The Best Hotels Closest to Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines - 2026 Updated Prices

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

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Our top choices for Iowa State Fairgrounds hotels

A spacious indoor area with multiple tables and chairs, large windows, and a modern ceiling design.

Three vending machines with various snacks and drinks, a payment terminal, and a small window with a view of the outside.

A hotel room with a hot tub, a dining area, and a window with a view.

An indoor swimming pool with clear windows, a lifeguard chair, and a lifebuoy on the wall.

1. Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

0.4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Brittany

£49

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A modern conference room with a large wooden table, comfortable seating, and a fireplace.

A spacious, modern interior with a long wooden table and bar stools, a seating area with sofas, and a kitchen area with a countertop and shelving.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a large window.

2. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

9.3 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Maureen

£61

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A spacious lobby with high ceilings, large windows, and a chandelier.

A spacious lobby with a central round table, green seating, and large arched windows.

A double door entrance to a hotel with a sign above reading "PROUDFOOT & BIRD".

A grand lobby with a piano, a chandelier, and a seating area.

3. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Western Gateway, 4.2 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Todd

£119

includes taxes & fees

3 Oct - 4 Oct

A luxurious living room with a stone fireplace, a large mirror, and two blue armchairs.

A spacious hotel lobby with high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and a bar area.

A hotel lobby with a polished marble floor, a grand chandelier, and traditional decor including lion statues.

4. Des Lux Hotel

Court District, 4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Heidi

£121

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

An outdoor seating area with sofas and tables, stone pillars, and a pathway leading to a building.

A modern hotel with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

A bar area with a marble counter, a refrigerated display case with beverages, and a wall-mounted decorative piece.

A hotel room with a large window offering a view of a body of water and a grassy area.

5. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

4.4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

natallie

£103

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, tiled walls, and a no diving sign.

A modern lobby with a sectional sofa, blue armchairs, and a bar area.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'La Quinta' sign, a covered entrance, and a parking lot.

A modern lounge area with a mix of seating options, including sofas and chairs, a bar area, and a large screen TV.

6. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

5.6 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Michael

£76

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

A swimming pool with four lounge chairs and a view of trees through large windows.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and an orange chair.

A reception area with two reception desks, a blue geometric wall design, and hanging pendant lights.

7. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

7.8 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

gary

£84

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

An outdoor seating area with yellow chairs and a colorful sofa, a fire pit, and a wooden ceiling with hanging lights.

A modern restaurant with a long wooden table and chairs, a counter with a beverage dispenser, and shelves with bowls and glasses.

A hotel with a modern exterior, a covered outdoor seating area, and a traditional building in the background.

A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a desk, and a television.

8. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Drake, 5.3 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Megan

£89

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

A modern hotel lobby with a round coffee table, sofas, and a TV mounted on the wall.

A hotel with a stone facade, a covered entrance, and an American flag.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a tiled floor.

A hotel room with a grey sofa, a matching ottoman, a flat-screen TV on a wooden desk, a standing lamp, and a framed abstract painting on the wall.

9. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

7.3 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

nola

£104

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

A spacious hotel lobby with a blue sofa, a grey armchair, and a flat-screen TV mounted on a textured wall.

An indoor swimming pool with a blue and white color scheme, a lifeguard station, and seating areas with chairs and tables.

A Comfort Inn hotel with a modern facade, multiple floors, and a parking lot with cars.

A hotel lobby with a blue sofa, a beige armchair, a flat-screen TV mounted on a textured wall, a fireplace, and a dining area in the background.

10. Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Downtown Des Moines, 3.7 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Mario

£75

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a computer, a TV, and artwork on the wall.

A reception desk with a 'Welcome' mat, a sign for 'Sleep Inn & Suites', and a door to the right.

A Sleep Inn & Suites building with a stone facade, multiple windows, and a clear sky.

A modern hotel lobby with multiple seating areas, including tables and chairs, and a reception desk.

11. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

7.7 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Chrisshanna

£79

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

An outdoor seating area with a glass-top fire pit, wicker ottomans, and a sofa.

A modern gym with weightlifting equipment, a bench, and a mirrored wall.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, a blue ceiling, and a 'Poolside is my vibe' sign on the wall.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a bathroom visible through an open door.

