One great thing about Des Moines is that it's only a day's drive from Chicago, presenting the perfect opportunity for day trips to the windy city. Of course, you won't want to miss everything Des Moines has to offer, such as free festivals, outdoor concerts, and a happening art scene. You can find events going on all year in this laid-back Midwest city. If possible, try to book a hotel connected to the skywalk so you don't have to drive as much.
Des Moines is also known for its fabulous farmers markets. You can attend one every Saturday morning from May to October. Plus, there are indoor farmers markets during the winter on a smaller scale. One of the best things about the farmers markets in Des Moines is that you can buy everything from fresh produce and flowers to farm-raised meat and ready-to-eat meals, like burritos. If you've never been to Des Moines, the farmers market is one thing you have to experience.
When to Visit Des Moines, IA
People travel to Des Moines year-round for various reasons. However, the most popular time to visit this city is during summer because of the warm weather in the mid 70s to 80s. Several festivals happen in Des Moines between July and August, and you can take advantage of the biking trails and parks without the need for a jacket. The East Village is always a great place to visit.
Fall is also a wonderful time to visit Des Moines because of the foliage. There are several gardens and parks throughout the city that have flowers and other plants on display. You can spend hours taking pictures and enjoying the beautiful landscape. Most people don't visit Des Moines during the winter, but there are skiing and snowmobiling options for those who want to do that.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Des Moines, IA:
Des Moines, IA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Des Moines, IA. Browse these illustrations to calculate the best time period to stay in Des Moines for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Des Moines, IA
4 Star Average Prices: $142.70
Most of the hotels in Des Moines are on the affordable side because the city is not a major tourist destination. However, you can find luxury options, such as the Des Lux Hotel. It is centrally located to downtown and a favorite pick of people looking for a romantic night because of the spa options. Guests can also enjoy the bar lounge area, 24-hour fitness facilities, and free breakfast. Plus, Des Lux Hotel is centrally located for convenience.
Another great place to stay if you're looking for luxury is the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel. It is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and it is a landmark of the city. The inside exudes luxury and the hotel is conveniently located on the climate-controlled skywalk for easy access to the Iowa Events Center, Civic Center, and Wells Fargo Arena in Downtown Des Moines. Many people choose to stay at the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel because it offers 12,000 square feet of space for conferences and other events, such as weddings.
Affordable Hotel Options in Des Moines, IA
3 Star Average Prices: $130.00
The cost of living in Des Moines is relatively low in comparison to most of the U.S. However, that doesn't mean all the hotels have low prices. You still want to shop around for the best rates. If you're willing to drive to downtown instead of staying in the city center, you can find the best deals on hotels. Of course, if you don't plan on driving, a hotel in the center of the city can save you money since you can walk to a lot of attractions. You'll have to decide the best hotel option for your situation.
Some of the lowest-cost options include the Rodeway Inn Des Moines, Cozy Rest Motel, and Extend A Suites. However, don't expect grand accommodations at these hotels. Look for hotels that offer free breakfast to give you the best bang for your buck.
One of the most affordable hotels in Des Moines is the Days Inn & Suites that serves the airport. It is business friendly and family friendly, with free Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast. The rooms at the Days Inn & Suites are standard but comfortable with all the amenities you truly need. Since the hotel is near the airport, you can easily rent a car to get to downtown, too.
Ramada offers two affordable hotels in Des Moines: The Ramada Hotel Des Moines Airport and Ramada Tropics Resort and Conference Center. The Ramada at the airport is also near Blank Park Zoo and gives you all the amenities you need to relax after a busy day. The Ramada Tropics Resort offers similar accommodation a little outside the city in Urbandale.
