The city's namesake, J.B. Grinnell, and several other residents made efforts to end slavery and aid slaves in their escapes by hosting individuals and families as they came through the Underground Railroad. It was also a stop on the Mormon Trail, which spans nearly 1,300 miles in five states. In the mid-19th century, more than 100,000 pioneers traveled that trail from Nauvoo, Illinois, to Salt Lake City, Utah. The city houses Grinnell College, which has been around since 1846 and once housed Spaulding Manufacturing, which made spring wagons and carriages until 1916.
When should you visit Grinnell, IA?
The climate in Grinnell includes snowy and cold winters, followed by humid, hot summers. The area receives about 36 inches of rain per year, much of which falls during the summer months. In fact, approximately two-thirds of the area's annual rainfall comes between April and September, so be sure to bring a rain jacket and other protective gear if you're visiting during this time. The hotel rates tend to stay fairly consistent, although travel rates decrease slightly during the winter months so you may be able to get a lower price if you visit during this season.
Grinnell hosts several community-focused events throughout the year. The Grinnell Farmers Market takes place between mid-May and mid-October on Thursdays and Saturdays. Local farmers and residents sell fresh produce, baked goods, plants, flowers, crafts, and other tasty options. Grinnell Games takes place over two summer weekends and includes a half marathon and 5K race, a trail run, live entertainment, a beer garden, and other family-friendly activities. The events are generally in mid-June and late August. The graduation ceremonies at Grinnell College also impact hotel rates in the city.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Grinnell, IA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average rate trends by star rating class in Grinnell, IA. Analyze these line graphs to evaluate the best months to stay in Grinnell for upcoming travels.
What are the luxury hotels near Grinnell, IA?
For an upscale stay, you'll have to travel about 60 miles outside of Grinnell to the state capital of Des Moines. One option there is Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown, which offers easy access to Wells Fargo Arena. This property boasts an indoor swimming pool, a complimentary shuttle offering service in a 2-mile radius, a 24-hour fitness center, a gift shop, and a business center. The hotel hosts a complimentary reception for guests each day and serves free cooked-to-order breakfasts every morning. The rooms come equipped with 37-inch LCD TVs with satellite programming, kitchenettes with microwaves and refrigerators, sofa beds, premium bedding, and private safes.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown is another high-end property in the state's capital. This hotel features an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, concierge services, free Wi-Fi, a complimentary shuttle, a gift shop, and two restaurants. The rooms come with smart TVs, pillowtop beds, refrigerators, and complimentary toiletries. You can also enjoy the buffet breakfast each morning for an additional fee or grab a snack at the coffee shop.
At Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown, you can enjoy a home-like atmosphere in the downtown area. This all-suite property has an indoor swimming pool, a spa tub, a 24-hour fitness center, and a picnic area for guest use. The spacious rooms come with kitchens with stovetops, microwaves, and refrigerators. The rooms also include separate workspaces, complimentary wired and wireless internet access, and 43-inch LED TVs with digital channels. You're welcome to enjoy the free daily breakfast buffet and mingle with other guests at the complimentary receptions, which are held on select days.
What are the budget hotels in Grinnell, IA?
3 Star Average Prices: $104.23
Quality Inn & Suites is an affordable hotel option in Grinnell, located on West Street South. It's about 4 miles from Grinnell College. Amenities for guests include complimentary daily newspapers in the lobby, a safe deposit desk at the front desk, an indoor swimming pool, and free on-site self-parking. The front desk staff is available 24 hours a day to assist during your stay. You can also enjoy the free continental breakfast, which includes waffles, eggs, meat, pastries, hot and cold cereal, bread, juice, and coffee. In the rooms, you'll find microwaves, refrigerators, LCD TVs with cable channels, tea and coffee makers, free wireless internet access, and separate workspaces.
Best Western Holiday Manor is another budget-friendly property that is about 17 miles from Grinnell in Newton. In-room amenities include microwaves, private safes, desks, phones with free local calls, refrigerators, free wireless internet access, and TVs with satellite programming. On the property, you'll have access to a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and a welcoming fireplace in the lobby. A complimentary continental breakfast is included during your stay. You can also order room service, offered during select hours.
For a cost-effective stay, book a room at Super 8 by Wyndham Toledo. This hotel has express check-in and check-out services, a business center, free parking, and complimentary wireless internet access in the common areas and guest rooms. A free continental breakfast is served each morning. In your room, you'll find a microwave, a refrigerator, complimentary toiletries, a TV with premium cable channels, a desk, and a tea and coffee maker. Laundry facilities are also available for guest use.