Des Moines Hotels

Top reasons to visit Des Moines

• Family-Friendly Activities: Des Moines offers a variety of attractions suitable for families, including amusement parks and urban parks.
• Vibrant Downtown: The bustling downtown area features local malls and embodies the warmth of Midwestern charm.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy numerous outdoor activities, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation.
• Diverse Accommodations: A range of welcoming hotels cater to both leisure and business travellers, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly options.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore historic civic buildings and local auto shows, enriching your visit with cultural insights.

Find great hotels in Des Moines

Discover a range of welcoming hotels in Des Moines, Iowa, catering to both leisure and business travellers. From pet-friendly options to LGBTQIA-friendly accommodations, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind. Explore top hotels, including Quality Inn, and enjoy comfortable rooms designed for a relaxing stay. Your ideal Des Moines hotel experience awaits.

• Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston: Emphasising a warm, rustic charm, Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston is a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel caters to both business travellers and those seeking a pet-friendly getaway, allowing pets on-site under certain restrictions. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a welcoming lobby, a fitness centre, and a pool, creating a comfortable environment for relaxation after a day of exploring the area.
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University: With an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University offers a vibrant and contemporary atmosphere. This 3-star property is ideal for business trips and pet-friendly vacations, welcoming both dogs and cats. The hotel features spacious suites equipped with kitchenettes, a fitness centre, and a refreshing indoor pool, making it a practical choice for extended stays or short visits. Its close proximity to the university enhances its appeal for academic visitors.
• Quality Inn West Des Moines - Clive: Quality Inn West Des Moines - Clive is a budget-friendly lodging option that prioritises family-friendly amenities. The hotel provides services tailored for children, including cribs for families travelling with infants. With a welcoming environment for pets, guests can enjoy a hassle-free stay with their furry companions. The property boasts comfortable rooms, a fitness centre, and a complimentary breakfast, ensuring guests have a pleasant and convenient experience during their time in Des Moines.

Where to stay in Des Moines

Des Moines, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and business opportunities. Explore the bustling downtown area, where you can enjoy local malls and experience the warmth of Midwestern charm. Venture into West Des Moines for a more secluded atmosphere, perfect for excursions and relaxation. With friendly people and a welcoming spirit, your visit to this charming city will be both enriching and memorable.

• Windsor Heights: Nestled within the greater Des Moines area, Windsor Heights boasts a charming suburban atmosphere perfect for families and business visitors alike. The city offers a range of shopping experiences, from quaint local boutiques to larger shopping mall centres. Visitors can explore historic landmarks and enjoy the scenic beauty of town neighbourhoods, alongside the modern amenities of a college university. With visitor numbers peaking in February and during the summer months, Windsor Heights is an inviting destination for a leisurely getaway.
• Des Moines: The vibrant capital city of Iowa, Des Moines is a hub of culture and activity. Known for its family-friendly attractions and outdoor experiences, it features numerous parks and recreational areas. The city comes alive during April and the summer months, making it an ideal time for visitors to enjoy the fairground shows and arena entertainment facilities. With prominent landmarks such as modern college universities and picturesque lakes, Des Moines offers a dynamic blend of urban life and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable travel experience.
• West Des Moines: A thriving city adjacent to Des Moines, West Des Moines is celebrated for its shopping and entertainment options. Visitors can indulge in retail therapy at shopping centres and fairground show grounds, making it a popular choice for families and those on business trips. With a peak in visitor numbers during the spring and summer, West Des Moines provides an array of local attractions, including event conference venues and serene lakeside spots. This city combines the charm of community life with the convenience of modern amenities, making it a delightful place to explore.

Things to do in Des Moines

Shopping

Discover the trendy Jordan Creek Town Center, a vast shopping destination featuring an array of shops, dining options, and entertainment. For a local flair, visit the Historic East Village, where you'll find unique boutiques and artisan markets that offer distinctive gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

In Des Moines, the Spa at the Renaissance offers a serene atmosphere with rejuvenating treatments and massages. Nearby, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden features tranquil walking paths and lush landscapes, ideal for leisurely strolls and reflection amidst nature's beauty.

Adventure

The High Trestle Trail offers a thrilling experience for cyclists and walkers with its stunning views of the Trestle Bridge, spanning a picturesque landscape. For an adrenaline rush, venture to Adventureland Park, where amusement rides and water attractions promise a day full of excitement and fun.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Des Moines by enjoying craft cocktails at the trendy High Life Lounge. For a lively atmosphere with live music, head to the Wooly’s. If you fancy a relaxed vibe, the Exile Brewing Company offers a delightful selection of locally brewed beers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Des Moines

Des Moines provides numerous free attractions, such as Drake University, the Iowa State Capitol Building, and the Des Moines Art Center, making it easy to enjoy the city without spending much. For transport, consider using the bus system, which is budget-friendly. Travelling during the off-peak months of November to January can save you money on accommodation, with Mondays being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find affordable hotels and combine your bookings for even better deals.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Des Moines are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Des Moines is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Des Moines is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Des Moines with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines is ideal for family, outdoor, and business-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as urban parks, historic civic buildings, and amusement parks. Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities and city experiences, catering to those seeking a rich cultural atmosphere alongside family-friendly adventures. The diverse points of interest ensure that there is something for everyone to explore in and around this vibrant city.

• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where families gather to celebrate local culture. The fairgrounds host various events throughout the year, featuring food stalls, live entertainment, and outdoor activities that embody the spirit of Iowa.
• Adventureland: Dive into excitement at Adventureland, an amusement park offering thrilling rides and attractions for all ages. With its outdoor setting, you can enjoy a full day of adventure and family fun, making it a fantastic way to create lasting memories.
• Iowa State Capitol Building: Discover the grandeur of the Iowa State Capitol Building, a historic landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Guided tours provide insight into its significance, making it an enriching experience for those interested in history and government.

Best time to go to Des Moines

The best time to visit Des Moines is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Des Moines

Accessing Des Moines, Iowa, is convenient via its major airport, Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located 6.4km from the city centre. Nearby hotel options include the AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport, situated just 644m away, and the Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University, located 8.0km from the airport. Both hotels offer transportation services to the airport for guest convenience. For those considering alternative airports, Cedar Rapids (CID) is 162.5km away, with options like Hotel Millwright and Residence Inn Cedar Rapids South. Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 146.4km from Des Moines, with hotels such as Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Waterloo Downtown providing comfortable stays.