Where to stay in Des Moines
Find the best Des Moines areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Des Moines
Downtown Des Moines
4 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.
Court District
Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while you're in town.
Historic East Village
Historic East Village is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Wooly's and Iowa State Capitol Building while you're in town.
Drake
1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Knapp Center and Des Moines Community Playhouse.
Greater South Side
While there might not be top attractions in Greater South Side, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.
Top hotels in Des Moines
Sonesta Essential Des Moines
4755 Merle Hay Road Des Moines IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
1.573.506 ₫
1.840.494 ₫ total
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
1000 Walnut St Des Moines IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
3.399.398 ₫
3.807.326 ₫ total
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston
5291 Stoney Creek Court Johnston IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
2.546.967 ₫
2.852.602 ₫ total
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Stay near popular Des Moines attractions
Photo by Lana Garmon
Jordan Creek Town Center
9.2/10 (1,624 reviews)
Iowa's largest shopping destination features 150+ stores along a scenic lakefront boardwalk. Explore upscale boutiques, dine at waterfront restaurants, or catch a film at the theatre for a complete retail retreat.
Iowa State Fairgrounds
8.8/10 (945 reviews)
Home to one of America's oldest state fairs, these 435-acre grounds showcase agricultural heritage and Midwestern charm. Explore exhibitions and sample iconic fair foods during the August event.
Iowa Events Center
8.8/10 (573 reviews)
This sleek city centre complex houses three premier venues for concerts, sports, and conventions. Experience world-class entertainment or attend major trade shows in Des Moines' cultural heartbeat.
Photo by Analyn Suan
Principal Park
8.6/10 (133 reviews)
Principal Park offers baseball fans an intimate view of the Iowa Cubs with the Des Moines skyline as backdrop. Sit along the first base line for the best views of both the game and the Iowa State Capitol.
Iowa State Capitol Building
9.0/10 (354 reviews)
The Iowa State Capitol dazzles with its 23-karat gold-leafed dome and unique five-dome design. Inside, marvel at the ornate law library's spiral staircases and intricate marble details during a free guided tour.
Adventureland
8.4/10 (602 reviews)
Iowa's premier amusement destination features signature coasters like The Monster and The Tornado, plus many other rides. Families can enjoy both thrilling attractions and Adventure Bay's refreshing water park.
Casey's Center
8.8/10 (976 reviews)
City centre Des Moines arena hosting NBA G League games and major concerts with space for 17,000 fans. Enjoy premium club seating and local food favourites while cheering on the Iowa Wolves or catching headline performers.
Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino
8.6/10 (560 reviews)
Experience the thrill of live horse racing and casino gaming at this vibrant entertainment hub in Altoona. Enjoy fine dining at AJ's Steakhouse or catch live performances in the comfortable event centre.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Des Moines holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Des Moines getaway. However, a range of factors like the season, choice of hotel and length of stay will determine how much your holiday to Des Moines costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Des Moines?
If you're looking to book a cheap Des Moines holiday package, consider travelling in November, December and January. You're likely to find lower prices on hotels and airfares during these months — perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
How many days is enough for Des Moines?
Allow around 2 days for your Des Moines holiday in order to immerse yourself in everything that makes this destination special. Stroll around key neighbourhoods, including Downtown Des Moines and Greater South Side. Then make a beeline for top attractions such as The Temple for Performing Arts and Iowa Hall of Pride. With a well-planned itinerary, you'll be kept busy with room for some downtime too. Want to venture outside of Des Moines? Consider squeezing in an excursion or two.
How to find the best Des Moines package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to find some fabulous Des Moines package deals. When you start your search, simply set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your break for midweek, or search for Des Moines package deals in the off-season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you great savings when compared to arranging accommodation and flights separately. Better still, you can personalise your Des Moines escape to fit your exact style. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Des Moines?
If you have your Des Moines holiday dates finalized, book as early as you can to bag some terrific deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spontaneous adventures? Our last-minute deals are great for setting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Des Moines?
- Choose when to get away: Check your diary and get your bags packed. Your favourite season and the type of activities on offer will also help you decide when to holiday in Des Moines.
- Calculate your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from transportation and food to activities and flights. Your hotel will probably be the biggest expense during your trip to Des Moines.
- Set the duration of your trip: Start by listing all the attractions you want to experience in Des Moines. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, including any travel time.
- Bundle your flights and hotel: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. Now all that's left is to find a Des Moines holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
