Two weeks ago, a major disaster for our family. Our son's wedding and reception were at this hotel. Checking day......Guaranteed check at 3pm. We arrived at 2pm. At 3pm, still no room.......we had four rooms, but the party had pretty much the entire hotel. At 4pm, still no room....but someone walked in the door at 4:05 and they received a room. At 4:15 again, I went to the front desk. Up to this point "Dave" was helping us. He was busy and an older taller lady with long dark & gray hair "helped" us. This is where it got ugly. The lady was the rudest hotel person I have ever met. I asked for answers to why and when. All she did was give me a nasty smirk and I actually told her to remove that smirk. I asked for the Manager, she said the Manager could not do anything about it. I asked again, within 15 minutes we had the Manager. We explain the guarantee we received when booking the Wedding and that we had a pre-wedding party to get to an an hour. She said they were having staffing issues and our four rooms have not been released yet. I informed her, I went to our rooms and the doors were open. The rooms were clean. She explained they have been inspected as complete yet. I explained to her that people have walked in and received rooms. I explained to her she needs to swap out rooms for people standing in the lobby vs. people who have not arrived. 15 minutes later we had three rooms. While standing with the manager as she clicked on her computer, I heard another guest ask the tall long haired lady, "What is going on?, Why aren't rooms ready" The same rude lady behind the counter which smirked at me...........Told the other guest, "It's none of your business." Wow. I thought her husband was going to jump over the counter at Ms. Tall & Rude. The next day I caught a room cleaner in the hallway and said they did not have to do a complete clean on our room. Just give us towels and coffee. We received NOTHING. Hotel Millwright way over promised and way under delivered. I'm shocked at the lady behind the counter. Dave (behind the counter) was nice.. The Manager did not have her arms around the operation. She made people stand in the lobby for an hour and a half while rooms were available, just not reassigned. Regarding the reception.......the facility was nice. However, certain food items ran out before all guests were fed. The bar was understaffed and the lines were long. Hope this review finds many people and saves you from the Millwright. read more

Would definitely stay here again! The rooms were very clean, large, and comfortable. The village is amazing great time if you're into boutiques, history, or German culture. The hotel is in one of the main Amana colonies where there's the most to do. There's plenty of outdoor space including some gardens and a patio. Dogs are welcome to stay at the hotel and they even keep a water bowl in the lobby. We found the staff friendly and especially helpful as we didn't plan on stopping in Amana; we came across it and the hotel staff let us in on where to eat, shop, and explore. It was an amazing couple days vacation! read more

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I can not say how great this hotel was and how much we enjoyed it. The hotel was so unique.. It is a museum oriented mill house turned into a hotel.. I love that they repurposed it.. it is charming.. antiques from the mill through out. The gentleman at the front desk was outstanding full of charm and knowledge. So welcoming.. The room was decorated lovely and comfortable. The showers hot and the room extremely clean. The area surrounding the area is picturesque. I only wish I had more time to explore read more

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We stayed here two nights and had a great stay. Our room was large and one of the nicest I've ever stayed in. The hotel had a great industrial vibe and we enjoyed the history and the remnants of the weaving tools and machines. We had a couple good meals here in the restaurant and bat areas. I do wish the breakfast started before 7 am. I would definitely stay here again. read more

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Excellent customer service and extremely well appointed rooms for the price more importantly staying here is like staying in the museum. I really had a great time with my short day. Great customer service. read more

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The "light industrial decor" description is accurate, but somehow the space still feels comfortable and welcoming. Built into a large section of the Amana woolen mill, this is a creative way to use empty space - walking through the hallways is fascinating, seeing how the architects designed the layout and seeing the woolen miil artifacts from the last as decor. Our room was spacious and overlooked the parking lot - and a meadow! We were greeted warmly at the lobby, and also good advice navigating where to park for the best access to our room. The hotel is at the T at the end of Amana's Main Street and across from Millstream brewery - a super location. For sure will stay here again if we are in the area. read more