12. Home2 Suites By Hilton Altoona Des Moines

6.4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

todd m

£87

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A modern kitchen with dark cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a tiled backsplash.

A modern stadium with a glass facade, a prominent entrance, and an American flag.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a TV, a sofa, and a large window with curtains.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, a metal ladder, and a view of the city at night through large windows.

13. Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Historic East Village, 3.3 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Dawn R.

£100

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A hotel with a reflection in a calm body of water, surrounded by open fields.

A modern reception area with a stone accent wall, a seating area with a sofa and chairs, a computer station, and a sign that reads "Connect & Print".

A hotel room with two large beds, a television, a desk, and a mirror.

A pool area with a view of the city, a table with chairs, and a lounge area with chairs.

14. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

4.4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Tiff

£96

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand, a wall-mounted TV, and a window with curtains.

A modern kitchen with granite countertops, a built-in oven, and a flat-screen TV.

An indoor swimming pool with clear windows, white chairs, and a blue and white color scheme.

A modern hotel room with a sofa, a TV, a fireplace, and a small table.

15. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Watrous South, 6.3 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Felicia

£56

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A La Quinta hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign, a covered entrance, and a brick facade.

A spacious indoor area with multiple seating arrangements, including tables and chairs, a sofa, and a television mounted on the wall.

A large indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a small seating area.

A hotel room with two beds, a sofa, a desk, and a TV.

16. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

7.7 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jessica

£69

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A coffee station with two espresso machines and a display of coffee cups and pods.

A conference room with round tables and chairs, a carpeted floor, and ceiling lights.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a flat-screen TV, and a window with patterned curtains.

A conference room with multiple tables and chairs, a large window, and artwork on the wall.

17. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Altoona-Des Moines by IHG

6.5 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

rick

£87

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

A hotel exterior with a stone fire feature, outdoor seating, and a curved building facade.

A swimming pool with chairs and a view of the outside.

A Courtyard by Marriott hotel with a covered entrance, multiple floors, and a landscaped front area.

A modern hotel room with a dining area, seating, and a TV mounted on the wall.

18. Courtyard Marriott Ankeny

7.6 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Kendra

£83

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

A modern bar area with a long counter, multiple bar stools, and hanging pendant lights.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, a pool ladder, and a tiled floor.

A hotel reception area with a modern design, a large welcome sign, and a self-service kiosk.

A modern hotel with a stone facade, a covered entrance, and a clear blue sky.

19. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

6.4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Christy

£89

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

An outdoor dining area with a table set for two, featuring a cocktail and candles.

A multi-level hotel lobby with a central atrium, multiple floors, and a variety of seating areas.

A multi-level hotel atrium with balconies, indoor plants, and artwork on the walls.

A multi-level hotel lobby with a central pool, dining area, and a bar.

20. Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Historic East Village, 3.4 mi from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Candy

£110

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Property	Property class	Guest rating
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area	7.2 Good 1,005 reviews	View
GrandStay Hotel & Suites	9.2 Wonderful 830 reviews	View
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton	9.6 Exceptional 1,341 reviews	View
Des Lux Hotel	9.8 Exceptional 1,110 reviews	View
Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines	9.4 Exceptional 932 reviews	View

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

10/10 Excellent

"The hotel is beautiful and the guest rooms are spotless. The guest room has a modern feel but still embraces the historical feel of the building. The bar is top notch. Every staff member we we dealt with was professional and courteous. Love this place and will return again."

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

10/10 Excellent

"Worked great for the one day I stayed. Had a problem with the reservation through Expedia but what do you expect it's Expedia."

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"👍"

Hilton Des Moines Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"Great location within walking distance of the DART bus station (we went to the State Fair so it was nice to be able to just walk to the shuttle and not worry about driving and parking anywhere), convenient underground parking. This is a beautiful hotel, room was the best I’ve stayed in for a while. Hotel staff were helpful and we had a delicious breakfast at the restaurant. Definitely would stay here again."

WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant Hill

10/10 Excellent

"I had a great experience staying at WoodSpring Suites in Pleasant Hill, Iowa. The staff was absolutely amazing and always helpful. Tonya was especially wonderful—she always greeted me with a smile, was friendly, helpful, and never made me feel like I was a bother. She truly made my stay more comfortable and welcoming. I would definitely recommend staying here if you’re looking for a clean, friendly place with great customer service. Thank you to Tonya and the entire staff for making my stay such a positive experience!"

Santorini staycation in the heart of Des Moines! w/Hot tub & bonus tiny house

10/10 Excellent

"Very cozy and beautiful, perfect for a couples getaway Host was very kind and made sure we were taken care of!!"

Whole house! Clean Hot tub~Library~Fire Pit~Screen Porch~Stocked Kitchen~Garage

10/10 Excellent

"Overall impression: wow this place is spotless CLEAN! Everything was new and very nice. Pet friendly too was so appreciated. Nice quiet neighborhood, quick drive to fairgrounds. Beds and furniture are comfy and the central air conditioning was heavenly! Hope to stay again the next time in Des Moines."

Charming Western themed house, 5 bdrms 2 baths & walking distance to State Fair.

10/10 Excellent

"Perfect location for any state fair goer. We will definitely book here again!"

Fun, group friendly house close to fair! Sleeps 8

10/10 Excellent

"Good stay."

Other attractions near Iowa State Fairgrounds

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)

A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.

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The exterior of the State of Iowa Historical Building with a clear blue sky and clouds.

State Historical Museum of Iowa

Learn about early settlement and battles as well as bicycle races and the movie industry in this museum in Iowa’s state capital.

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A large geodesic dome structure with a wooden walkway leading to its entrance.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

8.6/10 (254 reviews)

Experience the tropics in an indoor garden oasis nearly 100 years old alongside a meandering river in this Midwestern city.

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Sky Glider East

6.0/10 (1 review)

You can take time to visit Sky Glider East during your travels to Des Moines. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and great live music in this family-friendly area.

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Sleepy Hollow Sports Park

7.4/10 (3 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, a lovely green space in Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.

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Copper Creek Golf Course

6.6/10 (7 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in Pleasant Hill at Copper Creek Golf Course. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and lively festivals.

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Grand View Golf Course

6.0/10 (1 review)

Enjoy a round of golf in Des Moines at Grand View Golf Course. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

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Wooly's

You can make plans for a show at Wooly's during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Iowa State Fairgrounds is located in a welcoming area of Des Moines known for its lively festivals. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 14 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

What's the best hotel to stay close to Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers an indoor pool and free parking. It's located just a short 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from Iowa State Fairgrounds. Other good options within a few miles include Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton and Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown.

How many hotels will I be able to find near Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Expedia has 14 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Iowa State Fairgrounds.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Iowa State Fairgrounds, will I receive a refund?

Yes, you'll find most hotel reservations are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to get the best options available near Iowa State Fairgrounds.

What can I see and do near Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Science Center of Iowa, State Historical Museum of Iowa and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates feature a variety of fascinating exhibits to see while you're in town. Learn about local history at Walnut Street Bridge and Temple Theater. You can catch a show at Wooly's, Hoyt Sherman Place and Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater.

Search Hotels Near Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines

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Our top choices for Iowa State Fairgrounds hotels

1. Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

2. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

3. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

4. Des Lux Hotel

5. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

6. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

7. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

8. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

9. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

10. Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

11. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

12. Home2 Suites By Hilton Altoona Des Moines

13. Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

14. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

15. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

16. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

17. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Altoona-Des Moines by IHG

18. Courtyard Marriott Ankeny

19. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

20. Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Hilton Des Moines Downtown

WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant Hill

Santorini staycation in the heart of Des Moines! w/Hot tub & bonus tiny house

Whole house! Clean Hot tub~Library~Fire Pit~Screen Porch~Stocked Kitchen~Garage

Charming Western themed house, 5 bdrms 2 baths & walking distance to State Fair.

Fun, group friendly house close to fair! Sleeps 8

Other attractions near Iowa State Fairgrounds

Iowa State Capitol Building

State Historical Museum of Iowa

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Sky Glider East

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park

Copper Creek Golf Course

Grand View Golf Course

Wooly's

Frequently asked questions