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.
Reviews
8.88.8 out of 10
Excellent
Popular amenities
Electric vehicle charging point
Non-smoking
Bar
24/7 front desk
Main amenities (12)
Housekeeping (on request)
Restaurant and 2 bars/lounges
Indoor pool
24-hour fitness center
Hot tub
Pool bar
Room service
Coffee shop/cafe
Conference center
3 meeting rooms
Terrace
24-hour front desk
For families (6)
Children stay free
Free cribs/infant beds
Private bathroom
Premium TV channels
Terrace
Bathtub or shower
$110 nightly
The total price is $124
$124 total
Aug 4 - Aug 5
Total includes taxes and fees
Why we love this property
Pool perfection
The pool area at this hotel beckons with an indoor pool, hot tub, and comfortable loungers. A poolside bar completes the aquatic retreat.
Tasty bites and bubbles
This hotel offers a restaurant, cafe, and 2 bars. Free continental breakfast with vegetarian options awaits. In-room champagne service adds a special touch.
Pillowtop paradise
Rainfall showers refresh while hypo-allergenic bedding embraces weary bodies. Curated decor and champagne service elevate this hotel experience.
Room options
Available filters for rooms
Showing 17 of 17 rooms
Suite, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 6
1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Poolside
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Poolside
10.010.0 out of 10
Exceptional
2 reviews
(2 reviews)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Suite, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking
Suite, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 8
1 King Bed, 2 Queen Beds and 2 Double Sofa Beds
View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking
Room, 2 Queen Beds, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Balcony (Pool View)
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Balcony (Pool View)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Poolside
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Poolside
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Patio (Courtyard View)
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Patio (Courtyard View)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Balcony
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Balcony
10.010.0 out of 10
Exceptional
1 review
(1 review)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Suite, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking, Balcony (Pool View)
Suite, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking, Balcony (Pool View)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 6
1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking (Patio, Courtyard View)
Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking (Patio, Courtyard View)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking
Room, 2 Queen Beds, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking
8.08.0 out of 10
Very good
3 reviews
(3 reviews)
Highlights
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Renovated in 2020
Pillowtop bed
Separate bedroom
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Patio (Courtyard View)
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Patio (Courtyard View)
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
Starbucks - 9 min drive
Burge Market Place - 7 min drive
Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon - 5 min drive
Casey's General Store - 7 min drive
Casey's General Store - 8 min drive
About this property
The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
When you stay at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection, you'll be within a 10-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.
Languages
English, Spanish
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
97 rooms
Arranged over 2 floors
DONE
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
DONE
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
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 21
DONE
Children
Up to 4 children (17 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
DONE
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
DONE
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, Ascend Hotel Collection offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection 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, Ascend Hotel Collection?
Yes, there's an indoor pool.
Are pets allowed at The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection?
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, Ascend Hotel Collection?
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, Ascend Hotel Collection?
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, Ascend Hotel Collection and nearby?
The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection 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, Ascend Hotel Collection?
Yes, Supper Club offers American cuisine.
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The Highlander Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection 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
Bar
What guests liked
The pool area was a highlight, with many guests praising its cleanliness, temperature, and spaciousness. (71 reviews)
The property's breakfast was consistently praised as delicious, with many reviewers highlighting the quality and variety of the food. (20 reviews)
The pool and hot tub were great, clean, and well-maintained, making for a wonderful spa experience. (10 reviews)
From real guest reviews summarized by AI.
Reviews
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
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
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
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
Jun 2, 2025
Convenient location.
Comfortable.
Jane
Jane, 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
Apr 3, 2025
Fun pool, unique property, friendly staff. We enjoyed our stay very much.
Hilary
Hilary, 1-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
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
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
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
4/10 Fair
Jul 21, 2025
Kinda Disappointed
There was a serious lack of staff to attend to the number of guests. The staff on hand was friendly and great but running in too many directions at once. More than a few times I had to walk around the hotel looking for someone to assist at the pool bar or answer a question at the front desk, etc.
Ryan
Ryan, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 26, 2025
Peace out Highlander. See you next time!
Perfect choice for our family. We were traveling with our dog and I appreciated that they are pet friendly. The pool was great. Loved the garage doors that opened up into the pool area. My daughter really dug the arcade. I dug being able to buy a beer at the front desk to take to my room. Honestly, my favorite thing was the wristbands they give out as room keys. It was so extremely convenient!! No digging around in my pocket or purse for my room key, it was right on me! We will definitely be back.
Holly
Holly, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 22, 2025
The staff was very attentive.
Sheila
Sheila, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Mar 17, 2025
The pool was a lot of fun.
Mellette
Mellette, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 21, 2025
It was super cozy and comfortable in the hotel. I loved the design and layout of the building. The court yard and pool is super cozy and inviting! I would 100% recommend this hotel to anyone!
Jordyn
Jordyn, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Apr 25, 2025
Fun, funky vibe. Facilities generally in good condition, but looking a little bit tired
Scott
Scott, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Mar 15, 2025
Unique, fun vibe
Pool area was nice. Hot tub was clean and comfortable temperature. Beds were comfortable. Unique artwork and designs throughout the hotel.
Molly
Molly, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 19, 2025
Loved the pool. Kids enjoyed the arcade. Staff was friendly. Liked the 12 PM check out.
Travis
Travis, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 19, 2025
My partner and i had an amazing stay here over our spring break. We got a poolside room, everything was incredibly clean, even during busy season. Always friendly/helpful wait staff available! Our bartender and chef during our stay was phenomenal! Everything about our stay kept us in awe from the views, activities, food, there is something for everyone here! It’s is always worth the visit!
Hannah
Hannah, 3-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 14, 2025
What a vibe!
The Highlander is a very cute hotel with such a vibe! We only wished we had been able to stay longer to enjoy it more!
Janet
Janet, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 21, 2025
EV Friendly
For those traveling with electric vehicles, there are two complimentary level 2 chargers on the property for guests!
James
James, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 15, 2025
Is a nice place. Have a bar restaurant, quiet place and clean. I recommend it to my friends
Juan Manuel
Juan Manuel, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Feb 23, 2025
The pool and hot tub, plus the arcade and billards, made this a fun and enjoyable stay. Rooms could be a bit more furnished with things like a dresser, luggage rack, hangers. Overall, the facility was great and loved their accommodations for dogs.