Decorah might just be the most beautiful town in all of Iowa, as the hub of Norwegian culture is filled with stunning natural landscapes and unique historic buildings. And the embrace of the town's history doesn't have to end when it's time to find a place to stay for the night. The Hotel Winneshiek, located in downtown Decorah, is a historic Iowa hotel that has been completely restored in the last decade without losing an iota of its old-school charm. The hotel itself has been home to some amazing history, even playing host to members of the Norwegian royal family. But today at the Hotel Winneshiek, the guest of honor is YOU! So book a stay, enjoy the incredible decor, and indulge in some fine food and drink. When you stay here, you're part of living history.
Located in the heart of Decorah, the stately facade of the Hotel Winneshiek beckons you in to join a century-long legacy.
First built in 1904, the inn has long been the heart of Decorah's social scene. Most famously, it was visited by Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Martha in 1939, with a portion of the hotel being redesigned to host them.
The hotel was remodeled in the 2010s, but it kept all its old charm and combined it with modern amenities.
Looking around the massive atrium, you can still see many of the vintage stained-glass windows that were designed for the hotel.
The hotel was even home to an opera house which preceded the hotel by thirty years. The original stone structure still stands and is now an impressive event space.
Today, the amenities include a bar and restaurant perfect for hungry visitors looking for a bite to eat in a retro environment.
The focus is on innovative, international small plates along with a well-regarded cocktail program.
The rooms are all modern comfort combined with classic charm, and you'll wake up refreshed and ready for another day of exploring Decorah.
Have you visited the Hotel Winneshiek in Decorah? Let us know about your stay at this historic Iowa hotel in the comments section. You can book your own stay on the Hotel Winneshiek website, or visit the official Facebook page for details on upcoming events. If you're interested in Decorah's unique cultural history, you can't miss a visit to the largest ethnic heritage museum in the United States, the stunning Vesterheim.
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