One of the chicest staying spots in Iowa, The Highlander Hotel is a funky boutique hotel that taps into your funkadelic side. The Highlander Hotel is located in Iowa City, just 10 minutes from the heart of Downtown Iowa City and directly off of I-80.
The Highlander is a “retro revival” of the 1967 original Highlander Inn and Supper Club and was even designated as a local landmark in 2021 by the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission. Though it is 50 years old, this funky hotel has undergone renovations in the last several years, making it one of the newest hotspots in Eastern Iowa. With over one million guests in the past five decades, The Highlander Hotel has a little something for everyone.
Whether you are looking for a staycation, need a place to crash when visiting friends or family or just passing through, The Highlander Hotel is a must-stay. This ultra-groovy spot screams 70’s, as soon as you enter. You will find its logo–peace signs–spread all throughout the hotel, as well as velvet lounge furniture, games and a 70’s-style bar. There are bright colors and paintings all throughout the hotel, which is perfect for the hippie vibes.
There are approximately 90 hotel rooms, some of which overlook the back courtyard and some that have a view of the fantastic indoor pool. The best part, there are record players that guests can utilize in their rooms. Pick up a record and some games, and enjoy a quiet evening in your room.
If you want more of an action scene, check out the arcade room, the outdoor patio and courtyard, or the lavish indoor pool and hot tub. The pool has large garage-style doors that open to the courtyard in the summertime, making it a perfect transition of the space. Open-air amenities include fire pits, cornhole, croquet, bocce ball, a giant chess board and sunchairs. There is also a fitness room where guests can get their daily workout in.
Upon arrival, guests receive a room card bracelet that they wear during their stay, which accesses their guest room and the pool area. Another unique feature is the texting communication. Want a snack? Text the hotel and let them know. The communication is top notch and customer service is even better. Guests can also request wool blanket for chilly nights in the courtyard, a baby monitor, a phone charger, an umbrella, a yoga mat and more to make the stay more comfortable. The WiFi is fast and reliable, which is great for those working remotely.
The Highlander Hotel has several areas where guests can relax and enjoy some unique bites to eat. The Highlander Lounge is located right off the entry to the hotel with velvet high-top chairs and a leather bar. This is a great spot to grab a drink a snack for happy hour. The Snack Shack is located directly off the pool for easy access to food and drinks, without leaving the pool area. Lastly, The Supper Club is one of the iconic parts of this hotel that includes the arcade area, a bar, TV’s to watch a variety of sports games and a seating area to sit and enjoy your lunch or dinner. The menu at all three locations includes burgers, flatbreads, tacos, bowls, shareables and some sweet treats. There is also an eclectic cocktail and mocktail menu, along with beer and wine selections.
Guests are also welcome to enjoy complimentary, gourmet coffee and soft drinks 24/7 in the Snack Shack. Complimentary breakfast is served 7 to 10 a.m., seven days a week. Besides being super cool and groovy, The Highlander is also dog-friendly and eco-conscious. There are no paper cups, Styrofoam or plastic bottles in sight.
For more information on The Highlander Hotel or to book a room, visit www.highlanderhotel.us.