Hotel history
Built in 1897 during the golden age of the railroad era, Klondike Hotel is Manilla's longest standing historical landmark. At the time of its construction, Manilla was in desparate need of new hotels to accommodate the ever-increasing number of railroad passengers and employees. The Klondike Hotel would be the third hotel erected in Manilla before the turn of the 20th century.
The two-story building faced west towards what was once Manilla's train depot. An access road was completed shortly after the hotel finished construction, which directly connected the hotel and the depot. For some time, a portion of the upper floor of the Hotel was leased by railroad companies to provide layover accommodations for higher-up personnel. The hotel's hayday didn't last long—as the railroad boom slowed, so did the demand for room and board in Manilla. The hotel remained open for a number of years, but was eventually closed due to lack of business.
The Manilla Area Historical Association purchased the hotel property in 1995 to preserve the historical building. A large majority of the hotel's original features have remained intact through renovations, including transom windows, room and bed numbers, furniture, and fire escape ropes attached to the woodwork below each room's window. Over a century since its original construction, Klondike Hotel still stands today as a proud reminder of our city's roots.
Visit Klondike Hotel!
Present day, Klondike Hotel holds a significant amount of historical relevance and intrigue. The hotel is home to an impressive collection of antiques and true tales from the 18th and 19th century American Railroad.
Guided tours are offered at Klondike Hotel year-round, allowing visitors the chance to experience a unique slice of Iowa's railroad history, as well as the deep history of our town.
To book a tour at Klondike Hotel, call City Hall at (712)-654-2632.
Location: 332 3rd Ave | Manilla, IA