4.25* (out of 5) Food: 4* Atmosphere: 5* Value: 5* Service: 3* 01/20/2024 We have been wanting to visit the Amana Colonies for some time and finally got the chance when Yelp hosted an event there. We paid our own way for the room and reviewed meal and really enjoyed our stay at the Hotel Millwright. The Indigo Room is just past the front desk in the hotel and offers a bar as well as an eating area. The decor was great - a modern look in a converted factory building. It is honestly a very slow time of the year in Amana, so there is a scaled service crew and we had to go to the front desk to ask for a server when we arrived for a late breakfast. I was a little disappointed with the service, as she did everything we asked but wasn't able to provide much insight on the menu items nor seemed willing to take the effort to answer a question about one of the desserts. Beyond that, we loved our brunch! The food was delicious and we found the coffee to be well above average for a restaurant. Although the pricing was maybe adjusted for the slow season, the menu pricing was a good value (see picture). Rather than write a separate review for the Buffalo Wings (see picture) and Caesar Salad (see picture) we had in the bar area the night before after our arrival, I included them in this review also. They were both very good and towards the upper end of my expectations for bar food. For our brunch, my wife ordered the Farmer's Bowl (see picture - was recommended by the bartender the night before) and I ordered the Garden Omlette (see picture). As we always do, we both shared samples of each other's food and really enjoyed both plates. The potatoes in particular were very good - a great crispy and delicious crust on the outside while warm, soft and moist inside. For those of you who follow my posts, you are already aware of my voracious sweet tooth. I had eyed a Persian Love Cake slice in the display case the night before and was intrigued. Since our waitress didn't know what it was and didn't offer to check into it, I looked it up on Google and found that it was a rose cake with pistachios - so had to give it a try (see picture). While the pistachios weren't super fresh (were a little soft from setting in the icing in the case), the cake was still very good. If you like the flavor of rose or want to give it a try, you will like this light dessert. If you found this review helpful, please show your appreciation with a Like or a Follow. Photos copyright: happyhourdesmoines.com & thefoodanddrinkguy.com read more

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A beautiful and unique hotel, one of the best ones I've stayed in! The town is also so charming and everything (brewery, restaurants, shops) is walkable from the hotel. Only complaint was that the hallways are pretty echo-y and we could hear people while in the room, but it didn't bother us much at all! read more

I would give this place a 3.5 out of 5. Pros: It's relatively clean; the rooms are spacious; and it *can* be reasonably priced. I say reasonably because prices fluctuate depending on timing, package, availability, etc. Getting a midweek rate makes the place more affordable. The room had a small fridge and microwave and amenities (ice; hair dryer; towels) were sufficient. Cons: The walls are paper thin. I mean, I could hear everything. I could tell you the names of the guests next door; what they watched on television; and what they were doing the next day. I thought they might just be "loud" guests, but the next folks that checked in the next day, the same thing happened. Not to mention one can hear what's going on in the hallways---or sometimes, someone above you. The bed was comfortable, and I felt housekeeping had done a decent job. Check-in was fine but she wasn't overly warm or friendly. If anything, she just went through the motions and didn't make me feel too welcomed. Later, when I had a question, she had to contact the GM (who had to be called at home). I felt it odd she didn't have latitude or discretion--nor was there management available to speak with on the floor upon inquiry. Not related to the hotel, in particular, but the Amanas in general: I was taken aback by prices in the area. From goods in stores to food and beverage, everything seemed excessively priced. This is ironic because the Amanas are somewhat "locked in time," with the exception of their prices. Some things were a tourist trap and other things (like the nearby Nature Trail) couldn't be enjoyed because they weren't kept up. Returning to the Hotel Millwright, however, was a nice refuge. It was comfortable enough to want to stay there, although I suspect once was enough and I won't be back. There was a blood-filled mosquito in my room that feasted upon me! read more

