Grinnell is an unassuming Iowa town with a bit of history behind it. The town was incorporated in 1865 and given the name of its founder Josiah B. Grinnell. Even in its early days, it became a stop on the Underground Railroad – a system by which slaves were liberated to live freely. The gravesite of J.B. Grinnell is to this day one of the town’s most important landmarks due to his part in the liberation movement. The town is also home to Grinnell College – a university of such high regard that it is considered by experts to be one of America’s “Hidden Ivies,” a college on a level to match the famous Ivy League schools. For these reasons and more, Grinnell is a town worth visiting. While there, why not stay in one of these fine Airbnb vacation rentals? Read on to find out more.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on May 16, 2024.
1. The Eagle Suite in the Prairie Lofts (from USD 185)
This fantastic loft in a historic building is the perfect choice for up to five guests. You will have access to a bedroom, one-and-a-half bathrooms, air conditioning, and cable TV. The rental comes complete with charming decorative touches to make you feel right at home. The loft is situated in downtown Grinnell, with excellent access to the college, bars, cafes, and restaurants in the area, giving you the opportunity to explore this charming town at your own leisure.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the furnishings were comfortable and stylishnice big tv with satellite and wifi connectionthe beds were super comfortablethe living room area was comfortable with enough seating for 8Cleanliness:
great loft very clean and exactly as picturedwe had a great stay and the place was clean quiet and comfortableand the place was new and very cleanthe apartment was clean and attractive and perfect for our needswe really enjoyed our time at prairie lofts incredibly clean and well maintainedHost:
our host made us feel very welcome and was flexibleshe was flexible in meeting our changing arrival time and she was quickly responsive when we had questionscynthia was an excellent host she was so communicative and very flexible to our needsthe host and hostess are communicative and cordial making the whole experience very easy and convenientcynthia was easy to reach and very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
i like the location of the loftwonderful loft located walking distance to many thingsperfect location & great spacegreat location and an amazing loftclose to grinnell college close to restaurants and shops nice accommodations
2. The Arnold Suite in the Prairie Lofts (from USD 165)
This loft, nicknamed “Arnold” for a former business located in the building, is a good choice for those looking to experience a stay in the heart of downtown Grinnell. The loft is suitable for up to four guests and comes complete with amenities such as DISH TV access, air conditioning, and dryers. The loft is located in a historic building close to the heart of Grinnell, offering easy access to Grinnell College. A grocery store is close by for all your essential purchases.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi has good speed and stablebeautifully decorated well stocked with utensils toiletries kitchen supplies and comfortswe had a great and comfortable space in this stylish lofti organized for five guests to stay in cynthia's beautiful apartmentsCleanliness:
apartment was very clean and comfortableclean cozy and a beautiful place to staythe room was very clean and quietthis apartment is very clean well appointedprairie lofts are beautifully remodeled clean and convenientHost:
cynthia was a great hostcynthia was a great host and really made everything easythe hosts are very responsive and easy to reachthe owners are easy to communicate with very flexibility and accomodatingcynthia was an exceptional host very responsive and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location in the heart of downtown grinnellperfect location; parking is easythe location is excellent it's in town and easy walking distance to the collegeit’s in a good location downtown grinnellcute place with nice kitchen
3. Comfortable, centrally located private studio (from USD 70)
The studio is based in a building that allows guests easy access to the amenities in downtown Grinnell. The quiet, central location is a perfect base for those wanting to explore the area on foot, with the main downtown area and Grinnell College close by. The studio itself is complete with a full separate kitchen and a completely private entrance. All basic amenities are provided for up to two guests at a time.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed is quite comfortable and allowed for great sleepthe photos do not do this lovely studio apartment justicethe bed is on the softer side but very comfortableCleanliness:
clean and quietgreat place really clean and comfortableclean with a nicely equipped kitchensmall but clean and thoroughly outfitted apartmentthe bathroom and bedroom are stocked with fresh clean linens and the whole place is fresh and clean-smellingHost:
