Hotels In Iowa That Allow 18-Year-Olds To Check-In
Traveling at 18 opens up a world of possibilities, but it also presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to securing accommodations. In Iowa, the age of majority is 18, which legally qualifies you as an adult. However, hotels often have their own age requirements, ranging from 18 to 25, creating a layer of complexity for young travelers.
So, can 18-year-olds check into hotels in Iowa? The answer is yes, many hotels in Iowa do allow 18-year-olds to check in, provided they have a valid ID and a credit card. However, it’s always prudent to confirm the age requirements with the specific hotel, as policies can differ.
This article is your comprehensive guide for booking a hotel in Iowa at 18. We’ll provide a list of hotels that welcome younger guests, explore alternative lodging options unique to Iowa, and offer insights on safety measures and amenities. If you’re 18 and planning a trip to the Hawkeye State, this article is your indispensable resource.
Important!
Hotel policies can be updated before we manage to revise our website information. Make sure to verify the minimum check-in age before finalizing your booking.
List of Hotels in Iowa Allowing 18-Year-Old Check-Ins
Before we proceed to the details, let’s first identify the hotels in Iowa that allow 18-year-olds to check in. This list has been meticulously curated based on customer reviews, amenities offered, and age policies. Given Iowa’s agricultural heritage and its emerging tech scene, many hotels have age requirements that can range from 18 to 25, so it’s always advisable to double-check.
The hotels on this list meet the following criteria:
- Allow 18-year-olds to check-in
- Have positive customer reviews
- Offer a range of amenities, including some unique to Iowa like farm-to-table dining options or proximity to tech conferences
- Are located in secure neighborhoods, often near popular attractions or business centers
Here’s a compilation of hotels across various regions in Iowa that welcome guests aged 18 and above. To assist you in your planning, we’ve also included links to comprehensive guides for each region, offering more details on each hotel.
ID And Credit Card
You will be asked to share your I.D. and a credit card when checking in.
Des Moines
Cedar Rapids
Iowa City
| Hotels In Iowa City, Iowa | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights | 9.1 | 170 |
| Element Iowa City | 9 | 79 |
| Hyatt Place Iowa City Downtown | 8.5 | 446 |
| Graduate Iowa City | 8.4 | 1,281 |
Davenport
| Hotels In Davenport, Iowa | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| My Place Hotel-Davenport/Quad Cities, IA | 9.0 | 330 |
| Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection | 8.7 | 128 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Davenport Quad Cities | 8.7 | 90 |
| Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Davenport, an IHG Hotel | 8.5 | 89 |
| The Current Iowa, Autograph Collection | 8.5 | 65 |
| DoubleTree by Hilton Davenport | 7.4 | 240 |
| WoodSpring Suites Davenport Quad Cities | 6.0 | 244 |
Sioux City
| Hotels In Sioux City, Iowa | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sioux City-South, an IHG Hotel | 9.0 | 182 |
| Candlewood Suites Sioux City – Southern Hills, an IHG Hotel | 8.5 | 112 |
| Days Inn by Wyndham Sioux City | 7.8 | 220 |
| Quality Inn & Suites | 6.3 | 107 |
| Super 8 by Wyndham Sioux City/Morningside Area | 6.0 | 173 |
Dubuque
No suitable options found at this moment. Keep an eye on this page. We will update as soon as something is available.
Ames
| Hotels In Ames, Iowa | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Courtyard Ames | 9.0 | 70 |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames | 9.0 | 138 |
| FRONTDESK Core Apts Campustown Ames | 8.5 | 57 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Ames, an IHG Hotel | 8.5 | 94 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites Ames | 8.1 | 58 |
| Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Ames, IA | 8.0 | 260 |
| MICROTEL Inn and Suites – Ames | 7.5 | 297 |
| Red Roof Inn Ames | 7.3 | 340 |
| Econo Lodge Ames | 6.7 | 113 |
| Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus | 6.6 | 66 |
Waterloo
| Hotels In Waterloo, Iowa | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Courtyard by Marriott Waterloo Cedar Falls | 8.4 | 108 |
| Hampton Inn Waterloo | 8.1 | 135 |
| Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waterloo/Cedar Falls | 7.3 | 156 |
Council Bluffs
West Des Moines
| Hotels In West Des Moines, Iowa | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines | 9.1 | 446 |
| The Rewind West Des Moines, Tapestry Collection By Hilton | 9.1 | 93 |
| Hyatt Place West Des Moines/Jordan Creek | 8.7 | 363 |
| Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive | 8.7 | 172 |
| Courtyard Des Moines West-Jordan Creek | 8.7 | 73 |
| West Des Moines Marriott | 8.7 | 61 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites West Des Moines Mill Civic | 8.4 | 149 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines West | 8.2 | 199 |
| Sheraton West Des Moines | 8 | 116 |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Des Moines West/Jordan Creek | 7.7 | 90 |
| SpringHill Suites Des Moines West | 7.6 | 106 |
| WoodSpring Suites West Des Moines | 7 | 50 |
| Motel 6-West Des Moines, IA | 6 | 340 |
How We Selected These Hotels
1. Extensive Database: We began our analysis with an extensive database of over 233,000 hotels across the United States, ensuring a comprehensive view of available options.
