Hotels in Decorah

Unveiling Decorah: A Tapestry of Nature and Culture Awaits

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Decorah is a charming blend of history, nature, and culture. Explore its vibrant downtown, where boutique shops and cozy cafés invite leisurely strolls. The stunning landscapes of Decorah are defined by picturesque bluffs and the meandering Iowa River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t miss the iconic Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, showcasing rich heritage and artisanal crafts. With its scenic beauty and historic charm, Decorah is an enchanting getaway that promises unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Decorah, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Decorah

Some of the best places to stay in Decorah are Lanesboro, Waukon and Preston. Lanesboro, Waukon, and Preston each offer unique attractions for travelers. Lanesboro is known for its charming small-town vibe and beautiful river views, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Waukon boasts rich history and scenic landscapes, while Preston offers quaint shops and local cuisine. Accommodations in these towns typically include cozy inns and motels, providing comfortable stays. For first-time visitors, Lanesboro is highly recommended for its welcoming atmosphere and recreational activities. Enjoy your trip! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Decorah:

1. LanesboroOpens in a new window: Lanesboro is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers. With its scenic Root River and the vibrant arts scene featuring the Commonweal Theatre Company and Lanesboro Arts Center, visitors can enjoy a blend of adventure and cultural experiences. For accommodation, consider Alexander Mansion Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star bed and breakfast offering adventure sports activities like kayaking and hiking, along with business amenities. Another option is Coffee Street InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star guesthouse that caters to golf enthusiasts and offers various outdoor activities, making it a great choice for those traveling with pets. For a more traditional hotel experience, Stone Mill Hotel & SuitesOpens in a new window provides business facilities alongside recreational activities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
2. WaukonOpens in a new window: Waukon is an outdoor lover's paradise, featuring attractions like Yellow River State Forest and Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. This area boasts a variety of accommodations, including Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels – WaukonOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel ideal for business travelers with essential amenities. For pet owners, Hotel WinneshiekOpens in a new window is a welcoming option, allowing pets and providing essential services. Another great choice is Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decorah, IAOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star facility that caters to business travelers, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay.
3. PrestonOpens in a new window: Preston is known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, highlighted by the Forestville Mystery Cave State Park and the picturesque Root River. Visitors can stay at Hotel Indigo Rochester – Mayo Clinic Area, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that offers adventure activities and business amenities, making it perfect for romantic getaways or business trips. Alternatively, Marriott Rochester Mayo ClinicOpens in a new window provides comprehensive business facilities, while The Towers At Kahler Grand HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, offers upscale accommodations and essential services for business travelers, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Things to do in Decorah for first time

Three days in Decorah offers travelers a chance to unwind amidst stunning landscapes, featuring lush forests, serene rivers, and picturesque parks. Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty, while enjoying local festivals that celebrate the vibrant community spirit. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Decorah:

• Day 1: Start your Decorah adventure at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, a beautiful example of local architecture and community spirit. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, head to the Bily Clocks Museum to marvel at the unique collection of handcrafted clocks that tell stories of their own. Conclude your day with a visit to Fort Atkinson State Park, where you can explore historical sites and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park, perfect for a leisurely hike or a picnic.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Niagara Cave, where you can take an exciting guided tour through stunning underground formations. Following your subterranean exploration, make your way to the Lanesboro Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of the area. Wrap up the day with a relaxing time along the Root River, where you can enjoy the picturesque views, perhaps with a bike ride or a riverside stroll.
• Day 3: Begin your day at the Bluff Country Artists Gallery, showcasing the work of local artisans—perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Next, visit Slim's Woodshed and Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating world of woodworking and craftsmanship. Finally, explore the Montauk Historical Site, a historic home that offers insight into the region's past and stunning grounds to wander through, making for a reflective end to your trip.

5 tips to find a great Decorah hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those traveling on a budget, the most affordable months to visit Decorah are January, February, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. Planning a stay of at least 1-2 days is perfect for discovering the town's main attractions, including its fascinating museums. With its great value for money, Decorah offers a budget-friendly getaway that allows you to enjoy its rich culture and history without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're on the hunt for last-minute deals to Decorah, Hotels.com has you covered. Navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site to explore discounted rates for hotels with good availability as your travel date approaches. You might find the latest prices that suit your budget. To ensure you’re in the loop about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you snag the best savings possible.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. By being flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Decorah.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Decorah is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, biking, or walking to explore the area, which can help keep costs down.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Decorah and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Decorah

Here are some must-try dishes in Decorah, Iowa, United States of America:

• Burgers: Decorah is known for its delicious, locally-sourced burgers that often feature unique toppings, such as locally made cheeses and fresh vegetables from nearby farms. Many restaurants pride themselves on using grass-fed beef, creating a rich and flavorful experience that reflects the region's agricultural heritage. Pair your burger with a craft beer from one of the local breweries for a true taste of Decorah.
• Tacos: The taco scene in Decorah is vibrant, with many eateries offering a fun twist on traditional recipes. Often made with locally sourced ingredients, you can find everything from spicy pork to vegetarian options bursting with flavor. These tacos are typically served in a casual setting, perfect for enjoying with friends or family, making them a popular choice for spontaneous dining experiences.

Best time to go to Decorah

Decorah experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 16.7°F (-8.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.2°F (21.8°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Decorah are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.