Iowa is home to several unique and historic hotels. Each of these properties owns a slice of Iowa history and makes for a memorable stay. I hope you will book a stay at some of these one-of-a-kind properties. Relive a period of time as you enjoy the modern amenities that each property has to offer. Each Iowa town shares their pride and joy with all guests. Once you set foot in one of these unique hotels, you will find yourself immersed in the experience. These moderately priced properties are in the $125 to $175 range per night or lower.
Hotel Winneshiek - Decorah
Hotel Winneshiek is the premier hotel in Decorah. In case you don't know, Decorah is home to Nordic Fest, which salutes Scandinavian heritage. This hotel is part of a thriving Main Street full of shops, restaurants, galleries, parks, and museums. It is home to the historic Opera House that features its original tin walls and ceiling. You will have all of the amenities of the 21st century when you stay here. But once you set foot in the front lobby, you will feel as though you have taken a step back in time to the 19th century.
In the year 2000, Hotel Winneshiek was restored, and the rooms are stunning. When you enter the hotel to check in, you will immediately notice the stunning architecture. The Winneshiek Hotel prides itself on the fact that it is Decorah's only full-service hotel. Small plates and a selection of Iowa craft beers can be found at the Hotel Winneshiek Bar. This unique property offers moderately priced rooms and free parking.
Hotel Pattee - Perry
Perry is home to Hotel Pattee. This property is known as one of the finest historic boutique hotels in the world. With 40 individually decorated and themed guest rooms and a state of the art bowling center, and a spa, you will find something that entices you. This historic hotel dates back to 1912 when Harry Pattee and his brother William announced that they would build a three-story hotel to honor their father David Jackson (DJ) Pattee. The hotel would not be completed until 1913 after DJ Pattee passed away. Throughout the years, it has been renovated several times. Today it is a destination hotel in itself.
The rooms are themed in Bohemian, Irish, Welsh, and there’s even a Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI)-themed room for bicycle fans. It consistently earns awards in the hospitality industry for top-notch customer service. Iowa's High Trestle Trail is nearby, and many bicyclists come to Perry to ride the bike trails. This unique property is a winner for anyone who stays here. If you need an accessible room, call ahead to be sure they have one available.
The Black Hawk Hotel - Cedar Falls
The Black Hawk Hotel is located in downtown Cedar Falls and is sure to win you over. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and has been updated through the years to meet the needs of today's traveler. The Black Hawk Hotel is also the oldest continuously operated hotel in the country. When you arrive in the downtown area from the east, you will notice the Black Hawk Hotel, as it has some unique architectural features that you will not find on other buildings in the area. This unique property offers 28 historic guest rooms and 15 retro-mod motel rooms. These 43 rooms offer historic charm accompanied by modern amenities. You can expect luxury linens and period furniture and antiques in your room.
Several boutiques, flower shops, restaurants, and bars are within walking distance of the hotel on Cedar Falls' dynamic Main Street. George Wyth State Park is nearby and offers hiking and biking trails for the nature lover. Stroll Main Street and search for the sculptures that line the street. The art on Main Street is an Iowa treasure, as it has a little of everything.
Each of these historic hotels in Iowa offers something unique that you won't find elsewhere.