What’s the best duration for a trip to see all that Iowa, United States, has to offer?

There's no single answer, as it depends on your interests and pace. A week allows for a good overview of major cities and attractions. However, to truly explore Iowa's diverse landscapes and smaller towns, two weeks or more would be ideal. Consider focusing on specific regions – like the northeast's Driftless Area or the western Loess Hills – for a shorter trip.

What are the best motels in Iowa?

Among the motels in Iowa, Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing , Crest Country Inn and Covered Bridge Inn are the most popular ones.

Does Iowa, United States, have any must-see festivals?

Iowa hosts many events. The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is a massive annual event showcasing agriculture, entertainment, and food. Smaller, more localised festivals celebrating heritage and local produce are common throughout the state, though specific dates vary yearly.

How can you connect with the local community to gain insights into the culture of Iowa, United States?

Visiting local farmers' markets is a great way to interact with residents and sample local produce. Many smaller towns have charming cafes and diners where you can strike up conversations with locals. Attending community events or festivals will also provide opportunities to meet people and learn about their experiences.

Where can you find the hidden gems and lesser-explored attractions in Iowa, United States?

The smaller towns across Iowa hold many hidden gems. Exploring the backroads and stopping at unexpected sights will often lead to discoveries. The Maquoketa Caves State Park offers a unique underground experience, while the Effigy Mounds National Monument showcases ancient burial mounds. Many state parks and smaller museums offer a glimpse into local history and culture away from the main tourist routes.

What are the best motels with parking in Iowa?

Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing , Crest Country Inn and Covered Bridge Inn are the best motels with parking in Iowa.

What are the best affordable restaurants with local dishes in Iowa, United States?

Iowa boasts many affordable eateries serving local cuisine. Small-town diners often offer hearty, home-style meals at reasonable prices. Look for places serving classic Midwestern dishes like tenderloin sandwiches or loose meat (sloppy joe) sandwiches. Many local breweries also offer pub fare.

What are the must-visit nightlife spots in Iowa, United States?

Nightlife in Iowa varies by city. Des Moines has a wider range of bars and clubs, while smaller towns often feature more relaxed pub scenes. Many breweries offer tasting rooms and live music. Checking local event listings will help you discover current nightlife options.

What should you pack for a weekend in Iowa, United States?

Iowa's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan on exploring outdoors. Depending on the time of year, you might need rain gear and a light jacket. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also advisable.

What are the lesser-known or hidden attractions in Iowa, United States?

Beyond the well-known sites, Iowa offers many hidden attractions. The Amana Colonies, a collection of seven villages founded by German Pietists, provide a unique cultural experience. Exploring the many state parks, such as Backbone State Park with its stunning rock formations, unveils more of Iowa's natural beauty. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque is another underappreciated gem.

Iowa Motels at the Best Price

9.5 12 reviews

Motel Tipton

motel, Tipton

Motel Tipton, Iowa, offers pet-friendly accommodation 47 kilometres from Kinnick Stadium and 68 kilometres from Eastern Iowa Airport.
This 25-square-metre lodging comprises one bedroom, one bathroom, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and in-room amenities including a desk, flat-screen TV, and microwave.

8.2 428 reviews

Travelodge By Wyndham Spirit Lake/okoboji

motel, Spirit Lake

Travelodge by Wyndham Spirit Lake/Okoboji is conveniently located in Spirit Lake, Iowa, 8.2 km from Arnolds Park Amusement Park.
This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom motel offers free Wi-Fi, parking, a restaurant, and a garden, with easy access to local attractions and boasting a 24-hour front desk.

8.2 1303 reviews

Americinn By Wyndham Sioux City

motel, Sioux City

The AmericInn Lodge and Suites is conveniently situated just off Interstate 29, a short 15-minute drive from the centre of Sioux City, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The hotel consistently receives very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
The hotel offers comfortable and well-equipped rooms with a floor area of 33 square metres. Amenities include an indoor heated pool, a jacuzzi, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, room service, and a complimentary continental breakfast.

8.6 87 reviews

Midway Motel

motel, Guthrie Center

The Midway Motel is located in Guthrie Center, Iowa, 87 kilometres from Des Moines International Airport. The motel has received very good ratings for location and user experience, with excellent marks for cleanliness.
The motel offers a peaceful garden setting and comfortable rooms with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy convenient amenities such as free parking, room service, and a 24-hour front desk.

No reviews

Motel 6 Cedar Rapids

motel, Cedar Rapids

This motel offers convenient lodging in Cedar Rapids, situated within easy reach of downtown and major roadways, with ample parking and quiet surroundings. Guests can enjoy affordable accommodation close to local dining and shopping, ideal for exploring the city's attractions.

8.1 690 reviews

Super 8 By Wyndham Storm Lake

motel, Storm Lake

This motel is conveniently located just 1.5 kilometres from Kings Pointe Waterpark, a 5-minute walk from Storm Lake town centre and a short drive from the lake. Guests have consistently rated the motel highly for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The motel offers comfortable accommodation with a single bedroom and bathroom, spanning 25 square metres. The motel provides a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, cable TV with HBO, and 24-hour front desk service.

