Marion was named after Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion and is unique in that it was founded as the county seat before anyone resided there. The land was surveyed in 1839 and lots were auctioned off, which helped establish Marion as a budding business center in Linn County. By 1855, Marion's population reached 1,500. Once the railroad was established in 1864, the town became an important hub for the Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway, which further helped attract residents and businesses alike.
Today, Marion is a family-oriented community with two large school districts and various city parks. City Square Park hosts the nationally acclaimed Marion Arts Festival each summer, and family-friendly activities abound throughout the year. No matter your reasons for visiting, you'll discover plenty to do throughout the community — all you need is the right hotel to serve as the perfect home base.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Marion, IA?
The best time to visit Marion is in the spring and fall. The shoulder seasons experience fewer tourist crowds, which can make your visit more enjoyable. Average highs hover in the low- to mid-70s in May and September, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the outdoors. Best of all, hotel rates are fairly low during the off-season. You can take advantage of all the area's attractions, restaurants, and shopping experiences without paying top dollar for your hotel.
Summer is peak tourist season in Marion, which comes with its own advantages. Despite higher hotel rates, summer kicks off with some amazing annual events, including Uptown Marion Market, Marion By Moonlight, the Marion Big Band “Swingin' At Sunset” concert series, and Eat. Drink. & Be Marion: Pub Crawl. Expect average highs in the mid-80s all summer long.
Most visitors stay away from Marion during the winter months. Average lows stay in the teens from December through February, making it difficult to sightsee. You'll also have to contend with Marion's 27 inches of average snowfall. Despite the drawbacks, winters in Marion are beautiful and laid-back, and the hotel rates are unbeatable this time of year. Just be sure to bundle up and book refundable flights in case inclement weather puts a damper on your travel plans.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Marion, IA:
Marion by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Marion, IA. You can use these line graphs to evaluate the least expensive time to make a reservation in Marion for upcoming travels.
What About Luxury Hotels in Marion, IA?
4 Star Average Prices: $156.67
While Marion isn't exactly known as a town with luxury hotels, the area does have a few upscale accommodations with excellent amenities.
Best Western Plus Longbranch Hotel & Convention Center is perfect for both leisure and business travelers alike. The hotel features a 24-hour business center, a conference center, an airport shuttle service, a spa, an indoor pool, a game room, a gift shop, and even a nightclub. You'll also discover a variety of on-site dining options, including Longbranch Restaurant, a poolside bar, and limited room service. A complimentary breakfast buffet is served daily. Guest rooms feature LCD TVs with cable programming, pillowtop beds, premium bedding, wired and wireless internet, rainfall showerheads, and designer toiletries.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cedar Rapids-North features spacious studios and separate bedroom suites with kitchens that make it ideal for extended stays. The fully equipped kitchens feature full-sized refrigerators and stovetops, allowing you to cook in your room and save on dining expenses. Guest rooms also feature complimentary Wi-Fi, DVD players, desks, and safes. The property itself features an indoor pool, a spa tub, a 24-hour fitness center, a fireplace in the lobby, barbecue grills, and a 24-hour business center. You can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet daily and a guest reception on select days.
Located 3 miles from Marion, Marriott Cedar Rapids is an excellent accommodation with all the trimmings. Featured amenities include a complimentary airport shuttle, a business center, an indoor pool, a spa tub, a fitness center, concierge services, a gift shop, a coffee shop, 24-hour room service, a lounge, and a breakfast buffet (for an additional fee). Guest rooms feature smart TVs with satellite programming, video game consoles, hair dryers, designer toiletries, and well-lit work desks.
Are There Any Budget Hotels in Marion, IA?
3 Star Average Prices: $124.70
If you're looking for an affordable hotel in Marion, you're in luck!
Motel 6 Cedar Rapids - Airport is a smart choice for budget-minded travelers. Located within five minutes of Paramount Theatre and US Cellular Center, this accommodation has a 24-hour front desk, a vending machine, free coffee in the lobby, ample parking, and complimentary wireless internet access. The comfortable guest rooms feature TVs with cable programming, work desks, mini refrigerators, microwaves, and wood furnishings.
The similarly named Motel 6 Cedar Rapids is another great option. Take advantage of the 24-hour front desk, comfortable common area, and free coffee and tea. The guest rooms are straightforward but comfortable, offering free Wi-Fi access, showers, cable TV, and phones with free local calls.
Rodeway Inn in Cedar Rapids is a highly rated budget accommodation offering a complimentary continental breakfast each morning. Featured amenities include an outdoor picnic area, barbecue grills, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, free newspapers, laundry services, event facilities, and ample parking. Guest rooms feature LED TVs with cable, mini fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, desks, hair dryers, toiletries, and phones.