2 Star Average Prices: $103.72
Best Discounts in Des Moines, IA
If you're an AAA member, a senior citizen, or you serve in the armed forces, you can receive discounted rates at certain hotels in Des Moines. Discount options are available from the Embassy Suites Hotel, Residence Inn by Marriott, Quality Inn & Suites Event, and Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Downtown. Of course, you can ask any hotel where you want to stay if they offer special discounts — it doesn't hurt to ask. Check out HotelPlanner.com for a quick list of hotels that offer these types of discounts.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown is one of the more upscale hotel offerings in the city, but you can stay there affordably if you can get a discount. It is family friendly and business-friendly. Plus, it is part of the Marriott Rewards Program, so you can save money if you are a member. Also, ask about AAA discounts and discounts for seniors. Many of the rooms at the Marriott provide great city views, along with all the deluxe accommodations you'd expect from a hotel. The earlier you book this hotel, the more money you can save.
Best Value Options in Des Moines, IA
If you're looking for a midrange hotel that offers great value, the Hyatt Place hotel is located in downtown Des Moines. This gives guests easy access to downtown's skywalk system, as well as the East Village. The location of the Hyatt Place definitely adds value to this hotel. The furnishings and decorations at the Hyatt Place are modern and comfortable and guests will enjoy the on-site amenities, including a pool and fitness room.
Another best value option in Des Moines is the Embassy Suites hotel in the downtown area. All of the rooms feature kitchenettes with microwaves and refrigerators, as well as sofabeds, LCD TVs, Wi-Fi, and other nice amenities. The Embassy Suites hotel also has an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and indoor pool to make your stay better. You can order breakfast for free and enjoy the bar and lounge area in the evening. The Embassy Suites hotel takes care of everything for you, so you don't have to worry about a thing.
Top Des Moines, IA, Destinations
Even though Des Moines is not a top destination for tourists in the Midwest, there are still plenty of attractions to keep you busy and having fun. Championship golf courses abound, and there are tons of bike trails within the city limits. Des Moines is truly a beautiful place to visit. If you have time during your stay, take a stroll through Better Homes and Gardens' Test Garden and the Botanical Center. Iowa State Fairgrounds is also beautiful and a fun place to go if events are going on.
The art scene in Des Moines also provides plenty of opportunities for tourists. For instance, the Des Moines Art Center displays tons of contemporary artwork, and there is a beautiful landscape outside the door where you can take nice pictures. The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park also features artwork from around the world. The park is in the middle of downtown and an easy walk from many of the hotels in Des Moines.
If you're looking for more things to do, you can attend a performance at the Civic Center, visit Blank Park Zoo, find some fun wineries and breweries, or check out some trendy restaurants. The Django restaurant gets rave reviews and Zombie Burger is definitely fun.
Des Moines offers a variety of hotel options to make your stay perfect, whether you're traveling on a tight budget or you're looking for deluxe accommodations that put you in the center of all the action. For convenience, pick a hotel near the downtown area. This will give you the most time to explore all that Des Moines has to offer.
'Forgive all who have offended you, not for them, but for yourself said Harriet Nelson, a famous actress from Des Moines. This piece of wisdom has echoed throughout history, but it is still as relevant as ever in the modern city of Des Moines. Without doubt, there is much to see in this beautiful town. Hotels in Des Moines can give both value and luxury so if you're planning a trip, read on to find the best hotel for you.
Budget Stays in Des Moines
If you want cheap hotels then following are the best options for you. Super 8 Clive in West Des Moines is a successful establishment and many people choose to stay there on return visits to the city, due to its clean, tidy rooms and polite staff. This hotel is pet friendly and also offers free Wi-Fi to its guests. It is within walking distance of many local restaurants and is situated near the main road for quick access to any part of town by car. The AmericInn Hotel and Suites is right next to the international airport of Des Moines, excellent for late night arrivals. It offers a swimming pool and gym, as well as a free breakfast. It is an excellent hotel for those who just want a place to relax after a long day in the city. The Comfort Inn is another good choice if neither of the others take your fancy. These are the best cheap hotels in the city.
Luxury Accommodation in Des Moines
The capital of Iowa is a bustling commercial giant, evidently seen by its lights and high rise buildings. Naturally then, Des Moines hotels can cater for even the richest taste. Embassy Suites, in down town Des Moines, is a prime option. When you enter through the glass doors you will be greeted by an atrium that has been lovingly decorated with a five story cascading waterfall, which dominates the center and creates a calm and relaxing atmosphere for all. Just across from the hotel is an ice rink which is open in the winter months and the state capitol complex of Iowa is clearly visible to the East. This hotel has a magical feeling to it, which will make your stay unforgettable. The Double tree hotel and the Marriott Downtown hotel are two more highly respected hotels which are in the center of the city and offer all the comforts you could possibly need.
