Hotel Winneshiek

We spent two nights in the king suite and had a really nice stay. The windows looked out onto the roof, but the jetted whirlpool tub was better than I expected. They don't have a photo of it on their website, so I'm adding one here in case it helps someone. Their bar is closed Sundays, and a lot of nearby restaurants are too.

The bathroom hot tub was wonderful, deep, and roomy. The carpet wasn't great, but you're mostly just walking on it, so it didn't bother me much. Our room was very simple and spacious, with no wall hangings, which was fine. The older-style furniture was comfortable, and the curtains had a bit of a movie theater look. The hallway was a fun feature, winding in a circle with rooms tucked all around it.

The location makes it easy to get to Vesterheim Museum and Dunning’s Spring Park without much effort. Back at the hotel, the lobby fireplace is a nice spot to sit quietly or get into a lively discussion about neoclassical design. I was struck by the old-fashioned details as soon as I arrived: stained glass above the doors, ornate woodwork, and a lobby that brings to mind Edwardian evenings. The staff were discreet and attentive, without being overly cheerful. My Executive King suite had high ceilings, period furniture, and a bath big enough for a small orchestra. The linens felt very high-end, and the Wi-Fi was there without being intrusive. Breakfast was a pleasant surprise. Instead of the usual packaged pastries, there was a thoughtful selection of local foods. The coffee was strong and complex, though it came in a Styrofoam cup. The hotel sits in the heart of Decorah, Iowa, and has the feel of an elegant place from an earlier era. It’s the kind of stay that feels like an experience, with a sense that the guests are understood.

The staff really made this stay. Check-in was smooth, and everyone was kind and thorough. Then, on checkout morning, our car wouldn't start in minus 10 degree weather. We had to get to the college in 30 minutes, and someone from the hotel called for help. Within 10 minutes, a kind man had jump-started the car. They went way beyond what we expected, and we'll tell people about it. Thanks so much to the team. Next time we're back, we're staying at Hotel Winneshiek again. The hotel itself was gorgeous, spotless, and well maintained. Our room was clean, the bed comfortable, and the temperature just right. Breakfast was simple but tasty, especially the breakfast sandwiches, which were unlike the usual hotel options.