The Ottumwa center is about the area of Ottumwa Amtrak Station and the area of Wapello County Historical.
Ottumwa experiences warm, humid summers and freezing, windy winters. The temperature varies from 17 degrees to 87 degrees Fahrenheit over the course of a year and seldom falls below -2 degrees or exceeds 95 degrees. If you want to do warm-weather activities, the ideal time to visit the city is between early June and late September, when average temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-80s.
It's important to note that Ottumwa receives an especially large influx of tourists in July and August. If you're vacationing in the city during these months, you may not be able to find suitable accommodations as many hotels will be fully booked. Also, most hotels will charge higher rates during peak season, which can significantly bump up your travel expenses. Nonetheless, you can get better rates if you book one or two months in advance. It's also a good idea to visit Ottumwa in April, May, or June, when the weather is also pleasant and hotel rates are lower.
If you're a AAA member, you can get a discount if you stay at Days Inn by Wyndham Ottumwa. This hotel is about 3 miles north of Ottumwa, 6.3 miles from Air Power Museum, and 22.5 miles from Davis County Historical Society Museum. It has 44 air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, cable programming, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, and hair dryers. Additionally, there's an indoor pool, picnic area, and business center in this hotel.
Super 8 by Wyndham Centerville offers special rates to AAA members, military personnel, government employees, and senior citizens. Situated about 30 miles southwest of Ottumwa in Centerville, this hotel is a few minutes' drive from attractions such as The Majestic Theater, Appanoose County Museum, and Lelah Bradley Park & Reserve. All its 43 rooms are equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, cable programming, LED televisions, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, and hair dryers. On-site amenities include a terrace, a picnic area, and vending machines.
If you're looking for a hotel around Ottumwa that offers good value for money, Quality Inn & Suites Ottumwa is the ideal option. This hotel is situated 3.4 miles north of Ottumwa, 3.3 miles from Wapello County Historical Museum, and 19.4 miles from American Gothic House & Center. It offers 91 rooms with free Wi-Fi, satellite programming, flat-screen televisions, refrigerators, hair dryers, and pillowtop beds. In addition, it has amenities such as a fitness center, picnic area, and a business center. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily.
Best Western Fairfield Inn is another hotel that provides a comfortable stay at a reasonable rate. Located about 22 miles east of Ottumwa, this hotel is about 2.3 miles from Cedar Creek Timber Recreation Area, 20.7 miles from American Gothic House & Center, and 22 miles from Lacey-Keosauqua State Park. All rooms come with complimentary Wi-Fi, cable programming, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, and hair dryers. While you're staying there, you can take advantage of amenities such as an indoor pool, a spa tub, free use of a nearby fitness center, an on-site restaurant, a lounge, a business center, and a meeting room.
If you want to learn about the history of Ottumwa, the best place to visit is the Wapello County Historical Museum. This museum features a wide range of exhibits that give you an interesting insight into life in Wapello County in the 19th and 20th centuries. The main highlights of the museum include a replica of the Ottumwa Coal Palace and a restored America LaFrance fire truck.
Another must-see museum in Ottumwa is the Video Game Capital of the World Interactive Museum. This museum is built to honor the rich video-gaming legacy of Ottumwa, which is also known as “Video Game Capital of the World.” The city got its nickname because it was home to the iconic Twin Galaxies arcade, which served as the venue for numerous arcade-game competitions. While you're touring the museum, you can discover Ottumwa's amazing gaming legacy and play a wide array of classic arcade games.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, you should spend some time at the Gray Eagle Wildlife Preserve. Located on the northern banks of the Des Moines River, this 142-acre preserve consists of seasonally flooded wetlands. During spring and fall, it attracts a large number of migratory shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl, making it an excellent bird-watching destination. Besides viewing wildlife, you can also enjoy a picnic, hike, or fish in this beautiful preserve.
With so many options available, you may have a difficult time choosing the right hotel around Ottumwa. To ensure that you have a pleasant stay in the city, you should opt for a hotel that provides all the amenities you need and easy access to the attractions you plan to visit. Spending some time doing research on the hotels in the area can help you save time and hassle during your trip.
Below are reviews of the city of Ottumwa, IA from an actual visitor's perspective.
The lagoons all decked out in Christmas lights was pretty cool. The Canteen is always great and we visited the Main Street Bakery for the first time and they are phenomenal! Awesome selection of donuts and other baked goods with reasonable prices and the donuts are delicious!
The Bridge View Center is well done.
I lived here 30 years ago and periodically come home for a visit. Each time there are new businesses to visit. I especially love eating lunch at the Canteen, a landmark establishment that hasn't changed in almost 100 years!
Nice town.
The Canteen eating place is close by and always hits the spot. Favorite with locals.
Small and easy to find our way around. Stores close by. Close to restaurants.
Love all the shopping spots and how beautiful it is at night all lit up!
Quaint. There were a few restaurants that were very nice.
Nice!