Where to Stay in Des Moines – A Guide to Iowa’s Great City
Des Moines is the capital and one of the most populous cities in Iowa, in the Midwest of the United States. It is a very important business destination and a major political center. In this post, we will discover the best areas to stay in Des Moines.
It is thought that the name of the city derives from the French colonial name Rivière des Moines or “River of the Monks“. However, other theories suggest that it is an adaptation of “Moingoana”, a Native American word.
This Iowa city has a humid continental climate with extreme temperatures, both in summer and winter. Therefore, the best time to visit Des Moines is in the late spring or early fall.
Although the city does not have many attractions, local highlights include the gold-domed Iowa State Capitol building, the Des Moines Art Center, the city zoo and the botanical gardens.
Des Moines hosts several cultural events and festivals, such as the World Food Festival, the Des Moines Taco Festival, the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival and the Iowa State Fair.
With regards to public transport, Des Moines is what you would call a typical American, all-car city. Although there is a bus service in the city, we recommend that you rent a car for your Des Moines visit.
The Des Moines International Airport is 15 minutes from the Downtown area of the city. It offers domestic flights to major cities across the country.
When it comes to the best areas to stay, the Downtown district offers the best sights, the easiest connections, and the widest selection of hotels. See accommodation in Downtown & Civic Center.
Here’s a guide with the best areas to stay in Des Moines, Iowa.
Situated in Des Moines, 0.4 miles from Iowa Events Center, Hilton Des Moines Downtown features accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, a fitness center, and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers an ATM and free shuttle service. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk and room service for guests.
The Best Areas to Stay in Des Moines, Iowa
1. Our favorite area: Downtown & Civic Center
Downtown Des Moines is, as its name might suggest, the heart of the city. Here, you can find the main attractions such as the State Capitol or the Civic Center.
The Des Moines Civic Center is the main performing arts center in the city. It is the largest theater in Iowa and is used for concerts, shows, plays, and other special events.
To the west of the Civic Center lies Cowles Commons, a space for all kinds of artistic expressions.
Around the Civic Center in Des Moines, there are several bus stops.
Staying in Downtown Des Moines also means you’ll be just a 15-minute drive from the airport.
Downtown is one of the best areas to stay in Des Moines because it hosts many entertainment options, multiple restaurants, and a variety of luxury hotels at affordable rates.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Des Moines:
- Central location
- Best area for business travelers
- Connected by public transport
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
This hotel is located on Interstate 235, across from Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall and the Community Choice Credit Union Veterans Memorial Auditorium. It offers a heated indoor pool, a free hot breakfast buffet and free parking.
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Budget
Historical Lofquist Des Moines
Located in Des Moines, in the center of Des Moines, Historical Oscar Lofquist House offers air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free Wi-Fi. The apartment is 3 miles from the Iowa Science Center.
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Luxury
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown is located in Des Moines, 7 minutes away from Hy-Vee Hall and 8 minutes away from Iowa Events Center. This 4-star hotel offers a heated indoor pool, free Wi-Fi and free daily breakfast.
2. West Des Moines
West Des Moines is also one of thet top areas to stay.
Popular attractions in this area include Raccoon River Park, ideal for hiking and connecting with nature while walking its beautiful green areas.
For those who love shopping, Jordan Creek Shopping Center, the largest mall in Iowa, offers all kinds of retailers, food options and cafés.
Although West Des Moines has bus stops on the Westown Pkwy and Woodland Ave, public transport in this area is not very efficient, so it is recommended to rent a car to move faster and more comfortably.
West Des Moines is known for its luxury hotels, many of which belong to well known American and international chains. That said, budget options are also widely available in this area.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Des Moines:
- Best area for shopping
- Luxury-type hotels
- Bars and restaurants
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Holiday Inn & Suites West Des Moines
This hotel in West Des Moines, Iowa, located off Interstate 35, near the Jordan Creek Mall, offers a restaurant and free shuttle service within an 8 mile radius.
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Budget
Days Inn by Wyndham Des Moines Downtown
This Iowa hotel is 5 minutes’ drive from the University of Des Moines and just minutes from I-235. It offers a daily continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi in all rooms.
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Luxury
Sheraton West Des Moines
This Des Moines hotel is 5 minutes’ drive from the Living History Farms and offers a free shuttle service to the Des Moines International Airport and within a radius of almost 8 miles.
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