Famous for its idyllic scenery, rich agriculture, and historic landmarks, Iowa is the perfect place to experience outdoor activities and classic American culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the unique attractions of Iowa cities or engage in water activities on one of the state’s glimmering lakes, you’re sure to find the perfect rental on Airbnb.
We’ve put together this list of the best Airbnbs in Iowa to help you narrow down your top picks. To guarantee that these are the finest rentals out there, all of the Airbnbs listed are provided by superhosts. For those unfamiliar with Airbnb, superhosts have a proven track record of providing exceptional hospitality and well-rated accommodations.
Country Cabin Near Des Moines
Experience the tranquility of the countryside with this classic log cabin built in 1920. Located 10 minutes south of West Des Moines and 25 minutes from downtown, this rental cabin in Iowa offers guests a quiet rural retreat close to the state’s largest city.
Exposed wood panels and sliding barn doors add to the rustic charm of the interior. This rental is a great choice for couples, families, and large groups of friends. The bedroom is furnished with a king-size bed, and the common areas offer a sofa bed and a set of bunk beds. For a small fee, larger groups can access the one-room cabin next to the deck, which offers an additional single bed. There are also two full bathrooms and a full kitchen with stainless-steel appliances. The main sitting room offers comfy couches, a Smart TV, and an indoor fireplace. There is a second sitting room downstairs with another Smart TV, a leather sectional, and a foosball table. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a dishwasher, and a washer and dryer.
Outside you’ll find an apple and a pear tree, a large deck with outdoor furniture, and a cozy firepit for warming up in the evenings. Relax on the property and enjoy the peaceful scenery of rural Iowa or take a short drive to Des Moines and experience the city.
Restored Train Caboose
For a unique short-term home rental in Iowa, check out this renovated train caboose. The space has been fully modernized for your comfort, and the original conductor’s chairs and overhead handrails pay homage to the train’s history.
A narrow staircase leads up to the queen-size bed in the cupola, and the bunk beds below make the space suited for up to four guests. There is also a full bathroom, a fully stocked kitchenette, and a small living area with a leather couch and a TV. The original conductor’s chairs sit on a swivel so they can either face the TV or the windows overlooking the horse pasture. The caboose has been renovated to include modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.
The large deck is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunset, and guests are welcome to mingle with the horses or eat from the raspberry bushes and apple tree. When you feel like venturing off the property, there are several small towns with fun activities just a short drive away.
The Milk House on Lucky Star Farm
This Iowa Airbnb offers guests a fun and sustainable stay on a 20-acre working farm. Located between Iowa City and Kalona, the farm stay combines rural living with the convenience of the nearby city. The milk house was originally built in the 1950s and has been thoughtfully remodeled to add modern amenities while preserving the building’s history. Partially solar powered, the house is accented with exposed beams from the original milking parlor, and it now offers Wi-Fi, TV, and air-conditioning.
Four guests can stay in the milk house, which offers one queen-size bed in the bedroom and one queen-size bed lofted above the kitchen. The full kitchen is well stocked with cooking supplies, utensils, high-end appliances, and a breakfast bar. There is also a spacious living room, a four-person dining table, and a full bathroom.
In addition to the impressive interior, the plethora of outdoor activities make this one of the best vacation rentals in Iowa. Guests have access to a private pond great for swimming, fishing, or just relaxing on the dock. There is also a chicken coop, a goat farm, and a llama pasture where you can mingle with the animals. Guests are free to explore all 20 acres of this spectacular property, including the edible forest.
Luxurious Apartment in a Historic Building
Stay in an Airbnb in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, that shares the rich history of the city itself. Ausadie Building is a registered historic property within walking distance of several popular theaters, museums, galleries, and restaurants.
Up to three guests can stay in the luxurious one-bedroom apartment, which offers a queen-size bed and a sofa bed. The full kitchen comes equipped with snacks, beverages, and baked goods, and the full bathroom is stocked with complimentary toiletries far beyond the standard items. In the living room, you’ll find a comfy seating area with a TV, an indoor fireplace, and a cozy nook with a desk in case you need to get some work done. There is also a dedicated dining area with a four-person table, and guests will have access to the building’s gym and laundry room.
Recently restored, the building is covered in a blanket of ivy and boasts a beautiful array of flower gardens, a koi pond, and a large in-ground pool. Spend a night in Ausadie Building, and we’re sure you’ll agree that this is one of the best Airbnb rentals in Iowa.
Honeybee Cottage
If you’re looking for a cabin rental in Iowa on the lake, consider this charming cottage on Star’s Hollow farm.
The comfortable amenities and cozy touches inside the cottage will make you feel right at home. There is a queen-size bed and a sofa, and the hosts will provide an air mattress to accommodate up to four guests. The gas fireplace, TV, and assortment of games and books are perfect for a cozy night in. There is also a full bathroom with a walk-in shower and a full kitchen with a breakfast bar and a four-person dining table. The front porch is beautifully decorated and furnished with a comfy couch, making it a great spot for a relaxing evening or an afternoon nap.
