Other sweethearts seek out urbane big-city hotels. Romantic getaways in Iowa are more than just a tale of a few cities, though metro hubs like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids do offer stylish downtown hotels full of couple-friendly amenities.
Smaller cities and towns hold lodging gems full of history, character and views. Here are 20 top romantic lodgings in Iowa, including favorites of Midwest Living editors and contributors.
These lodgings set the scene with nostalgic vibes and couple-friendly amenities. It has since graduated to a sophisticated yet playful boutique hotel. A canopy bed, spacious rainfall shower, and soaking tub for two enhance the romance. The European-style lodging downtown has the tidy brick exterior and other Dutch-look architectural details seen in most Pella buildings the historic Vermeer Windmill is a block away , but the 38 guest rooms have modern decor and amenities.
Everyone gets complimentary breakfast. On-site Liberty Street Kitchen is a great place to have dinner for two. Wrap yourselves in comfort at this boutique hotel that repurposes a historic textile mill in the Amana Coloniesβa group of villages founded in the mids by German immigrants fleeing religious persecution. The Hotel Millwright weaves artifacts like yarn spools and looms into unique artworks for its 65 rooms. An Amana king room swaddles you in luxury bedding, crisp white linens and custom Amana textiles, plus the bath features an oversize walk-in shower with spa-style heads.
Pro Tip: Unwind with craft beers, cocktails or a bourbon flight from local distillers at on-site Electric Thread Social Club. Its beer garden patio overlooks the Millrace stream. In , it opened as the Kingsley Inn, offering 19 guest rooms, many named for famous figures in local history. Couples will want to stay in one of the signature riverfront spa rooms, like the Mark Twain Room , to indulge in a whirlpool tub.