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This place is amazing!! Our king bed room was huge. The shower was huge and had a great shower head and pressure. The front staff was very polite and helpful. We ended up deciding to stay an extra night because of the weather going outlr direction. We did not try the restaurant here though, so that I can not speak of. The place was an old textile mill back in the day, so the industrial atmosphere is still evident. In more pleasant weather, it's close enough to walk up to shops or other restaurants. The lobby is warm and inviting. It was a nice place to go out and sit in front of the fireplace and relax. We will definitely be back!!! We love this place. read more

We were up visiting my dear friend and assisting with planning her mother's celebration of life. Shelby and the team at the Hotel Millwright were incredibly helpful through the entire process. It was a very quick turn around for an event but they were able to assist in getting everything setup and ready with ease. We opted for the loft space for the celebration which was beautiful, bright and welcoming. Perfect for the garden tea party theme her mother requested. There are stairs as well as elevator available to access the loft from the parking lot. The location is nestled at the very end of the Amana Colonies. The staff handling the event were very helpful and ensured everything ran smoothly. It was truly a relief to have them. Thankful for this venue and team for taking such care under such terrible circumstances. We will most definitely refer others to them. read more

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Great addition to this little town. Historic architectural gem we enjoyed exploring. Nice modern amenities while keeping the historic charm read more

Hotel Millwright - Hotels Near Me - Amana, Iowa

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Beautifully appointed hotel in historic Amana, Iowa. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. The hotel is filled with great photographs from the days of the old woolen mill. There are also many artifacts from days when wool was transformed into beautiful blankets and clothing. The dining room had a few things to be desired. Staffing was limited to one waitress. And although we were there within 30 minutes of opening they were already out of a main menu featured item - the NY strip. A substitution was made using a flatiron steak. There was no choice of potato - served with french fries. The plating was unadorned in any way - not even a sprig of parsley. It was less than expected at this destination hotel. And certainly disappointing on this special occasion for us. They do have a very nice little bar that is on the property but unattached. Again they were understaffed for the crowd. And, if you want to use a restroom you need to leave, move outside and into the hotel main lobby. A pleasantly quiet and well-decorated hotel. But, it was certainly lacking in these two aforementioned areas. read more

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Something to consider - When I was just trying to make reservations for an overnight stay in May - This hotel is requiring a 2 night minimum. This is a deal breaker for me. Just so you are aware. Whether you need one night or two - you will be expected to pay for 2. I understand company policy - but in my opinion - I would rather get my $125 instead of my $0. read more

A really cool, clean hotel! Located in Amana colonies. The beds were comfortable, we couldn't hear neighbors, and the bathrooms were clean with a nice shower. Our only complaint is in my opinion the pillows were all the same and my neck was a little stiff and the heater went into a defrost mode like every hour and made some noises that woke us up- not a big deal. A lot of cool historical things to look at. I wish we had more time. Most places are walking distance. We will definitely be back! read more

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This is a beautiful hotel, lots of attention to detail in the design and decor. The staff is friendly and helpful and the surrounding area is, of course, very clean and attractive. I would highly recommend staying here when visiting the Colonies. read more

This hotel was awesome! Amana Colonies was an okay town to visit, but Hotel Millwright made the trip worth it. A beautiful hotel! Super clean and so unique! The hotel staff were also very nice and helpful. We stayed in the Calico Suite and it was so very nice!! Loved it! The only negative was that the satellite went out during a storm, thus leaving us without the TV. But luckily, it did not last long. It would be great if Hotel Millwright could add a game room or something more for their guests being it's located in such a bland town. read more

We wanted to stay in The Amana Colonies. A very laid back 300 year old settlement. Originally from Germany. This Hotel is a converted woolen mill done in the most professional style. Reusing lots of the mechanical equipment as art in the halls. There is full dining and a separate Whiskey Bar. On our first night we ate in the village. We were so impressed with all we experienced, we extended another night. We use Booking dot com and get a superior rate. Tomorrow will be another day of Antique shopping. What a great place. read more

