
Explore nearby: Choose a getaway and then explore surrounding area–for example, staying at Oakwood Inn and boating Okoboji, or staying in Dubuque and exploring the Mississippi River area.
Check amenities: Historic hotels may have fewer “resort” amenities (pool, spa) but greater charm. Choose according to what matters most.
Support the local economy: Many of these hotels are locally owned or have significant ties to regional heritage—your stay supports that ecosystem.
Conclusion
From the riverfront elegance of Hotel Julien in Dubuque to the lake-side retreat of Oakwood Inn in Okoboji, Iowa’s lodging scene offers wonderful variety. Whether you’re after historic grandeur, boutique flair, family-friendly fun, or luxury escapes, there’s a stay here that fits. These top 15 iconic hotels and getaways in Iowa are currently open, region-diverse, and rich with character.