Collins Plaza is quite nice, atrium style with a waterfall. (I don't happen to like that style hotel b/c of the noise factor), but it is decidedly the nicest place in town. Would second the Amana excursion--take time to have a meal out there which is pretty spectacular. There is a (small) section of town (Bohemian Village?) with some interesting eastern European ethnic food etc. Nearby in West Branch is the Hoover museum/library.

jl