Hotels in Des Moines

Free cancellation options if plans change

Earn rewards on every night you stay

Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Sep 25 - Sep 26
Tomorrow
Sep 26 - Sep 27
This weekend
Sep 25 - Sep 27
Next weekend
Oct 2 - Oct 4

Where to stay in Des Moines?

Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Des Moines on Hotels.com. These Des Moines hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveller experience. Last updated on .

1. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Downtown Des Moines
P8,799
P9,855 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Greater South Side
P4,134
P4,630 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

3. Des Lux Hotel

Des Lux Hotel
Downtown Des Moines
P8,979
P10,056 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Des Lux Hotel

4. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Drake
P6,637
P7,433 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

5. Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,180
P9,162 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

6. Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
Urbandale
P4,480
P5,017 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

7. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P5,803
P6,499 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown

8. Hilton Des Moines Downtown

Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,592
P9,912 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Hilton Des Moines Downtown

9. Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines
West Des Moines
P6,399
P7,167 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

10. Wildwood Lodge

Wildwood Lodge
Clive
P6,272
P7,025 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Wildwood Lodge

11. Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Downtown Des Moines
P5,600
P6,272 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

12. Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Downtown Des Moines
P7,404
P8,292 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

13. Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
Downtown Des Moines
P8,910
P9,979 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 22 - Oct 23
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG

14. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

GrandStay Hotel & Suites
Johnston
P5,120
P5,734 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
GrandStay Hotel & Suites

15. Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P6,889
P7,716 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

16. Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P6,625
P7,420 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

17. Des Moines Marriott Downtown

Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,470
P9,487 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Des Moines Marriott Downtown

18. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston
Johnston
P6,118
P6,852 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

19. AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Greater South Side
P4,066
P4,554 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

20. Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel

Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
Downtown Des Moines
P8,956
P10,031 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
View all properties

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Des Moines

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Drake
P6,637
P7,433 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Downtown Des Moines
P5,600
P6,272 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Downtown Des Moines
P6,463
P7,238 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P6,625
P7,420 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Southwestern Hills
P5,600
P6,272 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P6,889
P7,716 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,180
P9,162 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Clarion Inn Des Moines Airport

Clarion Inn Des Moines Airport
Watrous South
P4,105
P4,598 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Clarion Inn Des Moines Airport

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Sonesta Essential Des Moines
Lovington
P4,259
P4,958 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport
Des Moines
P7,704
P8,628 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport
View all properties

You can also stay at hotels with a pool in Des Moines

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Greater South Side
P4,134
P4,630 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Downtown Des Moines
P6,463
P7,238 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Drake
P6,637
P7,433 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,180
P9,162 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Downtown Des Moines
P7,404
P8,292 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Downtown Des Moines
P5,600
P6,272 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P6,625
P7,420 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P6,889
P7,716 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Hilton Des Moines Downtown

Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,592
P9,912 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Hilton Des Moines Downtown

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Downtown Des Moines
P8,470
P9,487 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties
Our prices for hotels in Des Moines are cheapest in December
Price trends for hotels in Des Moines
Pricing is based on two traveler single night rates
View properties in September
Typical weather for Des Moines
September
High 25°C / low 14°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in September
25°
14°
17°
7°
9°
1°
2°
-5°
-2°
-10°
0°
-9°
9°
0°
15°
5°
21°
12°
27°
17°
29°
19°
29°
18°
Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighborhoods in Des Moines

Historic East Village

Des Moines' Historic East Village is where past and present hang out together like old friends. The iconic State Capitol dome watches over cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century brick buildings now housing art galleries and vintage boutiques. Catch live music at Wooly's, dive into Iowa's history at the State Historical Museum, or simply wander among the colorful murals that tell the story of this creative district. Farm-to-table restaurants and craft beer spots showcase Iowa's flavors alongside international cuisine. The neighborhood's walkable core makes exploring easy, with most attractions just blocks apart. Historic boutique hotels and converted lofts offer stylish places to crash after a day of discovering this welcoming urban village.

Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines mixes business with pleasure in the heart of Iowa's capital city. Sleek glass towers stand alongside historic limestone buildings while suited executives share sidewalks with street musicians. Court Avenue District buzzes with gastropubs and live music venues, while the Wells Fargo Arena hosts major sporting events. Art lovers can wander through Pappajohn Sculpture Park or catch Broadway shows at the ornate Civic Center. The dining scene ranges from power-lunch steakhouses to farm-to-table restaurants showcasing local ingredients. Getting around is a breeze with the convenient DART bus system and climate-controlled skywalks connecting major buildings. Hotels cater primarily to business travelers, with rates reflecting downtown's premium location.

Western Gateway

Western Gateway Park dazzles art lovers with its jaw-dropping outdoor sculpture collection where giant steel masterpieces stand proudly on green lawns. The Des Moines Art Center adds even more cultural cred with its rotating exhibitions, while the business district buzzes with well-dressed professionals during weekdays. You can easily spend hours wandering between towering art installations and taking cool photos without spending a dime. Dining options cater mainly to the corporate crowd with upscale lunch spots that close early evening. Hotels here focus on business travelers rather than tourists, but everything's within easy walking distance. The neighborhood quiets down after work hours, so plan your evening activities in nearby downtown areas instead.

Waveland Park

Waveland Park gives golf lovers and family travelers a peaceful retreat from Des Moines' busy downtown scene. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets, expansive green spaces, and rolling fairways at Waveland Municipal Golf Course create a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Culture seekers can catch a show at the Des Moines Community Playhouse or take a short drive to the nearby Des Moines Art Center. Getting around requires a car or rideshare since public transit is limited in this residential area. The trade-off is worth it for the quiet evenings and genuine suburban experience. While dining options are scarce within the neighborhood, vacation rentals with full kitchens make self-catering a breeze for budget-conscious travelers.

Beaverdale

Beaverdale welcomes you with tree-lined streets and distinctive "Beaverdale Brick" homes from the 1920s-40s. This charming Des Moines neighborhood offers an authentic slice of Midwestern suburban life where Tudor Revival and Colonial architecture create a postcard-perfect setting. Kids play in neighborhood parks while locals chat on front porches, creating a genuine community vibe away from tourist crowds. Dining options are limited to cozy cafes and family restaurants with hearty Midwestern comfort food. Most visitors stay in occasional bed-and-breakfasts or vacation rentals in historic homes. The area is best explored by car, with ample street parking and quiet sidewalks perfect for evening strolls under mature oak and maple trees.

Top landmarks in Des Moines

An aerial view of a bustling fairground with various stalls, rides, and a Ferris wheel.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

8.8/10 (945 reviews)
Iowa State Fairgrounds is 3.5 mi (5.6 km) from central Des Moines, why not stop by during your stay. If you have fun at Iowa State Fairgrounds, you'll love Des Moines Civic Center and Science Center of Iowa, both located nearby.
See properties
A city skyline with a river and a bridge.

Iowa Events Center

8.8/10 (573 reviews)
Iowa Events Center is worth a pic or two when discovering Downtown Des Moines.
See properties
A large government building with a golden dome, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.

Iowa State Capitol Building

9.0/10 (354 reviews)
Iowa State Capitol Building is worth a pic or two when discovering Downtown Des Moines.
See properties

Casey's Center

8.8/10 (976 reviews)
You could catch an event at Casey's Center, a stadium in Downtown Des Moines. If you think Casey's Center is cool, you also might like Principal Park and Knapp Center, both located nearby.
See properties

Des Moines Civic Center

8.8/10 (374 reviews)
Downtown Des Moines is home to Des Moines Civic Center, so why not stop by during your stay in Des Moines. If you have fun at Des Moines Civic Center, you'll love Science Center of Iowa, just a short walk away.
See properties

Blank Park Zoo

8.4/10 (350 reviews)
It's feeding time at the zoo! If you want to be reminded of some of the great animals our world is home to, you might want to pay a trip to Blank Park Zoo, located 4.7 mi (7.6 km) from central Des Moines. If you have fun at Blank Park Zoo, you'll love Science Center of Iowa and Des Moines Civic Center, both located nearby.
See properties

Hoyt Sherman Place

8.2/10 (191 reviews)
If you want to see a show while you're in town, try and grab some tickets at Hoyt Sherman Place in Downtown Des Moines. If you enjoy the show and want to see another, Temple Theater is just a short walk away.
See properties

EMC Expo Center

8.4/10 (188 reviews)
EMC Expo Center is worth a pic or two when discovering Downtown Des Moines.
See properties

