Hotels in Pella

Petals by the Lake: Discover Pella's Hidden Charm

Discover the charming town of Pella, Iowa, where Dutch heritage blooms alongside picturesque landscapes. Famous for its vibrant tulip festival, Pella enchants visitors with its stunning gardens and colorful flowers. Explore the quaint streets lined with unique shops and enjoy the local cuisine in cozy eateries. Spend a leisurely day at Lake Pella, perfect for picnics and serene walks. With its rich cultural history and warm, small-town hospitality, Pella offers a delightful escape for travelers seeking a blend of nature, tradition, and community charm. Experience the heart of Iowa in this hidden gem! For the best hotel rates in Pella and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Pella

Some of the best places to stay in Pella are Newton, Grinnell and Oskaloosa. Newton, Grinnell, and Oskaloosa each offer unique experiences for travelers. Newton is known for its scenic parks and historical sites, Grinnell for its vibrant arts scene and college charm, and Oskaloosa for its rich cultural heritage. Accommodations in these towns typically include cozy inns and modern hotels, providing essential amenities for a comfortable stay. For first-time visitors, Grinnell is particularly appealing due to its lively atmosphere and cultural offerings, making it a perfect introduction to Iowa’s charm. Here are some of the best hotels in Pella that our travelers love:

1. NewtonOpens in a new window: Known for its rich sports culture, Newton is home to notable attractions like the Iowa Speedway for racing enthusiasts and the scenic Rock Creek State Park, perfect for outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities at the Valle Drive In cinema. For accommodations, consider Best Western Holiday ManorOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star lodging that caters to business and family travelers, offering essential amenities like a business center and pet-friendly policies. Another option is AmericInn by Wyndham NewtonOpens in a new window, which features a 24-hour business center and allows pets with some restrictions. Lastly, Quality Inn Newton at I-80Opens in a new window also welcomes pets and has meeting facilities, making it suitable for both work and leisure.
2. GrinnellOpens in a new window: Grinnell is a charming town with a vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by Grinnell College and the outdoor beauty of Rock Creek State Park. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. For a stay, Tremont Inn on MainOpens in a new window offers a restaurant and bar, along with entertainment options like flat-screen TVs. Hotel GrinnellOpens in a new window caters to business travelers and golf enthusiasts, providing a variety of meeting spaces and pet-friendly amenities. Comfort Inn & Suites Grinnell near I-80Opens in a new window is another solid choice, featuring a business center and family-friendly options.
3. OskaloosaOpens in a new window: Oskaloosa boasts a rich history and outdoor attractions, including William Penn University and the Southern Iowa Fair. It's perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike. For lodging, EverSpring Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window offers business amenities and a pet-friendly environment. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott OskaloosaOpens in a new window is family-oriented, providing cribs for children and accessible business facilities. Lastly, Hotel O Oskaloosa - Hwy 63/92Opens in a new window is a motel-style option that welcomes pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for those traveling with furry companions.

Things to do in Pella for first time

A visit to Pella typically requires three days to fully enjoy its charming small-town atmosphere, stunning lakes, and vibrant flower-filled landscapes. Visitors can partake in outdoor activities like boating and hiking, while also enjoying local festivals and shopping, making it a delightful getaway for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Pella:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lake Red Rock, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery. After soaking up the natural beauty, head over to Elk Rock State Park to explore its trails and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. Conclude your day with a visit to the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame, where you can learn about the exciting history of sprint car racing and see some impressive vehicles up close.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Southern Iowa Fair, where you can experience the local culture, enjoy delicious fair food, and participate in fun activities. After the fair, take a leisurely stroll to City Square Park, a great spot to relax, enjoy the greenery, and perhaps grab a bite at a nearby café. Finish your day at VanderWilt Park, where you can unwind with scenic views and recreational opportunities such as walking trails or playgrounds for families.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, where you can explore the beautiful landscapes and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Next, visit the Carmack Nature Center to learn more about the area’s ecosystems and wildlife conservation efforts. Finally, wrap up your trip at Lake Keomah State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities, hiking, or just relaxing by the lake as you reflect on your delightful visit to Pella.

5 tips to find a great Pella hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Pella is in March, November, and December when hotel prices are lower. If you're traveling from abroad, it's best to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better rates. To truly experience the charm of this small town, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days, which provides great value for your money. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy the beautiful flowers and the serene lake that Pella has to offer. This budget-friendly trip promises to be a memorable one!
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're planning a spontaneous getaway to Pella, exploring last-minute hotel deals can lead to fantastic savings. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might find appealing rates on nearby accommodations. Be sure to look for refundable options for added flexibility. To maximize your chances of scoring the best hotel deals in Pella, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Pella.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Pella usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and buses to explore the area, which can be a more affordable choice.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Pella and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Pella

Here are some famous dishes in Pella, Iowa, United States of America:

• Stroopwafels: These delightful Dutch treats consist of two thin, crispy waffles filled with a rich, gooey caramel syrup. Often enjoyed warm, they are perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. You can find stroopwafels at local markets or bakeries, where they are often made fresh, providing a taste that’s truly authentic and comforting. A must-try when you’re exploring Pella!
• Dutch Cheese: Pella is home to a variety of artisanal Dutch cheeses, including the renowned Gouda and Edam. Many local cheese shops offer tastings, allowing you to savor different flavors and textures. These cheeses are often enjoyed with crusty bread or paired with fruits and nuts, making for a delightful snack or a perfect addition to a picnic. Engaging with local cheesemakers can also provide insight into traditional Dutch cheese-making methods, enriching your culinary journey.

Best time to go to Pella

Pella experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.7°F (-5.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.7°F (23.7°C). May is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Pella, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.