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The Iowa Auntie’s 👩🏼‍🌾Quirky Little Shanty. Better than staying with family! 😉

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Exterior
Interior
Smart TV, DVD player, books, video library
1 bedroom, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Smart TV, DVD player, books, video library

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 7

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Wellman, IA
  • Place, Kalona Historical Village
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Place, Riverside Casino and Golf Resort
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Iowa
    ‪32 min drive‬
  • Airport, Cedar Rapids, IA (CID-Eastern Iowa)
    ‪53 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Wellman

This vacation home places you 7.3 mi (11.8 km) from Kalona Historical Village. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
View more Vacation Homes in WellmanOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Kalona Historical Village - 11 min drive - 9.3 miles
  • Frytown Conservation Area - 19 min drive - 17.9 miles
  • Riverside Casino and Golf Resort - 25 min drive - 21.8 miles
  • University of Iowa - 32 min drive - 30.3 miles
  • University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics - 33 min drive - 30.5 miles

Getting around

  • Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Well - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪DJ's Casual Cafe - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Los Amigos Taqueria - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Stone Wall Brick Oven Pizza - ‬12 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Iowa Auntie’s 👩🏼‍🌾Quirky Little Shanty. Better than staying with family! 😉

All the comforts of home…..One bedroom shanty with the ability to sleep six plus one on the couch. Refrigerator and cupboards are stocked with breakfast staples and variety of snacks. Fully equipped kitchen including basic cookware. Bathroom with shower. Washer and dryer. Linens provided. No internet but there is a dvd player and a variety of movies. TV gets local stations. Located 30 minutes SW of Iowa City. Variety of attractions and things to do within an hour drive. Kalona historic/shopping, Riverside Casino, Amana Colonies, Iowa City, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Stead’s Children Hospital. Coral Ridge mall, the future birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk….., English River Wildlife Area offers hunting and non hunting activities. https://washingtoncounty.iowa.gov/facilities/facility/details/English-River-Wildlife-Area-7
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and space to spread out with a separate bedroom. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a desk.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • One pet total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 steps to reach entrance
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

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:
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Please wash up any dishes. You can just leave them to air dry. I will put away.
Check for runaway socks. They are the most commonly left behind item. Blanket/pillow is the second.
Pull the door closed behind you and travel safely. Love Auntie
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 1 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Ask for special accommodations

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Max guests dependent on planned use of space.

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 20
Note from host: Max guests dependent on planned use of space.
Host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
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
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 20.
  • Note from host: Max guests dependent on planned use of space.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.

Frequently asked questions

Is this vacation home next to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

How much does it cost to stay at The Iowa Auntie’s 👩🏼‍🌾Quirky Little Shanty. Better than staying with family! 😉?

As of Mar 16, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Iowa Auntie’s 👩🏼‍🌾Quirky Little Shanty. Better than staying with family! 😉 on Mar 19, 2026 start from $100, including 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.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home offer breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

Although cats and dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

The Iowa Auntie’s 👩🏼‍🌾Quirky Little Shanty. Better than staying with family! 😉 Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 46 out of 51 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 51 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 51 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 51 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 51 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Matthew N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great little spot The shanty was excellent
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Dan M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great host, very generous with supplies and goodies! Auntie’s Shanty is a great place to stay!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Paulette W.

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Duane M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Host was very welcoming and accommodating.The house was great
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paulette W.

Liked: Cleanliness
I enjoyed my stay. It’s a nice and cozy place to stay. Thank you for your hospitality.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice, quiet and clean property.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebekka G.

Liked: Cleanliness
My husband and I were stressing because we needed to find a last minute spot to stay with our two dogs for a wedding in Iowa City. We were coming from out of state in Michigan. I reached out and was met with a prompt and incredibly kind response and we booked right away. Even with it being 25 minutes away from the wedding venue, we couldn’t be more pleased with our stay. We drove through historic Kolona and enjoyed checking out some cute shops, and the land in Iowa is just beautiful. The home was adorable, and it was perfect for our two night stay. It had everything we needed and we loved the added goodies too, of course. Thank you for allowing us to bring our puppers with us. We will definitely be back again if we are ever back in the area!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Miranda E.

Liked: Cleanliness
We stayed here while visiting Iowa to see family for our daughters 3rd birthday. The host, Jennifer, was so sweet and accomodating. She left the light on for us after learning we would be in late and there were so many helpful amenities that may our stay much easier. The neighborhood was quiet and we didnt have any issues while staying there. Would highly recommend this to anyone needing somewhere to stay in small town Iowa.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marilyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Home was impeccably clean. Some say they are dog friendly, but really don't want pers. Here I really felt like mine were welcomed. And so many snacks and such to choose from!! This home was so welcoming, my husband made the comment that he felt like someone lives there, but they just left for the weekend and let us use it.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Paula S.

Liked: Cleanliness
2nd time staying at The Shanty. We had a very nice time. The house was very clean and quiet. We will be back. Love that it is pet friendly!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alex B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very friendly host
Stayed 22 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donald S., White Lake, WI

Liked: Cleanliness
Great communication before, during and after our stay. An abundance of snacks and food available to us.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janelle C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Do not miss out staying here at the Aunties Shanty. I felt like I was at home with every thing I needed. The shower is great and the bed is comfy. It’s clean and the hosts are just fabulous. I will be back.
Bathroom
Shower
Kitchen
Living room with plenty of sleeping room
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carl

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Jennifer had our lil welcome package all complete. Nice stay for a lil shanty! Thanks a mint
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sandra c.

Liked: Cleanliness

The Shanty

Wonderful place to stay. Everything was nice and quiet. This was exactly what we needed for a short stay and wonderful price. We really appreciated all the little extras around. If you needed anything this place had it.Loved it and will definitely stay next time we need a place in this area.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

CJ S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Recommended

We had a very nice stay. Incredibly stocked and it was cozy and easy. Will stay again for sure.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Very comfortable and provided several comforts. I hope to stay here next January every year!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lechance S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing house

More amenities than the Hilton, I enjoyed every second of our stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Bob O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy

It was very comfortable
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrew O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Home away from home

Quiet area of town. The home had everything and more. Nice place to get away from reality!!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tom H., Ames, IA

Liked: Cleanliness

A Great Getaway…

Our son was cast in a play at Iowa on a game weekend. Hotels were booked or ridiculously expensive. We found the Auntie Shanty on VRBO and couldn’t be happier. It was just 30 minutes from Iowa City and allowed us to see the show multiple without breaking the bank. The house was very clean. To say that Hennifer went above and beyond would be and understatement.Every possible need was My wife commented that this was
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tim H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Love the Shanty

We felt right at home. All the comforts of home. Very clean and cute. Nice and quiet area. We hope to be able to stay again.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica H., Omaha, NE

Liked: Cleanliness

Quaintness Galore

Such a fun and quaint stay with some teens for a volleyball tournament. Met our needs perfectly and the snacks were an added bonus!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda H.

Liked: Cleanliness

5 STARS!!

We love Aunties Shanty! The pups approved too. Cute, comfortable house with everything you need - like home.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024