Top reasons to visit Drake
- Cultural Hub: Drake is home to Drake University, where visitors can enjoy a vibrant campus atmosphere and various cultural events.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The area offers numerous attractions suitable for families, ensuring enjoyable outings for all ages.
- Recreational Parks: Nearby parks provide scenic spaces for outdoor activities and relaxation amidst nature.
- Local Eateries: Experience delightful dining options with charming local eateries that enhance your visit.
- Convenient Accommodation: A range of welcoming hotels and motels cater to both leisure and business travellers.
Find great hotels in and around Drake
Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Drake, Des Moines, ideal for both leisure and business travellers. From pet-friendly motels to welcoming hotels near Drake University, you’ll find the perfect place to stay that embraces inclusivity and comfort. Whether you're seeking the best hotels or top-rated experiences, Drake offers a variety of choices tailored to meet your needs while ensuring a memorable visit.
- Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport: Situated a mere 6.4km from Drake, Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport is an ideal choice for families and business travellers alike. This hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere with amenities tailored for children, including complimentary cribs and a family-friendly environment. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay with a variety of services designed to cater to both leisure and work needs, making it a practical choice for your stay in Des Moines.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University: Nestled within the vibrant Drake community, Home2 Suites by Hilton is a pet-friendly 3-star lodging that caters to both business and leisure travellers. This hotel welcomes pets with open arms, ensuring a hassle-free stay for those travelling with furry companions. With modern amenities and flexible spaces, guests can enjoy a homely feel while being conveniently located near the university. Its commitment to comfort and convenience makes it an excellent option for extended stays.
- Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown: Just 3.2km away from Drake, Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown is another fantastic pet-friendly choice for visitors. This 3-star hotel combines style with function, offering spacious rooms designed for relaxation and productivity. The hotel's pet policy allows dogs, making it an excellent retreat for those who wish to travel with their canine companions. With a convenient location near downtown attractions, guests can enjoy both comfort and accessibility during their stay.
Where to stay near Drake
Drake offers a delightful blend of culture and family-friendly experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Stroll along the picturesque streets of Drake University, immersing yourself in the vibrant campus atmosphere. The surrounding neighbourhood boasts a welcoming community, perfect for leisurely explorations. Nearby, discover recreational parks and charming local eateries that add to the enchanting allure of this secluded gem in Des Moines, Iowa.
- Des Moines: As a vibrant metropolis, Des Moines is the heart of Iowa, offering a diverse range of attractions for every visitor. Situated where Drake University is located, it welcomes travellers year-round, with peak visitation during the summer months. Explore its bustling shopping centres, lively fairgrounds, and various family-friendly activities. Notable landmarks include an expansive event conference venue and a picturesque lake, making it a perfect mix of urban excitement and natural beauty. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, Des Moines promises memorable experiences.
- Urbandale: A charming city just 4.8km from Drake, Urbandale is ideal for families and business travellers alike. The city enjoys a steady influx of visitors, particularly during the spring and summer months. Here, you can indulge in shopping at local malls or enjoy the thrill of a theme park. With its modern college university and a variety of event venues, Urbandale offers a delightful blend of entertainment and culture, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience for everyone.
- Downtown Des Moines: Only 3.2km from Drake, Downtown Des Moines is a bustling neighbourhood filled with energy and excitement. It attracts visitors throughout the year, peaking in the spring and summer. This area boasts a plethora of shopping options, an arena for entertainment, and numerous dining establishments. Key attractions include a modern college university and a convention centre, making it an excellent hub for both leisure and professional engagements. Downtown Des Moines is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere.
Things to do in and around Drake
Drake offers a delightful blend of city and culture-themed activities, making it ideal for family vacations. Visitors can explore educational attractions, enjoy events at the arena entertainment facility, and experience the lively atmosphere of the fairground show ground. Whether you're seeking knowledge or entertainment, Drake has something for everyone.
Shopping
Experience the vibrant Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market, just 3.2km from Drake, offering a delightful mix of local produce and crafts. For a more extensive shopping experience, visit Merle Hay Mall, 4.8km away, and Valley West Mall, 8.0km away, both bustling with shops and entertainment.
Recreation
Principal Park, a vibrant sports stadium, offers an exhilarating atmosphere just 4.8km from Drake, perfect for catching a game. Wooly's, located the same distance away, is a lively music venue, ideal for enjoying local performances. For outdoor enthusiasts, Waveland Municipal Golf Course, only 1.6km away, provides scenic golfing experiences.
Adventure
At Air Lanes Bowling Center, located 6.4km from Drake, enjoy a fun-filled bowling experience with friends and family. For a scenic adventure, trek the Greenbelt Trail, 8.0km away, where nature surrounds you. Feel the thrill of karting at Pole Position Raceway, situated 12.9km from Drake.
Nightlife
In Drake, the Lauridsen Amphitheater, just 3.2km away, offers a romantic atmosphere with vibrant performances. Hoyt Sherman Place, merely 1.6km from Drake, is perfect for cultural events. The Des Moines Community Playhouse, located within Drake, provides captivating shows, ensuring a delightful nightlife experience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Drake
For a budget-friendly trip to Drake, visit between November and January when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Mondays. Avoid Saturdays for better rates. Use Expedia to compare hotel options by filtering for your budget and preferred location, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for extra savings. Explore free activities in the area, and utilise public transport, which is often cheaper than taxis or rideshares. Always look for flexible booking options and special deals to maximise your savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Drake 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 around Drake is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Drake is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel that best suits your needs. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Drake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Drake
Drake is ideal for city, culture, and family vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as event venues, modern universities, and entertainment arenas. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures. Key points of interest include Drake University athletics and nearby attractions, ensuring a delightful exploration of Des Moines. Whether you're seeking educational opportunities or leisurely pursuits, Drake has something for everyone.
- Water Works Park: This urban park offers a refreshing escape with its picturesque landscapes, ideal for family outings. Enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, or outdoor activities while soaking in the vibrant city vibes, all within a short distance from Drake.
- Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens: A serene oasis located nearby, this park features beautifully curated gardens that celebrate Asian culture. Ideal for families, it promotes eco-friendly practices and provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration.
- The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex: A civic hub dedicated to sports and recreation, this expansive facility offers diverse activities for all ages. Engage in fitness classes, swimming, or team sports while enjoying the community atmosphere, though it’s a bit further from Drake.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Drake
Travel to Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, is convenient via Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located 8.0km away. For accommodation, the Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, a 4.5-star hotel, is situated 6.4km from the airport, providing easy access. Another excellent option is the Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection, also 6.4km from DSM, offering a comfortable stay. If you prefer a slightly farther choice, the Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is a 4.5-star hotel located 14.5km away. All these hotels offer accessible transport services to the airport, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors.