Average Rating:
3.9/5
Average Price: $183/per night
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Considering Iowa as your next destination to visit? You won’t be disappointed!
This Midwestern state is affordable and exciting, with plenty of things to see and do. From exploring the great outdoors to visiting historical sites, then basking under the sun on beautiful lakes, you’re in for a memorable trip.
And, if you’re searching for the perfect spot to stay, look no further than Iowa’s all-inclusive resorts.
With some of the best resorts in the Midwest USA, golf courses, and rejuvenating spas, the Iowa Great Lakes region is ideal for extended family vacations or quick weekend escapes.
Also, if you need some relief from the heat, the Iowa resorts are ideal for a vacation during the summer months. You’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise thanks to the crystal blue lakes and sandy beaches.
Keep scrolling to find out our best picks of resorts in Iowa for you!
Aside from being close to the state’s most famous cities and natural attractions, the best Iowa resorts provide lodging options such as cabins, lodges, and cottages.
All of them offer in-house dining and a plethora of activities, making each place the ideal starting and ending point for your vacation in the state.
We know there are lots to see, so let’s check out the best resorts in Iowa:
If you want to get the family out of the house for the weekend, consider staying at a family-friendly and fun-filled hotel or resort.
In Iowa, you’ll find something to fit your taste, whether it’s a family-friendly water park or a quiet getaway where you can reconnect with nature.
Check out any of these great hotels and resorts for families in Iowa, from the Okoboji lakes to the Mississippi River’s coastline.
The Grand Harbor and Waterpark is the Midwest’s leading location for meetings, group gatherings, and family vacations.
It is conveniently located in the Port of Dubuque, Iowa, and offers a winning combination of service, amenities, and entertainment.
Many of Dubuque’s top entertainment options, such as the National Mississippi River Museum and Diamond Jo Casino, are within walking distance of Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark, making it the perfect place to stay and explore.
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Address:
350 Bell St, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States
Closest airport:
Dubuque Regional Airport – 20 miles
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Set along the shores of Rathbun Lake in south-central Iowa, Honey Creek Resort is the ideal holiday destination for you to indulge in peace and relaxation.
Explore nature’s wonders with their hands-on educational programs, savor delicious cuisine at the restaurant, or go outside for a variety of fun activities.
You’ll be able to retire to a pleasant and quiet location after a day of exploring wide-open spaces at this Iowa lake resort.
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*Luxury cottages available
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Address:
12633 Resort Dr, Moravia, IA 52571, United States
Closest airport:
Centerville Municipal Airport (TVK) – 30 miles
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Ramada Tropics Resort is the only Des Moines hotel with an indoor waterpark, offering a fun escape for families and business travelers.
Located in Urbandale/Des Moines, this hotel boasts a full-service restaurant, a tiki bar, and free Wi-Fi to keep up with your work throughout the property.
Whether you are in town for a business conference or a family holiday, the friendly staff will make sure your stay is relaxing and enjoyable.
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Address:
5000 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50322, United States
Closest airport:
Des Moines International Airport – 35 miles
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Consider a stay at a water park resort in Iowa when planning a summer vacation getaway for the entire family.
A selection of fun-filled attractions and slides, swimming pools and hot tubs, as well as luxury accommodations, restaurants, and activity centers, are all available at these indoor and outdoor waterpark resorts.
So, even if a beach visit isn’t on your summer holiday itinerary, there are still plenty of opportunities to go wet and crazy within driving distance.
Get the family or friends together and travel to one of these Iowa water park resorts.
Welcome to Kings Pointe Waterpark Resort.
This is one of Iowa’s most luxurious lake resorts, offering spacious rooms and cottages, alfresco restaurants and fire pits, as well as a mini-golf and nine-hole golf course across the street.
The kids will especially love this place, known as “the pinnacle of family entertainment.” They will enjoy the slippery slides at the indoor and outdoor waterparks and everything else this ultimate aquatic place has to offer.
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Address:
1520 E Lakeshore Dr, Storm Lake, IA 50588, United States
Closest airport:
Storm Lake Airport – 10 miles
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Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center is a hotel located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region, near a stunning 27-hole golf course, and is within walking distance of West Okoboji Lake.
Whether you’re looking for an active getaway or a place to chill after a full day of activities, Arrowwood Resort offers a variety of comfortable rooms and amenities that will help you unwind.
With so many things to do nearby and on-site, you’ll never feel bored here.
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Address:
1405 US-71, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States
Closest airport:
Spirit Lake Municipal Airport -2 miles
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Bridges Bay Resort is Lake Okoboji’s only waterpark resort, where you’ll find all of the necessities for a beautiful vacation.
