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Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn

Photo gallery for Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn

Emma Room 1*Private Space
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Emma Room 2*Private Space
Elkader Jailhouse Inn
Emma Room 2*Private Space

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2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Balcony
  • Internet access

Explore the area

View in a map
Elkader, IA
  • Place, Carter House Museum
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Keystone Bridge
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Field of Dreams
    ‪60 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony

About this property

Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn

Perfect for larger groups, the Emma Big Bear Suite features two connected rooms that can comfortably sleep up to five guests (queen, double, and twin beds). The suite is named after Emma Big Bear, a frequent guest of the Inn when it was still the jailhouse. The last of her tribe, Emma was known for her beautiful jewelry and tapestries. Coming from a humble background, she sometimes enjoyed a drink to stay warm and enjoy a hot meal. While your stay will be far more comfortable, you can enjoy the same cozy respite in her namesake suite. The bathroom is conveniently located just across the hall.

Historic Jailhouse Experience

Serve your “sentence” at the historic Elkader Jailhouse Inn! Built 150 years ago to house Clayton County’s most dangerous criminals, this recently renovated limestone mansion spans over 5,000 sq. ft. and sits on a 3-acre bluff overlooking the rolling hills of Elkader, Iowa.

Choose from one of four spacious suites, each with luxurious beds, spa-like bathrooms, and overflowing historic charm. Guests enjoy access to the gourmet kitchen, scenic patio, and the property’s most iconic feature: the original cell block. Authentic jail cells, historical evidence, and memorabilia make this a stay you won’t soon forget. Don’t forget to take your mugshot!

Traveling with a large group? Rent the entire Jailhouse for up to 20 guests—perfect for weddings, family gatherings, or weekend getaways. It should be a crime not to stay here!

Amenities & Guest Access
Private suite with access to kitchen and Cell Block
Cell Block features a large flat-screen TV, shuffleboard, and board games
Off-site hosts available 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, 24/7 for emergencies
Location

Overlooking the charming town of Elkader, Iowa, the Jailhouse is just blocks from Main Street restaurants, boutiques, and the Turkey River. Explore nearby attractions including Pike’s Peak, Backbone State Park, Effigy Mounds, Yellow River State Forest, trout fishing, concerts at the Opera House, local golf courses, and scenic river floats. The historic charm and natural beauty will make you a repeat offender!

House Rules
No loud noise after 10 P.M.
No smoking
No parties or events
Only registered guests
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Parking available

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House Rules

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No loud noise after 10 P.M. No smoking No parties or events No pets/Pets allowed No unregistered guests

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the property's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

About the area

Elkader

Elkader is home to this holiday home. Charles Wacouta Aquatic Park and Fort Fun Park are local attractions and those in the mood for shopping can visit Riverside Square and Blackhawk Junction.
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Map
Elkader, IA

What's nearby

  • Carter House Museum - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Keystone Bridge - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Wyalusing State Park - 43 min drive - 64.9 km
  • Yellow River State Forest - 49 min drive - 72.6 km
  • Field of Dreams - 60 min drive - 92.8 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Johnson's Restaurant - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪St Olaf Tavern - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Fennellys' Irish Pub - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪TD’s Sports Bar & Grill - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Gear Elkader - ‬11 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn?

As of 12 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn on 28 Jun 2026 start from £88, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn?

On-site parking is available at the property.

Where is Emma Big Bear Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn located?

Situated in Elkader, this holiday home is within 20 miles (32 km) of Froelich Foundation Museum, Spook Cave and World's Largest Strawberry. Bloody Run Creek Wildlife Management Area and Mississippi River are also within 20 miles (32 km).

About the host

Hosted by Nicholas Spohn

Host profile image

Languages:

English, Spanish
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