Entire home

Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)

your current months are November, 2024 and December, 2024.
November 2024
December 2024

Photo gallery for Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)

Property grounds
Exterior
7 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Hair dryer, towels, soap, shampoo

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

7 bedrooms5 bathroomsSleeps 22

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Dryer
    Dryer
The price is NZ$1,854
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov

Explore the area

Map
Elkader, IA
  • Spook Cave
    23 min drive
  • Pikes Peak State Park
    29 min drive
  • Wyalusing State Park
    45 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Elkader

At this holiday home, you'll be 22.4 km (13.9 mi) from Froelich Foundation Museum and 24.2 km (15 mi) from Spook Cave. Highlights at this holiday home include a kitchen, a washing machine and a balcony. .Home features 4.5 bathrooms, a living room and a TV. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A coffee/tea maker, a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board are also available. .Sights within a 30-minute drive of this Elkader holiday home include Mississippi River and Driftless Area Wetlands Centre.

What's nearby

  • Spook Cave - 23 min drive
  • Pikes Peak State Park - 29 min drive
  • Effigy Mounds National Monument - 30 min drive
  • Wyalusing State Park - 45 min drive
  • Field of Dreams - 61 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Johnson's Restaurant - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Fennellys' Irish Pub - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Schera's Restaurant & Bar - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪The Burger Barn - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪St Olaf Tavern - ‬11 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)


THE JAILHOUSE

Enjoy your sentence at the historic Elkader Jailhouse Inn. Built 150 years ago to house Clayton County's most dangerous criminals, the recently renovated 5,000+ square foot limestone mansion sits on a 3 acre bluff overlooking the rolling hills of Elkader, Iowa. Enjoy 4 spacious suites that pamper you with luxurious beds and spa-like bathrooms while overflowing with character and historic charm. As an inmate you will have access to the gourmet kitchen, scenic patio overlooking the valley, and of course everyone’s favorite: the cell block. The authentic jail cells, evidence, and paraphernalia make this a stay you won’t soon forget. But don’t worry it won’t stay on your record. Don’t forget to take your mugshot! Entertaining a big group? Rent the whole jailhouse for accommodations of up to 20 inmates! Perfect for all occasions from a weekend getaway to a wedding party. It should be a crime not to stay here!

THE TOWN

The Jail house overlooks the quaint town of Elkader, Iowa, the county seat of Clayton County. Your accommodations are just blocks from the Main street restaurants and boutiques that line the Turkey river. Ample shopping and dining attractions are within walking distance. The town and surrounding countryside of Northeastern Iowa provide plenty of leisure activities from Pike’s Peak and Backbone state Parks, to the historic Effigy Mounds, not to mention abundant trout fishing, including within the nearby scenic Yellow River State Forest. Catch a concert at the Opera House, cut cards at the Casino in nearby Mcgregor, hit the links at one of the area's golf courses or spend a day on the water floating a local river. The natural beauty and historic charm will make you a repeat offender!





BOTANICAL
Enjoy the Jailhouse Inn’s version of a “honeymoon suite”. The 4 post queen bed and charming antiques welcomes you to your getaway. Enjoy the many pieces of real police evidence that adorn the suite. The real draw for the wildly popular Botanical suite is the luxurious bathroom that is about 3 times the size of the cells the criminals were confined to! Beautiful tile floors and spacious air massage tub, big enough for two, will make it hard to leave at the end of your stay. Don’t believe the rumors you hear about Shelly (the little girl in the painting). Her ghost will leave you alone. Probably.

HARSTAD
This penthouse suite is our largest suite, boasting the best views and spacious seating areas. Two queen beds make the room fit for up to 4 inmates. Play cards at your very own cafe table, soak in the air massage tub or clean yourself off the bidet, this suite has it all. The Harstad Suite is named after local author and 26 year Clayton County Sheriff’s department veteran Donald Harstad. Sip your morning coffee and dive into one of Donald’s many crime novels that fill the book cases.

EMMA BIG BEAR
Need accommodations for a larger group? Emma Big Bear is the suite for you. 2 spacious bedrooms can sleep up to 5 inmates. The master room has a queen bed, while the second, conjoined bedroom has a double bed and twin bed for the kids. Emma Big Bear was a frequent guest of the “Inn” when it was the Clayton County Jailhouse. The last of her tribe Emma was famous for her beaded jewelry, tapestries and rugs. Coming from a very poor area Emma would sometimes overindulge in spirits just to get a warm bed and a hot meal that the jailhouse provided. While your accommodations will be much more comfortable than hers, you can enjoy the same respite in the suite with her namesake. The bathroom is across the hall.

