The best deals on hotels near Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center in Montour, IA.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center
3005 E Ave Montour, IA 50173
Designer Inn & Suites
Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is an uncomplicated drive of Designer Inn & Suites, a feature that allows for easy travel to other local points.
At Designer Inn & Suites, arrivals may include a simple check-in desk, self-serve coffee, and accessible parking for predictable guest routines. Guest rooms often include hardwood finishes, rainfall showers, and tasteful décor, creating a setting that balances comfort and style. Shared spaces may include guest laundries, vending access, and breakfast rooms that help travelers manage daily routines effectively.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, vending access, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, giving travelers consistent routines during stays.
Super 8 by Wyndham Toledo
The uncomplicated drive from Super 8 by Wyndham Toledo to Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center in Montour guarantees guests have a pleasant preamble to their day's main activities.
Super 8 greets travelers with complimentary coffee in the lobby, offering a simple courtesy that softens the shift from transit to stay. Suites come with sofa beds, lounge areas, and expanded layouts, giving families comfortable accommodations during longer-term stays. Lobby seating clusters with communal tables, chairs, and bright lighting provide regrouping areas that support orientation clarity.
Breakfast dining, Wi-Fi, and vending setups connect with laundry and parking, supporting convenient touchpoints for every traveler.
Motel 6 Marshalltown IA
Reaching Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center from Motel 6 Marshalltown IA is a direct drive, a quality that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
Motel 6 underscores first impressions with free morning coffee, signaling basic care while keeping the check-in lane efficient and clear. Every guest room features blackout drapes, plush bedding, and quiet HVAC, making restorative sleep achievable even on demanding schedules. Vending corridors are placed on main routes near elevators, letting guests pick up items without lengthy detours from their rooms.
Between free morning coffee, truck parking, and vending, plus Wi-Fi, amenities reduce errands while sustaining travel-day efficiency.
Rock Island Inn & Suites Marshalltown
This practical location enables Rock Island Inn & Suites Marshalltown to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the easy drive to Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center.
Guests at Rock Island Inn & Suites Marshalltown may encounter efficient reception, vending machines, and on-site parking designed for practical convenience. Accommodations may feature plush bedding, modest seating, and climate control, helping ensure rest and comfort during overnight stays. Public areas often highlight modest lobbies, vending corners, and seating areas that reinforce straightforward guest experiences.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, compact breakfast corners, vending machines, and laundry support, reinforcing practicality across overnight visits.
Super 8 by Wyndham Marshalltown
Within the region, Super 8 by Wyndham Marshalltown serves as a convenient base, keeping Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center an easy regional drive away.
Lobbies at Super 8 are bright and efficient, giving guests clear orientation cues and dependable first impressions at every location. Guest rooms present plush mattresses, blackout curtains, and quiet HVAC systems, ensuring consistent nightly rest across all stays. Business corners featuring computers, internet, and printers provide clarity and convenience for guests completing small tasks.
Business spaces, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast pair with pools and parking, balancing professional and recreational priorities together.
Comfort Inn Marshalltown South
From Comfort Inn Marshalltown South, Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is an easy regional drive, a detail that makes for a well-planned trip.
When guests arrive at Comfort Inn they encounter clear paths to parking, elevators, and exits so movement remains simple and direct. All guest rooms combine blackout treatments and quiet room profiles to limit light and noise, improving rest before busy days ahead. Outdoor pools, at select addresses, incorporate shallow sections and cabanas, supporting family downtime and shade-seeking breaks in sunny seasons.
For families, pools, free breakfast, mini-fridges, and guest laundry simplify mornings and keep energy steady across full days.
Baymont by Wyndham Marshalltown
The hotel provides a practical base for reaching Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center, keeping it accessible with a straightforward drive.
Baymont positions vending and ice along the lobby corridor, turning short pauses into quick grabs before elevators without extra searching. Guest rooms maintain steady water pressure and bright mirrors, pairing with shelves that keep kits organized for repeatable mornings. Lobby layouts often add low-volume TVs near seating, keeping background channels unobtrusive while conversations remain comfortable.
With a fitness room, hydration points, and fresh towels plus Wi-Fi and breakfast, movement and mornings keep an easy cadence.