Fancy Something Different?
Independent and boutique hotels in Des Moines don't get much better than The Des Lux Hotel. The lobby is beautiful, with dark wood accents and polished floors. The rooms are very large, with plenty of clean linen and pillows to make yourself comfortable. Huge windows allow plenty of light into your room, making the space feel even larger. The bar and gym are of top quality, and you can even relax around the fireplace in the lobby and listen to some tunes from their piano. The Cozy Rest Motel is another lovely independent hotel to stay at, with a very modest price point while still maintaining quality. Des Moines hotels come in a variety of sizes and types, but I hope this list has helped you choose one that will compliment your trip perfectly.
FAQs about hotels in Des Moines
How much does a cheap hotel in Des Moines cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Des Moines can be as cheap as $103.72 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Des Moines cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Des Moines has been $130.00 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Des Moines cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Des Moines has been $142.70 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What are the best independent hotels in Des Moines?
Surety Hotel and Des Lux Hotel are the best rated independent hotels (not part of a big brand).
Verified reviews of the city of Des Moines
Below are reviews of the city of Des Moines, IA from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Near Convention Center"
Score
5.0 / 5
The convention center is really pretty and very well kept! I had a nice experience there!
Cassie D., from 21-Oct-2024
"Fun, Safe, Clean!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Fun, safe and clean. The people are terrific
George A., from 18-Sep-2024
"Restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Restaurants!
Tracey M., from 13-Sep-2024
"Beautiful City!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful city..
Joel M., from 27-Aug-2024
"Plenty to do for all!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Ease of getting around. Plenty to do for any interest.
Diane F., from 18-Aug-2024
"Reasonable Rates"
Score
4.0 / 5
A lot of places were charging really high because of the fair but this hotel was practical with their pricing.
Tommy M., from 17-Aug-2024
"The concert at the fair was GREAT!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The concert at the fair was GREAT!
Mary T., from 16-Aug-2024
"Shuttle to the State Fair!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Went to state fair, had a great experience. VFW provided shuttle to the gate.
Linda T., from 15-Aug-2024
"Motley School Tavern is close and has excellent food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Motley School Tavern is close and has excellent food!
Scott H., from 11-Aug-2024
"Great Downtown Location!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Stayed at downtown Marriott. Found downtown to be clean with many restaurants in walking distance.
Eric L., from 03-Aug-2024
"Close to Fairgrounds and Iowa Annual Car Show"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very close to Iowa annual car show; 15' from the fairgrounds.
Jami R., from 16-Jul-2024
"West Des Moines is very new and clean."
Score
4.0 / 5
West Des Moines is very new and clean (lots of recent growth).
Jeff B., from 14-Jul-2024
"Everything!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything!
Larry M., from 09-Jul-2024
"All Around great Trip."
Score
5.0 / 5
The restaurants were amazing. We live in Pella so it was nice to be able to visit our son while staying at the hotel! I really enjoyed the pool and hot tub! Thank you for making our senior dog feel welcome also!
Terri F., from 08-Jul-2024
"Great Family Location."
Score
4.0 / 5
we went to the Iowa Cubs games had a blast took all the kids and grandkids.
Richard M., from 07-Jul-2024
"Fireworks Display!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Went across the street to Embassy Clue to watch the fireworks!
Janet P., from 07-Jul-2024
"Des Moines was nice."
Score
5.0 / 5
Des Moines was nice.
Charles K., from 02-Jul-2024
"Conveniently Located Hotel "
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel was conveniently located for the wedding venue right next door which was a great advantage for someone not really familiar with the downtown area of Des Moines.
Susan D., from 25-Jun-2024
"Easy to Navigate"
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy to naviigate
Roy F., from 22-Jun-2024
"Easy to get around."
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy to find your way around.
Donna K., from 19-Jun-2024
"Close to Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurants were fairly close to the hotel.
Collette F., from 12-May-2024
"Center of The Heartland!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Center of the heartland.
Steve G., from 24-Mar-2024
"Welcoming!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel desk receptionists were welcoming.
Marita S., from 29-Feb-2024
"Great State Wrestling!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great state wrestling!
Joni W., from 15-Feb-2024
"Friendly"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everyone was friendly.
Janie B., from 12-Feb-2024
"Great Area!"
Score
4.0 / 5
There are tons of bars, restaurants, shopping venues, and some rec/games places really close to Drury at West Glen. Great area in West Des Moines!!
Kendra Leette H., from 01-Jan-2024
"Capital is beautiful!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Capital is beautiful!
David M., from 23-Dec-2023
"Fun!"
Score
4.0 / 5
A lot of fun things to do and I like the airport.
Patricia V., from 22-Dec-2023
"History Museum"
Score
4.0 / 5
History Museum.
Paul B., from 21-Nov-2023
"Proximity to Airport Terminal"
Score
5.0 / 5
I only stayed because of an early flight out of Des Moines.
Paula T., from 08-Oct-2023
"Fun Downtown & Great Event Center"
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy to get around. Fun downtown. Great event center.
Robert P., from 29-Sep-2023
"Beautiful Clean City With Great Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful city, very clean with great resturants!
Tom W., from 27-Sep-2023
"Beautiful city, very clean with great resturants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful city, very clean with great resturants!
Tom W., from 21-Sep-2023
"Nice variety of place to eat in Des Moines, IA."
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice variety of place to eat in Des Moines, IA.
Francis B., from 15-Sep-2023
"Above Average Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
Better than average hotel.
Larry G., from 14-Sep-2023
"The Fair & The State Capitol"
Score
5.0 / 5
Being at the fair and the state capitol.
Michael P., from 20-Aug-2023
"Music Scene"
Score
4.0 / 5
Music scene and architecture!
Toni J., from 19-Jul-2023
"Great Nightlife!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Des Moines was bustling with many things to do during the day and a healthy nightlife too! A surprising gem!
Christine S., from 12-Jul-2023
"Great Nightlife!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The city of Des Moines has a great nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants within walking distance. There were also some good parks with art sculptures.
Nathan Y., from 06-Jul-2023
"The hotel was comfortable, clean and the staff were very helpful. "
Score
4.0 / 5
The hotel was comfortable, clean and the staff were very helpful.
Lloyd H., from 03-Jul-2023
"Good Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Ease in getting around. Clean city, Midwest friendly. Some entertainment, restaurants and Dairy Queen close by.
Patricia S., from 19-Jun-2023
"Lovely Cafes & Lively Bars!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The neighborhood east of the river is a very cool, hipster area. Lots of lovely cafes and lively bars!
Haley G., from 30-May-2023
"Shopping!!!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I live in Altoona but shop in Des Moines!
Susan P., from 28-May-2023
"Lion King"
Score
5.0 / 5
Civic Center was nice. In town to see the Lion King.
Tricia D., from 10-Apr-2023
"Restaurants, Bars & Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Visited bars, restaurants and shopping around that area.
Christy S., from 14-Mar-2023
"The rooms were very clean."
Score
5.0 / 5
The rooms were very clean. Usually only come to Des Moines for dance competitions. Just don't travel too much anywhere.
Jennifer H., from 08-Mar-2023
"Dewey Auto"
Score
5.0 / 5
Dewey Auto sold me a corvette.
Brian H., from 07-Jan-2023
"Great restaurants & bars within walking distance."
Score
5.0 / 5
Great restaurants and bars within walking distance. Nice people all around.
Jolene N., from 22-Nov-2022
"East Village Dining & Bar Options!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Loved the East Village part of downtown Des Moines, can't imagine a neighborhood with better dining and bar options.
Mark R., from 13-Nov-2022
"Close to Airport"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to airport.
Toni N., from 01-Nov-2022
"Near Airport"
Score
5.0 / 5
I was only in DM for a short time to sleep and then go to the airport. I do visit the city often though and I love being there.
