Nestled near the University of Iowa, The Highlander Hotel offers a refreshing retreat with its indoor pool and sun loungers. Unwind at the spa tub or grab a bite to eat at The Highlander Supper Club, where brunch and happy hour are just as popular as breakfast.
University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics - 8 min drive - 6.6 km
Kinnick Stadium - 9 min drive - 7.6 km
Carver-Hawkeye Arena - 9 min drive - 7.7 km
Getting around
Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) - 27 min drive
Restaurants
A & A Pagliai's Pizza - 7 min drive
Kindred Coffee - 6 min drive
Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon - 6 min drive
Dairy Queen - 7 min drive
Scooter’s Coffee - 2 min drive
About this property
The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel
The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel puts you within a 15-minute drive of University of Iowa and University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Guests can take a dip in the indoor pool or grab a bite to eat at Supper Club, which serves lunch and dinner. Other highlights include 2 bars/lounges, a poolside bar, and a 24-hour fitness center. Fellow travelers love the pool and helpful staff.
At a glance
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Hotel size
97 rooms
Arranged over 2 floors
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Arriving/Leaving
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in/out available
Early check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out time is noon
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
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Special check-in instructions
Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and key retrieval information; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification, and other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival
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Required at check-in
Credit card required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 21
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Children
Up to 4 children (17 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
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Pets
Pets allowed (dogs and cats only)*
Service animals welcome
Off-leash area available
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free onsite self parking
Free onsite RV/bus/truck parking
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking on site
Electric vehicle charging point on site
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Other information
Smoke-free property
Property amenities
Food and drink
Free continental breakfast on weekday mornings
2 bars/lounges
Restaurant
Poolside bar
Coffee shop
Coffee/tea in a common area
Shared microwave
Room service (limited hours)
Water dispenser
Traveling with children
Children stay free (see details)
Children's games
Children's books
What to do
Pool table
Table tennis
Working away
3 meeting rooms
Coworking spaces
Conference center (5651 square feet of space)
Services
24-hour front desk
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Free newspapers in lobby
Luggage storage
Wedding services
Multilingual staff
Pool loungers
Romance packages
Facilities
1 building/tower
Built in 1967
ATM/banking
Terrace
24-hour fitness center
An indoor pool
Arcade/game room
Hot tub
At least 80% of food locally-sourced
At least 80% organic food
Vegan dining options
Vegetarian dining options
Locally-owned & organized tours & activities
Local artist showcase
At least 10% of profits reinvested in community & sustainability
Double-glazed windows
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Comprehensive food waste policy
Comprehensive recycling policy
No plastic soda bottles
No plastic coffee stirrers
No plastic drinking straws
No plastic water bottles
Reusable cups only
Reusable tableware only
Reception hall
Accessibility
Braille/raised signage
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
Wheelchair-accessible van parking
Valet for wheelchair-equipped vehicle
Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
Wheelchair-accessible fitness center
Wheelchair-accessible lounge
Visual alarms in hallways
Handrails in stairways
Closed captioned TV
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Stair-free path to entrance
Room amenities
Be entertained
Flat-screen television
Premium cable channels
Pay movies
Home comfort
Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
Bathrobes and slippers
Iron/ironing board (on request)
Sleep well
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Pillowtop mattress
Free crib/infant bed
Bed sheets provided
What to enjoy
Individually decorated
Freshen up
Private bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Rainfall showerhead
Eco-friendly toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Toilet paper
Stay connected
Desk
Free WiFi
Food and drink
Champagne service
More
Housekeeping (on request)
Eco-friendly toiletries
Eco-friendly cleaning products provided
Energy-saving switches
LED light bulbs
Recycling
Water-efficient showers only
Guidebooks/recommendations
Restaurant dining guide
Special features
Dining
Supper Club - This restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. Happy hour is offered.
Patio Bar - This bar serves light fare only. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. Open daily.
Snack Shack - This coffee shop specializes in American cuisine. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. Open daily.
Fees & policies
Optional extras
Early check-in can be arranged for an extra charge of USD 50 (subject to availability)
Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge of USD 50 (subject to availability)
Pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Pets are allowed for an extra charge of USD 30 per pet, per night
Policies
This property does not have elevators.
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation.
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
Also known as
Clarion Highlander
Clarion Highlander Iowa City
Clarion Hotel Highlander
Clarion Hotel Highlander Iowa City
Clarion Highlander Hotel And Conference Center Iowa City
Clarion Highlander Hotel Iowa City
The Bohemian
The Highlander Hotel
Clarion Hotel Highlander Conference Center
The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection Hotel
The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection Iowa City
The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection Hotel Iowa City
Frequently asked questions
Does The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel?
Yes, there's an indoor pool.
Are pets allowed at The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel?
Yes, cats and dogs are welcome. There's a charge of USD 30 per pet, per night. Service animals are exempt from fees. Dog exercise areas are available.
Is parking offered on site at The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel?
Yes, there's free self parking. Free RV/bus/truck parking and electric vehicle charging are available.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel?
You can check in starting at 3:00 PM. There's a charge of USD 50 for early check-in (subject to availability). Check-out time is noon. Late check-out is available for a charge of USD 50 (subject to availability). Express check-in and check-out and contactless check-in and check-out are available.
What is there to do at The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel and nearby?
The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel has 2 bars, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center, as well as a hot tub and an arcade.
Are there restaurants at or near The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel?
