Where to Stay in Des Moines, IA: Best Hotels
Des Moines, IA, is a vibrant hub of culture and creativity, offering travelers a delightful mix of art, history, and culinary experiences. From its lively farmers' markets to the historic East Village, this Midwestern gem invites exploration at every turn, making it an ideal destination for both leisure seekers and business travelers alike.
Choosing the right hotel can enhance your stay, whether you're looking for a luxurious retreat or a convenient base with essential amenities like free parking. In this guide, we'll explore the best places to stay in Des Moines, nearby neighborhoods, top attractions, and helpful travel tips to ensure you make the most of your visit.
In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 4 star hotels |
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection By Hilton Hilton Des Moines Downtown Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport |
Find Hotels, Resorts, and Rentals Nearby in these Cities & Neighborhoods
Recommended accommodation
Luxury, Cheap, Accommodations, Parking, Gites, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Superb
455 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Romantic, Boutique, Gites, Marriott , 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Very Good
90 reviews
Cheap, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Pet-friendly, 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Good
133 reviews
Cheap, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Romantic, Gites, Pet-friendly, 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family
Fabulous
243 reviews
Cheap, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Marriott , 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Superb
33 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.
