Decorah Hotel Guide - Historic Hotels in Decorah, Iowa

You’re likely already making plans to see the places with historical relevance while you’re staying in Decorah. Why not absorb the local colour with a visit to the coffee shops?

Based on our travel expertise, Hotel Winneshiek is a top 3.5-star hotel for history seekers booking on Expedia, and it offers free breakfast and free WiFi. Other choices to soak up the local history include Quality Inn & Suites Decorah and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Decorah.

Decorah is home to 70 lodging options bookable on Expedia though you won’t find many designated historic hotels.

Decorah is notable for landmarks like Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum, Porter House Museum and Locust School. Cultural venues include Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum and Seed Savers Exchange Heritage Farm. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Agora and Dunnings Spring Park.

When you book a historic hotel, you’ll enjoy a holiday in a place that has an officially recognised national historic designation. A castle, a palace or even a pub or an old police station can be transformed into a historic hotel as long as it’s of special interest. Traditional architecture and period features are often found in the communal spaces and guestrooms of historic hotels in Decorah, bringing the history to life.

“Heritage hotel” is a term often used in Asia and Europe, while “historic hotel” is a term often used in the U.S. overall though the terms are similar. The architecture and actual building of historic hotels tend to be what’s most significant. For a heritage hotel, it’s mainly the cultural value along with how it shaped the community.

Hotels have the safety features and modern conveniences you expect to find, but every effort is made to preserve treasured traditions and historic facades. Private rooms with updated bathroom facilities, heating and air conditioning, free and fast Internet, and the usual amenities found in a hotel will be available in a historic hotel. When you choose a historic hotel in Decorah, don’t worry that you’ll find yourself staying at a place that’s uncomfortable or rundown.