Hampton Inn & Suites Marshalltown
When visiting the area, Hampton Inn & Suites Marshalltown places Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center an easy regional drive away, offering a comfortable starting point.
Infused water points near Hampton Inn reception seating create refreshing pauses, softening arrival fatigue for guests upon check-in. Every guest room features blackout drapes, premium mattresses, and thermostats, producing personalized environments for better rest. Business centers with computer terminals, internet, and printers allow travelers to complete work efficiently during their visits.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, laundry access, and fitness rooms provide modern convenience for today’s travelers.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Marshalltown by IHG
As a sensible base, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Marshalltown by IHG is a core element that supports a flexible and relaxed visit.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies emphasize simple design and clear reception zones, creating reliable orientation points for arrivals. Guest rooms include in-room coffee, mini-fridges, and bedside outlets, simplifying routines and supporting everyday convenience. Breakfast dining spaces with hot selections, cereals, and pastries provide guests with predictable clarity for every day’s start.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly rooms align with laundry and parking, creating dependable care for longer visits.
Tremont Inn on Main
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Tremont Inn on Main guests a simple way to transition into their day of travel.
Guests at Tremont Inn on Main may encounter intimate reception areas, artisanal touches, and staff offering friendly boutique-style service. Rooms often highlight artisanal décor, premium bedding, and curated minibars that frame a creative boutique-style guest retreat. Amenities often highlight farm-to-table restaurants, art-filled lounges, and co-working spaces that emphasize boutique personality.
A stay may feature complimentary Wi-Fi, family breakfast, laundry support, and artisanal coffee, balancing boutique routines with ease.
Hotel Grinnell Downtown an Ascend Collection Hotel
The journey from Hotel Grinnell Downtown an Ascend Collection Hotel to Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is a direct drive, a perk that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
Hotel Grinnell Downtown an Ascend Collection Hotel often greets arrivals with curated interiors, cozy seating, and complimentary coffee or tea for a relaxed boutique welcome. Guest rooms may present stylish interiors, unique furnishings, and boutique bathrooms that create a personalized experience. Shared spaces may provide stylish bars, curated interiors, and cozy lounges designed to create a refined boutique-style impression.
A stay often includes complimentary Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry service, and pet-friendly policies, sustaining balanced routines.
Comfort Inn & Suites Grinnell near I-80
Within the region, Comfort Inn & Suites Grinnell near I-80 acts as a practical base, a fact that lets the hotel to feel both convenient and calm.
Comfort Inn provides luggage storage at the desk so early arrivals can explore local options unburdened while rooms are prepared. Guest rooms usually provide an ergonomic desk chair and a broad surface for laptops, enabling productive work without leaving the room. Fitness centers operate across early and late hours, giving options to work out around meetings, flights, or game schedules as routines shift.
Offering free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, parking with options, and grab-and-go markets, properties support quick transitions from arrival to work.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Grinnell, IA
From Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Grinnell, IA, Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is a simple commute, a benefit that makes the hotel a strategic choice.
With map racks and local info by the market, Radisson supplies quick neighborhood cues that help guests plan transit or immediate next steps. Standard guest rooms center a high-quality mattress, bedside lights, and blackout curtains, promoting steady rest after travel and events. Rooftop lounges offer outdoor seating, skyline views, and ambient lighting, creating an easy place for evening regrouping or casual networking.
With complimentary internet, breakfast options, meetings, fitness, pet policies, and parking, typical stays feel manageable and steady.
Quality Inn & Suites Grinnell near University
From Quality Inn & Suites Grinnell near University, Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is a simple commute, a choice that makes for a well-planned trip.
Quality Inn arrival signs and staff presence help guests find parking, elevators, and breakfast areas quickly, reducing backtracking. Guest rooms place easily reachable bedside reading lights, simple lamp switches, and nearby outlets to make late-night routines frictionless. Lobby cafés turn out espresso and light bites quickly, creating a sensible stop before meetings, transit, or early departures from the hotel.
Meeting rooms with basic AV and event parking enable small trainings and briefings to run on property without complex external vendor needs.
Western Inn & Suites
The uncomplicated regional drive from Western Inn & Suites to Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center in Montour guarantees guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Western Inn & Suites typically features basic desk service, complimentary parking, and compact lobby space that support routine guest arrivals. Rooms typically highlight compact layouts, premium bedding, and coffee stations, maintaining balance and convenience across guest visits. Facilities typically present compact breakfast rooms, guest laundries, and vending access that create balance for traveling visitors.
