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The Iowa House Historic Inn is one of those unexpected places worth heading back to Ames, Iowa for another overnight stay. Formerly, the “Sigma Sigma Delta Chi” fraternity, the B&B style inn is an example of what guests on a road trip need. This was stop #2 on our road trip to Montana. Built in 1924, this National Register of Historic Places building was transformed from frat boy digs to tasteful comfort.
We arrived in the late afternoon with instructions on how to access the property. Because the inn does not have a full-time inn keeper, guests are given a code to unlock the door. This approach works well when one steps into a well-appointed, make-yourself-at-home living room.
Coffee tables with books, card games, newspapers, and magazines, add to the feel right at home ambience. Table lamp lighting and lush house plants are paired with a few decorative collectibles in an eclectic combination. Along with the mix of classic and modern furnishings, it’s clear that the decorators had a perfect eye for detail.
The adjoining dining room where the complimentary breakfast is served is equally well thought out in its décor. Plus, there is a bounty of complimentary treats for guests to grab. Granola bars, chips and fresh fruit are among the offerings. Coffee and tea are also available 24/7.
In addition to the first floor living room and dining room, the former Fraternity Chapter Room on the bottom floor is another hangout place. An enormous flat screen TV, a comfy couch, a treadmill and a play area for kids create this multipurpose room.
Our queen room, one of the 15 guest rooms over the inn’s three floors was perfect for our needs. Like the rest of the inn, the furniture is a pleasing mix of antiques and modern furnishing. I loved the bright cheerfulness of the quilt bedspread and pillow covers. The bed was as comfortable as it is lovely. Another hit was the jacuzzi bathtub. I also appreciated the Terra Pure bath amenities.
In the morning, the complimentary breakfast was splendid. The sausage and egg burrito and fresh fruit cup was a perfect start to our day. Before heading out on the next leg of our trip, we chatted with other guests and the server who was an Iowa State University student. The university’s campus is within walking distance.
Guest rooms are appointed with a flat-screen TV, small refrigerator, microwave and blow dryer. WiFi is free. Most guest rooms have queen beds. There are two loft guest rooms with spiral staircases. Two guest rooms without bathrooms can be booked along with another room. One guest room has two twin beds. Room rates range from $95 – $185. You can make your reservations directly with the hotel, or try a booking site like Priceline or Expedia.
Photos and post by Jamie Rhein
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