Vacation rentals in Iowa

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Iowa

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Top guest favorite
The cabin's exterior showcases a blue wooden facade with a metal roof, set against a backdrop of lush greenery. A stone base supports the structure, enhancing its rustic charm. In the foreground, a grassy area is complemented by a few trees, creating a peaceful outdoor environment.
Farm stay in Decorah
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews

Footbridge Farm Cabin

Footbridge Farm is a quiet country get-away located on 90 wooded acres, 15 miles NE of Decorah. We are close to the mouth of Canoe Creek, the Upper Iowa River and adjacent to state DNR land. The cozy owner-built cabin has an open ceiling with exposed beams and rafters giving a sense of spaciousness. Local stone was used in the exterior walls and the floor-to-ceiling fire back behind the wood-burning stove. The floors are oak and slate. Detailed craftsmanship can be found throughout the cabin.

Guest favorite
The serene river reflects the vibrant colors of the sunset, framed by the silhouettes of trees. The calm water showcases shades of pink and orange, enhancing the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Cabin in Pella
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews

Cozy 2 bedroom river cabin with awesome views

Enjoy the beauty of nature from your porch swing on the banks of the Des Moines River. Relax and let go as you watch gulls and eagles soar overhead. Enjoy time together around the campfire as the sun sets over the water. This cozy cabin is the perfect spot to unwind, & reconnect with yourself, your loved ones & nature. Feeling Adventurous? There are abundant recreational activities available at nearby Lake Red Rock. * More traffic on the T-17 bridge in 2025 due to nearby construction.

Top guest favorite
A serene view of a tranquil pond reflects a cozy cabin surrounded by greenery. Soft grasses frame the foreground, while the sky showcases gentle clouds. The cabin features a covered porch, enhancing the peaceful ambiance of the quiet country location.
Cabin in Durango
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 318 reviews

Cozy Cabin by the Pond

Quiet, private country location to relax and unwind. 9 miles west of Dubuque, close to Wineries, Heritage Trail, Sundown Mountain Resort. Cozy cabin and quarter acre pond. Sun yourself on the patio, or nap in the shade of the covered porch. We're sure you will love this space as much as we do. Not suitable for children under 12, we strictly enforce no children and no pets. Outdoor relaxing space, gas grill. Fully stocked cabin, with breakfast items included for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Top guest favorite
A tranquil scene along a serene pond features a wooden dock with views of mist rising from the water. A cozy mug and an open notebook rest on a wooden surface nearby, inviting relaxation and reflection in a picturesque natural setting.
Tiny home in Norwalk
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews

Private *Fall Oasis* Waterfront Tiny House & Sauna

The true definition of rest & relaxation, this unique tiny house is situated on a three-acre pond suitable for catch and release fishing, kayaking, or stand up paddle boarding. Bring your gear and leave your worries behind. Built with special touches and details including stained glass windows and intricate woodwork, this tiny home boasts warmth throughout. Wake up to bird songs and coffee with the sunrise. After a day of fun, take a soak in the wood-burning sauna and relax by the campfire.

Guest favorite
The yurt is positioned on a grassy area, surrounded by tall grass and trees. A wooden deck extends from the entrance, offering a peaceful view of the expansive landscape and a sunset painted with soft hues. The sky transitions from warm orange to gentle purple tones.
Yurt in Chelsea
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 132 reviews

Yurt Glamping on a Magical Goat Farm

Located on a beautiful homestead in the 'Bohemie Alps.' Walk up the hill to our 24' yurt, set with beautiful views overlooking the farm and Iowa countryside. Furnished with 2 full/queen beds, pull out couch, clean linens and towels. Set up with electricity and temp control. A true glamping experience in the heartland. Visit with llamas, goats, pigs, horses and hike around the property or stay in for a quiet stay with a good book and enjoy all the sights and sounds. Lots of extra 'add ons'

Guest favorite
Two repurposed grain bins are situated on a landscaped area, featuring a small patio with seating arrangements. A vibrant flower bed is placed adjacent to the patio, and a gravel pathway leads to the entrance. Lush greenery surrounds the structure, creating a serene environment.
Tiny home in Missouri Valley
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 225 reviews

Grain Bin Getaway

Nestled at the foot of the Loess Hills, this repurposed grain bin is a sight to see. Every inch of the inside has been customized for a relaxing and luxurious experience. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown Omaha, as well as within a quick drive to numerous state parks. There is even an external electrical hook up for campers. Finally, our grain bin includes 20 acres of the Loess Hills to explore. We recommend hiking to the top of the ridge for sunset. It's breath taking.

Top guest favorite
A peaceful scene of a cottage surrounded by lush greenery reflects perfectly in a calm body of water. Light-colored chairs are positioned along the shoreline, inviting relaxation, while trees provide ample shade on this serene property.
Farm stay in Janesville
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 321 reviews

Honeybee Cottage at Star's Hollow

Honeybee Cottage is located next to our own beach/lake & 140 acres of beautifully groomed public nature trails. It is creatively decorated & full of amenities, including a coffee/tea bar. Make use of the games/books/DVDs that are provided. Feed the cows, read a book on the beach, take a hike or mountain bike in the trails, nap on the porch, fish for bluegills in our lake, race the pig, skip rocks/canoe in the creek, have a bonfire (S'mores provided) & stargaze the evening sky!