A stay may provide Wi-Fi, breakfast service, vending areas, and laundry rooms, sustaining clear and consistent routines in budget hotels.
AmericInn by Wyndham Grinnell
The hotel's regional location is a strategic choice, serving as a convenient base with Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center within driving reach.
For late-night check-ins, Wyndham’s 24-hour front desks keep assistance available, ensuring arrivals find support whenever schedules slip. Every suite provides a sitting area, premium toiletries, and a roomy closet, helping families spread out and stay organized. Rooftop pools combine lounge chairs, shade umbrellas, and skyline views, giving guests a scenic reset between meetings or shore excursions.
Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, meeting rooms, in-room coffee makers, EV charging, and family suites ensure both work and family routines remain intact.
AmericInn by Wyndham Grundy Center
For guests in the Montour region, AmericInn by Wyndham Grundy Center is a practical base, a location that makes for a well-planned visit.
Low-profile décor and practical finishes in Wyndham lobbies foreground function, creating dependable orientation across different locations. All guest rooms, so remote work flows without interruption from the room, feature free high-speed Wi-Fi, a large work desk, and streaming access. Meeting rooms include AV setups, adjustable lighting, and modular seating, helping groups run efficient sessions without extra logistical headaches.
Complimentary internet, breakfast buffets, fitness centers, on-site dining, secure parking, and dry cleaning let travelers focus on the trip.
AmericInn by Wyndham Newton
From AmericInn by Wyndham Newton, Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is a simple commute, a detail that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
Travelers get a calm pause as seating set back from the entry at Wyndham reduces door traffic, letting them collect themselves before rooms. Guest rooms supply complimentary bottled water, bedside reading lights, and blackout curtains, giving travelers a simple routine for rest. Business centers provide printers, dedicated workstations, and fast internet, enabling last-minute prep or printing without leaving the hotel.
Mobile check-in, Rewards perks, grab-and-go markets, well-equipped meeting rooms, pool towels, and shuttle service remove common hassles.
Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Newton
From the moment you check in at Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Newton, Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is an easy regional drive with no traffic.
Arrivals at Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Newton may highlight a no-frills reception, self-serve beverages, and close parking that keep arrivals uncomplicated. Each guest room often provides hardwood floors, curated décor, and blackout curtains, giving guests a restful and consistent experience. Shared spaces may include vending areas, modest lobbies, and laundry rooms that provide reliable consistency throughout each stay.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, guest laundries, modest breakfast, and vending access, maintaining straightforward guest routines.
Best Western Holiday Manor
This practical base of operations from Best Western Holiday Manor allows guests enjoy the Montour region while keeping Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center accessible.
By clustering maps, carts, and short queues, Best Western converts arrival energy into clear orientation, protecting time and attention effectively. Every guest room maintains clear pathways from door to bath and bed, aiding midnight navigation and reducing stumbles in unfamiliar spaces. Meeting rooms add projection, sound, and configurable seating, supporting brief huddles or small events without complex coordination.
From fitness rooms and Wi-Fi to meeting areas, parking, and EV charging where offered, trips blend wellness, work, and mobility reliably.
Super 8 by Wyndham Newton
From the lobby of Super 8 by Wyndham Newton, Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is a simple commute, simplifying your visit.
Super 8 features complimentary breakfast areas visible from the lobby, ensuring guests begin mornings with clarity and convenience. Each guest room features microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers, letting travelers manage simple daily routines with ease. Vending setups near reception with packaged snacks and drinks give travelers quick access to essentials immediately on arrival.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast service, and laundry combine with pet accommodations and parking, simplifying extended stays for all guests.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Newton
In the Montour region, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Newton offers a easy-transit location, acting as a convenient base for visiting Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center.
Econo places a coffee or tea station in the lobby at many sites, giving arriving guests a quick warm pause before heading upstairs. Each suite pairs a living area, a desk with USB ports, a refrigerator and a microwave to support longer stays and casual meetings. Business centers provide computer terminals, printing and scanning so last-minute documents and boarding passes can be handled onsite quickly.