Des Moines and related destinations

Between the banks of two rivers, a city of surprising delights awaits. The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park displays world-class art under open skies, while Wooly's hosts bands that tomorrow everyone will claim they discovered first. Science Center of Iowa makes learning feel rebellious, with exhibits that encourage touching everything your grade school teacher forbade. Blank Park Zoo houses creatures both exotic and local, the latter looking slightly embarrassed about their Midwestern modesty. The Des Moines Civic Center brings Broadway shows to heartland audiences who appreciate them with genuine enthusiasm. For a perfect afternoon, grab local beer and watch the sunset paint the Walnut Street Bridge in colors that seem almost suspiciously beautiful.

See all hotels in Des Moines
An aerial view of a city with a prominent building featuring a golden dome and green-topped towers.

Check out reviews of Des Moines hotels guests love

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

10/10 Excellent
"Very clean. Nice location."
Ross 1-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Des Lux Hotel

Des Lux Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Gorgeous room, gorgeous hotel, and the downstairs bar was a vibe."
Zachary 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
Des Lux Hotel
AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Pool was under repair"
Pat 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel room was clean and checking in and out was a very smooth process."
Mike 1-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Sonesta Essential Des Moines
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Clean comfortable rooms, staff kind breakfast always variety"
Gail 1-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

10/10 Excellent
"Rooms are nice and clean. The staff is very friendly. The treadmills were out if order."
Misty 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown
Des Moines Marriott Downtown

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

8/10 Good
"location. street parking"
Shelly 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Motel 6 Des Moines, IA - North

Motel 6 Des Moines, IA - North

10/10 Excellent
"It’s a clean comfortable room for a low price."
Edward 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Motel 6 Des Moines, IA - North

Frequently asked questions

Can I book refundable hotels in Des Moines?
If you need the flexibility to change your plans to Des Moines, most properties offer refundable* bookable rates. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Des Moines if I want a vacation home instead of a traditional hotel?
If you want to find a good alternative to a hotel, look over our selection of 139 vacation homes. In addition, there are 155 apartments and 18 condos.
What will the weather in Des Moines be like during my trip?
July and August are typically the warmest months in Des Moines when the average temp is 72°F. January and February are the coldest months when the average temperature is 29°F. May and June are the months with the most rain.
Why should I book my Des Moines hotel with Hotels.com?
There are lots of reasons to book your Des Moines trip with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you flexibility, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.

Find out more about Des Moines

Discover Des Moines: A Hidden Tapestry of Urban Elegance and Natural Wonder

Des Moines, Iowa, offers a delightful blend of urban charm and Midwestern warmth. The city boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with attractions such as the Des Moines Art Centre and the captivating Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Wander through the bustling downtown, where contemporary eateries and boutique shops await. History enthusiasts will appreciate the rich heritage reflected in the local architecture and museums. With a welcoming community and a mix of modern and traditional influences, Des Moines is a refreshing destination for travellers seeking a unique and inviting city break.

Discover great hotels near Des Moines

Des Moines offers a variety of accommodation options, from upscale hotels in the vibrant downtown area to cosy inns and budget-friendly motels. Visitors can enjoy convenient access to local attractions, restaurants, and parks, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's charm and culture. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Des Moines:

  1. Quality Inn West Des Moines - CliveOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly hotel offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for leisure travellers seeking a pleasant stay. Enjoy a clean and tranquil environment, with an array of amenities designed to enhance your experience. The hotel features a delightful breakfast selection, ensuring you start your day on a positive note. Guests appreciate the hotel's excellent location near the ValAir Ballroom, making it ideal for those attending events. With a focus on comfort and accessibility, this hotel promises a satisfying stay for those looking for a value-oriented choice.
  2. Days Inn by Wyndham Des Moines Merle HayOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel is a perfect choice for leisure travellers looking for a welcoming and accommodating environment. With a range of family-oriented amenities and a focus on comfort, it provides an excellent base for exploring the area. Guests can enjoy complimentary cribs and a friendly atmosphere. The property’s design and service create a pleasant retreat, ensuring an enjoyable experience for visitors seeking a reliable and inviting lodging option.
  3. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHGOpens in a new window: This chic 3.0-star hotel welcomes leisure travellers with its modern amenities and a strong commitment to guest satisfaction. With a commendable guest rating of 8.2, it’s an appealing choice for those valuing comfort and style. The hotel boasts pet-friendly policies, making it a standout for those travelling with furry companions. The attentive staff ensures a smooth experience, while the comfortable accommodations provide a relaxing atmosphere. This hotel is designed for those seeking a memorable stay with thoughtful touches that enhance the overall experience.

