Hotels in Altoona

Altoona Adventures: Where Thrills and Nature Unite

Nestled just outside Des Moines, Altoona, Iowa, is a vibrant destination brimming with family-friendly excitement. Home to the thrilling Adventureland Park, visitors can revel in a kaleidoscope of rides and attractions. Explore the scenic landscapes of the nearby Altoona Lake or indulge in shopping and dining at the bustling Altoona Town Centre. With its blend of adventure, relaxation, and community charm, Altoona offers a delightful escape for families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you're riding roller coasters or enjoying a leisurely lakeside stroll, Altoona promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Discover great hotels in Altoona

Altoona offers a variety of hotel accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. From comfortable chain hotels with modern amenities to charming local options, travelers can find suitable guest rooms for a relaxing stay. Whether you're visiting for leisure or business, Altoona's hotels provide a welcoming atmosphere. Here are some of the best hotels in Altoona that our travelers love:

1. WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant HillOpens in a new window: WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant Hill is a cozy 2.5-star hotel, ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable pet-friendly experience. With its welcoming atmosphere, this hotel offers amenities that ensure a smooth stay. The property features a range of pet-friendly policies, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with furry companions. Guests appreciate the relaxed vibe and the thoughtful amenities designed to enhance their overall experience, allowing for a hassle-free journey.
2. Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des MoinesOpens in a new window: Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines, a 2.5-star hotel, caters specifically to business travelers while maintaining a pet-friendly environment. It boasts a well-equipped business center and multiple meeting rooms, making it perfect for professionals on the go. The hotel's commitment to comfort and convenience shines through in its design and amenities, creating a productive yet relaxing atmosphere. This hotel garners positive sentiments for its modern facilities and exceptional service, ideally suited for those who value efficiency and quality during their travels.
3. Econo Lodge Inn & Suites FairgroundsOpens in a new window: Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds is a charming 2.0-star hotel that welcomes pet owners looking for a comfortable stay. With its relaxed ambiance, this hotel provides a variety of amenities that enhance the travel experience. The property is designed to ensure visitors feel at home, fostering a warm and inviting environment. Positive sentiments highlight the hotel's ability to deliver a pleasant stay for travelers, making it a great spot for those seeking a friendly atmosphere and convenience.

Top locations to stay in Altoona

When visiting Altoona, Iowa, great areas to stay in include Des Moines, Ankeny, and Pleasant Hill. Des Moines offers vibrant sports and nightlife, Ankeny features excellent dining and shopping options, while Pleasant Hill is perfect for outdoor biking enthusiasts. For first-time visitors, Des Moines is the best choice, providing a lively urban experience close to Altoona.

1. Des MoinesOpens in a new window: As the capital city of Iowa, Des Moines is a vibrant hub brimming with cultural attractions and sports events. You'll find a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters that showcase local talent and history. For sports enthusiasts, the city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including minor league baseball and professional soccer matches. The downtown area is also home to a thriving dining scene, featuring everything from food trucks to fine dining. Be sure to check out the local farmers' markets and festivals that add to the city's lively atmosphere.
2. AnkenyOpens in a new window: Ankeny is a charming suburb known for its excellent dining and shopping options. With a mix of local boutiques and larger retail stores, shopping here is a delightful experience. The community hosts various events throughout the year, including food festivals and holiday celebrations, making it a great place to immerse yourself in local culture. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the extensive parks and trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Ankeny offers a friendly, small-town vibe with easy access to larger attractions nearby.
3. Pleasant HillOpens in a new window: Pleasant Hill is a cozy community that’s perfect for those looking to relax while still being close to the action. Known for its biking trails and parks, it's a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy recreational activities. The local shopping scene features unique stores and cozy cafes, providing a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. While it may be smaller than its neighboring cities, Pleasant Hill offers a peaceful escape with easy access to the attractions of Des Moines and Ankeny, making it a delightful base for your adventures.

Things to do in Altoona

Altoona offers a delightful mix of rolling hills and lush forests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Spend your days hiking scenic trails, enjoying lakeside picnics, or horseback riding through picturesque landscapes. In the evenings, let loose with lively dancing or try your luck at thrilling horseraces, all while exploring charming local shops.

• Iowa State Capitol BuildingOpens in a new window – Step inside this historic Civic Government Building, where stunning architecture and rich history await. Marvel at the gold dome and intricate details as you explore the halls where important decisions are made. Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the beautiful grounds surrounding the building, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
• Iowa State FairgroundsOpens in a new window – Get ready for a vibrant experience at the Iowa State Fairgrounds! Known for hosting the iconic Iowa State Fair, this Show Ground is bustling with excitement. Visit during the fair season to indulge in delicious fair food, enjoy thrilling rides, and participate in various competitions and events. It's a great way to experience the local culture and community spirit!
• AdventurelandOpens in a new window – Thrill-seekers will love Adventureland, an amusement park packed with fun rides and attractions. From roller coasters to family-friendly rides, there's something for everyone. Spend a day filled with laughter and excitement as you explore the park's various themed areas and enjoy live entertainment throughout the day.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Altoona

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Altoona is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. An ideal stay of at least 2 to 3 days allows visitors to explore key landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions in the area. While enjoying your time on a budget, you can partake in excursions, visit horseracing venues, and explore local shops, all of which offer great value for money. With the possibility that prices may drop during these months, Altoona becomes an attractive option for those seeking an affordable getaway rich in culture and history.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore hotel options in Altoona, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, by enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay updated on flash sales and unique last-minute promotions, helping you seize savings opportunities. The Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're well-informed about availability and potential price drops. This way, you're more likely to find the perfect last-minute getaway in Altoona.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in an Altoona hotel. For those seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Altoona's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit farther out that’s still well-connected. For those interested in exploring less crowded neighborhoods or even some lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often excellent value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and start planning your next getaway in Altoona! As a member, you'll unlock exclusive savings on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Enjoy benefits like expedited booking, potential room upgrades, and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Sign up today to make the most of your travel experiences!

Best time to go to Altoona

Altoona experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.4°F (-5.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.5°F (23.6°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Altoona, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.