Hotels in Des Moines

Des Moines: Where Urban Charm Meets Scenic Serenity

Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant cultural hub that seamlessly blends Midwestern charm with urban sophistication. Explore the stunning Pappajohn Sculpture Park and indulge in the local art scene at the Des Moines Art Center. Discover the historic East Village for boutique shopping and farm-to-table dining. Nature lovers can unwind at Gray's Lake Park, while the lively Iowa State Fair showcases the region's agricultural heritage. With its friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions, Des Moines invites travelers to experience a unique slice of Iowa life, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those in search of relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Des Moines, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Des Moines

Some of the best places to stay in Des Moines are Downtown Des Moines, Historic East Village and Greater South Side. Des Moines offers vibrant areas for travelers. Downtown Des Moines boasts a lively atmosphere with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. The Historic East Village features charming boutiques and historical sites, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Greater South Side provides a more local feel with parks and community events. For accommodations, all areas offer a range of hotels, from upscale to budget-friendly options. For first-time visitors, Downtown Des Moines is the best choice, providing easy access to major attractions and activities. Here are some of the best hotels in Des Moines that our travelers love:

1. Downtown Des MoinesOpens in a new window: Downtown Des Moines is a vibrant area that perfectly balances business and family-friendly activities. With attractions like Drake University, the Iowa Events Center, and Wells Fargo Arena, visitors can enjoy a mix of education, entertainment, and events. For comfortable accommodations, consider Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel ideal for travelers seeking a high-end experience. Another option is Surety HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering business amenities and romantic packages, making it suitable for both business and leisure travelers. Additionally, Des Moines Marriott DowntownOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to families and adventure seekers, providing various amenities for children and recreation activities.
2. Historic East VillageOpens in a new window: Historic East Village is known for its charming atmosphere and family-friendly attractions, including Drake University and the Iowa Events Center. Visitors can explore local shops and restaurants while enjoying the area's rich history. For a cozy stay, WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant HillOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets, making it a great choice for animal lovers. Alternatively, Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des MoinesOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, offers business amenities alongside its pet-friendly policy, catering to both business travelers and families.
3. Greater South SideOpens in a new window: Greater South Side is a family-oriented area with easy access to attractions like Drake University and Wells Fargo Arena. This neighborhood is perfect for families and pet owners, providing a welcoming environment. Holiday Inn Des Moines-Airport/Conf Center, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that includes child-friendly amenities and allows pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Another option is Clarion Inn Des Moines AirportOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, which offers business facilities and family-oriented amenities. Lastly, Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines AirportOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that caters to both business and pet-friendly needs, making it a versatile choice for all types of travelers.

Things to do in Des Moines for first time

Three days in Des Moines offers a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, live music, and cultural experiences. Enjoy thrilling sports events, explore scenic parks, and immerse yourself in local festivals. With a lively theater scene and engaging community events, this city is a hidden gem worth discovering. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Des Moines:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Adventureland, a thrilling amusement park that promises a day full of fun rides and exciting attractions for all ages. After enjoying the various rides, head over to the Windsor Heights Dog Park for a relaxing break. It’s a great spot to unwind and watch some playful pups. Finish your day by exploring Valley Junction, a historic district with charming boutiques and local eateries, perfect for dinner and a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Living History Farms, an interactive outdoor museum that takes you through Iowa's agricultural history. Enjoy the immersive experiences and learn about farm life in various eras. Next, visit West Glen Town Center, where you can shop at trendy boutiques and grab a bite at one of the many restaurants. Conclude your day with a visit to Jordan House, a historic site that tells the story of the Underground Railroad in Iowa, giving you a glimpse into the past.
• Day 3: Start your morning at Walnut Woods State Park, where you can enjoy a refreshing hike amid beautiful woodlands. Afterward, make your way to Saylorville Lake, a scenic spot perfect for picnicking or renting a kayak for a little adventure on the water. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Ankeny Art Center, where you can appreciate local art and maybe even pick up a unique souvenir to remember your visit to Des Moines.

5 tips to find a great Des Moines hotel deal

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. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure better rates. For a budget-friendly trip, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city’s main attractions, which include a vibrant stadium, a scenic lake, and a fun-filled theme park. These options provide great value for money, ensuring you can explore Des Moines without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're on the hunt for last-minute deals to Des Moines, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on the site, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a good deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers. This way, you’re more likely to uncover opportunities to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Des Moines.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying nearer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are usually more likely to be budget-friendly, while still balancing the cost with the convenience of reaching the sites you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Des Moines and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Des Moines

Here are a few popular dining spots in Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America:

• New China Buffet & Grill: This popular establishment offers a delightful array of authentic Chinese dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It's a great place for those looking to experience a variety of traditional recipes, all while enjoying the vibrant tastes of China in a buffet style.
• Captain Roy's: A beloved destination for seafood lovers, Captain Roy's specializes in fresh catches and innovative recipes that showcase the bounty of the ocean. The menu reflects a blend of classic seafood preparations and creative twists, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to savor local and seasonal flavors.
• Little Caesars Pizza: Known for its quick service and iconic Hot-N-Ready pizzas, Little Caesars combines convenience with a commitment to quality. Their innovative menu features unique pizza combinations and sides, catering to all tastes while maintaining a strong connection to American pizza culture.

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, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.