Altoona Iowa Accommodations

When to Visit Altoona, Iowa

With four distinct seasons, Altoona has plenty to offer visitors any time of year. Planning a summer visit? You can expect highs in the mid- to upper 80s, along with the occasional thunderstorm. Thinking of a spring getaway? You'll find highs in the upper 60s or low 70s, along with frequent rain showers. In the fall, you'll typically encounter highs in the 60s and dry skies, and in the winter, you'll get lows in the teens and an average of 36 inches of snow throughout the year.

Summer is the most popular time of year to visit Altoona, and hotel prices tend to spike during peak tourist season in July. You can still find affordable room rates during this time, as long as you plan ahead and seek out discounts or group rates. If you aren't planning to visit Adventureland and just want to score the lowest rates of the year, plan to visit Altoona in the winter.

Best Hotel Discounts in Altoona, Iowa

Why pay full price at your Altoona hotel when you can take advantage of the best group discounts in the area? Senior travelers and AARP members get discounts at the Quality Inn & Suites Altoona Des Moines and at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites (Fairgrounds). AAA members can save at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Altoona Des Moines and at the Best Western Plus Altoona Inn. Government employees and members of the military get the best rates at the Sleep Inn & Suites and at other area hotels.

Best Value Options in Altoona, Iowa

Want a hotel that has all the amenities without the high prices? Check out these best value hotels in Altoona.

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, you can't go wrong with a stay at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Altoona Des Moines. This mid-range hotel has both standard guest rooms and suites, along with all of the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and the 864 square feet of meeting space, while leisure travelers will love the indoor pool and hot tub. Be sure to get your day started with the free Express Start Breakfast Bar, which has cinnamon rolls, omelets, bacon, and hot coffee.

Located just minutes from Adventureland, the Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona (Des Moines) is a welcoming home away from home in Altoona. The queen and king rooms include conveniences such as mini fridges, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi, so you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast and chill out by the indoor swimming pool or hop onto Interstate 80 and explore everything that the Altoona area has to offer. You can always grab an On the Run breakfast bag and a coffee if you're in a rush.

Have a fun-filled stay at the Best Western Plus Altoona Inn, which is just minutes from Adventureland. Get plenty of sleep on your king-size pillow-top bed, and then wake up to the complimentary hot breakfast with biscuits and gravy or Belgian waffles. Use the free Wi-Fi to connect with friends and family at home and chill by the indoor pool at the end of a fun day. The Best Western even has a small meeting room that's ideal for family gatherings. With an on-site business center, fitness room, and laundry room, you'll have everything you need right here.

Can't-Miss Attractions in Altoona, Iowa

If you're visiting Altoona with the kids, you won't want to miss a trip to Adventureland Park and Adventure Park Water Bay. You'll want to plan at least a full day to have fun on thrill rides such as the Dragon, Falling Star, and The Monster. Then cool down with water rides such as Heron Harbor, the Caribbean Cruiser, and the Breaker Beach Wavepool. Be sure to check hours and dates before you go, as this is a seasonal attraction.

Just down the road, Prairie Meadows boasts 85,000 square feet of round-the-clock casino action. Play the table games you love, join a poker tournament, or try your lock at over 1,700 slot machines. Check the promotions before you go, as the casino offers plenty of cost-saving deals all year round. Prairie Meadows also hosts some of the best horse racing action in the Des Moines area. Races typically take place on the weekends from April through October.

Looking for a low-key afternoon activity in Altoona? Get out and explore one of the city's many parks. Located on the northeast side of the city, Haines Park features historical markers to help you learn about Altoona's highlights, along with a playground, basketball courts, and tennis courts.

In the center of the city, don't miss Prairie Heritage Park, home to a war memorial, great walking trails, and a fun spray ground where kids can cool down during the summer months. It's adjacent to the Enabling Garden, a unique facility designed for physically impaired visitors by Polk County Master Gardeners.

Don't wait another minute to start planning your Altoona getaway. Book the perfect hotel and get ready for a fun-filled adventure