Hotels in Calmar

Calmar: Where Nature Whispers and History Dances

Discover the charm of Calmar, Iowa, a delightful small town that embodies the spirit of the Midwest. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush farmland, Calmar offers a warm community vibe and rich cultural experiences. Explore the scenic trails of the nearby Decorah Fish Hatchery, or immerse yourself in local history at the Calmar Historical Museum. Enjoy the serenity of the countryside, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. With friendly locals and a peaceful atmosphere, Calmar is an off-the-beaten-path gem, ideal for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Iowa life and natural beauty. For great hotel rates in Calmar, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Calmar

Calmar, Iowa offers a range of cozy accommodations, perfect for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and local charm. Expect friendly service and convenient amenities, with options that cater to various budgets. Whether you're looking for a quaint inn or a more modern hotel, you'll find suitable choices in and around Calmar. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Calmar:

1. Country Inn & Suites by RadissonOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star hotel provides a comfortable retreat for travelers seeking a business vacation experience. Guests appreciate the convenient location and the property's cleanliness, which enhances the overall comfort. The hotel features a 24-hour business center, catering to professionals on the go. Guests are delighted by the complimentary breakfast, making for a pleasant start to the day. With its intimate two-story setup, this hotel ensures a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The positive sentiment from visitors highlights the helpful and friendly staff, making it a welcoming choice for those visiting the area.
2. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott DecorahOpens in a new window: This inviting 2.5-star hotel is ideal for travelers looking for a blend of business and pet-friendly amenities. Featuring a 24-hour business center, this hotel ensures a seamless experience for professionals. Visitors rave about the comfortable rooms and the delightful breakfast spread that adds a touch of luxury to their stay. The location is particularly convenient for those exploring nearby attractions, including Luther College. The overall cleanliness and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with guests, making it a preferred choice for those traveling in the Decorah area.
3. Taylor Made Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window: This delightful 3.0-star bed and breakfast offers a unique charm for travelers seeking a pet-friendly getaway. With its cozy ambiance and welcoming atmosphere, this property ensures a memorable stay for those who appreciate personalized experiences. The allowance of pets makes it an appealing option for those traveling with furry companions. Guests enjoy the tranquil surroundings, alongside the warm hospitality that characterizes the establishment. The focus on providing a comfortable experience ensures that visitors leave with lasting memories of their time spent here.

Top locations to stay in Calmar

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Calmar, Iowa, are Ossian, St. Lucas, and Decorah. Decorah is ideal for museum lovers and offers vibrant nightlife, while St. Lucas boasts charming historical sites. Ossian provides a quaint small-town vibe. For first-time visitors, Decorah is the most appealing choice due to its diverse attractions.

1. DecorahOpens in a new window: Decorah is a charming town known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. It's a must-visit for those interested in museums, featuring highlights like the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, which showcases the area's Scandinavian roots. The Decorah Fish Hatchery offers a unique opportunity to learn about local wildlife and enjoy scenic walks along the river. For a bit of evening entertainment, catch a performance at the Commonweal Theatre Company. With its delightful mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities, Decorah makes for an inviting spot to stay.
2. St. LucasOpens in a new window: St. Lucas is a quaint community that boasts a welcoming atmosphere and unique local attractions. The Fayette County Historical Center & Museum provides a glimpse into the area's past, while the Bily Clocks Museum features intricately crafted clocks that are a sight to behold. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail, perfect for hiking or biking. St. Lucas is an ideal place for travelers looking to experience local charm and history in a peaceful setting.
3. OssianOpens in a new window: Ossian is a small yet delightful town that offers a friendly environment and a taste of rural life in Iowa. While it's more low-key than its neighbors, it is close to the Upper Iowa Speedway for those seeking a bit of excitement. Visitors can also explore the local charm and enjoy the surrounding countryside. Ossian is a great choice for travelers wanting to relax in a serene setting while still being near to some interesting attractions.

Things to do in Calmar

• Bily Clocks MuseumOpens in a new window – Step into a world of whimsical artistry at the Bily Clocks Museum, where you can marvel at the stunning collection of intricately crafted clocks. Each piece tells a story, showcasing a unique blend of craftsmanship and creativity that will leave you enchanted. Don’t forget to capture some photos of these delightful timepieces!
• St Wenceslaus Catholic ChurchOpens in a new window – Visit the beautiful St Wenceslaus Catholic Church, an architectural gem that invites reflection and peace. Take a moment to admire the stained glass windows and serene interior, where history and devotion come together in a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.
• Fort Atkinson State ParkOpens in a new window – Explore the scenic trails of Fort Atkinson State Park, where you can hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. The park features charming landscapes and historical markers that narrate the area's past, making your outdoor experience both enjoyable and educational.
• Decorah Fish HatcheryOpens in a new window – Dive into the fascinating world of aquatic life at the Decorah Fish Hatchery. Here, you can learn about fish breeding and conservation efforts while enjoying the scenic views of the hatchery grounds. Don’t miss the chance to see the fish in their natural habitat!
• Decorah Bald EaglesOpens in a new window – Witness the majestic Decorah Bald Eagles in their natural nesting area. Known for their impressive wingspan and powerful presence, these birds are a sight to behold. Bring your binoculars and settle in to watch them soar above the landscape, a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Calmar

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Calmar are January, February, and April, when hotel prices are typically lower. To fully appreciate the city's key landmarks and cultural sites, a stay of at least 1 to 2 days is recommended. During this time, visitors can explore attractions such as the local parks, a national state park, a historic college university, and a charming cultural village, all of which offer great value for money. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking to enjoy an affordable getaway while immersing themselves in Calmar's rich history and vibrant culture.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Calmar, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. With the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app, you can compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're well-informed if rates drop or new rooms become available. This way, you're more likely to secure a last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so having some flexibility with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a Calmar hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest more budget-friendly dates to increase the chances of finding a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther away, as they usually tend to be cheaper while still allowing easy access to the sites you want to visit. You might also look into independent hotels located further out, which can provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Calmar. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Calmar

Calmar experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 16.5°F (-8.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.2°F (21.8°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Calmar, March, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.