Yes, Supper Club offers American cuisine.
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The Highlander Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel Reviews
Reviews
8.8
Excellent
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9.0/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Staff & service
8.8/10
Amenities
8.6/10
Property conditions & facilities
9.2/10
Eco-friendliness
Popular mentions
Service staff
Room
Breakfast
Hot Tub
Children
Food
Bed
Family friendly
Ambience
Amenities
What guests liked
The property's breakfast was consistently praised as delicious, with many reviewers highlighting the quality and variety of the food. (20 reviews)
Plenty of parking was available and easily accessible. (3 reviews)
From real guest reviews summarized by AI.
Reviews
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 9, 2025
Nice stay very friendly staff great pool area.
Katie
Katie, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 10, 2025
Great stay.
Great stay, pool, food, arcade, and service best I’ve had.
Jason
Jason, 3-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 15, 2025
This is a hidden gem, its vibe is something that you have to experience. The staff is amazing the pool hot tub perfect the food in restaurant was first class. Will definitely be back
Aaron
Aaron, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Aug 3, 2025
Great for families
Highlander is a really cool hotel. I was traveling with my 17 years old son and we enjoyed the stay. It seems like a perfect place for families with young children. Breakfast could have been better, but overall nice experience and good value.
John
John, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 21, 2025
I’m totally coming back
A very clean and unique hotel. The staff was friendly and accommodating and the rooms were neat and extremely comfortable!
Samantha
Samantha, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 19, 2025
Fun vibe. Comfortable beds. Large Rooms.
Great pool and hot tub. Nice on-site bar and arcade room. Friendly service. Historic hotel with a fun vibe. Rooms are larger with comfortable beds. Comfortable lobby with fun velvet chairs. Not your average hotel.
Helen
Helen, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Aug 2, 2025
Nice place. Did not have coffee pot in room
Cheryl
Cheryl, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 14, 2025
Bougie, Art Deco with a Hippy Flair
Stumbled on this hotel after my kiddos begged for a nicer room. We were amazed by the decor and I was happy with the price. From the old school soda shop, arcade, amazing indoor/outdoor pool, restaurant... it will not disappoint!
Amanda
Amanda, 1-night trip
6/10 Good
Aug 6, 2025
Meh
Pictures must be feom when they first remodeled...mold around bath drain, bathroom tile floor was beat-up, pool has seen better days, pool ceiling falling apart, snack shop was never open. It was nice that it was dog friendly but other than that stay closer to campus so you have dining/walking options.
Sherry
Sherry, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
May 11, 2025
Would recommend and go back!
Meggie
Meggie, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 3, 2025
Fun pool, unique property, friendly staff. We enjoyed our stay very much.
Hilary
Hilary, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 2, 2025
Convenient location.
Comfortable.
Jane
Jane, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 29, 2025
The only place we will stay in Iowa City.
We loved this hotel. Not just another cookie cutter hotel. It is fun yet still fancy. Has an old school flair but also all the technology we have come to depend on. One of the best hotel pools I have ever seen. It definitely delivered more than I was expecting for the price. Yes we will stay here again.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 21, 2025
Great place. Not a typical motel. Great pool, great place for kids.
Steven
Steven, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 17, 2025
Rooms are clean and comfortable. Staff were super helpful and friendly.
Thomas
Thomas, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 22, 2025
Very comfortable. Was happy that the room was not carpeted — better for allergies.
Kathy
Kathy, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
May 14, 2025
It was a amazing stay. Everything was great especially hot tub and pool. Staff are friendly and helpful. Thank you! Highly recommended.
Ayhan
Ayhan, 1-night trip
2/10 Poor
Aug 1, 2025
Dirty. Won’t go back
Dirty rooms. Hair in bathroom, toilet was not clean it was disgusting
micaela
micaela, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
May 3, 2025
Excellent experience every time
ROXANNE
ROXANNE, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
May 26, 2025
Amazing hotel
The hotel is really clean and the decor is amazing. It was myself and children and the property was safe and awesome for kids and adults. The pool area is a 10/10 and also has a hot tub. It has a snack area as well and lots of comfortable seating. The restaurant and bar/arcade also a 10/10. Breakfast in the morning was good they even had breakfast pizza!
Stacey
Stacey, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
May 30, 2025
Overall nice and a little dated
Deborah
Deborah, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
May 25, 2025
The place was nice and the room was nice. We went with 2 small children. I wish it was just a little bit more small kid friendly. If you have school age kids the pool and outside areas would be perfect.
Kandice
Kandice, 1-night trip
6/10 Good
Jul 29, 2025
No food buying options available but menus everywh
Arrived at 10pm, no food or drinks available to buy. One person was working, had to wait 5 minutes for anyone to arrive so I could check in. Breakfast is gross, no lunch until 2pm and no alternative food choices anywhere nearby. We were starved when we left.
Jennifer
Jennifer, 1-night trip
6/10 Good
Aug 6, 2025
Its ok.
Quiet. Off season may be why but not a complaint. Customer service is scarce. A phone number is on the front desk if you need something. Resturant is supposedly open til 9 or 930 but one night no one was around and chairs on the tables at 7. Place is clean. Pool is large and nice. Hot tub is clean and nice. Brkfst. is ok. Biscuit sandwich, yogurt and instant oatmeal.
No microwave or coffe in rooms. Lighting is very very dark.
Enjoyed the pool tables and arcade.