The different cabins, condos, and classic room layouts will match your needs and make your stay particularly special, regardless of the size of your company.
Never mind the weather when you can enjoy yourself at the Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark or its newly remodeled outdoor pool and adult swim-up bar in the summer.
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Address:
630 Linden Dr, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States
Closest airport:
Spirit Lake Municipal Airport – 6 miles
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Imagine carving through a bed of snow with your friends or family, savoring the warmth of exhilaration in the fresh air.
Isn’t that a lovely memory to treasure forever?
If you’re itching to hit the slopes this winter, Iowa has you covered.
Despite the low vertical, Iowa’s several ski areas can take advantage of the state’s chilly and snowy winters while providing enough fun for Hawkeye skiers and riders.
From the Missouri and Mississippi River bluffs and outcroppings to a few jewels just across the border, these two top Iowa ski resorts are great for you and your family!
Browse our picks and see how your favorite ski area stacks up among the top-rated in terms of skiing and après.
This 85-acre resort is carved amid picturesque cedar woods and has cutting-edge snowmaking, making it one of the top Midwest ski resort locations.
It has lots of snowy fun for all ages and abilities, whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder or just learning how to go down the hill.
And the best part? The Kids Park Learn to Ski or Ride program can give your kids the skills they need to have fun on the slopes all winter long.
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Address:
16991 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002, United States
Closest airport:
Dubuque Regional Airport, 11000 Airport Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003 – 14 miles
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There is no better spot to experience the Iowa winter than Mt. Crescent Ski Area.
Because of the excellent grooming, the terrain is suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
You can also enjoy other winter activities like tubing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.
Moreover, if you don’t know how to ski, they provide a variety of classes, even for children.
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Address:
17026 Snowhill Ln, Honey Creek, IA 51542, United States
Closest airport:
Eppley Airport Terminal, Omaha – 14 miles
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When it comes to rest and relaxation, nothing compares to enjoying an indulgent spa treatment. But there’s a certain cliché that you must travel to far-off destinations to experience the mind and body rejuvenation of an award-winning spa.
The reality is, there’s probably a spa resort very close to you.
Iowa’s spa resorts are the perfect place for a relaxing vacation, offering high-end accommodations, entertainment, and exceptional service.
The one-of-a-kind spa packages make it easy to enjoy tranquility without breaking the bank and provide an authentic experience.
So mark your calendar and prepare for a blissful experience at one of these spa resorts in Iowa. We promise you will not be disappointed.
Hotel Blackhawk is ranked as the #1 hotel in Davenport, Iowa, and is the leading boutique full-service hotel in the heart of downtown Davenport, in the Quad Cities.
It features luxurious guest rooms and suites overlooking the Mississippi River and great dining options for your pleasure.
Experience award-winning service and affordable luxury at this spa resort in Iowa, perfect for business or leisure travelers and just minutes away from Moline, Bettendorf, East Moline, and Rock Island.
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Address:
200 E 3rd St, Davenport, IA 52801, United States
Closest airport:
Quad-City Airport – 9 miles
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Hotel Julien Dubuque is a luxurious spa resort set in the heart of Iowa.
With lavish guest rooms filled with modern amenities and a historic charm in the heart of the Old Main District, it is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.
The on-site spa offers exceptional treatments, and guests can enjoy great dining and drinks at the hotel’s restaurants and bars.
Visit this elegant boutique hotel and experience the ultimate in relaxation and sophistication.
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Address:
200 Main St, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States
Closest airport:
Cedar Rapids Municipal Airport – 82 miles
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Rhythm City Casino Resort is a luxurious casino resort in Iowa that offers exceptional service, luxurious accommodation, and plenty of dining options.
There is also a casino on-site for those who want to try their luck, and the shopping offerings are sure to satisfy even the most discerning shopper.
Plus, what could be better than winding down after a day of exploring with a relaxing spa package? Rhythm City Casino Resort is perfect for vacations, weekend getaways, and even business trips.
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Address:
7077 Elmore Avenue, Davenport, IA 52807, United States
Closest airport:
Quad-City International Airport – 12 miles
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The Iowa golf resorts are some of the best in the Midwest, perfect for every skill level as well as for those who just want to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
They offer championship golf courses, delicious food, luxurious accommodations, and a wealth of activities for guests of all ages.
And the best part is that the resorts are tucked away in some of the most picturesque landscapes in the state, making them perfect for a picture-perfect getaway.
Check out the top three golf resorts in Iowa that we picked for you!
The Riverside Casino and Golf Resort is a luxurious Iowa golf resort that offers world-class golfing, dining, and luxurious accommodations.