This lakefront cabin for rent in Iowa offers a private beach, various farm animals, and an endless array of well-maintained hiking trails. Guests can explore all 140 acres with a golf cart, mingle with the farm animals, enjoy a bonfire on the private beach, or take the canoes and kayaks out for the day. With so many outdoor activities, it is unlikely that you’ll want to leave the property. However, if you do decide to venture out, historic downtown Cedar Falls is just a short drive away.
Artsy Remodeled Barn
For a unique stay near Iowa State University, check out this historic barn that has been transformed into a solar-powered Iowa Airbnb.
The barn’s facade retains its traditional appearance, but the interior has been completely gutted to add modern amenities and rustic furnishings. Guests can choose from a unique array of sleeping options, including a boat bed, a small trailer with a full-size bed, a couch, and a floor mattress. There is a kitchenette with a refrigerator and a microwave and a full bathroom with an antique copper shower. There is also Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and complimentary toiletries.
Entertain yourself with a game of darts or a movie marathon in the TV area. Your hosts have thoughtfully provided a great selection of DVDs, including a few Iowa classics. Outside you’ll find a cozy porch and three acres of land to explore.
Cottage on the Mississippi
Travelers looking for a charming and luxurious house rental in Iowa will love this historic cottage on a hill. Located less than a mile away from historic downtown LeClaire, the cottage rests on the hill above the original childhood home of Wild West showman, Buffalo Bill Cody.
Up to five guests can stay in the two-story home, which boasts two luxurious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The main floor offers a spacious living room with an indoor fireplace, a sofa bed, and large French doors that open to expose beautiful river views. There is also a full kitchen with high-end appliances and a six-person dining table. A spiral staircase leads to a cozy den with a TV and a sofa bed, making for another comfortable place to sleep. The master bedroom is also on the second floor and has a queen-size bed, an en suite bathroom, and a small coffee bar. The second bedroom offers a full-size bed, and there is a second full bathroom with a rain-style shower and a Jacuzzi tub. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a washer and dryer.
The cottage also offers a lovely sun porch with river views and a small bar great for enjoying your morning coffee or evening cocktail. There is also a front patio with outdoor furniture and a large yard with beautiful gardens and a firepit.
Captain’s Quarters in the Old Mill House
The Old Mill Guesthouse is on the top floor of a waterfront property overlooking the Mississippi River. This quaint Airbnb in Iowa was voted as one of the top five most romantic getaway destinations along Great River Road by River Trail Magazine.
The classic and stylish home boasts a gabled roof, overhanging eaves, plenty of windows, and brick chimneys. The interior offers one bedroom with a king-size bed and an adjoining bathroom, making it an ideal choice for couples. The full bathroom has a large walk-in shower with sliding glass doors. There is also a spacious living room with a reclining sofa and picturesque windows with river views. The full kitchen is stocked with basic cooking essentials, and the apartment offers a plethora of modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, and air-conditioning.
This Iowa Airbnb is located in the beautiful southern river town of LeClair. On lazy mornings, guests can use the complimentary binoculars to boat watch on the deck or catch a glimpse of the old timey train that passes through town.
Unique Spanish Bungalow
Featuring a sizable art collection from both local and international artists, this house for rent in Iowa has a ton of character.
The cozy and colorful home can sleep up to five guests with two spacious bedrooms and a queen-size sofa bed in the living room. The main bedroom has a queen-size bed with a memory foam mattress, and the second bedroom offers a twin bed. There is also a full kitchen with a complimentary snack basket, a spacious dining room with a stereo, and a recently renovated full bathroom. In the basement you’ll find another living room, a full bathroom, a pool table, and a washer and dryer. Outside there is a large deck overlooking the backyard, which features a grill and a chiminea.
Conveniently located just west of downtown Des Moines, the bungalow is a short drive away from several stores, bars, and restaurants. Guests can also ride their bikes to several bike trails in the area and walk to local shops.
Hidden Hollow
If you’re looking to rent a cabin in Iowa surrounded by nature and bustling with wildlife, this might be the Airbnb for you. Hidden Hollow is situated on a 158-acre property on Bloody Run Creek, where guests can find endless hiking trails filled with various wildlife, including birds, frogs, owls, deer, and coyotes.
The property offers a farmhouse that sleeps up to four people and a small cabin for two additional guests. Inside the farmhouse, you’ll find a cozy sitting area with a large couch and an indoor fireplace decorated in stone. There are also two large bedrooms, one with a queen-size bed and another with a double bed. The full kitchen offers high-end appliances, utensils, and cooking supplies. There is also a full bathroom with a large soaking tub that comes with bubbles, bath salts, and essential oils. The farmhouse offers Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, and guests who book longer stays will have access to a washer and dryer. The additional cabin is located behind the farmhouse and has a comfy full-size bed, a wood stove, and electricity.
