Hotels in Norwalk

Norwalk: Where Coastal Charm Meets Vibrant Culture

Nestled just south of Des Moines, Norwalk, Iowa is a charming small town perfect for a peaceful getaway. Explore scenic parks like Norwalk’s beautiful Squirrel Park, ideal for picnics and outdoor activities. The town’s vibrant arts scene comes alive at local events, while antique shops and family-owned eateries offer a taste of Midwestern hospitality. Don’t miss the annual Norwalk Fourth of July Celebration, a highlight of summer fun. With its friendly atmosphere and proximity to the capital, Norwalk invites travelers to experience the beauty of Iowa's heartland, making it a delightful off-the-beaten-path destination. For the best hotel rates in Norwalk, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Norwalk

Some of the best places to stay in Norwalk are Downtown Des Moines, Historic East Village and Greater South Side. Norwalk, Iowa, is a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Downtown Des Moines, Historic East Village, and Greater South Side. Downtown Des Moines offers vibrant nightlife and dining, Historic East Village boasts unique shops and cultural sites, while Greater South Side features local charm and parks. For accommodations, expect a range of options, from budget-friendly hotels to comfortable suites. For first-time visitors, Downtown Des Moines is the best choice, offering a central location and diverse experiences. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Norwalk:

1. Downtown Des MoinesOpens in a new window: A vibrant hub for business and family fun, Downtown Des Moines offers a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining. With points of interest like Drake University and the Iowa Events Center, it's an excellent location for both leisure and business travelers. For accommodations, consider Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel perfect for those seeking a high-end experience. Surety HotelOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel ideal for romantic and business travelers, featuring amenities like meeting rooms and spa services. Des Lux HotelOpens in a new window, a cozy 3.5-star option, is perfect for business travelers with its accessible business center and meeting rooms.
2. Historic East VillageOpens in a new window: This charming area is known for its rich history and family-friendly attractions, including nearby Drake University and the Iowa Events Center. If you're traveling with pets or for business, check out WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant HillOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers essential amenities. Another option is Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des MoinesOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers and pet owners with multiple meeting rooms and pet-friendly policies.
3. Greater South SideOpens in a new window: A family-oriented community with a range of entertainment options, the Greater South Side is close to attractions like Drake University and Wells Fargo Arena. For families and pet owners, Holiday Inn Des Moines-Airport/Conf Center, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that provides kid-friendly amenities and a welcoming pet policy. Another great choice is Clarion Inn Des Moines AirportOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that offers a blend of business facilities and family services. Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines AirportOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, is perfect for business travelers with 24-hour business center access and pet-friendly accommodations.

Things to do in Norwalk for first time

Three days in Norwalk is ideal for exploring its stunning waterfront, visiting the Maritime Aquarium, and enjoying charming neighborhoods like SoNo. With delightful dining options and vibrant arts scene, Norwalk offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Norwalk:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where you can explore the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch a local event or festival. After soaking in the lively sights, head over to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the serene environment, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Finally, make your way to the Iowa State Capitol Building. Marvel at its stunning architecture and take a guided tour to learn about Iowa’s legislative history and the significance of this iconic structure.
• Day 2: Begin your day at the Des Moines Civic Center, a hub for performing arts where you can check out any ongoing exhibitions or performances. Next, walk over to the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, an impressive structure that honors women's contributions to the state. Take your time to enjoy the views of the river and the city skyline. Wrap up your day at 801 Grand, the tallest building in Iowa. Enjoy the breathtaking panorama from its observation deck, and then treat yourself to dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, soaking in the lively urban atmosphere.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Gray’s Lake Park, where you can indulge in outdoor activities like walking, biking, or paddle boating on the lake. The picturesque scenery is perfect for a tranquil start to your day. Afterward, make your way to Walnut Woods State Park, known for its beautiful woodlands and peaceful trails. Enjoy a hike or a picnic amidst nature. Conclude your day at West Glen Town Center, a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Explore the local boutiques, grab a bite to eat, and relax in the lively atmosphere as your trip comes to a delightful close.

5 tips to find a great Norwalk hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Norwalk is from October to December, when hotel rates are more affordable. For a great value for money experience, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city's attractions. Notable spots include the scenic lake, the exciting theme park, and the expansive national state park, all of which offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Norwalk, Hotels.com is a great resource. To uncover exciting offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. For the best chance of snagging special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to catch flash sales and last-minute offers that can help you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Norwalk.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Norwalk and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to Norwalk

Norwalk 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 usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Norwalk, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.