Loved by Hotel Grinnell, Ascend Hotel Collection guests
clever touches
fun art
historic building
sit down dinner
comfortable rooms
"Hotel Grinnell is a boutique hotel located in a quiet city; very walkable with a park for easy dog walking near by."
Karen from United States
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"The beds are comfy and such clever touches from this school converted to a hotel from the chalkboard in the room to the hall pass!"
Kathleen B from United States
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"Not only is the hotel ideally located in the center of town and just a block from campus, but everything about the hotel-the room, the restaurant, the service, the amenities, the charm-would be perfect even if it were five miles away."
Dan F from United States
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"The bed is very comfortable, shower and bath tub are great."
Sierra L from United States
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"It set the perfect vibe for the trip--playful and smart."
Liz K from United States
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4-star Boutique Hotel in a Converted Historic Junior High School
Amenities
Hotel Grinnell occupies a converted historic junior high school, with 45 rooms, a 300-seat ballroom, and an outdoor patio called The Periodic Table. The property includes a games room with shuffleboard and skeeball, a fitness center, and complimentary bicycles for guests to explore Grinnell. School-themed details such as lockers and chalkboards are integrated throughout the hotel, along with a business centre and meeting/banquet facilities.
Rooms
Room options include Quadruple Rooms with Two Queen Beds, King Rooms, Triple Rooms, Family Rooms, and King Suites with Living Room. Many rooms are non-smoking, allergy-free, and ADA-compliant, with accessibility features like roll-in showers and grab bars. Guests can choose from configurations that accommodate up to four people, with some rooms offering sofa beds or separate living areas.
Dining
The on-site family-friendly restaurant serves American, Italian, Mexican, pizza, Texmex, and Asian cuisines for brunch, lunch, and dinner. A continental breakfast is included, and the bar features a specialized local craft beer selection, happy hour, and live music or performances. Additional dining options include a coffee house on site, a snack bar, and wine/champagne service.
Location
Hotel Grinnell is 94 km from Des Moines International Airport, with The Eastern Iowa Airport 83 km away. Nearby attractions include Grinnell College, Iowa Speedway (31 km), and Maytag Dairy Farms (36 km). The hotel is within walking distance of downtown shops, restaurants, and Central Park, which hosts outdoor events.
Pet-Friendly & Activities
The hotel welcomes pets and provides pet bowls, with an outdoor patio for mingling and a large former gymnasium now used as a ballroom where guests can play pickleball. Complimentary bicycle rental allows exploration of Grinnell, and the area supports hiking and cycling activities. Guests can also use the fitness center, enjoy games room offerings like shuffleboard, or book massages (back, full body, head, neck) and golf course access.
Highlights
History: Converted 1920s junior high school with school-themed details
Rooms: 45 rooms including King Suites and family-friendly Quadruple Rooms
Dining: On-site restaurant with six cuisines and local craft beer bar
Amenities: 300-seat ballroom, outdoor patio The Periodic Table, games room
Location: Walkable to Grinnell College, Iowa Speedway 31 km away
Activities: Complimentary bicycles, pickleball, fitness center, massage services
Policy: Pet-friendly with outdoor patio and pet bowls
“This renovated schoolhouse makes a compelling case for a stay in Grinnell, with comfortable rooms and an intrinsically interesting atmosphere. The in-house bar and restaurant are notable amenities, and its walkability to local shops and a park is a clear advantage. It stands out as a thoughtful conversion, offering a genuinely pleasant base.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Usiowa
Select your room type
Hotel Grinnell, Ascend Hotel Collection offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
One King Bed Nonsmoking
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Shower
room details
Triple Room Non Smoking
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Shower
room details
Triple Room Sofa Bed Non Smoking
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Shower
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Facilities
Hotel Grinnell, Ascend Hotel Collection offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Express check-in/ -out
Concierge desk
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Coffee shop
Fireplace
Smoke detectors
Key card access
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Canoeing
Hiking
Cycling
Bowling
Golf course
Fishing
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Pet amenities available
Room service
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Business
Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
Babysitting/Child services
Baby pushchair
Board games
Game room
Spa & Leisure
Aqua park
Live entertainment
Leisure/ TV room
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Bathroom
Free toiletries
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Dining Onsite
At Hotel Grinnell, guests can explore an array of delightful dining experiences that cater to diverse palates. The Periodic Table offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a modern touch, showcasing a blend of cuisines from American classics to vibrant Mexican options. Whether starting the day with a hearty breakfast or unwinding during cocktail hour, each meal promises authenticity and warmth.