The property also features a pond, great for swimming, fishing, or kayaking. The spacious back patio offers lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and stunning stone work throughout. With comfortable outdoor furniture and a cozy firepit in the backyard, Hidden Hollow is an ideal place to spend quality time with the family or enjoy a secluded, meditative retreat.
Red Rock Lake House
This Airbnb in Iowa is a great choice for a solo traveler or a couple looking for a peaceful getaway with stunning lake views. The apartment is located on the lower level of a lake house on the Red Rock Cliffs.
The indoor space is completely private, and it has its own private entrance. Two guests can stay in the one-bedroom apartment, which offers a comfy queen-size bed. The spacious living room offers an indoor fireplace and two sets of large glass doors that let in a ton of light and give guests stunning views. There is a full kitchen with a breakfast bar, a large dining table, and a full bathroom with a walk-in shower. You’ll also have access to a private lower deck overlooking the lake with patio furniture, a grill, and a firepit. Modern amenities include Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a dishwasher.
Guests will also have access to the upper deck of the lake house, which offers a hot tub and a pool. Your hosts will happily provide beach gear and show you to the nearby private and public beaches, fishing areas, and hiking trails.
Timber Creek Cabin
Unplug and relax in this cozy Airbnb in Iowa overlooking the Des Moines River.
The cabin is characterized by rustic décor and wood plank walls. Exposed stone creates a charming ambiance in the living room, which offers a queen-size futon and a TV. The bedroom is furnished with a queen-size bed, making the cabin suited for up to four guests. There is also a full kitchen, a dining table, and a full bathroom. Keep cool in the summer with portable fans and the window air-conditioning unit, and warm up in the winters with the cozy wood stove.
Sliding glass doors separate the living room and dining area, and open onto a balcony overlooking the river. Behind the cabin, you’ll find a small deck with a charcoal grill and a firepit. Guests can enjoy strolling along the river, fishing, or wildlife-spotting.
The Grey House
The city of Decorah is the perfect place to combine convenient amenities and outdoor recreation, and this vacation home for rent in Iowa is within walking distance of all the city has to offer.
Up to six guests can stay in the three-bedroom, one-bathroom home, which offers comfortable modern amenities and plenty of space for the whole family. Two of the bedrooms are furnished with queen-size beds, and the third bedroom features two single beds. There is also a beautifully decorated, modern full kitchen with high-end stainless-steel appliances and a lengthy breakfast bar. The living room offers cool-toned furniture, a wall-mounted TV, and a convenient sitting area positioned against picturesque windows. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, TV, air-conditioning, a dishwasher, and a washer and dryer.
Check out popular restaurants and unique shopping opportunities in the bustling downtown neighborhood or enjoy a scenic hike along Trout Run Trail and catch a glimpse of the famous Decorah bald eagles.
Farm Stay Near Oxford
For a countryside retreat in a historic home, check out this Iowa Airbnb on a farm. Located in a rural setting three miles from Oxford, the home is also close to the historic Amana Colonies, Kalona Village, and Iowa City.
As the largest rental on our list, up to ten guests can stay in this impressive five-bedroom house. The main level offers one bedroom with a queen-size bed and an en suite bathroom. There is also a large eat-in kitchen with high-end appliances, a breakfast bar, and a large dining table. The cozy living room is also on the main floor and features several comfortable places to sit, a TV, and an indoor fireplace. On the second floor you’ll find four additional guest bedrooms and a large bathroom with a separate shower room. The home is filled with convenient hotel-style amenities, including Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a dishwasher, a washer and dryer, complimentary breakfast, fitness equipment, and a sauna.
This luxurious Airbnb in Iowa offers plenty of outdoor space, including a large deck with a pool and a hot tub. There is also an enclosed porch with a swing and a comfortable sitting area. In the backyard, you’ll find a firepit and a chicken coop with free-roaming chickens.
Dreamy Cottage in Cedar Rapids
This gorgeous Airbnb in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is one of the most conveniently located rentals on this list. Built in 1910, the historic home has been completely renovated and sits two minutes from downtown, putting guests within a block of the city’s many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Thoughtfully decorated with warm touches and high-end furnishings, the exquisite interior is sure to meet even the highest standards. The main bedroom offers a plush queen-size bed, a TV, and a walk-in closet. The second bedroom is both cozy and spacious with two canopy queen-size beds and privacy shades. Kick back in the bright and airy living room, which features a comfy couch, a reading bench, an indoor fireplace, and a Smart TV. There is also a full kitchen with a dining table, and the recently renovated full bathroom comes with high-quality Turkish towels, all-natural complimentary toiletries, and a dual washer-dryer. Your host also offers an extensive selection of books and board games, perfect for a night in with the family.
Outside you’ll find a large wrap-around patio great for enjoying your morning coffee and catching beautiful views of the sunset. With modern amenities, including air-conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, and free parking on the premises, this Iowa Airbnb is the perfect choice for a quick weekend getaway or a long-term stay.
That concludes our list of the best Iowa Airbnbs. Hopefully it helps you choose the perfect rental to make the most of your trip to the Midwest.
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