The majority of the state's accommodations are of the chain variety; consult the Iowa Tourism Office for information on lodging and reservations. Noteworthy hotels in Iowa include Des Moines's Suites of 800 Locust Hotel & Spa (tel. 515/288-5800; www.800locust.com), the city's only boutique property and its best hotel; and, just 40 minutes north of Des Moines in the city of Perry, the Hotel Pattee (tel. 888/424-4268 or 515/465-3511; www.hotelpattee.com), a luxury property and National Historic Landmark whose 40 rooms and suites are individually decorated to pay tribute to historical figures from the Midwest.

Iowa's B&Bs range in style from historic properties to farmhouses. For information on available options, contact the Iowa Bed & Breakfast Guild, 9001 Hickman Rd., Ste. 220, Des Moines, IA 50322 (tel. 800/743-4692; www.ia-bednbreakfast-inns.com). One especially lovely choice in Des Moines is the multi-award-winning Butler House on Grand (tel. 866/455-4096 or 515/255-4096; www.butlerhouseongrand.com), whose romantic and exquisitely decorated rooms have been cited by many, including being named one of the top 10 B&B's for business travelers by USA Today.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.