Des Moines Holidays
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Your Des Moines Holiday
From its progressive thinking to its friendly locals and rural countryside, there are countless reasons to stay in the riverfront city of Des Moines. Discover these highlights and more when you lock in your holiday package to Des Moines. Eager to start exploring your surroundings? Iowa State Fairgrounds, Iowa State Capitol Building and Blank Park Zoo are just three of the best places to visit during your trip to Des Moines. Your perfect Des Moines holiday is a couple of clicks away. Explore hotels, flights and more on Expedia for an adventure that's tailored to suit your style.
Where to stay in Des Moines
Historic East Village
The East Village blends historic charm with Des Moines' trendiest urban scene. Cobblestone streets wind past the iconic State Capitol dome while restored 19th-century brick buildings house art galleries and boutiques. This walkable district buzzes with local culture and unique shopping experiences. Farm-to-table restaurants showcase Iowa ingredients alongside craft beer venues and cocktail lounges. Independent shops offer locally-made goods and vintage finds throughout the area. The State Historical Museum and Capitol grounds provide cultural depth while evening concerts at Wooly's capture the area's creative spirit.
Downtown Des Moines
City centre Des Moines balances business energy with cultural flair. Modern glass towers stand beside historic limestone buildings while the Wells Fargo Arena anchors the skyline. Court Avenue District pulses with lively restaurants and bars where locals gather after work. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park offers an artistic retreat among office buildings. Business travellers appreciate the skywalk system connecting major buildings during Iowa's changing seasons. Culture seekers enjoy performances at the Des Moines Civic Centre and weekend farmers markets. The scenic riverwalk provides peaceful paths along the water's edge for morning jogs or evening strolls.
Western Gateway
Western Gateway is a cultural jewel in Des Moines where art and business blend seamlessly. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park anchors the area with 30 striking artworks scattered across 4.4 acres of manicured grounds. Visitors can wander between towering steel installations and whimsical bronze figures in this outdoor gallery. The area balances world-class cultural attractions with a sleek corporate environment. Wide boulevards with landscaped medians create an orderly, spacious streetscape. The Des Moines Art Centre and Temple for Performing Arts offer additional cultural experiences just steps away from major business headquarters.
Waveland Park
Waveland Park offers a peaceful retreat in Des Moines where leafy residential streets lead to an expansive green oasis. This family-friendly area centers around its namesake park and the historic Waveland Golf Course with rolling fairways. The Des Moines Community Playhouse adds cultural flair to this suburban haven. Tree-lined avenues showcase well-maintained homes with manicured lawns and seasonal gardens. Enjoy morning walks through the park's 120 acres of trails and playgrounds. Golf enthusiasts appreciate the classic course while families gather at local sports fields. City centre Des Moines attractions remain just a short drive away.
Beaverdale
Beaverdale offers an authentic slice of Midwestern suburban charm with its distinctive "Beaverdale Brick" homes from the 1920s-1940s. Tree-canopied streets create natural archways over well-maintained lawns and gardens. This welcoming Des Moines area provides a peaceful retreat from urban bustle. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along quiet residential streets with excellent pavements. The family-oriented atmosphere showcases genuine suburban culture with area parks and minimal tourist infrastructure. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Tudor Revival and Colonial styles that define this historic residential haven.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Des Moines
Jordan Creek Town Center
Des Moines Hotel Deals
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton"Room was super clean, spacious and staff was amazing and very helpful. The bar is super cool. Hint: speakeasy"
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University"We enjoyed our stay. The staff are fantastic, the room was great, and the breakfast was delicious. We loved the large, spacious room, and the bed was very comfortable."
Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek
Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek"Great stay. Very clean and very good breakfast."
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG"It was conveniently located and parking was easy. The room itself was nice, nothing over the top like some suites can be but laid out quite well."
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA
Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek
Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek"Had a late check-in for an overnight stay due to a family funeral the next morning. We were very glad to see the room was as clean as other reviews stated. Parts of the tub and toilet showed rust and wear, but everything worked for what we needed. Breakfast was well displayed and offered a good variety. We were able to drop off keys for an easy check out."
Find out more about Des Moines
Things to do in Des Moines
Des Moines is an excellent destination for family outings, outdoor adventures, and business-themed trips. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as shopping malls and vibrant fairgrounds, making it perfect for weekend getaways and day trips. The city offers a variety of entertainment options, ensuring enjoyable tours and activities for all ages, whether you're seeking retail therapy or family-friendly fun.
Shopping
Jordan Creek Town Center offers a vibrant shopping experience with numerous shops and entertainment options. For unique gifts, visit the Downtown Farmers' Market, where you’ll find local crafts and produce. Hawthorne Plaza is another great spot for a variety of shops in a lively atmosphere.
Recreation
Experience the excitement at Principal Park, where you can catch a sports game and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. For a touch of culture, head to Hoyt Sherman Place, a delightful theatre offering romantic performances and family-friendly shows. Don't miss the lively entertainment at Val Air Ballroom, known for its fantastic music concerts.
