Find hotels in Des Moines, IA from £38

Top reasons to visit Des Moines

• Diverse Activities: Des Moines boasts family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and vibrant fairground shows that reflect community spirit.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore the lively downtown area and upscale shops in West Des Moines, showcasing Midwestern charm.
• Historic Attractions: Visit iconic civic government buildings and urban parks that highlight the city's rich history.
• Shopping Opportunities: Enjoy excellent shopping at local malls and boutique centres catering to all tastes.
• Welcoming Accommodations: Experience a range of comfortable hotel options, including pet-friendly and business-friendly facilities.

Find great hotels in Des Moines

Discover a range of welcoming hotel accommodations in Des Moines, where comfort meets convenience. From business-friendly facilities to pet-friendly options, you’ll find the perfect stay for your needs. Whether you're seeking the best hotels in the heart of downtown or top-rated motels nearby, Des Moines offers a variety of choices. Embrace an inclusive atmosphere that caters to all travellers, including the LGBTQIA community, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.

• WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines: A budget-friendly hotel designed for both business and leisure travellers, WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines offers a practical and comfortable stay. Located in Des Moines, this property is particularly appealing to pet owners, as it welcomes dogs and cats with specific weight restrictions. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms equipped with kitchen facilities, making it an excellent choice for extended stays. The property's focus on convenience and affordability ensures a pleasant experience for those seeking a home-like atmosphere during their travels.
• Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA: With a commendable guest rating of 8.0, Motel 6 West Des Moines is another budget-friendly option situated in Des Moines. This motel is ideal for travellers looking for a simple yet comfortable stay, and it also caters to pet owners, allowing pets free of charge. The property boasts a straightforward design, with clean rooms and essential amenities, ensuring guests have everything they need for a hassle-free visit. Its convenient location makes it a practical base for exploring the surrounding areas.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport: Rated 8.6 out of 10, Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport is a fantastic choice for families and business travellers alike. Situated conveniently near the airport, this budget-friendly hotel provides amenities tailored for children, such as complimentary cribs. The inviting atmosphere and family-friendly services make it an excellent choice for those travelling with little ones. Guests appreciate the combination of comfort and practicality, ensuring a pleasant stay during their visit to Des Moines.

Where to stay in Des Moines

Discover the vibrant city of Des Moines, where family-friendly attractions and charming neighbourhoods await. Stroll through the lively downtown area, explore the upscale shops in West Des Moines, and enjoy the local malls that embody Midwestern charm. With a blend of outdoor pursuits and business opportunities, Des Moines offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation in the heart of the American Midwest.

• West Des Moines: Nestled adjacent to the vibrant city of Des Moines, West Des Moines offers a blend of urban sophistication and family-friendly attractions. This city is a fantastic destination for those seeking shopping experiences, with its numerous shopping malls and centres, as well as the lively fairground scene. West Des Moines is particularly popular for business travel and family outings, with peak visitor numbers in the spring and summer months. Don’t miss the local landmarks, including event conference venues and picturesque lakes, which provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation.
• Ankeny: Located just north of Des Moines, Ankeny is known for its adventurous spirit and outdoor activities. The city is a hotspot for families, offering a variety of educational facilities alongside amusement parks and campgrounds. Ankeny attracts a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak times in the warmer months of spring and summer. The proximity to exciting landmarks such as theme parks and waterparks makes Ankeny a delightful destination for those seeking fun-filled experiences and outdoor adventures.
• Urbandale: Situated conveniently near Des Moines, Urbandale is a dynamic city that caters to both business travellers and families alike. The city boasts a variety of shopping centres and arena entertainment facilities, making it a vibrant place to explore. Visitors typically flock here during the spring and summer seasons, drawn by the numerous attractions nearby, including event conference venues and exciting theme parks. With its welcoming community and diverse offerings, Urbandale promises a fulfilling urban experience for all who visit.

Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business opportunities. Visitors can enjoy excellent shopping at various centres, explore local attractions, and take part in day trips. The city also hosts auto shows and has fitness centres to cater to a range of interests. Don’t miss the vibrant fairground shows that showcase the community spirit of this charming Midwestern city.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit Jordan Creek Town Center, featuring a variety of shops and restaurants. Alternatively, head to Valley West Mall for a mix of popular brands and unique boutiques. Don’t miss the Downtown Farmers' Market for local crafts and fresh produce.

Recreation

The Des Moines Wellness Spa offers a tranquil atmosphere with rejuvenating massages and holistic treatments. For outdoor relaxation, visit Gray's Lake Park, where you can stroll along scenic pathways, enjoy paddleboarding, or simply unwind by the water’s edge amidst lush greenery.

Adventure

In Des Moines, explore the scenic trails at Gray’s Lake Park, perfect for hiking and kayaking. Experience thrilling rides at Adventureland Park, featuring roller coasters and water slides. For a unique challenge, try indoor rock climbing at Climb Iowa, suitable for all skill levels.

Nightlife

In Des Moines, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife at the trendy Hessen Haus for a German beer experience. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Gas Lamp, where live music fills the air. Alternatively, unwind at the stylish Rooftop at the Des Moines Embassy Suites for stunning views.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Des Moines

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Des Moines are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Des Moines is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Des Moines is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Des Moines with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business-themed attractions. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and vibrant fairgrounds. The city caters to those seeking a city experience with plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun and family bonding, making it an ideal destination for various types of travellers looking to immerse themselves in local culture and leisure.

• Iowa State Capitol Building: A stunning example of 19th-century architecture, the Iowa State Capitol Building boasts a magnificent gold-leaf dome and intricate interior designs. Visitors can explore its rich history and learn about Iowa's legislative process while soaking in the cultural ambiance.
• 801 Grand: As one of the tallest buildings in Iowa, 801 Grand is an iconic landmark in Des Moines. Its impressive height and unique design make for a striking urban skyline, offering a glimpse into the city's modern architectural landscape.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the Iowa State Fairgrounds hosts the famous Iowa State Fair. This family-friendly venue features outdoor activities, agricultural exhibits, and a variety of entertainment options, making it a perfect spot for all ages to enjoy.

Best time to go to Des Moines

The best time to visit Des Moines can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Des Moines falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Des Moines falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Des Moines

When planning your visit to Des Moines, you have a few airport options. Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is conveniently located only 6.4km from the city centre, with nearby hotels such as the 4.5-star Hotel Fort Des Moines and the stylish Hotel Renovo, both within 14.5km. Cedar Rapids Airport (CID) is 162.5km away, featuring hotels like the Doubletree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, 9.7km from the airport. Lastly, Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 146.4km from Des Moines, offering The Black Hawk Hotel just 4.8km away. Each airport provides various transportation services to access local accommodations.