The Continental Hotel in Centerville, Iowa is definitely off the beaten path.
In the heart of Appanoose County, it is a two-hour drive from Des Moines, Iowa and a four-hour drive from Kansas City or St. Louis, Missouri. But it is well worth the effort. Here are seven reasons to make the trip.
The courthouse square in Centerville is filled with shops, restaurants, and businesses. And there is always something going on! From Bike Night to summer Farmers Market to Municipal Band Concerts, there is always a community activity going on.
The Continental Hotel looks almost exactly like it does today as it does when it was built in 1893. Especially on the outside. Even on the inside, we’ve kept many of the gorgeous details in our lobby, from original tin ceilings to mosaic tile floors, to the front desk itself.
But we’ve made some important changes too. The lobby, which used to serve as a station for the local trolly system (yes, that was a thing!) is now a bar. Where we once had 100 small rooms—imagine a twin bed, nightstand, and shared wash closet down the hall—we now have 28 spacious, modern suites, indoor plumbing and Wi-Fi included!
Centerville is fortunate to be home to several beautiful murals and public art displays. From multiple community-created pieces by the Walldogs to nature-focused statues in the Morgan E. Cline City Park’s pollinator garden, our per-capita of public art is impressive.
Lucile’s, The Continental Hotel’s in-house restaurant, was recognized for having one of the top 10 best burgers in Iowa in both 2020 and 2024. Made with 100% locally sourced ground beef, our burgers are made how burgers should be. Big, thick, and juicy.
If alfresco dining is your thing, Lucile’s at The Continental Hotel has two great options—our secret-garden-style back patio, and our front porch.
With our bar stocked with a wide variety of spirits, our friendly bartenders are happy to whip you up a drink of your choice. We also have the best selection of craft beer in Appanoose County!
Our rural culture is steeped in a love of nature and the outdoors. Appanoose County is known as a great place to hunt, especially whitetail deer, turkey, and pheasant. There are also multiple excellent lakes for fishing and boating in the area.
We are accessible to all these adventures—we know our guests love to get out and about! But after being in a tree stand all morning, there is no better place to come to unwind at the end of the day.
After enjoying all Centerville and Appanoose County have to offer, you’re sure to be exhausted!
There is no better place in Southern Iowa to rest your head than one of the beds at The Continental Hotel. We pride ourselves on keeping our rooms obsessively clean. And our friendly staff are sure to make you feel at home!
These are just seven reasons to visit The Continental Hotel in Centerville, Iowa. If you visit Appanoose County, you’re certain to discover your own!
