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From103US$ /night
Check-in
23Mar2026Select date
Check-out
24Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

2525 North Dodge Street, Iowa City, Iowa, United States, 52245
-
Close to Hickory Hill Park
Very good
7.9
8.6
/10
4.6
4.4
/5

Amenities

The Highlander Hotel includes the largest hotel atrium in the area, boasting an inviting indoor pool and hot tub that open to a spacious outdoor courtyard. Guests enjoy a variety of onsite entertainment options, including a retro cocktail arcade with classic games like Pac-Man and Skee-Ball. Additionally, the hotel features an on-site restaurant, Lucy's, offering a menu inspired by popular food trucks.

Rooms

Room options at The Highlander Hotel include King and Double Queen configurations, with various styles such as rooms with balconies or patios. Each room is equipped with luxurious linens, organic bath products, and functional desk space for work or leisure. Noteworthy is the Penthouse Suite, featuring a full chef's kitchen and the largest hotel bathroom in Iowa.

Location

Conveniently located just minutes from downtown Iowa City, The Highlander Hotel sits off the interstate for easy access. This central location enables guests to explore local attractions, dining options, and entertainment within a short drive. The outdoor courtyard provides a green space for relaxation, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The Highlander Hotel caters to families with spacious accommodations and access to kid-friendly entertainment options. The indoor pool area allows for family swimming, while the arcade is designed for guests of all ages. Special packages offer fun birthday party experiences that include pool time and catering.

Dining

On-site dining at The Highlander Hotel includes a full-service restaurant, Lucy's, and a poolside snack bar, the Snack Shack. Guests can choose from a variety of options, including classic food truck-style offerings and refreshing milkshakes. A breakfast buffet is available on weekends, further enhancing the dining experience.

Highlights

Entertainment: Retro cocktail arcade with classic games

Location: Minutes from downtown Iowa City

Rooms: Penthouse Suite with chef's kitchen

Dining: On-site restaurant and poolside Snack Shack

“The retro theme certainly gives the hotel a distinctive vibe, enhanced by features like an arcade and a large indoor pool. I think families in particular would appreciate the hotel's pet-friendly policy and outdoor spaces with fire pits. Environmentally conscious features are integrated, and the food truck-inspired dining sounds like a fun alternative to standard hotel fare.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Queen Suite Two Queen Beds Non Smoking
2 persons
Shower
Queen Suite Two Queen Beds Disability Access or Non smoking
2 persons
Shower
King Suite Courtyard View Non smoking
2 persons
Shower
Queen Suite Two Queen Beds Courtyard View Non Smoking
2 persons
Shower
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Coffee shop
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Table tennis

Services

  • Room service
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Poolside snack bar
  • Snack bar

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Board games
  • Toys

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Jacuzzi
  • Shallow end

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Garden furniture

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
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Dining Onsite

The Highlander Hotel offers a delightful dining experience at The Highlander Lounge, where a diverse menu ranges from comforting American classics to Italian fare, all within a modern, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can unwind with refreshing cocktails at the bar or poolside, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxation and indulgence.

The Highlander Lounge

American, Italian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Mexican, Pizza, Seafood
Ambiance
Modern, family-friendly setting that welcomes guests of all ages.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a daily complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast along with a vibrant happy hour. The menu features vegetarian and gluten-free options, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for lunch and dinner, with a cocktail hour available.

The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection Location

2525 North Dodge Street, Iowa City, Iowa, United States, 52245
Map view
2525 North Dodge Street, Iowa City, Iowa, United States, 52245
Nearby
Southeastern Iowa Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church
700 ft
Restaurants
Joensy's Restaurant
900 ft
2563 N Dodge St
Explore Iowa City
Explore Iowa City
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hickory Hill Park
Hickory Hill Park
25 minutes' walk
Natural beauty with trails and picnic spots. Ideal for families or a relaxing day outdoors.
Southeastern Iowa Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church
9 minutes' walk
A historic church known for its stunning architecture and community events, worth a visit for all.
Visionary Stone
20 minutes' walk
Unique public art installation that blends history and creativity, perfect for photo opportunities.
Life
15 minutes' walk
A vibrant space showcasing local art and events, appealing to culture enthusiasts and art lovers.
Biking at Hickory Hill Park
25 minutes' walk
Scenic biking trails await just minutes away. Rent a bike nearby for an enjoyable adventure.
Yoga Classes
10 minutes' drive
Relaxation and wellness with local yoga studios offering classes for all levels. Seasonal schedules apply.
Joensy's Restaurant
Joensy's Restaurant
4 minutes' walk
Charming diner with hearty American fare and homemade pies. Family-friendly atmosphere; no reservations needed.
Local Bistro
10 minutes' drive
Contemporary bistro offering farm-to-table cuisine with vegetarian options. Ideal for casual dinners.
The Englert Theatre
10 minutes' drive
Historic venue hosting live music and comedy shows. Check local listings for upcoming family-friendly events.
Jazz and Wine Nights
10 minutes' drive
Weekly jazz nights at various bars, perfect for a night out. Enjoy local wines and live performances.
Getting around town
City Centre
Iowa City7 min  ·  2.6 mi
Airports
The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)58 min  ·  23.7 mi
Quad City International Airport (MLI)152 min  ·  62.8 mi
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel The Highlander, Ascend Collection provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
82
Former name
Quality Inn & Suites Highlander Conference Center

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 286 verified reviews
8.1/10
Great
72%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.3/10
Comfort
8.3/10
Facilities
8.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.3/10
Location
8.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
7.6/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
Excellent location
Spacious pool
Cons
Room condition
Limited options
Closed amenities
Guest reviews
based on 121 reviews
7.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
What is the distance from The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection to the University of Iowa?
The hotel is located 10 km from the University of Iowa.
What amenities does The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection offer for relaxation?
Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, hot tub, and sun loungers.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
Check-in is at 15:00, and check-out is at 11:00.
Is there a gym available at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
Yes, the hotel features a fitness centre for guest use.
What dining options are available at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
The hotel has an on-site restaurant serving American, Italian, and Japanese cuisine.
Does The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection allow pets?
Pets are allowed with applicable charges.
What facilities are available for families at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
Families can enjoy activities like table tennis and a game room with retro arcade games.
What types of breakfast options are provided at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
The hotel offers a complimentary buffet or continental breakfast.
What is the nearest airport to The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
The nearest airport is Eastern Iowa Airport, located 40 km from the hotel.
Are there any interesting landmarks near The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
Nearby attractions include Kinnick Stadium (7 km) and Paramount Theatre (45 km).
What kind of parking is available at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
The hotel offers free public parking on-site.

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