Are you looking for the best resorts in Iowa? You are in the right place.
In this article, I will walk you through family-friendly resorts, Okoboji Hotels, and resorts on the water.
There are so many things to do in the Midwest and visiting Iowa should be high on your list. This state is the perfect place for a midway getaway.
There are so many things to do in Iowa.
From the scenic trails for hiking in Iowa to the amazing caves in Iowa to the wonderful small towns in Iowa, you won’t run out of things to do.
90% of Iowa’s land is dedicated to agriculture so if you are looking for a state that offers lots of peace and tranquility Iowa might be perfect.
There is plenty to do in the other 10% of the state though so you won’t get bored.
Things to do in Iowa include visiting Snake Alley, renowned as the most crooked street in the world, experiencing Kate Shelley High Bridge the highest and longest bridge in America, The Pappajohn Sculpture Park speaks to Iowa’s love for art and Maquoketa State Park is a sight to behold.
For the movie buffs, you can visit the vintage bridges featured in “The Bridges of Madison County” and the film set of “Field of Dreams.” This state delivers for both those wanting an escape and those wanting to have a few more adventures.
The resorts in Iowa are as diverse as the things on offer in this state. From golf resorts to hotels with the best casinos in Iowa to more family-orientated resorts this state has them all.
So are you ready to see the Iowa resorts I have chosen for you? Grab a seat, pour yourself a drink, and let’s walk through all this state has to offer.
15 Best Resorts In Iowa You Must Visit
Grand Harbor Resort – Dubuque
When it comes to Iowa resorts this one has something for everyone. The Grand Harbor Resort Dubuque effortlessly mixes comfort and fun right on the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River.
The best thing about this resort though is the 25,000-square-foot water park. If you are looking for indoor water parks in Iowa this one will keep the children, and adults, occupied for hours.
You will find thrilling waterslides, activity pools, hot tubs, and even a lazy river.
Every guest room has complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen cable TVs, a microwave, a refrigerator, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The rooms have everything you need and some have amazing lake views.
There is also a fitness center, a minimarket and tons of activities you can take part in. And if you are hungry Tony Roma’s Restaurant and Lounge is also on-site.
There are so many things to do in Dubuque and this hotel is located in a perfect location. Adjacent to the Mississippi Riverwalk, it is less than 1 mile from Dubuque city center.
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a 4-minute walk away.
Whether you’re seeking a memorable family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a business trip with added extras, the Grand Harbor Dubuque is the perfect destination for an unforgettable experience.
Honey Creek Resort – Moravia
At Honey Creek Resort, you will find a plethora of activities and amenities awaiting you. From 18 holes of golf to an indoor pool and a children’s pool, everyone will enjoy something here.
Golf enthusiasts will find paradise at this hotel with access to a driving range, golf lessons, and a golf clubhouse. If you are looking for lake resorts they don’t get much better than this one.
Nestled on the picturesque banks of Rathbun Lake, the rooms have everything you could need. Convenience is paramount, with amenities such as rollaway/extra beds and cribs/infant beds available in all rooms.
You come here for the amenities though with a variety on offer including canoe, stand-up paddle board, and jetski hire for lake activities.
Oh, and this is also one of the places where there is an indoor water park in Iowa.
When it comes to Iowa resorts this one has it all. this is one of the best family lake vacations,
Riverside Casino & Golf Resort – Riverside
If you are looking for golf resorts in Iowa then the Riverside Casino & Golf Resort will be perfect for you. This is one of the Iowa resorts that really does have everything.
Stay active in the fully equipped fitness center, treat yourself to a delectable dining experience, relax in the spa, socialize at the bar, or try your luck at the casino. Whatever you want to do you will find it here.
The two pools and hot tub are also a great way to relax and the 24-hour front desk will make sure all your needs are met. Each room is thoughtfully furnished with a desk, a safety deposit box, and a flat-screen TV.
The Riverside Casino & Golf Resort offers a relaxing and peaceful escape, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, what more could you want? Riverside Casino Iowa is a perfect lake resort for a vacation.