The Periodic Table
American, Italian, Mexican, Tex-Mex, Asian
Ambiance
Family-friendly, modern setting perfect for casual family meals or relaxed gatherings.
Key Offerings
Enjoy vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options along with signature pizzas and Tex-Mex flair. A lively cocktail hour invites guests to share delightful bites and refreshing drinks.
Reservation
Reservations recommended for dinner.
Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktail hour; hours vary.
Hotel Grinnell, Ascend Hotel Collection Location
925 Park St, Grinnell, 50112,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Louis Sullivan Jewel Box Bank
2100 ft
Gallery
Faulconer Gallery
2900 ft
Landmark
Church of Christ
2100 ft
Landmark
First Baptist Church
2100 ft
Church
Grinnell church of Christ
2100 ft
Landmark
Assembly of God Church
2100 ft
Gallery
Saints Rest Coffee House
2100 ft
Amusement Park
Central Park
2100 ft
Church
United Church of Christ
2100 ft
Church
Saint Mary's Catholic Church
2100 ft
Church
Grinnell United Methodist Church
2100 ft
Landmark
Strand Theatres
3600 ft
Landmark
Saint John's Lutheran Church
2900 ft
Church
Herrick Chapel
2900 ft
Landmark
First Presbyterian Church
2900 ft
Church
Saint Paul's Episcopal Church
2900 ft
Landmark
Grinnell Historical Museum
2900 ft
Landmark
Grace Community Church
4500 ft
Church
Grinnell Area Christian Church
1.0 mi
Landmark
Calvary Baptist Church
1.0 mi
Landmark
Christian Church
1.0 mi
Landmark
Heritage Park Museum
1.2 mi
Church
Immanuel Lutheran Church
1.2 mi
Landmark
Church of the Nazarene
1.2 mi
Church
First Friends Church
1.9 mi
Nearby
Giggles & Bows Children's Boutique
1400 ft
Commercial Street Arts Ctr
1400 ft
Restaurants
Pagliai's Pizza
1100 ft
816 5th Ave
Explore Grinnell
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Louis Sullivan Jewel Box Bank
8 minutes' walk
Architectural gem by famed Louis Sullivan, highlighting intricate design. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts.
Faulconer Gallery
11 minutes' walk
A contemporary art gallery with rotating exhibits showcasing local and national artists, enhancing cultural appreciation.
Grinnell Historical Museum
11 minutes' walk
Museum dedicated to Grinnell's heritage, featuring artifacts and stories that reflect the town's rich history.
Central Park
8 minutes' walk
A green oasis in the heart of Grinnell, ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and community events throughout the year.
Biking around Grinnell
5 minutes' drive
Bike rentals available nearby to explore scenic trails and enjoy the outdoors. A great way for adventure seekers.
Yoga Classes at Wellness Center
5 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions offered, perfect for those seeking mindfulness and rejuvenation. Reservations recommended.
Pagliai's Pizza
4 minutes' walk
Family-friendly spot known for its delicious pizzas and relaxed atmosphere. Vegetarian options available, dine-in or takeout.
Saints Rest Coffee House
8 minutes' walk
Cozy coffeehouse with artisan brews and light bites, ideal for a casual meetup or study session. Gluten-free choices offered.
Strand Theatres
13 minutes' walk
Historic cinema featuring a mix of current films and classic favorites, perfect for family outings or date nights.
Live Music at Local Bars
5 minutes' drive
Various bars host local bands and open mic nights, offering a lively environment for music lovers of all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Grinnell 6 min · 1700 ft
Airports
Des Moines International (DSM) 146 min · 60.2 mi
Waterloo Regional (ALO) 172 min · 71.2 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 12 pm
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Hotel Grinnell, Ascend Hotel Collection from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Comfort
7.2/10
Facilities
7.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Location
8.8/10
Staff
8.2/10
Value for money
5.9/10
Pros
Historic building conversion
Comfortable beds
Central location
Unique charm
In-house bar/restaurant
Cons
Inconsistent staff availability
Room amenities missing
Heating/cooling issues
Maintenance concerns
Guest reviews
based on 29 reviews
7.0/10
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.
One King Bed Nonsmoking2 persons1 King-size bedShowerroom details
Triple Room Non Smoking2 persons1 King-size bedShowerroom details
Triple Room Sofa Bed Non Smoking2 persons1 King-size bedShowerroom details
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