Between complimentary Wi-Fi, morning breakfast, meeting rooms, a compact gym, vending and laundry, short stays keep routines and errands simple.
Days Inn by Wyndham Newton
For guests in the Montour region, Days Inn by Wyndham Newton is a convenient base, a location that makes for a hassle-free start to the day.
Entry sightlines at Days Inn line up desk, maps, and elevators in one view, reducing backtracking when several parties reach check-in. Double-queen rooms balance sleep capacity and pathways with clustered outlets, making multi-device charging simple for shared stays. Breakfast seating blends two-tops, booths, and counters to absorb peaks, helping lines move cleanly and tables turn on a steady cadence.
Where airport shuttles operate, transfers, Wi-Fi, and parking align with a business corner so curb-to-room moves and prints stay simple.
Quality Inn Newton at I-80
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, acting as a convenient base with Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center within driving reach.
With seating and high-top surfaces near the desk Quality Inn gives companions comfortable regroup points while check-in proceeds. Each guest room pairs crisp linens, extra pillows, and supportive mattresses with blackout treatments to promote restorative sleep between days. Outdoor seating areas and terraces offer shaded benches and small tables so guests can hold informal catch-ups without leaving site.
Family-friendly features—sofa beds, larger suites, and pool shallow areas—help groups stay organized while keeping meals and downtime close.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center Local Area Guide
Welcome to Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center, a serene destination nestled in the heart of Iowa. This guide is crafted for teams, families, and groups seeking to make the most of their stay, offering practical advice on navigating the local area, planning your schedule, and discovering nearby amenities. Whether you're here for a conference, a team event, or a peaceful getaway, you'll find helpful insights into local dining, activities, and essential services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Prepare to explore the charm and convenience of Montour and its surrounding areas with this comprehensive orientation.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center (Montour, IA)
Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center is situated in the tranquil rural landscape of central Iowa, approximately 30 miles west of Cedar Rapids and 70 miles east of Des Moines. Its location on East Avenue in Montour provides a peaceful setting removed from major urban centers, emphasizing its role as a dedicated retreat space. The primary access route is Highway 30, a key east-west artery in Iowa, which connects to major interstates like I-380 near Cedar Rapids and I-35 nearer to Des Moines. For those flying in, The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids is the most convenient option, typically a 30-40 minute drive, while the Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is a longer, but still feasible, 75-90 minute drive. Parking is ample and specifically designed for group and event logistics at the center itself, with clear signage for different activities and accommodations. Navigating to the center is straightforward via Highway 30, though relying on GPS is recommended for the final approach to ensure accurate directions into the retreat grounds. Arrival timing should consider potential agricultural traffic on rural roads, especially during harvest seasons, and aim for a buffer of 15-20 minutes before scheduled events to allow for unhurried check-in and settling in.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center
Accommodation options near Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center are primarily concentrated in nearby larger towns such as Tama (about 10 miles west) and Marshalltown (about 25 miles northwest), with more extensive selections available in Cedar Rapids. While Montour itself is a small community, the surrounding rural areas offer a quiet environment conducive to retreats. Hotel clusters are more prominent in these larger towns, providing standard lodging amenities. For groups utilizing Pilgrim Heights, staying within a 15-30 minute drive offers a balance between accessibility and the retreat's peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors opt for booking blocks of rooms in advance, especially if coordinating a large event or team gathering. When searching for lodging, focusing on towns like Tama or Marshalltown and utilizing map filters for proximity to Highway 30 can help narrow down choices. Booking well in advance is a practical tactic, particularly during peak seasons or when local events coincide with planned group activities, as availability can become limited due to the dispersed nature of accommodations relative to the center.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is about a 40-minute drive, offering convenient air travel access.
- Utilize GPS for precise directions; ample on-site parking is available for all group needs.
- Tama's main street offers local cafes and shops for a casual outing or quick bite.
- Indoor recreational facilities in Marshalltown or local community centers provide options for inclement weather.
- The retreat center's dining hall and common areas serve as central hubs for group regrouping.
Event Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival, the primary focus is a smooth check-in process at the central administrative building. Allow ample time for registration, room assignments, and gathering any necessary materials or credentials. For groups with specific activities, utilize designated warm-up areas or common spaces to organize equipment and review schedules. Familiarize yourselves with the layout of the retreat center, identifying key meeting rooms, dining halls, and recreational zones. This initial period is crucial for setting a calm and organized tone for the day's events, ensuring everyone is ready to transition into their planned activities without feeling rushed.
