The Don Q Inn Is A Quirky Motel In Wisconsin

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There aren’t a lot of words that can be used to describe the Don Q Inn in Dodgeville. Even “quirky” doesn’t seem to quite capture the full picture. This place is a relic of a different time in the best possible way. It’s more roadside motel stopping point than the luxury hotels we see these days. The motel is connected to a restaurant via an underground tunnel. And the rooms here go beyond just a theme – they are all-out, from top to bottom. Sure, there are some plain old regular motel rooms as well, which look quite nice, but why stay there when you can sleep in a space ship or igloo or hot air balloon? Believe us, you’re going to fall in love with this quirky motel in Wisconsin.

You could almost look right past the Don Q Inn if not for the Boeing C-97G Stratofreighter parked out front and the old church steeple attached to one end (it's part of the honeymoon suite, in case you were wondering). The roof makes it look like a barn in your periphery and it could be any other roadside motel if you didn't know any better. Instead, this quirky, wonderful spot is chock full of oddities in the best way possible, including 300-gallon copper cheese vats for bathtubs - this is Wisconsin after all!

Once upon a time, the plan was to buy other smaller aircraft and turn them into rooms for the hotel, but that never materialized and so this ex-military Boeing C-97G Stratofreighter built sometime between 1944 and 1952 is the lone lawn ornament - albeit a large one. This huge jet has a wingspan of 141 feet. One idea was to turn it into the hotel's coffee shop, but that flight of fancy has also passed. Instead, the plane is available to visit and look around daily - just one more quirk at this unusual motel.

In the lobby, you'll find a fireplace made from a vintage steam engine. Old beauty salon chairs sit around the fire so guests can enjoy it.

But it's in the rooms that things really get crazy. You could even say they're out of this world - at least in this room.

Yes, you literally climb up like the aliens have beamed you into their ship and you sleep aloft in this pod.

... to sleeping in a Viking ship, the options for what sort of room theme you want to experience are endless.

Even the bathrooms meet the theme. There is literally no stone left unturned.

This sort of retro, kitschy spot was popular a few decades back, but Don Q is an anomaly these days, making their brand of fun unique and unusual.

Sure, you can stay in a plain old motel room here, but if you're going to spend the night in Dodgeville, I don't know why you would. Whether it's a stop on your way to somewhere else or you make a trip here to make your kids imagination run wild, Don Q Inn is unlike anything you've ever seen.

Have you ever spent a night at the Don Q Inn, a quirky motel in Wisconsin? Where are your favorite places to stay in Wisconsin? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Looking for another amazing and kitschy Wisconsin themed motel? Check out this music motel in Door County that has it’s own recording studio.

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quirky motel in Wisconsin

Elisa Regulski | January 18, 2020

Are there any other quirky hotels in Wisconsin?

There are so many unique hotels in Wisconsin. The Holiday Motel, located in Sturgeon Bay, is truly one-of-a-kind. The retro design will make you feel like you stepped back in time, but that’s not the only distinguishing factor. In addition to the comfy rooms, The Holiday Motel has a working recording studio! If you’re hoping to lay down some tracks, this is the place to go.

Can you spend a night in a treehouse in Wisconsin?

If you’re looking for more unique places to stay in Wisconsin, spend a night at the Boulder Ridge Treehouse. This tranquil getaway sits 12 feet above the ground and is surrounded by beautiful pine trees. The wraparound deck is a wonderful place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee. The interior is decorated with rustic accents and modern amenities. Also on the property is a peaceful lily pond. It’s conveniently located near several orchards, berry fields, and wineries. You could really spend a whole weekend here! To learn more about this lovely place in Wisconsin, read our feature article here.

What are the best luxury hotels in Wisconsin?

The Edgewater, located in Madison, is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Wisconsin. This magnificent hotel sits along Lake Mendota and is full of breathtaking views. Enjoy spacious rooms, a tranquil spa, and peaceful surroundings. This hotel also has five restaurants on site, and they all make scrumptious food. If you loved this place, you should also book a hotel room at The American Club in Kohler. This award-winning hotel is home to an amazing golf course and sits right next to a wonderful nature preserve. There’s really something for everyone here.

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3658 WI-23 Trunk, Dodgeville, WI 53533, USA

Spend A Night In An Igloo Or Hot Air Balloon At Don Q Inn, A Quirky Motel In Wisconsin

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