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Des Moines Holidays

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Where to stay in Des Moines

Find the best Des Moines areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Des Moines
Learn more about Des Moines
A sign reading "Historic East Village" with a clear blue sky and clouds in the background.

Historic East Village

The East Village blends historic charm with Des Moines' trendiest urban scene. Cobblestone streets wind past the iconic State Capitol dome while restored 19th-century brick buildings house art galleries and boutiques. This walkable district buzzes with local culture and unique shopping experiences. Farm-to-table restaurants showcase Iowa ingredients alongside craft beer venues and cocktail lounges. Independent shops offer locally-made goods and vintage finds throughout the area. The State Historical Museum and Capitol grounds provide cultural depth while evening concerts at Wooly's capture the area's creative spirit.

The entrance to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden with a large dome structure in the background.

Downtown Des Moines

City centre Des Moines balances business energy with cultural flair. Modern glass towers stand beside historic limestone buildings while the Wells Fargo Arena anchors the skyline. Court Avenue District pulses with lively restaurants and bars where locals gather after work. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park offers an artistic retreat among office buildings. Business travellers appreciate the skywalk system connecting major buildings during Iowa's changing seasons. Culture seekers enjoy performances at the Des Moines Civic Centre and weekend farmers markets. The scenic riverwalk provides peaceful paths along the water's edge for morning jogs or evening strolls.

A cityscape at dusk with a prominent skyscraper, a well-lit plaza, and a winding road.

Western Gateway

Western Gateway is a cultural jewel in Des Moines where art and business blend seamlessly. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park anchors the area with 30 striking artworks scattered across 4.4 acres of manicured grounds. Visitors can wander between towering steel installations and whimsical bronze figures in this outdoor gallery. The area balances world-class cultural attractions with a sleek corporate environment. Wide boulevards with landscaped medians create an orderly, spacious streetscape. The Des Moines Art Centre and Temple for Performing Arts offer additional cultural experiences just steps away from major business headquarters.

A large, historic building with multiple domes and columns.

Waveland Park

Waveland Park offers a peaceful retreat in Des Moines where leafy residential streets lead to an expansive green oasis. This family-friendly area centers around its namesake park and the historic Waveland Golf Course with rolling fairways. The Des Moines Community Playhouse adds cultural flair to this suburban haven. Tree-lined avenues showcase well-maintained homes with manicured lawns and seasonal gardens. Enjoy morning walks through the park's 120 acres of trails and playgrounds. Golf enthusiasts appreciate the classic course while families gather at local sports fields. City centre Des Moines attractions remain just a short drive away.

Beaverdale

Beaverdale offers an authentic slice of Midwestern suburban charm with its distinctive "Beaverdale Brick" homes from the 1920s-1940s. Tree-canopied streets create natural archways over well-maintained lawns and gardens. This welcoming Des Moines area provides a peaceful retreat from urban bustle. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along quiet residential streets with excellent pavements. The family-oriented atmosphere showcases genuine suburban culture with area parks and minimal tourist infrastructure. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Tudor Revival and Colonial styles that define this historic residential haven.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Des Moines

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

Des Moines Hotel Deals

Desk, soundproofing, iron/ironing board, free cots/infant beds

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
2.0 star property
5.9 km from Des Moines (and vicinity)
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,844 reviews)
"Grest place"
The price is €77
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
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.
See all properties in Des Moines

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.

Book with confidence

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.

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.

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.