Des Moines Holidays

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Where to stay in Des Moines

Find the best Des Moines areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Des Moines
A cityscape with various buildings, including a tall skyscraper and several mid-rise structures.

Downtown Des Moines

4 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.

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A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings and a prominent tower.

Court District

Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Principal Park and Des Moines Civic Center while you're in town.

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A street lined with brick buildings, parked cars, and hanging flower baskets.

Historic East Village

Find beautiful government buildings, cultural attractions and a garden oasis in this older section of the city extending along a pretty riverfront.

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The exterior and interior of Mars Cafe, featuring a brick facade, large windows, and a red interior with hanging lights and artwork.

Drake

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Des Moines Community Playhouse and La Casa Cultural Center.

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A nighttime pedestrian bridge with illuminated railings and a rainbow-colored light projection on the floor.

Greater South Side

While there might not be top attractions in Greater South Side, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.

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Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities for a memorable vacation. Visitors can explore shopping malls, attend events at the fairgrounds, and enjoy various entertainment options. Whether you're looking for weekend getaways, day trips, or delightful family outings, Des Moines provides a charming atmosphere filled with enjoyable experiences for everyone.

Shopping

Discover Des Moines’ Jordan Creek Town Center, a vibrant shopping mall with a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Don’t miss the Downtown Farmers' Market for local produce and crafts, and visit Bridgewood Plaza for a variety of shops in a bustling atmosphere.

Recreation

Val Air Ballroom offers an electrifying atmosphere with live music, perfect for those seeking entertainment. At Hoyt Sherman Place, immerse yourself in a blend of romance and culture within a historic theatre. For sports enthusiasts, Principal Park provides an exhilarating experience with thrilling games in a vibrant setting.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bouncing at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, where fun meets adventure. Enjoy a lively game at Air Lanes Bowling Center. For a scenic escape, hike the Greenbelt Trail, surrounded by nature's beauty and adventure vibes in the heart of Des Moines.

Nightlife

Des Moines boasts a vibrant nightlife with diverse options. Visit the Gas Lamp for live music and a lively atmosphere. For cocktails, head to The Continental, renowned for its stylish vibe. If you fancy dancing, the Brenton Skating Plaza offers a unique outdoor experience under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa, is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore urban parks, event venues, and modern universities, ensuring a rich city experience. The area boasts numerous attractions, including top and major sites that cater to diverse interests, making it a perfect spot for tourists seeking both adventure and cultural experiences.

  • Casey's Center: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Casey's Center, an entertainment hub in Des Moines. This arena is perfect for families, offering a variety of events that cater to all ages, ensuring an enjoyable outing for everyone.
  • Drake University: Wander the beautiful campus of Drake University, a modern college nestled in the heart of Des Moines. The university's city vibes create a lively environment, perfect for soaking in the energy of students and locals alike.
  • Des Moines Civic Center: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene at the Des Moines Civic Center, an arts centre that showcases a range of performances and exhibits. This venue is a testament to the city's commitment to promoting the arts.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November40.5°F (4.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Des Moines

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling to Des Moines during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in Des Moines

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

7225 Vista Dr West Des Moines IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€98
23 Aug - 24 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (1,005 reviews)
"Staff was nice and breakfast was good. The A/C was really loud and seemed a bit worn and old."

Reviewed on 15 Aug 2026

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

5000 Merle Hay Rd Urbandale IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€69
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
5.8/10 (1,020 reviews)
"My room was ok. The property was horrible. I dont think windows on the doors have ever been cleaned. The restaurant service was horrible. I have stayed here years ago and it was much cleaner back then."

Reviewed on 16 Aug 2026

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

1901 Hackley Ave Des Moines IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€66
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,831 reviews)
"The outside didn't look amazing, but once inside, the staff was always present and friendly and it was very clean throughout. Effortless check in and out and we had everything we needed."