Mid-Day Regroup
As the day progresses, designate a central point for participants to gather during breaks or between sessions. The main dining hall or a comfortable lounge area often serves this purpose effectively. This is an ideal time for informal networking, light refreshments, or a brief respite before the next scheduled activity. Ensure clear communication channels are open for announcements or any necessary schedule adjustments. This mid-day pause is essential for maintaining energy levels and fostering camaraderie among group members, providing a structured yet relaxed interlude.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your group's activities conclude, focus on an orderly departure. Ensure all personal belongings and any rented equipment are accounted for and returned to their designated spots. Coordinate with the retreat center staff for any final administrative tasks or facility checks. Allow for a buffer time to gather your group for a brief farewell or debrief. Efficiently managing check-out procedures and loading any necessary transport will ensure a timely and stress-free exit, leaving a positive final impression of your time at Pilgrim Heights.
Things to Do Near Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center
Walkable
Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center Grounds
The retreat center itself offers extensive grounds ideal for walking, reflection, and informal group activities. Paved paths wind through peaceful, natural settings, providing opportunities for quiet contemplation or light exercise. Numerous benches and scenic overlooks are scattered throughout the property, perfect for small group discussions or simply enjoying the serene Iowa landscape. Utilize these spaces for guided nature walks, outdoor team-building exercises, or moments of personal rejuvenation during your stay. The availability of these on-site amenities means that enriching experiences are always within easy reach.
On siteMontour Community Park
Located just a short walk from the retreat center, Montour Community Park offers a pleasant green space for outdoor leisure. The park features open fields suitable for informal games or picnics, along with playground facilities for younger members of a group. It's a convenient spot for a casual stroll or a relaxed break from scheduled activities, allowing attendees to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air. The park's accessibility makes it an easy addition to any itinerary for a touch of local flavor and outdoor recreation without venturing far from the retreat's core facilities.
Montour, IA · 0.8 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Union Grove State Park
Union Grove State Park is a local gem offering a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that meander through wooded areas and along the park's lake, providing scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. The park also features picnic areas, fishing spots, and opportunities for boating on the lake, making it a versatile destination for a half-day excursion. It's an ideal location for groups seeking a blend of physical activity and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape from the daily routine.
Gladbrook, IA · 8.2 miMeskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel
For groups interested in entertainment and dining, the Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel offers a lively atmosphere just a short drive away. Beyond gaming, the hotel complex often hosts events and features various dining options, from casual to more formal. It can serve as a destination for team dinners or an evening of relaxed socializing. Its proximity makes it an accessible choice for a change of pace, offering a different kind of group experience compared to the tranquility of the retreat center.
Tama, IA · 9.5 miBeyond the Event: Venture further to Marshalltown for more extensive shopping, dining, and recreational facilities, or explore the larger cultural attractions available in Cedar Rapids. These locations provide additional options for group outings or individual exploration beyond the immediate vicinity of the retreat center.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center
Inside & Adjacent
Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center Dining Hall
The Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center Dining Hall is the primary culinary hub for guests, offering convenient and community-focused meal services. Designed to cater to groups, it provides a comfortable and communal setting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are typically served buffet-style, accommodating various dietary needs with advance notice. This on-site facility ensures that your group has easy access to satisfying meals without needing to leave the retreat grounds, fostering a sense of togetherness during mealtimes.
On siteMontour Depot Restaurant
The Montour Depot Restaurant offers a classic small-town dining experience, conveniently located just a short distance from the retreat center. This establishment often serves American comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere, making it a suitable spot for a casual group meal or a quick bite. It provides a local flavor that complements the retreat experience, allowing visitors to sample regional tastes. Its proximity makes it an easy option for groups seeking a break from the retreat center's dining facilities.
Montour, IA · 0.7 miNearby Gathering Spots
Main Street Cafe (Tama)
Located in the heart of Tama, the Main Street Cafe is a popular local eatery known for its friendly service and traditional diner fare. It's a great place for groups to gather for breakfast or lunch, offering classic sandwiches, burgers, and breakfast staples in a no-frills environment. The cafe provides a taste of local life and a relaxed setting for informal group meetings or meals. Its central Tama location makes it a convenient stop when visiting the nearby town for other errands or activities.