Where to stay in Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines, Historic East Village, in Court District offer dynamic settings with sports, live music and dining; Historic East Village charms with small-town friendliness and family appeal; Court District provides a lively mix of dining, shopping and romantic venues. For first-time visitors, Historic East Village is best suited with its welcoming blend of culture and community.

  1. Downtown Des MoinesOpens in a new window: If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Des Moines, Downtown Des Moines is the place to be. This lively area boasts a rich array of cultural attractions, including the stunning Iowa State Capitol Building and the Des Moines Civic Center, where you can catch exciting performances. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to venues for basketball and football games, while those who enjoy dining can find a range of delightful options. Biking along the scenic trails adds a touch of adventure to your stay, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's dynamic entertainment scene.
  2. Historic East VillageOpens in a new window: For a charming and friendly atmosphere, Historic East Village offers a delightful experience with its quaint streets and cultural richness. This area is perfect for strolling and discovering local shops, cafes, and theatres. The vibrant community spirit shines through, making it a family-friendly destination. You can enjoy live music and engaging cultural events while dining at unique eateries. Its close-knit vibe, combined with access to local businesses, makes it an inviting spot for those wanting to experience the warmth of Des Moines.
  3. Court DistrictOpens in a new window: If shopping and dining are high on your agenda, the Court District is a fantastic choice. This area features a variety of boutiques and shops that cater to all tastes, while a lively dining scene awaits you, perfect for a romantic evening out. With its cultural attractions and nightlife options, you can easily find a spot to unwind and enjoy some entertainment. The atmosphere is perfect for socialising, whether you’re out for a casual night or a special occasion, making it a vibrant area to stay in Des Moines.

Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines is a vibrant hub brimming with excitement, offering a delightful mix of live music, thrilling sports events, and lively festivals. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through scenic parks, catch a gripping basketball match, or indulge in captivating theatre performances. This charming city is a fantastic destination for those seeking fun and entertainment!

  • Iowa State FairgroundsOpens in a new window – Visit the iconic Iowa State Fairgrounds, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere of fairs and events throughout the year. Enjoy delicious local food, explore numerous exhibits, and take part in various activities that celebrate Iowa’s rich agricultural heritage.
  • AdventurelandOpens in a new window – Thrill-seekers will love Adventureland, a lively amusement park packed with exciting rides and attractions. From roller coasters that twist and turn to family-friendly rides, there’s something here to keep everyone entertained for hours. Don’t forget to enjoy the live shows and delicious treats available throughout the park!
  • Iowa State Capitol BuildingOpens in a new window – Discover the stunning Iowa State Capitol Building, an architectural gem that boasts a golden dome and intricate designs. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and the legislative process, and be sure to explore the beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding this historic civic structure.
  • Des Moines Civic CenterOpens in a new window – Dive into the vibrant performing arts scene at the Des Moines Civic Center, where you can catch a variety of shows, from Broadway productions to concerts. This modern arts centre is a hub for creativity and showcases the talents of both local and national performers.
  • Greater Des Moines Botanical GardenOpens in a new window – Stroll through the serene Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a lush oasis featuring diverse plant collections. Take your time to appreciate the vibrant flowers, tranquil water features, and themed gardens. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation or a leisurely walk amidst nature’s beauty.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Des Moines

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Des Moines is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a fulfilling experience of the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including sports events, live music, festivals, theatre performances, and delightful dining options, all of which offer great value for money. Additionally, one might find that prices could drop further during these months, making it an excellent choice for those travelling on a budget.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals for hotels in Des Moines, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. It's also wise to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're notified if rooms become available or prices drop, making it easier to plan your spontaneous getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary due to factors including the hotel’s location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your dates could help you save on your stay in a Des Moines hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels may offer a more personalised experience and sometimes even better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below average, and if it appears to be on the higher side, we might suggest alternative dates that could help you secure a more advantageous rate.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive; however, with Des Moines's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that still offers good connectivity. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Des Moines are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Keep exploring