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Hotel Millwright is a not-so-hidden gem. It is one of a kind in the area, there is so much character! With historical touches, and a modern-vibe -- you'll be impressed the minute you walk in. So, this 8-acre woolen mill was built in 1855 -- over the years changes in the textile industry and downsizing left many of the buildings empty or under-utilized. The Amana Society then tried to figure out how to repurpose and preserve the rest of the estate-- finally deciding on a hotel. Sustainability was top of mind when they renovated it and it is obvious. Theres about sixty-five guest rooms and a few suites. A restaurant, two bars, conference center, picnic space, music area and fitness center. We came on a Friday in October. I thought the pricing was pretty high-- considering the hotel wasn't super busy that given day. That's probably my biggest knock on Hotel Millwright. And I was sad the whiskey bar (Electric Thread Social Club) was closed due to short-staffing. The rooms were huge, the shower was amazing and I loved all of the Amana details (like the bedding). We chose the 'Amana Snack Package' which meant Amana summer sausage, Amana cheese curds, Amana German mustard, water crackers and Millstream root beers were waiting for us in our room when we arrived. Yum! The location is super convenient, a short walk from everything. Check-out the Hotel Millwright and stay for a long weekend of awesomeness in Amana! read more

The Millwright is an amazing fusion of historic and modern. Photos and artifacts of the old woolen mill decorate the entire facility. The original walls and ceiling are visible in the bedrooms, but thoroughly modern bathrooms await you with walkin rainfall showers and well lighted mirrors. The staff is friendly and eager to help make your stay as comfortable as possible. But the very best part is the bed. Just the right amount of firmness. Crisp white sheets and an Amana cotton blanket all at a reasonable rate. When visiting the Amanas don't miss this amazing hotel. read more

I am ever in the area again, there is nowhere else I will stay but here. This hotel paid every attention to detail. You would be hard-pressed to find anything like it in the area. The ladies at the front desk were very friendly and helpful. Our room was clean. There was coffee in the room, microwave, refrigerator, toiletries, and a hair dryer. The beds and pillows were very comfortable and I slept through the night. The towels were stopped and fluffy. I did read other reviews that said walls are paper thin. I could definitely hear the kid next door very clearly and then again in the hallway. So just have some sleep sounds prepared to play on your phone if you are intending to sleep in. I also wished that the shower water got a little warmer but that was no big deal. That event room was gorgeous. This is a one of a kind property. read more

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We visit the Amana's every year. Last year the Electric Thread was closed since they didn't have staff. A year later, it's closed again. We went into the hotel bar and they were closed (the bar and restaurant) since they ran out of food. How is that possible! Very disappointing and frustrating. We were here during PumpkinFest when you thought the place would be prepared. Take your chances if this place is open. Bad management. read more

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Beautiful rooms - I am not a fan of modern but it was done so nicely really cool display of farm equipment and interesting rooms. It is within walking distance of the shops in Amana. They gave me a map of the stores and a list of the times they were open. Definately worth a day trip. read more

One of the best hotels I've ever stayed in! I can't wait to return to Amana and stay in this hotel! Everything from the decor, hospitality and finishing touches is amazing! We recently visited Amana and decided to stay at Hotel Millwright. It doesn't look so impressive from the outside, but it's been completely redone within. Our king room had modern amenities (including usb wall chargers) and the products felt quality: comfortable beds, crisp cotton linens, good towels. Even the rain shower head was amazing The hotel was quiet and clean. During my visit, I only wished for more food selection. The restaurant was closed due to staffing shortages and they were only serving a limited menu from the bar. The bar had also ran out of most of their wines. My recommendation is to pack your wine and snacks as the town closes pretty early and there's no close options for food or drink. read more