Tama, IA · 9.4 miMeskwaki Travel Stop & Restaurant
Part of the Meskwaki Casino complex, the Travel Stop offers convenient dining options for those in the area. It typically features a mix of fast-casual and sit-down choices, catering to diverse tastes and quick meal needs. This spot is useful for groups looking for a straightforward dining experience with easy access, especially if they are visiting the casino or traveling along Highway 30. It provides a reliable option for a variety of food preferences in a convenient location.
Tama, IA · 9.8 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Cobblestone Inn & Suites Dining
The dining room at The Cobblestone Inn & Suites in Gladbrook offers a more refined dining experience compared to typical local diners. This establishment often serves a menu featuring steaks, seafood, and other popular American dishes in a pleasant, often historic, setting. It's an excellent choice for groups looking for a slightly more formal meal or a special occasion dinner. The ambiance combined with well-prepared food provides a memorable culinary experience for visitors.
Gladbrook, IA · 8.3 miThe Longest Yard Bar & Grill
While a bit further afield in Marshalltown, The Longest Yard Bar & Grill is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse menu, often featuring pub fare, pizzas, and American classics. This spot is suitable for groups seeking a more casual, energetic environment for lunch or dinner. It provides a good range of options to satisfy various preferences and is a popular local gathering place, offering a fun experience for those willing to make the short drive.
Marshalltown, IA · 24.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Expect lighter traffic on Highway 30 during weekdays, but be mindful of slower agricultural vehicles, especially during planting and harvest.
- Weekend mornings, particularly Sunday, can see a slight increase in local traffic as residents visit family or attend community events.
- Cell service can be spotty in more rural areas surrounding the retreat center; inform your group of this possibility.
- Local eateries in Montour and Tama may have reduced hours outside of peak meal times, so verify before visiting.
- Many local businesses are family-owned; showing patience and understanding for their operating schedules is appreciated.
Weather & Seasons at Pilgrim Heights Retreat Center
- Winter: Winter in Montour brings cold temperatures, with average highs in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, often blanketing the landscape and creating a quiet, serene atmosphere. Visitors should pack heavy layers, including insulated coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots, as outdoor activities are limited and require substantial protection from the elements. Travel on local roads can be affected by snow and ice, necessitating cautious driving and flexibility in arrival times.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer offer mild to warm weather, with temperatures gradually rising from the 50s into the 70s Fahrenheit. This season is characterized by blooming nature and is ideal for enjoying the retreat center's grounds and nearby parks. Light jackets or sweaters are useful for cooler mornings and evenings, while comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. Rain showers are possible, so packing a light raincoat or umbrella is advisable for outdoor excursions.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer brings warm to hot temperatures, with highs frequently in the 80s Fahrenheit and occasional peaks into the 90s. Humidity can make these temperatures feel even warmer, making hydration and seeking shade crucial during outdoor activities. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with sunscreen and hats for protection. While generally sunny, occasional thunderstorms can occur, so keeping track of weather forecasts is wise for planning outdoor events.
- Fall season: Autumn provides pleasant, crisp weather, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit. This season is known for its beautiful fall foliage, making it a scenic time for walks and reflection. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient for daytime comfort, though evenings can become cool, requiring warmer layers. This is generally a stable weather period, conducive to most planned outdoor group activities.
- Rain & snow: Both rain and snow are common throughout the year, with spring and early summer being the wettest seasons and winter bringing snowfall. Visitors should be prepared for variable conditions by packing appropriate waterproof outerwear and footwear. Heavy rain can impact outdoor activities, making indoor spaces or covered areas more desirable. Snowfall can lead to temporary road closures or delays, particularly on less-traveled rural routes, so staying informed about local conditions is important.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Not applicable (Retreat Center)
- Neighborhood: Rural Montour
- Nearest airport: Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)
- Parking: Ample on-site lot
- Walkable district: Montour Community Park
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Local convenience stores in Tama
- Pharmacy: Marshalltown or Tama
- Urgent care: Tama or Marshalltown
- Downtime: On-site quiet areas, local parks
- Pro tip: Confirm meal service times with the retreat center in advance.

