A community of only 3,000 in north central Iowa near Mason City, Garner was named for a civil engineer, Col. W.W. Garner, who worked on the Rock Island Railroad. Founded in 1870 and incorporated in 1881, it has slowly grown from its original population of 321. It was home to the Duesenberg brothers, whose initial venture in bicycles grew to creating racing automobiles. Visitors wishing to experience the small-town ambiance and history can find ample accommodation at local hotels around Garner.
Less than 10 miles north of Garner, the Super 8 in Forest City, Iowa, has standard rooms with single queen beds or two double beds. Queen and three-bed suites are also available. Rooms are nonsmoking and come equipped with wireless Internet and cable access that includes HBO. A continental breakfast is given to all guests, free of charge.
In addition to its proximity to Garner, the Lodge of Forest City is situated near local golf courses, vineyards and Pilot Knob State Park. Suites including king- and queen-sized beds are available, as well as a limited number of suites equipped with sleeper sofas for additional occupancy. The Lodge of Forest City also offers free cable, wireless Internet and continental breakfast. It allows small pets for an additional charge.
With locations throughout Iowa, the Heartland Inn in Clear Lake is easy to find and approximately 10 miles to the east of Garner. The hotel has implemented a nonsmoking policy throughout, and each room comes equipped with a Serta pillow-top mattress. Free services include high-speed Internet, photocopier, fax, and local calling. The "Innside Track" program rewards frequent guests by giving them a free night's stay after 12 prior visits.
Also located in Clear Lake, the Hilltop Motel enjoys a colorful history dating back to the 1940s. The hotel's Historic Bluff Ballroom has been a venue for multiple musical acts throughout the history of the Hilltop and is noted for being the location of Richie Valens, Buddy Holly and J.P. Richardson's final concert. Each room carries its own individual theme, including the Coca-Cola room, the Harley room and the Honeymoon Suite.