Margaret M., from 10-Oct-2022
"Spacious & Clean"
Score
5.0 / 5
Spacious and clean room.
Mark S., from 08-Oct-2022
"Vibrant Night Life!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The city was awesome with very vibrant night life! The Gas Lamp was fantastic!
Terri D., from 28-Aug-2022
"Good Location to Iowa State Fair"
Score
4.0 / 5
We go every year to the Iowa State Fair. We liked the location of the hotel.
Jill G., from 22-Aug-2022
"Nice"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice
Nicole F., from 27-Jul-2022
"Many nice restaurants and shopping places!"
Score
4.0 / 5
City is fine with many nice restaurants and shopping places!
Ellen D., from 24-Jul-2022
"Lovely hotel! Tea Room Wedding Venue is Stunning!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lovely hotel! First time visitor. Wedding venue at the Tea Room was stunning!
Carol F., from 08-Jul-2022
"Great!"
Score
5.0 / 5
It's great. Ate at Bubbas and had a wonderful meal in a stunning restaurant. Easy to navigate streets. Nice selection of restaurants and sites.
Holly J., from 14-May-2022
"It’s really nice there and the people were great."
Score
4.0 / 5
It's really nice there and the people were great.
Nicki L., from 12-Apr-2022
"Great Christkindlmarket! "
Score
4.0 / 5
Great Christkindlmarket! Pretty clean city too! Lots to do!
Alicia B., from 08-Dec-2021
"Visit Des Moines!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The variety of restaurants and entertainment was outstanding!
Sherrie H., from 10-Feb-2020
"Nice"
Score
4.0 / 5
Unfortunately, I didn't have enough time to investigate. However, from what I saw and the people I met, I really liked the vibe. I ate at the Drake Diner and it was fantastic. I'd like to come back when I have more time. The city has a nice feel about it.
Kim M., from 28-Jan-2020
"Great location
"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to the airport. Quick pickup and drop off
Brenda S., from 15-Oct-2019
"Great Stay!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Des Moines is great - everyone should come!
Kodee W., from 31-May-2018
"Well Stayed!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Although the hotel was in Ankeny, it was close enough to Des Moines so (1) several members could fly into the DM airport and be picked up; and (2) a small group of members were able to drive into Des Moines Thursday night to cook a meal for the Ronald McDonald House - and conveniently get back to the hotel before the weekend festivities started!!
Michele T., from 10-Oct-2017
"Great Stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Pappajon Sculpture park, Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden visits.
Jt C., from 28-Aug-2017
"Great hotel!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Des Moines has many options to eat out and offers a variety of inexpensive and free entertainment options. The downtown is beautiful at night!
Jody M., from 31-Jul-2017
" Great city to visit."
Score
4.0 / 5
It was an interesting city to look at and had some building that one needed to take time with.
People were so friendly it was hard to believe. Great city to visit.
Rog R., from 22-Feb-2017
"Near Des Moines"
Score
5.0 / 5
Ankeny is a nice town...spread out, nice scenic countryside and little traffic.
Heather J., from 26-Apr-2016
"Always Enjoy Coming Back"
Score
5.0 / 5
Been here lots so nice town
Kathryn P., from 19-Feb-2016
"A Likable Place"
Score
4.0 / 5
Many excellent restaurants are nearby, there is a great shopping area nearby and the city has nice museums and sightseeing venues.
Luz P., from 14-Oct-2015
"When in Des Moines"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very friendly city with lots to do and great places to eat.
Robert G., from 10-Aug-2015
"Full of Life"
Score
4.0 / 5
There are excellent restaurants and many things to see and do. This city has numerous outdoor activities and beautiful, well maintained public parks, running trails and bike paths.
Luz P., from 17-Sep-2014
"Something to love about"
Score
4.0 / 5
The downtown area is something to love about. It is within walking distance to so many eateries and shops.
Barbara S., from 06-Aug-2014
"Des Moines IA is great for car shows."
Score
5.0 / 5
I was at the Goodguy's Car Show. I had a great time, and I plan on going back.
Patricia W., from 06-Jul-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Des Moines, IA shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 75 reviews