lindsay is a gracious hostlindsay’s place was lovely and she was a thoughtful hosthost was gracious and accessible but never intrusivelindsay is such a lovely host can’t wait to be backa great host and a wonderful place to stay the pictures make it seem smaller than in actually isRead more reviewsLocation:
great location - close to campus and downtown grinnellso easy to walk to the fine local market and eat in when the mood strikesthe area while within walking distance to shops and dining downtown was quiet and peacefulwalking distance from historic grinnell commercial center with lovely architecture housing small shops and excellent restaurantsit is very efficiently appointed and well located i would definitely recommend lindsay’s place
4. bedroom ranch in beautiful Grinnell neighborhood (from USD 300)
This fantastic ranch is perfect for large parties as the property can provide accommodation for up to six guests across three bedrooms. Guests are free to use the rental’s two-and-a-half baths, off-street parking, and fenced backyard that comes complete with patio on which to enjoy spectacular views of the night sky. The ranch is located in one of the best neighborhoods in Grinnell. Air conditioning, laundry facilities, and wireless internet access are included in the rental.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable beds with a fully stocked kitchenCleanliness:
taylor's place is clean and spacious with a great back yardHost:
taylor was very responsive to questions we had during our staytaylor is a very flexible and helpful hosttaylor was an accommodating and responsive hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is terrific and close to everythingnice house in great locationwas as described—very central and comfortable
5. The Strand Suite in the Prairie Lofts (from USD 165)
This studio loft in Grinnell is the perfect choice for those looking for simple access to the local area. The studio is located within walking distance to Grinnell College, a coffee shop, grocery store, and a number of restaurants. Although it has only one bedroom, the studio is suitable for up to three guests since a rollaway bed can be provided. The rental also has a bathroom and kitchen facilities. Air conditioning, cable TV, and WiFi are provided.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
great location clean and nicely decorated we will definitely stay again in this loftRead more reviewsLocation:
a hidden treasure with a great location and the best place to stay in grinnell
6. The Crown Suite in the Prairie Lofts (from USD 165)
This charming accommodation is located on Grinnell’s Main Street over Lonnski’s Pub & Deli, putting you right in the heart of the area. Grinnell College is close by as well as a number of downtown shops, grocery stores, and restaurants such as the #1 Prairie Canary. The loft is suitable for up to three guests who will share a bedroom and a kitchen. WiFi and air conditioning are provided.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
everything was immaculately clean and just as describedgreat place very nice and cleanwonderful location warm hospitality comfortable and clean studioHost:
cynthia was a great hostcynthia is very kind and helpfulcynthia was responsive and accommodatingthey are clean centrally located charming - and she and her husband are just the best hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
great location - very cute placeperfect location within walking distance of college and lots is restaurantsvery nice apartment in a convenient location to the collegethe location was perfect for walking to everything in town and on campusthis loft is in a great location and has everything you need
7. Linden House Bed & Breakfast (from USD 110)
The Linden House Bed & Breakfast is a great choice for large groups or travelers who want to enjoy the stunning location and nearby amenities. Up to 16 people can stay at the bed and breakfast at any one time, with guests sharing two common areas and an outdoor patio, as well as having access to their own private rooms. The location is fantastic, with the Historic Wagaman Mill Museum lying next door. The on-site bar and restaurant ensure guests a comfortable and convenient stay.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds and bedding were first rate and each room had a nice bathroomsuper cozy warm inviting we will returnCleanliness:
it was so clean and comfortablethe whole house and restaurant are very clean and stylish without being stuffyHost:
val was a superb hostval is a very gracious host and she serves a delicious breakfastfood was great thanks to val and staffabsolutely wonderful place very relaxing the food is great and val is an excellent hostRead more reviewsLocation:
great place location and servicethis was the perfect location for our family to gathervery quiet and restfullovely peaceful place in the middle of god’s country
8. A cozy, two-bedroom apartment
This cozy, two-bedroom apartment is perfectly located in a nice neighborhood in downtown Grinnell. The house is wonderfully decorated and has wooden floors throughout. The living room is beautifully decorated and furnished with comfy leather sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a charming fireplace. The kitchen is fitted with granite countertops and furnished with high-quality stainless steel appliances and utensils.