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To All the Staff, Our daughters wedding reception was held on Saturday evening and we give all of you a 10 out of 10!!! The staff was excellent!! Shelby who organized it all for us is a 10 out of 10!! If you need someone to get things done and do them right have her plan your day!! Teegan and the crew were just so organized! Chef Micheal did an outstanding job on the food!! Hors D'oeuvres were fantastic! Dinner was superb, the steaks were tender as well as the chicken! The sides and sauces were delicious! Pastry Chef Elizabeth's wedding cakes were delicious!! The bartenders were very efficient and greeted all with a smile!! Everyone RAVED about the room and the facility!! We also had a breakfast for our overnight guests/family in the Carding Studio, Sunday morning. Chef Micheal and Teegan putting it all together with the staff ! The food was again fabulous!! Thank you all for a memorable weekend !! All your hard work and for those who's names I don't know on the staff we appreciate your dedication to make everyone feel special on their big day!! Angela and Dan R. read more

This is a beautifully re-designed hotel with plenty of space and original machining to give any engineer a lot to study and enjoy while just walking around the main areas. The beds were comfortable, the rooms well cleaned and fitted, and the technology offerings are top of the line. The newly remodeled bathrooms are clean and crisp, leaving no cracks or corners untouched by staff. A refreshing change from a lot of other hotels. But the best part of this was the food! The Indigo Restaurant has fabulous flavor. We had the street tacos (nothing street about these!) and the Brisket Tacos- both were flavorful explosions in the mouth and had no issues with finishing them. The Street tacos make for a small meal or appetizer and the brisket were enough for the two of us. Sumptuous corn salad and au jous dip. The bourbon flight contains PLENTY of drink and ER couldn't finish it between the two of us (I had also ordered a separate whisky so there's that). A lovely selection on the flight with each having a distinct flavor. In the morning we also had breakfast at the same location and the chef, once again, did not disappoint. Knowing how good things were the night before I specifically ordered something from the breakfast menu to appreciate his talent: the Farmers breakfast bowl. A little bit of everything and it did not disappoint. The fresh sourdough side I ordered paired perfectly, but necessitated a take home box for the main dish (large portions). My husband had a build your own omelette. Very good. Perfectly cooked and everything came out piping hot. There is limited wait staff, but we came on a Wednesday to a Thursday in March- so a bit off peak. Everything was still well timed and we didn't have to wait for anything. If you don't stay at the Millwright but are looking for more of a southwestern cuisine then stop by the Indigo Room for a flavorful burst of color in your dining experience. This chef will not disappoint and is a lovely surprise to find in such a remote location. If he also caters for events I would absolutely love to hire him. read more

Our family is obsessed with Hotel Millwright. We stay here twice a year, and it's hands down, our favorite hotel. If you are looking for clean, updated, roomy accommodations this is the place for you. Amana is such a wonderful, relaxing place. Staying at this hotel is the icing on the cake. We love the cool industrial vibe of the converted textile mill. There is a lot of attention to detail in the decor. And the beds are sooo comfortable! I have stayed here many times the past few years and it still feels like a new hotel. We go out of our way to stay here, and honestly, we always hate to leave. read more

This has been converted beautifully, and the front desk staff is attentive and available. The same cannot be said unfortunately for the restaurant (Indigo Blue). We had to wait for the one attendant, a manager even let us know she would be up "soon". About 8 minutes later, she did come and took our order but seemed out of sorts. We also watched 2 groups wait for 10 minutes and leave, and another man waited 15 minutes before another party walked back to the kitchen to let them know people were waiting. Truly unacceptable, and you're going to kill off the small traffic you have. The food was very good, Indigo burger cooked medium, and boy the home fries are yummy! We were only checked up on 1 time in over an hour and a half. I'll go back, but if the service doesn't improve, we will not come a third time. read more

Exciting lodging in eastern Iowa is hard to find - but here is a gem of a unique boutique hotel in a restored 19th century textile mill built by one of the most successful communal groups in American history. It's beautiful! Well appointed rooms are soothing, yet elegant. We dug it! PLUS the little whiskey bar - the Electric Thread is cool with an outdoor fireplace and patio. There was live entertainment on the patio the evening we stayed. AND the food in the restaurant was exceptional - very classy, modern menu with some regionally authentic items done in a new inventive way. Breakfast was simply outstanding -- I highly recommend the German apple pancake and my husband raved over the Bale House bowl - awesome! Lunch I had the chopped salad and soup while my husband wolfed down a huge pastrami melt with homemade fries!!! Wowza! Hey the local brewery is right across the street too. read more