MASTERSUITE
Turn yourself in, to one of our most popular suites! The master suite was unavailable to guests until recently as it was the home to the previous owners. The only suite on the main floor has a brand new queen bed for 2 inmates. At the end of a long day of travel or leisure slip into the air massage tub or shake the cold out of your bones with the luxurious steam shower, as all of your problems and aches just melt away. The huge master closet, high ceilings, and spacious rooms will make you forget you are in the clink! Air mattress available for up to 2 more guests.

Property manager

Penn Nobis

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 7 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 4.5 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Patio

Laundry

  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 5 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Things to do

  • Casino nearby
  • Golfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Maximum 5 pets
  • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50.

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)?

The closest beach to Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn) is Wyalusing Beach (23 km).

How much does it cost to stay at Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)?

As of 5 Nov 2024, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn) on 6 Nov 2024 start from NZ$1,854.48, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn) have a pool?

No, this holiday home doesn't have a pool.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)?

No, Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn) does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn)?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Elkader Jailhouse Inn (Entire Inn) Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 16 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 16 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 16 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 16 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 16 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Tom S., Waverly, IA

Historical
Would have been helpful to have a manual on how to operate the ac system, the whirlpool tub, Wolf range. The refrigerator had not been cleaned. Had a Murder mystery dinner and the Inn was part of the setting. People in town were friendly with the exception of the brewery. It was handy to have restaurants menus available to review. Kids want to come back.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Don B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Slammer Vacation
Our entire family, including one fiancee, spent five nights and days in the Elkader Jail House Inn. At first arrival, everyone headed for the cells to examine and mostly laugh about good stories to make up and later tell friends. Dinner was late that night. We had several meals in the jail (all of the breakfasts) but we also liked several of the area restaurants. Of course we brought pizza in twice. The facility was adequate for all 18 of us. It was clean, well-supplied with toiletries, cooking pots and pans as well as dishes etc. and all appliances were in good working order. The central location in Elkader was very nice and the elevated views were excellent. It would have been even more pleasant if there had been soft furniture and placed so more could lounge together but this is but a minor failing. All of us truly enjoyed our visit there and would highly recommend it for your family or group stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jerry M.

Liked: Cleanliness
In general
Very nice
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

M P.

Liked: Cleanliness
40th birthday
We had a large group of 18 that stayed for nearly a week. This location was the perfect size for us and provided plenty of room. It was a beautiful and interesting space that everyone enjoyed learning the history. The hosts were very responsive and accommodating. Highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family gathering
The property was delightful!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brenda K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely retreat
We used this property for a board of directors retreat and it was the perfect venue for us. Very nice and spacious with amenities and a wonderfully responsive host.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

deborah K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Another great time!
Second year in a row our family members have gathered here. Great space for 25+ to stay. The Jailhouse theme is so much fun. The hosts are so accommodating! Just a great time!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim K., Cedar Rapids

Liked: Cleanliness
Wedding party
This turned into a fun memorable stay for my nieces wedding. Perfect spot to have everyone together. The suites were amazing and the jail cells worked out well for the youngsters.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lynnette J.

Liked: Cleanliness
LJ
Great for a group. Comfortable spaces, lots of room.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Enjoyable
It was great, loved, loved, loved. There were a few things that would have made it better, it would have been nice to have more seating for big groups in the mail cells, and the plants trimmed on the gazebo area for more seating. But over all 5 stars!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephani L.

Liked: Cleanliness
You need to stay here
I booked this for a low-key bachelorette party for a large group. I have nothing but good things to say about our experience, it was awesome! The house is beautiful and well-cared for, the beds are comfy, and the jail portion is so fun! It was large enough for our group and still felt relaxing and homey. The kitchen is amazing as well. Communicating with the property manager was excellent and they replied super quickly and were very helpful. 10 out of 10 will recommend to everyone!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jesse M.

Liked: Cleanliness
The best place to stay in Elkader!
I’ve stayed here 2 times now, the first time for a wedding in town and now for a business getaway. This place doesn’t disappoint. It has some pretty cool history and is a short jaunt to downtown. I’d highly recommend it!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect girls weekend
We had a great Time in this unique property in the beautiful little town. Great spot for large groups.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicklas M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!
The property was fantastic, me and my group had a wonderful time and everything about the house was great!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

deborah K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome stay!!!
Fantastic!!! The most unusual and exciting place we’ve stayed yet! Everyone, young and old, enjoyed it immensely. It accommodated our large group of 20 to 27 at any given time. Thank you guys for an exceptional time with family! You operate a top notch jailhouse!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun time at the Jailhouse
Staying at the Jailhouse was fun. It was themed. There was even things to take pictures as inmates and some historical information. Also we went kayaking locally. Lots of fun and a good lot for yard games.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022