8.8 344 reviews

Little River Inn Motel

motel, Leon

Little River Inn Motel is located in Leon, Iowa, a small town about 105 kilometres from Des Moines International Airport. The motel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The motel offers a peaceful garden setting for guests to relax. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking, a continental breakfast, a grill for barbecuing, and comfortable rooms with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning and private bathrooms.

9.0 66 reviews

Sportsmen Motel

motel, New Albin

This motel is situated in a peaceful rural setting, approximately 25 kilometres from attractions such as Bluff Country Artists Gallery, Spring Grove Aquatics Center, and Locust School. It has received excellent user ratings, suggesting a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The accommodation offers free parking and Wi-Fi in public areas, making it easy to explore the surrounding area and stay connected. Guests can also enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and easy access to nearby historical sites and natural beauty.

8.4 25 reviews

The Trail Inn - Stanton, Ia - 620 Halland Ave

motel, Stanton

The Trail Inn motel is located on Halland Avenue in Stanton, Iowa, approximately 101 kilometres from Eppley Airfield Airport.
This single-bedroom, single-bathroom lodging offers free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, parking, and accepts pets; guests can enjoy a flat-screen TV and complimentary toiletries.

No reviews

Motel 6 Waterloo

motel, Waterloo

This motel offers straightforward accommodation in the west end of Waterloo, providing easy access to the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, both within a short drive.
Guests benefit from ample parking and convenient connections to local transit routes, making this a functional base for exploring the city and visiting nearby educational institutions.

8.3 1570 reviews

Super 8 By Wyndham Sioux City South

motel, Sioux City

Super 8 by Wyndham Sioux City South is conveniently located off Interstate 29, approximately 3.2 kilometres from Southern Hills Mall and 5.6 kilometres from Sioux City Airport.
This pet-friendly hotel offers 1-bedroom rooms with en-suite bathrooms, microwaves, fridges, free Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry facilities, plus a business centre and restaurant with room service.

8.3 1259 reviews

Baymont By Wyndham Pella

motel, Pella

The Baymont Inn & Suites is located just two miles from Pella's historic district, offering easy access to the town's charming shops, restaurants, and the Pella Historical Village. The hotel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The motel offers spacious rooms with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, fitness centre, and complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Best Iowa motels with breakfast

Among the 195 motels in Iowa, here are the 8 best motels with breakfast

8.2 1100 reviews

Super 8 By Wyndham Mt Pleasant

motel, Mount Pleasant

The Super 8 by Wyndham Mt Pleasant is conveniently located just off Highway 34, a short distance from both the Mount Pleasant Municipal Airport and the Mount Pleasant Golf & Country Club. This motel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience from previous guests.
The motel features single rooms with one bathroom, each offering 25 square metres of space. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a complimentary American breakfast, and a 24-hour front desk.

9.3 1186 reviews

Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing

motel, Coralville

The Homewood Suites by Hilton Coralville – Iowa River Landing is located in Coralville, just a short distance from the University of Iowa and Kinnick Stadium, and is situated in a lively area with a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. It has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall guest experience.
This hotel offers a variety of amenities and activities for guests. Each room features a fully equipped kitchen, and guests can enjoy a free hot breakfast each morning, an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness centre.

8.1 1109 reviews

Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Atlantic

motel, Atlantic

This motel is situated in Atlantic, Iowa, just 4 kilometres from the Coca-Cola Bottling Plant, making it a convenient base for exploring the town. It consistently receives very good ratings for location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The motel offers a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, a garden, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness centre. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and access to a laundry facility.

8.7 224 reviews

Belva Deer Inn

motel, Sigourney

This motel is conveniently located in the centre of Sigourney, just a short walk from the town square and within a 1 kilometre drive of the Sigourney Historical Museum and the Sigourney Public Library. The motel has received very good user ratings and excellent ratings for its location and cleanliness.
The motel has one bedroom and one bathroom, and offers a range of amenities including a fridge, microwave oven, air conditioning, a garden, a spa, and parking. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay with free internet access, a 24-hour front desk, and a quiet and peaceful location.

9.0 658 reviews

Vintage Block Inn & Suites

motel, Okoboji

The Vintage Block Inn & Suites is located in Okoboji, just a short two-mile drive from Arnolds Park Amusement Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. This 3-star hotel receives consistently good ratings from guests, highlighting its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
The inn offers a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests can enjoy the on-site swimming pool, relax on the terrace or in the garden, and stay connected with free Wi-Fi.

8.1 551 reviews

Super 8 By Wyndham Osceola Ia

motel, Osceola

The Super 8 by Wyndham Osceola is conveniently located just off Interstate 35, less than 5 kilometres from Terrible's Lakeside Casino and under 8 kilometres from the Lyric Theatre in Osceola, Iowa.
This pet-friendly hotel offers rooms with a fridge, microwave, and complimentary American breakfast, plus amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi; guests can also enjoy on-site dining and parking.

