Elkader, Iowa
BOTANICAL
Enjoy the Jailhouse Inn’s version of a “honeymoon suite”. The 4 post queen bed and charming antiques welcomes you to your getaway. Enjoy the many pieces of real police evidence that adorn the suite. The real draw for the wildly popular Botanical suite is the luxurious bathroom that is about 3 times the size of the cells the criminals were confined to! Beautiful tile floors and spacious air massage tub, big enough for two, will make it hard to leave at the end of your stay. Don’t believe the rumors you hear about Shelly (the little girl in the painting). Her ghost will leave you alone. Probably.
THE JAILHOUSE
Enjoy your sentence at the historic Elkader Jailhouse Inn. Built 150 years ago to house Clayton County's most dangerous criminals, the recently renovated 5,000+ square foot limestone mansion sits on a 3 acre bluff overlooking the rolling hills of Elkader, Iowa. Enjoy 4 spacious suites that pamper you with luxurious beds and spa-like bathrooms while overflowing with character and historic charm. As an inmate you will have access to the gourmet kitchen, scenic patio overlooking the valley, and of course everyone’s favorite: the cell block. The authentic jail cells, evidence, and paraphernalia make this a stay you won’t soon forget. But don’t worry it won’t stay on your record. Don’t forget to take your mugshot! Entertaining a big group Rent the whole jailhouse for accommodations of up to 20 inmates! Perfect for all occasions from a weekend getaway to a wedding party. It should be a crime not to stay here!
THE TOWN
The Jail house overlooks the quaint town of Elkader, Iowa, the county seat of Clayton County. Your accommodations are just blocks from the Main street restaurants and boutiques that line the Turkey river. Ample shopping and dining attractions are within walking distance. The town and surrounding countryside of Northeastern Iowa provide plenty of leisure activities from Pike’s Peak and Backbone state Parks, to the historic Effigy Mounds, not to mention abundant trout fishing, including within the nearby scenic Yellow River State Forest. Catch a concert at the Opera House, cut cards at the Casino in nearby Mcgregor, hit the links at one of the area's golf courses or spend a day on the water floating a local river. The natural beauty and historic charm will make you a repeat offender!
Historical building. Nice room. Amazing bathroom. Beautifully renovated.
This unique place has it all: charm, class, comfort, beauty, and fun. When you first walk in, you are greeted with a gorgeous staircase leading to most of the rooms. Our room was spacious, with a luxurious bathroom. The gourmet kitchen is equipped for anything and everything with seating for eight. The adjoining dining room has a large table with additional seating and windows lining two walls. And clean! This VRBO was impressively clean! I have to say the jail was a little eery after dark, but it didn't stop us from watching a football game, playing cards and shuffleboard, and exploring the jail cells. The jail is attached to the back of the main building, so you can actually stay here without even seeing the jail itself, but make sure you don't miss it. Check in was a breeze. Parking was plentiful. The grounds are well maintained and very pretty. This would be a great place to stay for a family reunion or holiday. We found the people of Elkader to be friendly and helpful. The downtown area is easily walkable with old buildings that have been beautifully renovated. Stop in at GEAR for breakfast and a great cup of coffee. We definitely recommend you give the Jailhouse a try!
Nice amenities, would have appreciated instructions for use of TV and hot tub. All TV options had low or no signal. Jets in Hot tub kept coming on after draining - random buttons finally set timer to 0 but have no idea how.
Very beautiful and interesting property. Navigation took us to the back door, so getting in was tricky. I loved the cleanness of the place and the coziness of our bedroom.
My girlfriend and I had the whole place to ourselves and that was a treat. Although, the inn would be wonderful for a murder mystery party setting. The history of the place naturally creates a mild spooky vibe that we adored. Shelly from the portrait was very accommodating, but I could swear she kept moving her faceless doll around. Odd. Overall, it was a fantastic experience. The Botanical's bathroom and tub are dreamy. Bathroom was very clean (although the cleaning fee for two nights was steep) and the kitchen was generously equipped. Elkader is a charming town. Be sure to stop by GEAR Elkader for breakfast, Schera's for dinner, TD's for late night grub, and Turkey River Mall for hours of great antiquing.
I loved the main home n my room. Awesome bathroom. found the jail room interesting but would rather have tv in room. The bed in room was not comfortable since i prefer a firm mattress.
No elevator so carrying suitcases up steep stairs not good. No one there to answer questions - no breakfast. Three nights I was all by myself which was a tad unnerving. Unable to control temp in my room - cold every night. There 7 days & no housekeeping. This could be a charming place but you need people on property
My husband and I looked for a weekend getaway and came across this. The home was beautiful as was the surrounding area. We would love to come back again during a different season and see the area when the vegetation is blooming ❤️
Very relaxing and homily
The Renovated old jailhouse was just what we were looking for. We had 2 goals in our search for a vacation place: a hot tub/ jacuzzi tub and quiet peace without being crowded by people. We enjoyed the room, shuffleboard, history of the building and the small beautiful town. I would recommend this to others and stay here again.
My husband and I had a great stay in Elkader. The property was clean and well stocked on everything you need for a getaway. The check in/out instructions were clear and the hosts were quick to respond to questions. The building itself is full of historical charm and located in a great spot to explore NE Iowa. We will definitely return.