The on-site casino provides Las Vegas-style entertainment, and the spa packages are perfect for a relaxing getaway.
With many amenities and activities available on-site, this resort is the ideal place to stay for anyone looking for a relaxing or adrenaline-filled vacation.
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3184 IA-22, Riverside, IA 52327, United States
Closest airport:
Cedar Rapids Airport – 33 miles
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Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort is a casino resort in Iowa that offers luxurious accommodations, many dining options, and ultimate fun.
Indulge in delicious cuisine and premium drinks while you enjoy some of the best live entertainment combined with casino games and relaxing pool and spa activities.
Whether you want to put your luck to the test or want to experience some live entertainment in a luxurious setting, Grand Falls will meet all your needs!
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Address:
1415 Grand Falls Blvd, Larchwood, IA 51241, United States
Closest airport:
Sioux Falls Regional Airport – 16 miles
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Qube Hotel is a spot in a safe, relaxing environment for travelers from all over the world.
Nestled in the Iowan farmlands, Qube Hotel has become one of the best Iowa golf resorts due to its modern accommodations, supportive services, and excellent amenities.
There’s also plenty to do at the resort, with lots of on-site entertainment and activities. You’ll find a world championship golf course here, making it the perfect destination for any golf enthusiast.
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Address:
300 Boulder Pointe, Polk City, IA 50226, United States
Closest airport:
Des Moines International Airport – 30 miles
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When it comes to Iowa vacation spots, there are plenty to choose from.
With so much to see and do in each of these locations, you will surely discover the ideal destination for your next vacation.
Des Moines is the capital of Iowa and is full of history and culture. It offers a variety of museums, art galleries, and historical sites to explore. You can also enjoy many dining and shopping options.
Dubuque is a city located on the Mississippi River and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s possible to go on a hike, a bike ride, or fish in the city. Several of Dubuque’s blufftop parks provide excellent vistas of the Mississippi River.
Sioux City is a neatly set town on the banks of the Missouri River and a popular destination for young people seeking a fun night out. Bars, clubs, and restaurants abound in the city. There are several live music venues in Sioux City where you can enjoy a concert by local artists.
Is Iowa on your schedule, and you’re looking for things to do while you are there?
Iowa State has plenty to offer you, whether you’re looking for nature trails, historic homes, or eccentric roadside attractions. Keep reading and choose which one will be first on your list.
The High Trestle Trail Bridge
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a great site to explore in Iowa. Overlooking the Des Moines River, this half-mile-long pedestrian bridge gives the surrounding landscape breathtaking views. At night, the bridge is illuminated by a kaleidoscope of LED colors, making it a sight to see.
If you are a historical enthusiast, you should definitely visit the Villisca Axe Murder House. It is a place where a horrible murder took place in 1912 and is now accessible to the public for visits. On that fatal day, the home was left exactly the same as it was when the tragic event occurred here.
Elwood is the world’s tallest concrete gnome, and a must-see spot on every trip to Iowa. Ames is home to this enormous monument, which rises to a height of 24 feet. Make sure to take a picture with this huge critter!
Iowa has a four-season climate, which reflects its location in the heart of the continent. Over the year, the temperature typically varies from 15°F to 85°F and is rarely below -4°F or above 94°F.
Iowa is in the Central Time Zone (GMT-5)
English is the official language in Iowa
The official currency in Iowa is the US dollar (USD)
New York to Iowa: 2 hours 23 minutes
Los Angeles to Iowa: 3 hours 26 minutes
Miami to Iowa: 2 hours 43 minutes
Detroit to Iowa: 48 minutes
Iowa is the only state bordered by two navigable rivers; the Missouri River to the west and the Mississippi River to the east.
The greatest time to visit Iowa is during the fall season, which runs from early September through late October. Everything about it, from the lovely breezy weather throughout the day to the affordable lodging fees, makes it the ideal time to visit this state.
With 303 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Iowa has the second-lowest crime rate in the Midwest. You should use common sense and keep an eye on your belongings if you visit busy areas.
The bus is the most common form of long-distance transportation to reach Iowa and move around the state between cities.
Also, car rental firms are easily available at the airports and downtown areas of all the main cities. Taxis are only available in Des Moines and a few other major cities, like Iowa City and Cedar Rapids.
There’s not a bad time of the year for a fun vacation, especially to an amenity-filled resort.
Whether you are looking for lakeside getaways or booming midwestern metropolises, Iowa has it all.
With so many things to do and see, not to mention stunning scenery, book your favorite Iowa vacation resort today, and indulge in a picture-perfect vacation.
Vacations Made Your Way