Family-friendly vacation rentals in Iowa

We came on a genealogy tour to Dubuque and found our roots, going back to the mid 1800s, including the house our great great grandfather built. So Jenn's place, though not that old, fit right into our idea of a cool place to stay, to match the old fashioned town architecture. The inside was just as cool as the outside, and we felt right at home. We especially liked the fireplace and the spacious room. We also liked the location and really enjoyed Charlotte's coffee shop right next door.

We had stayed here a couple of years ago for our daughter's birthday. This year we were thrilled to see it was available again! the only thing we were disappointed about was the construction of the boathouse which we weren't aware of until we got there. Otherwise it was a great overnight stay and will always recommend others to stay here!

A very cozy cabin with absolutely stunning views! Everything was fresh and clean, and we felt right at home upon our first steps inside. Vickie provided us with all of the information we could need about our stay, plus all of the local attractions and things to do! We absolutely loved spending time on the HUGE upstairs patio overlooking the river, and in the upstairs common space that features a beautifully updated kitchen and loft ceilings that made everything feel extra spacious! The large windows provide all the natural light you could need for a morning cup of fresh coffee. The bedrooms were very comfortable and the downstairs living room was perfect for winding down and watching a movie, or playing a board game! The wood interior and log furniture was refreshing, and reinforced the cabin feel with all of the modern amenities one could possibly need, not to mention the large hot tub with gorgeous views! We loved every part of our stay, and hope to return!

Great fishing! Awesome walking trails! We loved all the animals! The hot tub was an added bonus and we loved sitting in it in the evenings. Penny and Dan were very friendly and welcoming. They have a beautiful place! It was definitely worth trip!

This was a great space in a wonderful location. The coffee shop downstairs was incredible as well.

What a great place and great hosts! Nice of Don to share history of the place. One of the best stocked places we've stayed. Also very clean with plenty of bedding and towels! The barn located behind is wonderful--great pizza, great beers and plenty of room. Truly one of the best places we've stayed.

This place was fantastic! Brenda was an amazing host and very helpful with anything needed. Definitely recommend.

This lake house is a must on yoir list if you're visiting the Council Bluffs/Omaha area. The view from the house out to the lake is beautiful and the area was private and quiet and very peaceful! The home is beautifully decorated, lots of space and and an extremely gorgeous master bathroom. We loved it here and would definitely stay again! Thank you Art!

Thank you Dennis for the hospitality. We enjoyed your tour and learning the history of your property. I can’t even describe how beautiful it is. We all had a fun, relaxing time!

This place is a beautiful little getaway. Right up the road from the river, it is peaceful and quiet. Lots of fun architecture to see in town and the river walk is lovely. Our dogs were welcomed which made the trip 10x more enjoyable. The house is cozy, warm and feels very much like home. Sue has an entry table in the home with suggestions for local activities, eateries, shopping which was nice to refer to. Overall we were happy with the space. It was nice to know that Sue was in the house next door for questions, but she very much provided privacy unlike some places I’ve stayed. I highly recommend!

Barb was friendly and accommodating throughout the weeks after booking leading up to check in. At check in she was super friendly to the girls who checked in and made herself available should we need anything else. Check in and out instructions were super simple. As for the property itself it was beautiful and well maintained. Yes there were dust bunnies, but nothing out of what would be ordinary for a lakeside cabin. The site had so much recreational things available on the lake such as kayaks and paddle boards and a dock to swim or fish off of. There was a fire pit right in front of the lake and PLENTY of firewood included in the rental. We had a bachelorette party for my sister so we were out and about most of the second day, but had we stayed in, we would have had plenty to do just on the lakeside. the beds were mostly comfortable and there was plenty of space. 10 out of 10 would return, and probably will with the kiddos at some point for a family getaway!

This is an overnight stop on a trip I take regularly and I've started staying here instead of a hotel. Price is about the same but there's more space and it's a short walk to some good restaurants.

It was a perfect place to stay, with not many options in the area.

My family enjoyed our stay! It was a peaceful place to end our days activities and rejuvenate for the next day!

Paula was a wonderful host. We booked her place for a graduation.. There was room for everyone. The living/dining room area was amazing, along with the outside patio area! The adults and kids all enjoyed the stay! At first I wondered if it would be hard with Paula at the house with us, but it was not a big deal at all. The stay was easy and enjoyable. The kids played with the kittens outside, enjoyed time by the pond, a fire for Smores, outside games (supplied by Paula), chasing fireflies, playing with the puppets, ping pong, and pool. The adults enjoyed grilling, a fire, enough space to let the kids be kids, a puzzle, and watching the kids have fun! It was non-stressful and a great time! Paula's breakfast was amazing! We did not go away hungry, and it was definitely kid approved. Thank you, Paula!

Mark was so accommodating. He let us check in early and was very informative about checking in and having extra mattress and air mattress for my grandkids.

We stayed here for a bachelorette party. It was very spacious and clean.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at this incredible Airbnb, and I can confidently say it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warmth and hospitality that made me feel right at home. The property itself is immaculate – spotless, beautifully decorated, and equipped with everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay. The attention to detail is remarkable, and it’s clear that the host has put a lot of thought into creating a space that is both stylish and functional. The location is perfect, offering a peaceful retreat while still being conveniently close to local attractions, dining, and shopping. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, this Airbnb is the perfect base. Communication with the host was seamless and prompt, making the whole experience smooth and stress-free. They were attentive, responsive, and genuinely cared about ensuring my stay was perfect. I cannot recommend this Airbnb enough !!

House was very clean! Beds were as you would want for your own home - not randomly placed for more sleeping accommodations. We will definitely rebook here if we are ever back in town. Jodi was extremely quick with responses to questions.

The house was just as described very clean and close to lost of local things. Host responded very quickly to any questions or requests we had. Would highly recommend.

Great place to stay. Walkable distance to Bridges Bay resort. The home was near a pool and in a cute neighborhood. Stayed there with 14 people total and we were all comfortable! Great place to stay!

This is a great space for a family vacation. It’s the perfect location being close to Arnold’s park and the lake as well as having access to the pools and water park. The rooms are spacious and it’s nice to have a small outdoor patio on vacation!

Great location and plenty of room for our family.

This was a perfect place for my kids and I. Close to everything and a beautiful home. We will be back!