The Hotel Ottumwa

This was an awesome experience! We loved the entranceway, it was like stepping back in time! But when you got to the rooms, they were certainly up to date! They were large and clean with many amenities. The staff was wonderful in every contact. The only reason I did 4/5 instead of perfect was the lack of ADA accommodations with stairs and such. That would not easily be fixed, I know. But something that would be easy and inexpensive would be a safety rail in the bathtubs. I am not yet to ADA need, but will be in a few years… and I would LOVE to visit again!

The staff was very friendly. The hotel/room was so-so. Very old and needed a lot of work. The first room we assigned had a broken ceiling fan blade and the sink drain, as well as the bathtub, was stopped up. They did give us a different room but the overall hotel was average. It is located downtown and nothing worth while within walking distance.

The hotel Ottumwa seems to equate “historic” with no updates or maintenance. My wife and I enjoy historic hotels - such as the Stanley in Estes Park, CO, the historic Park Inn in Mason City, IA or the Hotel Winneshiek in Decorah,IA….but the hotel Ottumwa is a different experience. First impressions: a deteriorating lobby, false ceilings to hide any interesting original ceiling designs and a struggling old elevator. Those might have been okay…but the room sent us packing almost immediately. We entered a cold, pitch black room with sunlight only peaking through holes worn in the shades. After finally locating the lightswitch - which is far past the door, in the dark - we were able to see the dated, junk furniture and stains all over the very old carpet. The room was cold, damp and smelled like mold. It was a 20 degree day and no heat was on in the room - I guess we were expected to wait for the provided space heater to warm us up? The whole 6th floor had the atmosphere of an old dilapidated drug house. We quickly decided to check out and find an opening at another hotel. I wouldn’t have slept at the hotel Ottumwa even if they were paying me. At least the front desk staff was friendly and helpful. Unless you’re a prospective buyer who plans to start renovations, I’d recommend you find another hotel for your stay.

Hotel Ottumwa gets a star for the cool vintage vibe on the exterior and another for nice people that work there. However, the interior was pretty dreary with shabby furnishings and grungy appearance. The very dim interior lighting in the lobby, hallways, and rooms were both a blessing and a curse. While the full extent of the wear and tear and general neglect is hidden in the dimness, it makes one wonder what else is lurking in the shadows...