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area is characterized by a large, curved sectional sofa in a warm tone, centered around a geometric coffee table. Subtle wall art and a decorative vase add elegance, while an electric fireplace below a flat-screen TV provides a cozy focal point.
Barn in Des Moines
5 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviews

Luxury Barndominium perfect for larger groups

Welcome to The Lodge on 3rd - a massive 8000 sq ft Barndominum. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With 3 spacious bedrooms and a large loft, there is plenty of room for you and your guests to unwind in style. This property is next door to Luxury Living on Third. airbnb.com/h/luxurylivingonthird These combined properties are ideal for family reunions, etc. ***$200 Pet Fee***

Top guest favorite
An outdoor space features a saltwater spa adjacent to a circular seating area with Adirondack chairs gathered around a fire pit. Lush grass surrounds the area, and trees frame the view, creating a peaceful retreat in the countryside.
Home in Afton
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 144 reviews

The Country Oasis

The Country Oasis is the ideal destination for those seeking a serene retreat or a rejuvenating escape. This delightful vacation rental features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, making it perfect for your next getaway. With modern amenities and comforts such as a hot tub, fireplace, and various gathering spaces both indoors and out, The Country Oasis guarantees a memorable experience with friends and family. Come and enjoy the best of country living in southwest Iowa!

Top guest favorite
A welcoming living area features a comfortable sofa and a wooden coffee table. Large windows provide a scenic view of the landscape and river, allowing natural light to fill the space. A TV is mounted above a stone fireplace, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Home in Dubuque
5 out of 5 average rating, 177 reviews

Home by the River

Situated alongside the Mississippi River, wildlife abounds in every season. With eagles nesting nearby, there is always something new to see from the beautiful sunrises, cruise ships passing by, and watching the commerce of the barges and railroad right out the front window! This home has been recently refurbished and sits at the edge of our 15 acres. You can see us and visit with us if you like, or you can maintain privacy 10 acres away!

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a galaxy bell tent is softly illuminated by string lights, highlighting its unique shape. The surrounding area features a natural landscape, with trees visible in the background, creating a serene nighttime setting.
Tent in Perry
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 215 reviews

Relaxing galaxy bell tent getaway

Come sleep under the stars in this cozy galaxy bell tent. You can enjoy a good nights sleep in the comfortable King bed and stay comfortable with an air conditioner and heater. There is also a fridge for keeping your food fresh. Soak up nature while you hike the trails around Oak Haven Acres, a 32 acre farm in rural Iowa. For your security we have a trail camera at the beginning of the driveway that won’t intrude on your privacy.

Top guest favorite
A log cabin with a green metal roof features a covered porch with two wooden rocking chairs. A pathway leads to the door, and a fire pit is situated in the yard. Surrounding trees create a natural barrier, enhancing the secluded setting.
Cabin in Newton
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 288 reviews

Little Cabin in the Woods - Great for Staycation!

Our little cabin in the woods is a great place for couples to relax, reflect and connect. Nestled on 115 acres of land, there are many trails to explore throughout the woods. Enjoy watching wildlife, laughing around a fire, sitting on the front porch watching the sunset, reading, playing games, and stargazing.

Popular amenities for Iowa vacation rentals

Your guide to Iowa

Welcome to Iowa

Those who don’t know Iowa will associate it exclusively with corn. The state is the country’s largest producer of the crop, anchoring the Midwestern Corn Belt. But beyond its obvious associations with farmland in the heartland, Iowa is rich in culture and nature. Home to the world’s largest truckstop and the country’s most famous state fair, the state is represented by snippets of real Americana, patched together like a quilt across the prairie. In western Iowa, the town of Le Mars is known as the ice cream capital of the world. The eastern part of the state boasts a UNESCO-designated City of Literature, Iowa City, as well as the cultural hubs of Cedar Rapids and Davenport. And in the heart of the state, Des Moines stands as its center of politics and economy. No matter where your Iowa journey takes you, there’s sure to be a scenic byway, a quiet monument, or a photo opportunity along the way.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Iowa

Extreme heat. Frigid cold. Thrilling summer thunderstorms. Awe-inspiring tornadoes. Depending on when you visit Iowa, you could experience any number of weather patterns, thanks to its position in the landlocked, wide-open plains. Iowa’s variable climate also means that spring is glorious and fall color is gorgeous, and the only thing rivaling the state’s sticky-hot summers are its postcard-perfect winter scenes. In general, it’s best to book one of Iowa’s cabins for rent during the warmer months, when festivals and fairs dominate the event calendar. Book a trip to the northwest in May for the Orange City Tulip Festival, an homage to Dutch heritage that’s more than 80 years old. In late July, Indianola hosts its glorious National Balloon Classic. The famous Iowa State Fair takes over Des Moines the second week of August, drawing fans of funnel cake and carnival rides to see the famous butter cow sculpture. And in the fall, the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival is a fantastic occasion to go leaf-peeping just outside Des Moines.


Top things to do in Iowa

Charming small towns

Some of Iowa’s best spots to visit are its smallest. Pella shows off its 175-year-old Dutch heritage with the tallest working windmill in the country and the annual Tulip Time festival, held during peak blooming season each May. The seven tiny villages that comprise the Amana Colonies were established in the 1850s for German exiles, and stand today as National Historic Landmarks. All over the state, small towns with unique histories welcome visitors year-round.

The Bridges of Madison County

Chances are you’ve heard of Madison County’s picturesque covered bridges, which have stood sturdy since the 1800s. Of the 19 originally built around the county, there are now just six, and they’re well worth the visit — especially in October, when they’re honored with a celebratory festival.

Driftless Area

Earning its name for the fact that it was bypassed by glacial drift, the Driftless Area was left with beautiful and unique geographical features unlike a typical Midwestern landscape. The Iowa section of this multistate region is marked by deep river valleys, limestone bluffs, and steep inclines. Beyond numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, the sparsely populated Driftless Area is home to quaint inns, old churches, and charming antique shops.

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