Hotel Millwright - Winterfest walk to the party! - Hotels Near Me - Amana, Iowa

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Horrible stay, didn't clean our room until asked even though they told us the clean daily. Mosquitos all over the room. Very basic for the price. read more

Such a neat hotel. The decor is really cool. The Amana Colonies shopping was fun. The hotel bar and hotel whiskey bar where very welcoming. Talented bartenders. Specialty drinks skillfully made. Friendly staff. Large rooms. Walking distance from everything you need. read more

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Requested multiple times that the room be serviced, as auto-generated emails indicated otherwise. Never happened despite two requests. NO MANAGER ON DUTY ON THE WEEKEND. Hotel is EXTREMELY loud as there's no carpeting in hallways and room entryways. Woke up to screaming and babbling baby at 6:50 on a Saturday morning. This place caters only to events (e.g., weddings) and doesn't care about other guests. read more

We stay here whenever we cross Iowa now. My favorite hotel!This is the place you want.

Neat place but unfortunately the bartender was very unpleasant and very off putting he wouldn't provide menus or service. Usually a pretty great experience in the Amana Colonies! read more

We spent a weekend in Amana for the Prelude to Christmas festival and stayed at Hotel Millwright. The hotel is beautifully designed and a great value for the price. The room was cozy and well appointed. The Electric Room cocktail lounge was hip and the bartender made us festive drinks. We had breakfast at the Indigo Room and everything was delicious - my husband raved about the biscuits and gravy! You can tell the staff take pride in what they do and they've created a really special place to stay in East Central Iowa. read more

The worst experience for $32.99 per person I ever had. The path and signage to find the location of the brunch was awful. After 12 of us worked around the entire hotel and complex we finally all found the location. Had reservations for 10am, we were not seated till 10:10am. The brunch started at 10am. Sat us at a table, only to be told we were at the wrong table, they moved us, then someone else said no, you are at the wrong table, then moved us back. Then about 10:20 they finally told us we could get up and start getting food. It is a serve your own drinks type of brunch. The carving station was not ready, had a knife that could not cut the meat. Then the you man at the carving station was also expected to make omelets as well. The selection of food was very poor, and definitely not much taste. The ham was over cooked and the prime rib was tasteless. A very small selection of desserts. We opted for the bottomless mimosa and you had to go to the bar to get refills other wise you were out of luck. Horrible experience all around. Sat at a table with another family, nice people but, none of us knew we were sharing a table when reservation were made. Would have been nice to know. A nice venue, big but......not very well executed and lacked in flavor as well. read more

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We were so impressed by how thoughtfully and beautifully they converted the old mill into this A+ hotel. Creatively decorated and very clean. The staff were very friendly and attentive. I would highly recommend this place! read more

Remodeled textile mill done very nice. Great accommodations, great food, great staff! Highly recommend!

What an amazing experience! We stayed at Hotel Millwright as part of a small group and were delighted at every turn in this historical yet modern building. Every room we saw we was unquie and the coolest part is all of the artifacts that have been collected by the Amana Society that are used throughout the buildings as decor. It's really gorgeous and the whole vibe there is really awesome. We had really great service and loved the fireplace built into both sides of the smokestack (inside and out) and the Electric Thread whiskey bar. The bartender (Joe!) was an excellent mixologist and also totally capable of meeting our demands. As I write this, the Millwright has only been open for about a month, yet we felt like all the details and service were practiced and polished. We wandered the stores in the area and were really surprised by the mix of modern and old fashioned offerings. This is a great getaway whether you are nearby or coming from afar! read more

good in concept, fails in execution! the dinner at the Indigo Room was Not GOOD! a fatty grisly piece of meat! the dessert was are you ready, vanilla ice cream period! I had called ahead to ask if it was fine dining! so disappointing! read more