Where to Stay in Des Moines, IA: Best Hotels with Airport Shuttles
Des Moines, IA, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends Midwestern charm with urban sophistication. Known for its thriving arts scene, delectable dining options, and rich history, this capital city offers travelers an array of experiences, from exploring the lush landscapes of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Historic East Village.
When visiting, choosing a hotel with convenient airport shuttles can enhance your stay, making travel seamless and stress-free. The right accommodation sets the tone for your trip, so dive into our guide to discover the best places to stay, nearby neighborhoods, top attractions, and helpful travel tips.
In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 4 star hotels |
Hilton Des Moines Downtown Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport |
Find Hotels, Resorts, and Rentals Nearby in these Cities & Neighborhoods
Recommended accommodation
Cheap, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Marriott , 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Superb
33 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Hilton , 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
190 reviews
Cheap, Accommodations, Parking, Gites, Hilton , 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
133 reviews
Cheap, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
1349 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Holiday inn , Pet-friendly, 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Good
155 reviews
Things to do and Activities in Des Moines
🎫 Local Experiences & Attractions in Des Moines, USA
✨ Things to Do
Downtown Farmers' Market: Explore the vibrant Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines, USA, featuring local produce, handmade goods, and live music. Enjoy fresh food while interacting with friendly vendors.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
Des Moines Sculpture Park Tour: Take a self-guided tour of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, USA. Discover impressive artworks amid beautiful landscaping, perfect for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
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Brewery Tour: Join a brewery tour in Des Moines, USA, where you can sample local craft beers and learn about brewing processes from knowledgeable guides at various popular breweries.
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📍 Top Attractions
Iowa State Capitol: Visit the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, USA, to see its stunning gold dome and intricate architecture. Visitor Tip: Free guided tours are available on weekdays.
Des Moines Art Center: The Des Moines Art Center offers an extensive collection of modern art, sculptures, and photography, attracting art lovers of all ages. It’s a great place to spend a rainy afternoon.
Science Center of Iowa: Engage with interactive exhibits at the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines, USA, designed for family-friendly fun. Don’t miss the planetarium shows for an extra treat.
Travel Tips for Des Moines
💡 Essential Logistics & Insider Tips for Des Moines, USA
🚆 Getting Around
The Core Tip: Visitors typically rely on personal vehicles or rideshare services for getting around Des Moines, with limited public transit options available.
The Pro Move: To avoid traffic congestion, especially during rush hours, consider visiting popular attractions in the early morning or late afternoon.
📅 Timing Your Trip
The Core Tip: The summer months see a surge in tourism due to pleasant weather and local festivals, making it one of the busiest seasons.
The Pro Move: Weekdays are often less crowded at major attractions like the Blank Park Zoo, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.
🚶 Getting Around Safely
The Core Tip: Downtown Des Moines is quite walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and parks within easy reach of each other.
The Pro Move: For nighttime outings, stick to well-lit areas and use main streets to ensure safety while walking.
💳 Money & Payments
The Core Tip: Most establishments in Des Moines accept credit cards, but some small vendors and markets may prefer cash transactions.
The Pro Move: It’s wise to carry small bills for minor purchases at local farmers' markets or food stands.
✈️ Airport / Arrival Tips
The Core Tip: From the airport, travelers can access rideshare services, taxis, and shuttles offering direct transport to downtown Des Moines.
The Pro Move: Follow airport signage to quickly locate designated rideshare pickup areas, which can save time for first-time visitors.
