Hotels in Des Moines

Discover the Heart of the Heartland: Des Moines’ Vibrant Tapestry of Culture and Nature

Discover Des Moines, Iowa, a vibrant city that seamlessly blends culture, charm, and convenience. Nestled at the heart of the Midwest, its downtown buzzes with life, offering an array of attractions from the stunning Pappajohn Sculpture Park to the lively Historic East Village. Stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk, savour local flavours at the Downtown Farmers' Market, or explore the interactive Science Center of Iowa. With excellent transport links and welcoming parks, Des Moines invites both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing getaway, making it an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination. Experience the unique allure of Iowa's capital.

Discover great hotels in Des Moines

In Des Moines, you'll find a range of comfortable accommodation options, from well-appointed hotels to charming inns. Many properties offer additional amenities like fitness centres and complimentary breakfast, ensuring a pleasant stay in the city. Explore downtown Des Moines hotels for convenient access to local attractions and dining. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travellers in Des Moines:

1. Days Inn by Wyndham West Des MoinesOpens in a new window: This inviting property is designed for travellers seeking a refined business-themed experience. With a range of facilities including a 24-hour business centre and multiple meeting rooms, it excels in providing a seamless journey for professionals. The attention to detail in services for children adds to the family-friendly charm. Guests appreciate the pet-friendly policies that accommodate a variety of needs, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere. Visitors consistently highlight the smooth check-in process and the thoughtful amenities that contribute to a relaxed stay.
2. Days Inn by Wyndham Des Moines Merle HayOpens in a new window: This stylish hotel caters perfectly to leisure seekers looking for a chic escape. With a focus on comfort and sophistication, it offers free cribs for families and is located in a vibrant business district, ensuring easy access to local attractions. Guests rave about the elegant design and the well-appointed spaces that make for a memorable stay. The property’s amenities are tailored to create a distinctive experience that resonates with trend-conscious travellers, highlighting its commitment to comfort and quality.
3. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHGOpens in a new window: This vibrant property is a haven for LGBTQIA travellers seeking a welcoming environment. The pet-friendly atmosphere ensures that every guest feels at home, with thoughtful policies in place to accommodate furry companions. Guests enjoy the unique architectural design and the stylish interiors that create a luxurious ambience. This hotel stands out for its commitment to inclusivity and comfort, making it a favourite for those looking to indulge in a distinctive experience while enjoying the local culture and attractions.

Top locations to stay in Des Moines

Some of the best areas to stay in Des Moines, Iowa, are Downtown Des Moines, Historic East Village, and the Court District. Downtown Des Moines offers a vibrant atmosphere with excellent transport links and stunning city views. Historic East Village is known for its charm and unique shops, while the Court District is lively with dining and entertainment. For first-time visitors, Downtown Des Moines is the most convenient choice.

1. Downtown Des MoinesOpens in a new window: Staying in Downtown Des Moines places you right in the heart of the city, where you can easily explore a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. This area is known for its lively atmosphere, with an array of shops, art galleries, and theaters. You can enjoy a stroll along the scenic riverfront or catch a performance at a local venue. It’s also home to some of the city’s best events and festivals, making it a hub of activity throughout the year.
2. Historic East VillageOpens in a new window: This charming neighbourhood offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it an attractive place to stay. The Historic East Village is filled with boutique shops, local artisans, and a vibrant arts scene. You can explore the area's rich history while enjoying trendy cafés and cultural spots. It's a great location for those who appreciate a more relaxed vibe with easy access to downtown attractions.
3. Court DistrictOpens in a new window: The Court District is a hidden gem in Des Moines, featuring a mix of cultural attractions and a lively atmosphere. Known for its art galleries and theatres, this area caters to those looking to immerse themselves in the local arts scene. With trendy bars and eateries nearby, it’s a fantastic spot for evening outings. The district often hosts events that showcase local talent, giving visitors a taste of the city’s creative spirit.

Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a vibrant blend of sports excitement, captivating live music, and lively festivals, making it an ideal spot for a city break. Enjoy thrilling basketball games, attend dynamic theatre performances, or explore scenic parks for a bit of hiking. This charming city promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Iowa State Capitol BuildingOpens in a new window – Step inside this stunning historic civic building, where you can admire the magnificent golden dome and intricate architecture. Take a guided tour to uncover fascinating stories about Iowa’s government and its rich history while exploring the beautifully decorated interiors.
• AdventurelandOpens in a new window – Thrill-seekers will love the excitement at this amusement park, packed with roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions. Spend the day enjoying exhilarating rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food that will keep the whole family smiling.
• Iowa State FairgroundsOpens in a new window – Visit the iconic fairgrounds, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the famous Iowa State Fair, held every August. Enjoy live music, savour mouth-watering local delicacies, and explore a variety of exhibits showcasing Iowa's agricultural heritage throughout the year.
• Des Moines Civic CenterOpens in a new window – Catch a captivating performance at this premier arts venue, where you can enjoy everything from Broadway shows to concerts. The striking architecture and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect spot to appreciate the local arts scene.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Des Moines

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Des Moines is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a comprehensive experience of the city’s key landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly activities such as attending live music events, exploring vibrant festivals, catching a basketball or football game, and indulging in the local dining scene. With plenty of entertainment options, shopping opportunities, and theatre performances, Des Moines offers great value for money for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Des Moines, begin by exploring the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find yourself informed about flash sales and special promotions, allowing for great savings on hotels. Additionally, utilise Smart Shopping, a comparison tool available via the app, to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a hotel in Des Moines. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may be more affordable, helping you to potentially secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Des Moines's excellent public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those eager to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often remarkable value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Des Moines

Des Moines experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.7°F (-5.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.8°F (23.8°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Des Moines, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.