King’s Pointe Waterpark Resort – Storm Lake
If you are looking for family resorts in Iowa then they don’t get much better than King’s Pointe Waterpark Resort.
Conveniently located near Storm Lake Golf Course and Chautauqua Park this resort has a delightful array of amenities for all guests.
As well as the waterpark, there is a 9-hole golf course, mini golf, a playground, and activities on the lake. This resort has everything you could need.
Each of the rooms is designed for comfort and has all the amenities you could need.
Guest reviews praise the overall value and the resort’s walkable location, making it easy to explore the surrounding attractions. Kings Point Storm Lake offers a great escape with a wealth of amenities. It is one of the perfect resorts on the water.
Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort – Larchwood
Nestled in Larchwood the Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort has so much to offer. Whether you are after a golf retreat or resort on the water this place will deliver.
With a state-of-the-art fitness center, 2 swimming pools, a spa and wellness center, a casino, and a golf course you really can’t go wrong.
Here you can take it as quiet and relaxing or as loud and entertaining as you want it.
Rooms are designed for your comfort and convenience and have all the amenities you would expect.
Here you will find the perfect blend of excitement and tranquility. This is one of the best family lake vacations.
Fun City Resort Hotel – Burlington
If you are looking for family resorts in Iowa then Fun City Resort Hotel is for you. This family-friendly resort is an all-in-one destination with so much on offer.
This resort features an on-site spa, casino, arcade, bowling, laser tag, a water park, and even a go-kart track. And for those not with children the over 21’s Catfish Bend Inn & Spa will keep you occupied.
The rooms also come equipped with a microwave and refrigerator and all the modern conveniences you would expect. When it comes to dining, the resort offers a variety of options to satisfy any craving.
The Burlington Golf Club is a short 6-minute drive away for those who want to venture off-site. But whatever you want to do you will probably be able to do it here, there is so much on offer.
When it comes to resorts in Iowa this one really does have something for everyone.
Rhythm City Casino & Resort – Davenport
If you looking for the best casino in Iowa then welcome to the Rhythm City Casino & Resort. Located in Davenport this report offers a huge range of amenities you may never need to leave.
On-site you will find a fitness center, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a spa, beauty treatments, and of course a casino.
In the guest rooms, you will find a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, and a coffee machine. The breakfast here also gets high praise.
If you are looking for a large modern resort in Iowa that offers plenty to do then this is for you.
Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs
The Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs offers many amenities for a delightful stay. You won’t run out of ways to entertain yourself with an indoor pool, fantastic restaurant, fitness center, and casino.
The rooms are cozy and comfortable with added luxurious touches. Each features a generous 46-inch flat-screen TV, a convenient coffee machine, a refrigerator, and a comfy seating area.
Within a short distance of the property, you’ll find exciting attractions like the Henry Doorly Zoo and the TD Ameritrade Park Omaha, both located within 3 km.
This is one of the best Iowa resorts.
Bridges Bay Resort -Okoboji
If you are looking for Lake Okoboji Resorts Bridges Bay Resort, nestled on the picturesque West Lake Okoboji, might be perfect for you.
This modern resort boasts a variety of luxurious accommodations to cater to every guest’s preferences.
There is a private sand beach, tennis courts, yard games, a water trampoline, kayaks, paddle boats, and paddle boards.
And if that isn’t enough there is also a swim-up bar, a seasonal outdoor pool and an indoor pool, with a lazy river, a waterslide and sunloungers, and a water park.
The setting here is perfect, and the amenities are outstanding all you need to do is come and make memories. If you are looking for places to stay in Okoboji this place is perfect.
Ramada by Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort
If you are looking for Des Moines hotels with water parks the Ramada by Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort might be perfect for you.
With a tiki bar, an on-site waterpark, a full-service restaurant, and two 160-foot waterslides you won’t run out of things to do here.
Each room is thoughtfully designed and features a flat-screen TV among other things. Some units also offer a cozy seating area, providing the perfect space to relax and unwind.
This is one of the best family resorts in Iowa.
Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center -Okoboji
This is one of the resorts on the water that will pretty much keep everyone happy. Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center boosts a fantastic water park and golf course among other things.