Reviewed on 16 Aug 2026

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
See all 734 properties in Des Moines
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Des Moines attractions

A colorful salad with various vegetables and cheese.
Photo by Lana Garmon

Jordan Creek Town Center

9.2/10 (1,624 reviews)
Iowa's largest shopping destination features 150+ stores along a scenic lakefront boardwalk. Explore upscale boutiques, dine at waterfront restaurants, or catch a film at the theatre for a complete retail retreat.
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An aerial view of a bustling fairground with various stalls, rides, and a Ferris wheel.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

8.8/10 (945 reviews)
Home to one of America's oldest state fairs, these 435-acre grounds showcase agricultural heritage and Midwestern charm. Explore exhibitions and sample iconic fair foods during the August event.
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A bridge over a river with a clear blue sky.
Photo by Analyn Suan

Principal Park

8.6/10 (133 reviews)
Principal Park offers baseball fans an intimate view of the Iowa Cubs with the Des Moines skyline as backdrop. Sit along the first base line for the best views of both the game and the Iowa State Capitol.
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A city skyline with a river and a bridge.

Iowa Events Center

8.8/10 (573 reviews)
This sleek city centre complex houses three premier venues for concerts, sports, and conventions. Experience world-class entertainment or attend major trade shows in Des Moines' cultural heartbeat.
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A large government building with a golden dome, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.

Iowa State Capitol Building

9.0/10 (354 reviews)
The Iowa State Capitol dazzles with its 23-karat gold-leafed dome and unique five-dome design. Inside, marvel at the ornate law library's spiral staircases and intricate marble details during a free guided tour.
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Adventureland

8.4/10 (602 reviews)
Iowa's premier amusement destination features signature coasters like The Monster and The Tornado, plus many other rides. Families can enjoy both thrilling attractions and Adventure Bay's refreshing water park.
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Casey's Center

8.8/10 (976 reviews)
City centre Des Moines arena hosting NBA G League games and major concerts with space for 17,000 fans. Enjoy premium club seating and local food favourites while cheering on the Iowa Wolves or catching headline performers.
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Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino

8.6/10 (560 reviews)
Experience the thrill of live horse racing and casino gaming at this vibrant entertainment hub in Altoona. Enjoy fine dining at AJ's Steakhouse or catch live performances in the comfortable event centre.
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Des Moines holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Des Moines getaway. However, a range of factors like the season, choice of hotel and length of stay will determine how much your holiday to Des Moines costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Des Moines?
If you're looking to book a cheap Des Moines holiday package, consider travelling in November, December and January. You're likely to find lower prices on hotels and airfares during these months — perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
How many days is enough for Des Moines?
Allow around 2 days for your Des Moines holiday in order to immerse yourself in everything that makes this destination special. Stroll around key neighbourhoods, including Downtown Des Moines and Greater South Side. Then make a beeline for top attractions such as The Temple for Performing Arts and Iowa Hall of Pride. With a well-planned itinerary, you'll be kept busy with room for some downtime too. Want to venture outside of Des Moines? Consider squeezing in an excursion or two.
How to find the best Des Moines package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to find some fabulous Des Moines package deals. When you start your search, simply set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your break for midweek, or search for Des Moines package deals in the off-season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you great savings when compared to arranging accommodation and flights separately. Better still, you can personalise your Des Moines escape to fit your exact style. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Des Moines?
If you have your Des Moines holiday dates finalized, book as early as you can to bag some terrific deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spontaneous adventures? Our last-minute deals are great for setting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Des Moines?
  1. Choose when to get away: Check your diary and get your bags packed. Your favourite season and the type of activities on offer will also help you decide when to holiday in Des Moines.
  2. Calculate your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from transportation and food to activities and flights. Your hotel will probably be the biggest expense during your trip to Des Moines.
  3. Set the duration of your trip: Start by listing all the attractions you want to experience in Des Moines. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, including any travel time.
  4. Bundle your flights and hotel: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. Now all that's left is to find a Des Moines holiday package that brings all your bookings together.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.