8.4 389 reviews

Heartland Hotel & Suites

motel, Rock Valley

This motel is located in Rock Valley, Iowa, just 30km from Orange City, known for its tulip festival celebrating Dutch heritage, and 30km from Oak Grove State Park. The hotel enjoys very good ratings for location, cleanliness and user experience.
The motel offers comfortable rooms with kitchenettes, a fitness centre and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast and parking for larger vehicles.

9.0 612 reviews

Hampton Inn Clinton

motel, Clinton

The Hampton Inn Clinton is conveniently located near Wild Rose Casino, less than 5 miles from historic downtown Clinton and the Mississippi River. The hotel is well-regarded, with excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The motel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, relax in the heated indoor pool, or work out in the fitness centre.

Top Family-Friendly Motels in Iowa

8.0 1397 reviews

Americinn By Wyndham Johnston Des Moines

motel, Johnston

The Americinn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines is conveniently located in Johnston, Iowa, within 5km of Merle Hay Mall, Pioneer Hi-Bred Headquarters, and the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, and within 10km of Buccaneer Arena and Waveland Municipal Golf Course.
This 2.5-star hotel offers guests an indoor pool, fitness centre, free continental breakfast, and free Wi-Fi, alongside room service, parking, and a business centre.

9.1 827 reviews

Crest Country Inn

motel, Williamsburg

The Crest Country Inn is conveniently located in Williamsburg, just across the street from the Tanger Outlet Williamsburg and a short 6-kilometre drive from the Kinze Innovation Center. It enjoys an excellent user rating and is highly praised for its location and cleanliness.
The hotel offers a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms in each room. Guests can also enjoy a terrace, garden, and room service, as well as free parking on-site.

8.3 652 reviews

Dutch Inn And Suites

motel, Orange City

DUTCH INN AND SUITES is located in Orange City, just a short distance from the city centre and its main attractions. This motel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The motel offers comfortable rooms with amenities such as desks, flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and parking, along with a garden, spa, and jacuzzi.

Frequently asked questions about motels in Iowa

What’s the best duration for a trip to see all that Iowa, United States, has to offer?
There's no single answer, as it depends on your interests and pace. A week allows for a good overview of major cities and attractions. However, to truly explore Iowa's diverse landscapes and smaller towns, two weeks or more would be ideal. Consider focusing on specific regions – like the northeast's Driftless Area or the western Loess Hills – for a shorter trip.
What are the best motels in Iowa?
Among the motels in Iowa, Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing, Crest Country Inn and Covered Bridge Inn are the most popular ones.
Does Iowa, United States, have any must-see festivals?
Iowa hosts many events. The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is a massive annual event showcasing agriculture, entertainment, and food. Smaller, more localised festivals celebrating heritage and local produce are common throughout the state, though specific dates vary yearly.
What are the best motels for families and kids in Iowa?
The best motels for families and kids in Iowa are Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing, Crest Country Inn and Baymont By Wyndham Pella.
How can you connect with the local community to gain insights into the culture of Iowa, United States?
Visiting local farmers' markets is a great way to interact with residents and sample local produce. Many smaller towns have charming cafes and diners where you can strike up conversations with locals. Attending community events or festivals will also provide opportunities to meet people and learn about their experiences.
What are the best pet friendly motels in Iowa?
The best pet friendly motels in Iowa are Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing, Crest Country Inn and Covered Bridge Inn.
Where can you find the hidden gems and lesser-explored attractions in Iowa, United States?
The smaller towns across Iowa hold many hidden gems. Exploring the backroads and stopping at unexpected sights will often lead to discoveries. The Maquoketa Caves State Park offers a unique underground experience, while the Effigy Mounds National Monument showcases ancient burial mounds. Many state parks and smaller museums offer a glimpse into local history and culture away from the main tourist routes.
What are the best motels with parking in Iowa?
Homewood Suites By Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing, Crest Country Inn and Covered Bridge Inn are the best motels with parking in Iowa.
What are the best affordable restaurants with local dishes in Iowa, United States?
Iowa boasts many affordable eateries serving local cuisine. Small-town diners often offer hearty, home-style meals at reasonable prices. Look for places serving classic Midwestern dishes like tenderloin sandwiches or loose meat (sloppy joe) sandwiches. Many local breweries also offer pub fare.
What are the must-visit nightlife spots in Iowa, United States?
Nightlife in Iowa varies by city. Des Moines has a wider range of bars and clubs, while smaller towns often feature more relaxed pub scenes. Many breweries offer tasting rooms and live music. Checking local event listings will help you discover current nightlife options.
What should you pack for a weekend in Iowa, United States?
Iowa's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan on exploring outdoors. Depending on the time of year, you might need rain gear and a light jacket. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also advisable.
What are the lesser-known or hidden attractions in Iowa, United States?
Beyond the well-known sites, Iowa offers many hidden attractions. The Amana Colonies, a collection of seven villages founded by German Pietists, provide a unique cultural experience. Exploring the many state parks, such as Backbone State Park with its stunning rock formations, unveils more of Iowa's natural beauty. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque is another underappreciated gem.

Nearby regions

Best Iowa motels with a pool