Conveniently located just 5 miles from the University of Okoboji, this resort offers tons of amenities. This is one of the places to stay in Okoboji which is the ultimate lakefront getaway.
The rooms have everything you need and are very welcoming and the resort has more than you could ever need. Golf, waterpark, and a spa, every member of the family will be happy here.
The food is also great and deserves an honourary mention. The resort’s prime location places guests just 1 mile from Arnolds Park Amusement Park and the Pearson Lakes Art Center.
Additionally, the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a mere 4 miles away.
One of the best Lake Okoboji Resorts.
The Highlander Hotel – Iowa City
The Highlander Hotel in Iowa City is a delightful blend of nostalgia that meets modern comfort and is beautiful.
Drawing inspiration from the original Highlander Inn and Supper Club, a beloved city favorite in the 1960s, the hotel evokes a retro charm and appeal of that bygone era.
This place is groovy, fun, and effortlessly cool. From visiting food trucks to playing Pac-Man at the original 1967 sunken bar you will love this place.
The rooms blend comfort and modernity with a touch of elegance and coolness. Think velvet and vinyl and you have the vibe.
There is also an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and hot tub. This is the perfect location to enjoy one of the many things to do in Iowa City.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City
There are so many things to do in Sioux City so why not make your stay extra special with a stay at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City?
With over 640 of your favorite slot machines and 18 casino gaming tables, it is one of the best casinos in Iowa with a AAA Four Diamond rating.
The rooms have the distinctive Hard Rock décor and are modern and comfortable with a side of quirky. The hotel also has two music venues, two on-site restaurants, and an outdoor pool.
Conveniently located in the city center of Sioux City, this hotel offers easy access to notable landmarks like the Orpheum Theatre, Chief War Eagle Monument, and the popular Trinity Heights attraction.
For those seeking events or matches, the nearby Tyson Event Center is the place to be.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City seems to blend entertainment and relaxation effortlessly and is the perfect couples’ resort in Iowa.
Adventureland Inn – Des Moines
For families seeking non-stop action and excitement during their vacation, look no further than the Adventureland Inn and Resort.
Situated within the sprawling grounds of Adventureland, this resort offers an unbeatable experience.
There is a swim-up bar, a grocery/convenience store, a playground, an arcade room, hot tubs, and two indoor pools.
Rooms have everything you would expect and are comfortable. This resort is in a great location and is the perfect family-friendly resort.
This hotel is also perfectly situated so you can enjoy some of the many things to do in Des Moines.
Hotel Julien Dubuque Is One Of The Best Luxury Resorts In Iowa
If you are looking for one of the luxury resorts in Iowa Hotel Julien Dubuque might be perfect for you. It offers luxury at an affordable price point.
The hotel is ideally situated hotel just a 15-minute drive from Dubuque Regional Airport.
It’s in the charming Old Main District of Dubuque, Iowa, and offers every guest an elegant and luxurious experience. Think wood and velvet and you have the idea.
The guestrooms feel rather lavish and everything has been thought about. The rooms have that Old Hollywood feel about them and have all the amenities you could wish for.
During your stay, take advantage of additional perks, including drink and dessert vouchers, complimentary morning coffee, and free parking.
Also enjoy the full-service spa, the indoor pool, the fitness center, and the hot tub.
Hotel Julien Dubuque is ideally located within walking distance of the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Grand Harbor Resort & Waterpark, and the Dubuque Museum of Art.
Packing List When Visiting Resorts In Iowa
If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Iowa, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.
A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when vacationing at one of the many resorts in Iowa.
It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.
You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.
If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.
This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.
If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!
My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.
It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos.
You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.
And here are the carbon filter replacements.
Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.
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As you can see when it comes to Iowa resorts there are so many to choose from. Each of these resorts offers something a little different so choose depending on which suits your needs and circumstances.
Iowa is an amazing state to visit with so much to see and do. There are so many things to do in Iowa and staying at one of these resorts will make your trip all the more special.
I hope you have a great vacation and please come back and tell me all about it.
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