Lodging near Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Prairie City

Top reasons to visit Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

• Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore beautiful trails that showcase the natural beauty of the refuge, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Observation: Enjoy engaging experiences while observing diverse native wildlife in their natural habitats.
• Educational Programs: Participate in programs that provide insights into local ecosystems and wildlife conservation.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Nearby attractions like fairgrounds and amusement parks ensure fun for all ages.
• Budget-Friendly Accommodations: Find a variety of lodging options that cater to different traveler needs.

Find great hotels near Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Discover a variety of budget-friendly hotel accommodations near Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, offering 2 to 3-star options perfect for every traveler. Whether you're seeking family-friendly lodging, pet-friendly amenities, or business-themed services, this area has you covered. Enjoy outdoor spaces, convenient access to the Neal Smith Nature Store, and the charm of the local landscape, ensuring a memorable stay for all visitors.

• La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines: This hotel is a perfect blend of family-friendly and business-oriented amenities, making it an ideal retreat for both leisure and work travelers. Situated 13 miles from Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, La Quinta offers a welcoming atmosphere for families, with complimentary cribs available upon request. Pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs and cats on-site, while business travelers can take advantage of round-the-clock access to the business center and meeting room facilities. The hotel's thoughtful services ensure a comfortable stay for all guests.
• Super 8 by Wyndham Altoona: Just 13 miles from Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Super 8 by Wyndham Altoona is designed with families and pet owners in mind. This hotel offers essential business amenities, including a business center, making it suitable for those on work assignments. Families can enjoy the convenience of cribs for a small fee, while pets are welcome with a policy that includes dogs and cats only. Super 8 combines affordability with comfort, providing a cozy base for exploring the local area.
• Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds: Located 15 miles from Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds is an inviting choice for pet lovers. This budget-friendly hotel accommodates pets with certain restrictions, allowing you to bring along your furry friends for your getaway. While the focus is on comfort and convenience, the Econo Lodge provides essential amenities that cater to all travelers, ensuring a pleasant stay without compromising on quality.

Where to stay near Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Exploring Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge offers a delightful mix of adventure and tranquility. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature while spotting diverse wildlife species, making it a haven for birders. The refuge features a lovely campground and educational prairie learning opportunities. Nearby cities and neighborhoods provide a welcoming atmosphere filled with friendly locals, perfect for family outings or budget-friendly travel. Don't miss the best stops for unique experiences and memorable excursions in this beautiful region.

• Prairie City: Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Prairie City is the gateway to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors are drawn to this charming city primarily during the summer months, where outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, and educational experiences abound. The local area boasts a variety of attractions, including serene lakes and exciting motor racing events. With a welcoming community vibe, Prairie City also features venues for conferences and events, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and business travelers alike.
• Runnells: Located a mere 5 miles from the refuge, Runnells offers a delightful blend of outdoor family activities and scenic views. This small city enjoys a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peak travel during the summer. Travelers can enjoy the lively fairground, which hosts numerous shows and events throughout the year, as well as recreational areas perfect for picnicking and outdoor fun. With its proximity to a national state park and beautiful lakes, Runnells is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
• Swan: Just 7 miles away from Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Swan is another picturesque city that attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts. Like Runnells, it enjoys steady visitor numbers throughout the year, especially in the summer months. Swan features an arena for entertainment events and a vibrant fairground for local gatherings. Visitors can explore nearby lakes and stadiums, making it a great spot for sporting events and family outings. With its welcoming atmosphere and scenic landscapes, Swan is a perfect addition to your vacation itinerary.

Things to do near Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

At Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, Iowa, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking on scenic trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. Engaging animal experiences provide opportunities to observe native wildlife in their habitats, while the refuge's educational programs offer insights into local ecosystems. Additionally, nearby options like swimming and bowling ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is at Outlets of Des Moines, located 14 miles away, offering a variety of brand-name stores. If you're up for a drive, visit Southridge Mall, 17 miles away, or the Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines, 18 miles away, for unique local finds.

Recreation

At Toad Valley Golf Course, enjoy a serene round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes, just 9 miles from the refuge. Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, 13 miles away, offers relaxation and wellness activities in a peaceful environment. For more outdoor fun, Westwood Municipal Golf Course awaits you 14 miles from the refuge.

Adventure

At Iowa Speedway, located 16 miles from Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, experience thrilling motor racing events that will get your adrenaline pumping. Meanwhile, the Sky Glider East, 14 miles away, offers a serene yet adventurous ride with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Nightlife

Experience an exciting nightlife at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, where you can enjoy gaming and vibrant city vibes. For a cultural touch, head to Hoyt Sherman Place for captivating performances. Don't miss the Valle Drive In for a nostalgic movie experience under the stars with family and friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

To save money on your trip to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, visit between November and January for lower accommodation rates, especially on Mondays. Avoid weekends, as Saturday stays are pricier. Utilize Expedia to compare hotel prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and consider package deals for flights and activities. Join Expedia's One Key membership for additional discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Remember to check reviews carefully to avoid establishments with poor feedback, ensuring a pleasant stay.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and customize your preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotel options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, Iowa, offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including fairgrounds, amusement parks, and historic civic buildings. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking cultural experiences. Explore the refuge's natural beauty, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy the surrounding national forest. With plenty of engaging activities, you're sure to create lasting memories during your visit.

• Adventureland: Experience thrilling rides and attractions at this amusement park, just 13 miles from Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. With a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for both adrenaline junkies and those seeking a fun day out.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Located 14 miles away, this venue hosts events year-round, offering a glimpse into Iowa's rich culture. Enjoy outdoor activities and family-oriented events in a lively fairground setting.
• Lake Red Rock: Just 16 miles from the refuge, this picturesque lake is ideal for romantic getaways or scenic picnics. Enjoy beautiful beach vibes and stunning views that make it perfect for outdoor relaxation.

Best time to go to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Visitor numbers around Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.0°F (-6.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	23.4°F (-4.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	39.7°F (4.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	28.0°F (-2.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

For visiting Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, flying into Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the most convenient option, located 19 miles away. Several excellent hotels nearby include the Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, which is 4 miles from the airport and rated 4.5 stars. Another great choice is the Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and the Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale, also Tapestry Collection by Hilton, both situated 9 miles from DSM, each boasting a 4.5-star rating. Transportation from these hotels to the airport is readily accessible, making your travel seamless.