Des Moines Hotels

Top reasons to visit Des Moines

• Family-Friendly Attractions: Des Moines boasts a variety of urban parks, amusement parks, and engaging activities that cater to families.
• Vibrant Downtown: Explore a bustling downtown filled with local malls, dining options, and a lively atmosphere ideal for socialising.
• Outdoor Adventures: The city offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic parks and recreational activities.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit historic civic buildings and enjoy local events that showcase the city's rich heritage.
• Inclusive Accommodations: A diverse selection of hotels ensures a welcoming experience for all visitors, including pet-friendly options.

Find great hotels in Des Moines

Discover a diverse selection of hotels in Des Moines, catering to every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a comfortable motel for a quick stay or a top-rated hotel that offers business amenities, you'll find the perfect accommodation. Many establishments are pet-friendly and welcoming to the LGBTQIA community, ensuring a warm and inclusive experience for all visitors. Enjoy the convenience of quality inns and well-appointed hotel rooms in the heart of Iowa's vibrant capital.

• Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA: Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, Motel 6 West Des Moines offers a straightforward lodging experience with a focus on comfort and accessibility. This pet-friendly establishment welcomes furry companions, ensuring a pleasant stay for guests who wish to bring their pets along. Located within Des Moines, it offers convenient access to local attractions. The property features essential amenities, including a relaxed atmosphere that prioritises affordability without sacrificing quality.
• WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines: Designed with business and leisure travellers in mind, WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines provides a budget-friendly option that combines functionality with comfort. This hotel stands out for its welcoming pet policy, accommodating guests travelling with pets while ensuring a professional environment. Situated near Des Moines, it offers easy access to business districts and local amenities. Guests can expect spacious rooms equipped with kitchen facilities, making it a suitable choice for extended stays.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport: With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport caters to families and business travellers alike. This hotel features a range of amenities tailored for children, including complimentary cribs to enhance the family-friendly experience. Conveniently located near the airport, it provides easy access to transportation while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. The combination of its thoughtful amenities and comfortable accommodations makes it a practical choice for various travellers.

Where to stay in Des Moines

Des Moines, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and business opportunities. Explore the bustling downtown, where you can enjoy local malls and a warm atmosphere. West Des Moines provides a taste of Midwestern charm, perfect for leisurely excursions. With its friendly people and inviting neighbourhoods, Des Moines promises an unforgettable vacation experience for all types of travellers.

• West Des Moines: Nestled adjacent to the vibrant capital city of Des Moines, West Des Moines is a thriving urban hub that offers an array of experiences for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. The city is known for its excellent shopping centres, including the popular Jordan Creek Town Center, and hosts a variety of events at its fairgrounds throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy scenic parks and lakes, making it a delightful spot for outdoor activities. The city's rich blend of amenities, from conference venues to charming neighbourhoods, ensures an engaging stay for all.
• Ankeny: Located just north of Des Moines, Ankeny is a dynamic city boasting an abundance of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. The city is home to the popular Adventureland Park, an amusement park that delights visitors of all ages. Nature enthusiasts can explore numerous campgrounds and parks, perfect for hiking and picnicking. Ankeny is a vibrant community where visitors can engage in educational activities while enjoying the charm of local events and festivities throughout the year, making it a great destination for adventure seekers.
• Urbandale: Situated to the northwest of Des Moines, Urbandale is a welcoming city that combines urban convenience with suburban charm. It caters to families and business travellers, offering a variety of shopping centres and entertainment venues, including the bustling arena entertainment facility. The city's proximity to event conference venues and renowned theme and water parks makes it an attractive destination for all types of visitors. Urbandale’s well-maintained parks and community events provide a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation and recreation.

Things to do in Des Moines

Shopping

At Jordan Creek Town Center, you can explore a diverse range of shops from high street brands to unique boutiques. The Historic East Village offers charming local markets and artisanal shops, perfect for finding distinctive gifts and souvenirs that reflect Iowa’s culture.

Recreation

At the Des Moines Yoga Centre, immerse yourself in tranquil classes that promote mindfulness and balance. Afterward, explore the scenic trails at Gray’s Lake Park for a refreshing walk or bike ride, surrounded by nature and beautiful views of the lake.

Adventure

In Des Moines, explore the thrilling rides at Adventureland Park, where excitement awaits around every corner. For a unique experience, try indoor skydiving at iFLY, offering a taste of free-fall in a safe environment. Discover the scenic beauty while kayaking on the Des Moines River for a refreshing adventure.

Nightlife

Explore the lively nightlife at the Hessen Haus for authentic German beer and hearty bites. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit the Vaudeville Mews for eclectic live performances. Don’t miss the Halo Nightclub, where you can dance the night away to the latest hits and enjoy unique cocktails.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Des Moines

Des Moines offers numerous free attractions, including Drake University, the Iowa State Capitol Building, and the Des Moines Art Center. To save on accommodation, consider visiting between November and January, when prices are lower and booking on a Monday is cheaper than on a Saturday. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals for flights and activities. Public transport options like buses are available for economical travel around the city. Embrace these tips to enjoy a memorable and cost-effective visit to Des Moines.

• 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 June to 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Des Moines with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and amusement parks. The city's points of interest cater to those seeking outdoor adventures, family fun, and a vibrant city experience, making it a well-rounded choice for travellers exploring the area.

• Topgolf: Experience a unique blend of golf and entertainment at this innovative driving range. Topgolf features climate-controlled hitting bays, allowing you to play year-round while enjoying food and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for both seasoned golfers and novices looking for a fun outing with friends or family.
• Water Works Park: Nestled within the urban landscape, this expansive park offers a serene retreat with trails, picnic areas, and beautiful gardens. Its family-friendly environment encourages outdoor activities, making it a great place for leisurely strolls or a day out with loved ones.
• Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens: Immerse yourself in nature at this eco-friendly oasis. The gardens showcase stunning Asian landscaping, tranquil water features, and diverse plant life, creating a peaceful setting perfect for relaxation and family gatherings.

Best time to go to Des Moines

The best time to visit Des Moines can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Des Moines falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Des Moines falls in January, 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

Arriving in Des Moines is convenient via Des Moines International Airport (DSM), situated 6km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 4.5-star Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, and the Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, both 14km from the airport. Alternatively, Cedar Rapids Airport (CID) is 163km away, with nearby accommodations such as the Doubletree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, located 10km from CID. Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO), located 146km from Des Moines, offers options like The Black Hawk Hotel, merely 5km from the airport. All hotels provide easy access to their respective airports.