2. Age Inclusivity: Our selection specifically targets hotels that allow check-ins for guests aged 18 and above, making the options accessible for a broader range of travelers.
3. Customer Reviews: To ensure reliability and customer satisfaction, we only considered hotels that have received at least 200 customer reviews. This criterion helps to provide a more accurate picture of the hotel’s quality and service.
4. Quality Assurance: We sorted the selected hotels based on their average customer ratings. This approach helps us recommend only the highest quality hotels, thereby ensuring a superior guest experience.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Hotel Room in Iowa?
Booking a hotel room in Iowa involves understanding both state laws and individual hotel policies, particularly when it comes to age requirements. The age of majority in Iowa is 18, which aligns with most hotel policies in the state. However, Iowa’s unique blend of rural and urban settings sometimes results in a wider age requirement range, from 18 to 25.
Age Requirements in Iowa Hotels
In Iowa, many hotels allow bookings for guests who are 18 years old, as this is the age of majority in the state. However, some establishments, especially those in college towns or near business centers, may have a higher age requirement, up to 25.
Identification Documents Required
To secure a hotel booking in Iowa at 18, you’ll generally need:
- A valid government-issued ID: This could be a driver’s license, a state ID, or a passport.
- A credit card: The card must be in your name and have sufficient funds to cover the stay and any incidental charges.
Legal Responsibilities When Booking a Hotel
Booking a hotel room at 18 in Iowa comes with its own set of legal responsibilities:
- Damages: You’re financially responsible for any damages to the room or property.
- Hotel Policies: You must adhere to the hotel’s policies, which can include noise restrictions, guest limitations, and rules about using amenities.
- Liability: Some hotels may ask you to sign a liability waiver, especially if they offer amenities like a swimming pool or fitness center.
Understanding these factors can help you navigate the complexities of booking a hotel room in Iowa at 18, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
Alternatives to Hotels for 18 Year Olds
If you find that the hotel scene is too restrictive or perhaps not to your taste, there are alternative lodging options that are often more lenient with age requirements or offer a different kind of experience altogether.
Hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option and usually have minimal age requirements. They offer dormitory-style rooms and sometimes private rooms as well. Hostels are great for meeting other travelers and often have communal kitchens and social events.
Airbnb
Airbnb can be a viable option, but it’s essential to read the age policies of individual hosts. Some may allow 18-year-olds to book, especially if the reviews on your profile are positive.
Motels
Motels often have lower age requirements and are generally more lenient with their policies. They offer basic amenities and are usually situated near highways.
Vacation Rentals
Sites like Vrbo offer vacation homes that can be rented for short periods. These are ideal if you’re traveling with a group and can split the cost.
Couchsurfing
If you’re really on a budget, platforms like Couchsurfing offer free stays with locals. However, this option requires a thorough vetting process for both hosts and guests to ensure safety.
Amenities Offered by These Hotels
When you’re 18 and traveling, amenities can make or break your hotel experience. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect from hotels in Iowa that allow 18-year-olds to check in.
Basic Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi: Almost a necessity in today’s world, free Wi-Fi is usually available, allowing you to stay connected.
- Breakfast: Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, ranging from continental to full American breakfast options.
Recreational Amenities
- Swimming Pools: A pool can be a great way to relax after a day of exploring.
- Gyms: For those who like to stay active, a well-equipped gym can be a big plus.
Business Amenities
- Business Centers: If you’re traveling for work or need to catch up on emails, a business center with computers and printing services can be invaluable.
Luxury Amenities
- Spa Services: Some high-end hotels offer spa services, including massages and facials.
- Concierge Services: A concierge can help with booking tours, restaurant reservations, and more.
Family-Friendly Amenities
- Kids’ Clubs: If you’re traveling with younger siblings, a kids’ club can keep them entertained.
- Pet-Friendly Options: For those traveling with pets, some hotels offer pet-friendly rooms and even pet-sitting services.
Understanding the range of amenities can help you make an informed decision about where to stay, ensuring that your needs—whether they’re basic or more luxurious—are met.