How to find the best hotel deal in Des Moines
Our search engine is a whiz at spotting flight deals. The good news? It's every bit as clever at sniffing out bargains on Des Moines hotels. These tips are your shortcut to saving on your stay.
Get organised ahead of time to save on your Des Moines hotel. You'll also have a wider variety of stays and room types to choose from, particularly during high-demand times.
Still, be ready to pounce on any last-minute deals. Some places discount their rates shortly before check-in to fill empty rooms. This is more likely to happen in off-peak season or on quieter days, however.
Be flexible with your dates, unlock better rates. Search for hotels across different seasons or months. Even booking on weekdays (instead of weekends) can work out cheaper.
Book without the worry by searching for stays that have free cancellation. If your plans fall through or a better deal pops up, you can cancel your booking without penalty.
Where to stay in Des Moines
Central Des Moines
Choose the city centre and be right in the heart of it all. Take your pick of these accommodation options that keep you near the can't-miss attractions in central Des Moines.
If you're searching for hotels near Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, head straight to Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection. This 4-star Des Moines hotel is about 2 kilometres from this major sight and is a favourite with couples.
Browsing around for hotels near Science Centre of Iowa? About 0.64 kilometres away, Des Lux Hotel keeps you close enough to pop over whenever. With a 3-star rating, this hotel in Des Moines is especially appealing to business travellers.
Hotels near State Historical Building are also well worth checking out. Hotel Fort des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton is 2 kilometres or so from this top sight and has built a regular following with couples. It has a 4-star rating and is a good base for discovering the city more broadly.
When to go to Des Moines
If you're planning a peak season trip, book your hotel in Des Moines for August. This is when the city's main events and top sights are in full swing, giving you plenty to plan your days around.
Enjoy a slower pace by locking in a Des Moines hotel in March. It's the quietest time to visit and often offers better rates too.
Good weather can make all the difference when choosing travel dates. If you prefer warmer conditions, July tends to deliver with temperatures that reach a high of 31ºC (88ºF).
Lows hit -13ºC (9ºF) in January, the coolest month here.
Don't want to pack a raincoat? Search for Des Moines hotels in October. It's the driest time to visit, with five days of rain on average.
May has the wettest weather. You can expect around ten days of rainfall.
Best hotels in Des Moines
Best budget hotels
A great trip doesn't have to include a hefty hotel bill. With at least 90 budget Des Moines hotels available, you can spend more on experiences and less on a room. You can expect basic comforts like simple breakfasts, standard toiletries, and cosy beds at these reasonably priced stays.
Palace Inn serves up comfort without the cost. Make use of room desks, Wi-Fi in designated areas and more at this 2-star accommodation option.
Alternatively, make a booking at Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines. Featuring conveniences including a 24-hour front desk and Wi-Fi, this 3-star Des Moines hotel helps you save without cutting corners.
You'll also like the reasonable prices at Home2 Suites by Hilton Ankeny, which is rated 3 stars. It features air conditioning and a fitness centre.
Best 4-star hotels in Des Moines
When you'd like a little more from your stay, the 4-star hotels in Des Moines deliver. With around seven choices, they typically feature well-appointed rooms, exceptional service, and extras such as on-site bars and restaurants. These hotels feel classy without feeling flashy.
Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection gets the 4-star guest experience right. Room service and a golf course help make this accommodation option a favourite for many.
Bathrobes and a restaurant are just some of the amenities offered at Revel Hotel, Tapestry Collection By Hilton. This Des Moines hotel hits that sweet spot between quality and value.
Best hotels in Des Moines for families
Picking the right hotel can be a total game changer when travelling with kids. With things like games rooms, play areas, and large suites, family-friendly hotels in Des Moines are packed with perks that make the trip easier. Choose from around ten of these stays that offer fun for kids and comfort for adults.
Save more for fun activities with the kids when you book Sleep Inn & Suites West des Moines Near Jordan Creek. This affordable 2-star option comes with air conditioning and a first aid room. It regularly scores an overall guest rating above 4 out of 5.
Also check out Clarion Inn Des Moines Airport. This option comes with a barbecue and internet access.
Best hotels with a spa
Rediscover calm at one of the 20 or so Des Moines hotels with a spa. They feature anything from saunas to fitness centres and treatment rooms. Throw in meditation classes, beauty salons, and wellness programmes and you're on your way to bliss.
Settle into Des Lux Hotel and take a break from it all. A fireplace, a fitness centre and a host of other perks await you at this 3-star accommodation option.
Econo Lodge Urbandale - Northwest Des Moines is another hotel in Des Moines where you can let your stress drift away. Offering things like a spa and more, you'll find everything you need to relax here.
Best hotels with a pool
A pool is a great way to mix in some play with your plans. Book a resort and you'll likely find multiple swimming areas and maybe even lazy rivers and water slides. At city hotels, indoor and rooftop pools are more typical. Choose from at least 70 pool hotels in Des Moines and get set to jump right in.
Relaxing by the water will be high on your agenda at Homewood Suites By Hilton Urbandale Des Moines. With an indoor swimming pool, a 24-hour front desk and a fitness centre, this Des Moines hotel makes it easy to slow down and enjoy your stay.
You won't be in a hurry to leave Fairfield Inn & Suites des Moines Altoona. This popular option features an indoor swimming pool, internet access and a lobby bar.
Or make room for a little fun at Home2 Suites des Moines at Drake University. An indoor swimming pool, this hotel comes with a cash machine and internet access.
Best pet-friendly hotels
With around 60 pet-friendly Des Moines hotels, your best buddy can come along for the ride. Many have nearby parks or outdoor areas for exercise, and some even offer things like pet-friendly menus or grooming services. A few conditions might apply, but most places go out of their way to make your furry friend feel at home.
Check in with your loyal sidekick at Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection. Make the most of amenities here like parking and a lobby bar.
Your four-legged friend is also on the guest list at Hyatt Place des Moines/Altoona. It includes air conditioning, a fitness centre and more.
My Place Hotel-Altoona/Des Moines, IA has everything lined up for a no-fuss stay. Its amenities include parking and luggage storage.
Flying to Des Moines
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Book a flight to Des Moines and step off the plane at Des Moines International Airport (DSM), this city's main airport. It's about 6 kilometres from the centre.
The drive to central Des Moines takes about 15 minutes, while public transport is roughly 30 minutes.
If you're flying in late, think about staying at Homewood Suites Des Moines Airport, a 3-star option not far from the runway. One of the many things travellers like most about this place is its service.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham des Moines Airport is a reliable 2-star stay that's also near DSM. It has an overall rating of 4-plus out of 5 from satisfied guests.
Want a few more ideas? Fairfield Inn & Suites des Moines Airport adds a little comfort to every connection. Plenty of business travellers make this 2-star hotel their preferred choice.