The bedrooms are nicely furnished with comfy beds, clean linen, and ample storage space. The bathroom comes with a shower, tub, toilet, clean towels, and essential toiletries.
9.3 km (5.8 mi) from Rock Creek State Park
9. Charming 2-bedroom cottage in Sully
This charming cottage is located in the rural town of Sully, Iowa. Up to four guests can share its two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen You’ll have access to all the interior space and the beautiful private backyard, which features a fire pit and pot-bellied stove. The cottage is located 20 minutes from Newton Speedway, and offers easy traveling to historic Pella, downtown Grinnell, Van Wijk Winery, and Coffee Cup Cafe.
20.14 km (12.6 mi) from Rock Creek State Park
10. One-bedroom studio in charming historic building
This studio, found in a charming historic building, is a great choice for those seeking accommodation in downtown Grinnell. Two guests can share a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. The location couldn’t be better, with restaurants and a grocery store nearby, as well as being only a block and a half from the Grinnell College Campus. WiFi internet is provided. Guests also have access to coin-operated washers and dryers provided on-site.
Grinnell, Iowa, United States
9.33 km (5.8 mi) from Rock Creek State ParkTop guest reviews
Cleanliness:
what a great place - clean comfortable and convenientthe bed is comfortable and everything was meticulously cleanit is very clean and comfortable a home away from homenice clean place great location very functionalvery clean with a great location would recommend to anyone needing a place in grinnellHost:
lovely hosts great visitapril is a very nice and helpful hostsuch a cozy flat april is a wonderful host - very flexible and accommodatinganother wonderful stay can't wait to come back - april is an amazing hostwe had what we needed and april was very friendly prompt and attentive when we needed to communicateRead more reviewsLocation:
great value excellent locationthis is a nice place to stay close to campus and within walking distance to everything in townthe studio apartment is charming and close to everythingit is a great location downtown near restaurants and walking distance to grinnell college i highly recommend april’s placeit's a perfect location for anyone visiting grinnell college - walkable to everything
11. Remodeled bank in Lynnville
This apartment in Lynnville is suitable for up to four guests, who can share a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. Onsite parking is provided for those traveling in their own vehicles. The rental is a remodeled bank, with the old bank vault now functioning as a walk-in closet. Its modern vintage decor will delight all guests. The apartment is located on the main street of Lynnville, ensuring you easy access to local amenities.
Lynnville, Iowa, United States
20.65 km (12.9 mi) from Rock Creek State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the coffee muffins and fruit were greatly appreciated for breakfast the next morningthe apartment is huge and comfortable and well-stocked with amenitiesok my son would warn you though - it doesn't have a pool- alasvery comfortable bed and sleeper sofa towels provided and homemade muffins for breakfastCleanliness:
clean comfortable and quietvery nicely decorated and very cleanthis place was adorable and very clean and comfortablethe place was very clean and the bed quite comfortablequintessential small town iowa experience so clean very comfortableHost:
jaci is a great hostjaci is a great hostthe hosts jaci and cindy were very helpful and friendly and communicated with us from the very beginningjaci is a great host would gladly stay here againthe hostesses were very nice and hospitableRead more reviewsLocation:
it's a good place for the money and the locationi am glad we chose this place to stay instead of a hotelwell appointed unique space very comfortable and quiet easy access with parking right in frontthis is a truly unique place so glad we found ita very relaxing and quiet town to stay in
Grinnell will make you grin: spend some time in the Jewel of the Prairie!
There is such a broad range of accommodations in the town of Grinnell that there will invariably be something for everyone here. Whether you’re in town to check out the university, or a history buff wanting to check out the path of the Underground Railroad, you’ll find something interesting here. Quite simply, Grinnell – and these apartments – are something you must check out.
History
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