Adventure
Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park offers an exhilarating experience with its vibrant atmosphere and bouncing activities for all ages. For a scenic outdoor adventure, explore the Greenbelt Trail, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Don’t miss the Sky Glider East for a thrilling ride above the stunning landscapes of Des Moines.
Nightlife
Des Moines boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like the trendy Wooly’s for live music and the stylish 1908 Draught House for craft beers. For a lively bar scene, explore the East Village, where you can find diverse options to suit your evening mood.
Find the best attractions in Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa, is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore urban parks, modern colleges, and conference venues that cater to diverse interests. The city offers a range of attractions, including top and major tourist sites, perfect for those seeking a vibrant city experience. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities or family-friendly events, Des Moines has something for everyone to enjoy.
- Adventureland: Dive into a world of excitement at Adventureland, an amusement park in Des Moines perfect for families. With thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and a variety of attractions, it offers a vibrant outdoor adventure atmosphere that guarantees fun for all ages. Experience the joy of roller coasters and water rides amidst beautifully landscaped surroundings.
- Gray’s Lake Park: A serene oasis within the city, Gray’s Lake Park features a picturesque water feature ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and kayaking. Enjoy stunning views of the skyline while relaxing along the scenic walking trails that encircle the lake, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
- Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center: This modern event venue hosts a range of conferences, trade shows, and events. With state-of-the-art facilities and a professional atmosphere, it’s a hub for business gatherings, offering ample space for networking and collaboration.
Best time to go to Des Moines
The best time to visit Des Moines is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Des Moines
- Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
- Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Des Moines.
- Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
- Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I book my Des Moines holiday with Expedia?
Expedia has you covered for all aspects of your Des Moines holiday. You'll always land the best deals around, but when you bundle your accommodation, airfares and/or car hire into a holiday package, you'll get even more savings. Want to truly make the most of your stay? Add some tours and activities to your package. Expedia offers flexible cancellation policies on almost all bookings, so there's no need to stress if you have to change your plans. Visit our Customer Service Portal link to discover more.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Des Moines?
May, July and August are the busiest months in Des Moines, while November, December and January are generally a lot quieter. Plan your escape to Des Moines based on what kind of adventure you're looking for. January is the coolest month, when average daytime temperatures are -5ºC. In July, the warmest month, expect temperatures of around 23ºC during the day.
What is the top hotel for my holiday in Des Moines?
Offering plenty of amenities and home comforts, Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton will make an ideal base for your Des Moines trip.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Des Moines?
Creating your own Des Moines holiday with Expedia is one of the best ways to save. We have over 400 airlines and 321,000 hotels around the world. With such an amazing range to select from, you'll have no trouble creating your dream getaway. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you book a flight and hotel together with Expedia.
What should I do on my Des Moines holiday?
There's an almost endless list of things to do and see while on your holiday in Des Moines. Iowa State Fairgrounds, Adventureland, Iowa State Capitol Building and Blank Park Zoo are among this city's major attractions.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Des Moines?
There's plenty to do in Des Moines, so stay near its top sights and allow yourself more time sightseeing. Iowa State Fairgrounds is one place to add to your itinerary.
Do I need a visa for my Des Moines holiday?
Research the latest information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for business, study or leisure will determine if you'll require a visa for Des Moines. Familiarise yourself with the application process, including the required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Finalise your application well in advance to allow sufficient processing time. Some visas can take weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country and time of year.
What should I wear on my Des Moines holiday?
Do a little research into the sorts of clothing people in Des Moines wear, and maybe even look up style blogs for some fashion inspiration. Aim to create a versatile travel wardrobe with pieces that work for your destination and showcase your unique sense of style. Be sure to look at the local weather forecast so you can pack your bags accordingly. The warmest time of year in Des Moines is July, with average daytime temperatures of 23ºC. If you're on holiday in the coolest month of January, the mercury hovers around -5ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Des Moines holiday include?
Select from a combination of hotels, flights and hire cars. Once you've made your booking, add some activities and tours. Want to pick your airfare class? That's also possible. The choice is yours when it comes to putting together your perfect Des Moines trip. Expedia features different types of properties, with the most sought after in Des Moines including apartments and private holiday homes. With Expedia, you'll always enjoy the flexibility and freedom to tailor your holiday any way you want.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Des Moines holidays?
We do. Expedia has partnered with online lender Klarna to help you conveniently pay for your trip in instalments. Simply pick the payment plan that suits you best during the checkout process and take the stress out of budgeting for your trip. Don't forget to bundle your accommodation, flights and car hire with Expedia to get the biggest bang for your buck. Check out our flexible payment options below:
- Pay monthly holidays: If paying across multiple transactions works for you, Klarna can help. Paying in multiple instalments will make your getaway dreams come true.
- No-deposit holidays: If no upfront fee for your getaway makes hitting that "book now" button easier, go for a no-deposit holiday plan from Klarna so you can Book Now, Pay Later!
Can I choose my airline with a Des Moines Expedia holiday?
You can, and with over 400 airlines to choose from worldwide, you're spoiled for choice. Browse the available options and see which airline suits your needs and budget.