The hotel Ottumwa seems to equate “historic” with no updates or maintenance. My wife and I enjoy historic hotels - such as the Stanley in Estes Park, CO, the historic Park Inn in Mason City, IA or the Hotel Winneshiek in Decorah,IA….but the hotel Ottumwa is a different experience. First impressions: a deteriorating lobby, false ceilings to hide any interesting original ceiling designs and a struggling old elevator. Those might have been okay…but the room sent us packing almost immediately. We entered a cold, pitch black room with sunlight only peaking through holes worn in the shades. After finally locating the lightswitch - which is far past the door, in the dark - we were able to see the dated, junk furniture and stains all over the very old carpet. The room was cold, damp and smelled like mold. It was a 20 degree day and no heat was on in the room - I guess we were expected to wait for the provided space heater to warm us up? The whole 6th floor had the atmosphere of an old dilapidated drug house. We quickly decided to check out and find an opening at another hotel. I wouldn’t have slept at the hotel Ottumwa even if they were paying me. At least the front desk staff was friendly and helpful. Unless you’re a prospective buyer who plans to start renovations, I’d recommend you find another hotel for your stay.…
Hotel Ottumwa gets a star for the cool vintage vibe on the exterior and another for nice people that work there. However, the interior was pretty dreary with shabby furnishings and grungy appearance. The very dim interior lighting in the lobby, hallways, and rooms were both a blessing and a curse. While the full extent of the wear and tear and general neglect is hidden in the dimness, it makes one wonder what else is lurking in the shadows...
The first thing I noticed when we entered our room was the impeccably made bed. Someone had taken the time to secure the sheets and blanket with crisply formed and folded corners. When I laid down between the sheets, it was evident that the bottom sheet was not going to be in wrinkles or folds when I woke up the next morning. When we came down for breakfast, I complimented the owner and inquired if the quality of workmanship on our bed was typical throughout the hotel, and was told that indeed, it was. She and the person in charge of room preparation had worked together to create a warm, inviting bed that would appear professionally made, but required minimum hassle for the cleaning staff. I was impressed. After initially viewing the bed, I expected the same high quality of cleanliness in the rest of the room and in the bathroom, and was not disappointed. I promised a review, which I have finally submitted. We stayed in this hotel in November 2017. Somewhere else on this page I was required to choose a date when we stayed, and I picked November 2021 because 2017 was not available. If ever we find ourselves in the Ottumwa, IA area again, we will absolutely be staying in Hotel Ottumwa. We heard no traffic. We heard no footsteps in the hallway outside our door, and the hotel was nearly full when we checked in. I highly recommend that if you are in this part of Iowa, you make your reservation and prepare for a really great night's sleep!…
In the heart of historic downtown this historic hotel could use some modernization but it's completely comfortable. Small bathroom but everything worked. Fridge, microwave and coffee pot - even a ceiling fan that I enjoyed. There are two places to eat in the building and breakfast is included with the room from one of them.
If you enjoy exploring history by experiencing time and space fist-hand, Hotel Ottumwa is definitely not a location to miss. The hospitality is genuine & the accommodations are truly neat. Be sure to save some time for breakfast. Official review provided by Mad Cock Media, LLC madcockmedia.com
This is a historic hotel in the downtown area. We found our room to be large, clean and comfortable. The room was very quite considering being downtown. The cooked to order breakfast (served during covid) was very good.
This was my second stay and visit to Hotel Ottumwa. Both times on a cross country bicycle journey. Yes its a older building, with some older pieces to the puzzle, but I found it to be very comfortable and and a great place to stay. My big 3 needs are always quiet, clean, and comfortable. Hotel Ottumwa always meets them for me. My room was clean with everything working properly including a microwave and refrigerator. The front desk staff has always been polite, professional as well as engaging. I love the breakfast that is offered in the morning. So much better than the many "continental breakfast" served these days at other hotels! If I ever return to Ottumwa, Hotel Ottumwa will certainly be my first choice for accommodations! TheBigRideforEB.com
Room small but cozy, clean,comfortable bed,remodeled bathroom,microwave,refrigerator. Restaurant good variety of good food and reasonable prices. We would definitely stay here again. Easy parking in the downtown area.
This place has a great desk clerk named Jodi. She's very nice and helpful. Decent prices but that's to be expected when the hotel is older then Jesus. They have an escape room that I won't have time to try but looked fun!
I enjoyed everything about your hotel. The hospitality,free breakfast, and what have you*. My recommendation to you guys is to regulate the smell of food. It's not actually bad but at times its makes self uncomfortable. Thanks
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