In Elkader .At this Elkader vacation home, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Keystone Bridge and 16 miles (25 km) of Froelich Foundation Museum. Spook Cave is within 16 miles (25 km) and Mississippi River is within 20 miles (32 km).
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn
Our suite is the largest, offering the best views and spacious seating areas. With two queen beds, it comfortably accommodates up to four guests. Enjoy your morning coffee at your private café-style table, soak in the tub, or freshen up at the bidet—this suite truly has it all. The Harstad Suite is named after local author and 26-year Clayton County Sheriff’s Department veteran Donald Harstad. Browse his collection of crime novels from the built-in bookcases during your stay.
Historic Jailhouse Experience
Serve your “sentence” at the historic Elkader Jailhouse Inn! Built 150 years ago to house Clayton County’s most notorious criminals, this recently renovated 5,000+ sq. ft. limestone mansion sits on a 3-acre bluff with stunning views of Elkader’s rolling hills.
Choose from one of four spacious suites, each overflowing with historic charm, luxurious beds, and spa-like bathrooms. Guests have access to the gourmet kitchen, scenic patio, and the property’s most iconic feature: the original cell block. Authentic jail cells and historical artifacts make this a stay you won’t soon forget. Don’t forget to take your mugshot!
Traveling with a 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 includes 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, Opera House concerts, local golf courses, and scenic river floats. The historic charm and natural beauty will make you a repeat visitor!
House Rules:
No loud noise after 10 P.M. No smoking No parties or events Pets allowed (Pet fee) Only registered guests
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
No loud noise after 10 P.M.
No smoking
No parties or events
No pets/Pets fee
No unregistered guests
Pets
No pets allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a smoke detector in each accommodation.
Property is also known as
349929
Frequently asked questions
Does Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.
How much does it cost to stay at Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn?
As of Apr 30, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn on May 1, 2026 start from CA $106, excluding 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.
Does Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn offer free breakfast?
This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn?
No, there is no casino at this vacation home, but Casino Queen (26-min drive) is nearby.
What time is check-in at Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Is there free parking at Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn?
Free parking is not available at this vacation home.
Does Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn have a pool?
This vacation home does not have a pool.
Does Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this vacation home.
How close is Harstad Suite at Elkader JailHouse Inn to downtown Elkader?