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Entire home

Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro

Family-friendly holiday home in Des Moines with a fitness centre

Photo gallery for Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro

Interior
Smart TV, fireplace, books
Interior
7 bedrooms, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Interior
At Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro, you can look forward to an arcade/games room, laundry facilities and a gym. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

7 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 20279 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
The current price is NZ$1,187
includes taxes & fees
19 Nov - 20 Nov

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro

Historic 1895 home completely remodeled with all new bathrooms and kitchen and original hardwood oak floors refinished throughout. Brand new kitchen with island seating and large dining table. Original fireplace with infrared insert. Walking distance to Drake stadium and Knapp center and all facilities. Minutes drive or even bike to downtown and all metro area. So central to almost everywhere in the metro and in a great neighborhood.
Just finishing up this remodel now with final touches so book early to be the first ones to use the beautiful space full of original character and updated features. I plan to continue to add to the property with additional touches as time allows.
This is a great space to entertain large family gatherings or multiple families and more bedrooms than most single family homes. Fun to imagine what life was like in this historic home back in 1895 in its original glory.

Huge dining table sits 8 comfortably and potentially more with provided extra chairs.
Peninsula/island has bar top seating for 3 or 4 more
Brand new appliances
All new paint and flooring throughout
Refinished original oak hardwood floors.
All beds and bedding and bathroom towels etc new.
Main Living room seats 10 comfortably and more room if extra chairs brought into the space.
Upstairs living room seats 4 comfortably and game room with TV and air hockey table and a wall. Mounted infrared fireplace.
Massage/heat powered lift reclining chair upstairs.
3 all updated bathrooms including one tub/shower others are shower only.

Outside enjoy a massive front porch with swing and stone table with chairs around. Also a grill is out front on a brand new patio with furniture.
Small front yard but enough space to play.
Drake University owned open lawn space they use for practice fields etc right across the street for public use to play field games or sports. I also have large portable tailgate tents and some tables and folding chairs that can be rented for $30 if requested before your stay.

Large parking lot in back of house for around 5 cars and another 6 or so can parallel park in the double wide long driveway. Alley access too for convenient entering and exiting or if bringing a trailer.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 7 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Porch/lanai

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Gym

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Unit size: 3,000 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Rules

Strict quiet hours enforced after 10 pm.
No smoking in the house or on porch as it has carpet and also is damaging to the ceiling and furniture with smoke and odor.
Must have 5 star profile rating to book this property instantly. Otherwise please inquire with host and explain why rating is not a 5.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the area

Map
Des Moines, IA

What's nearby

  • Drake University - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Knapp Center - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Des Moines Community Playhouse - 3 min drive - 2.8 km
  • Waveland Municipal Golf Course - 3 min drive - 3.1 km
  • Broadlawns Medical Center - 3 min drive - 2.8 km

Getting around

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Lzaza Indo-Pak Cuisine - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Habanero’s - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Hugo’s - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Cafe Chai - ‬7 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro?

As of 18 Nov 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro on 19 Nov 2025 start from NZ$1,186.99, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro located?

Located in Drake, this family-friendly Des Moines holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Drake University and Knapp Center. Des Moines Community Playhouse and Broadlawns Medical Center are also within 2 miles (3 km).

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Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 49 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 54 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jessica O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Suited our needs

We had 2 families of young adults and teens. Plenty of space for our needs and well located.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jody J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Race

Nice house. Very clean and organized
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The BEST VRBO we have ever stayed in!! Absolutely beautiful! So many great little extras and little details. We were in town for our daughter's wedding and it was the perfect home to accommodate us and our extended family. So much space to spread out with places for all ages to enjoy! The beds were wonderful and the decor was gorgeous! Hope to be back again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Anel P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend stay

Everything was great. Anything we needed was there only thing we had a problem was there were ants in the kitchen and bathrooms, But other than that the stay was comfortable and great.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wyatt Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot!

Good location, lots of space.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tammy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous

We loved this property! It was a lovely, big house for our sports team. The location was great and the neighbors were super friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Theresa T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

Plenty of room for everyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property

Large house and pictures do justice . A lot of bedrooms and great living room
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tami P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Home for Large Group

We had a large group stay in this wonderful home recently for a conference held at the convention center. It was a cozy and welcoming home and it functioned perfectly for all who stayed here. Communication was clear and check-in / check-out was easy. Definitely recommend this home.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sherry A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

The owner was very gracious with accommodations and what they have to offer. I recommend this lovely VRBO for family gatherings. Our family really liked it.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jody T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for a group of 10 people

We stayed for a family wedding and the house was very accommodating for 10 people. Anywhere you want to go in Des Moines is only 15 minutes from this location!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jaclyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

State tournament

We came to Des Moines for state wrestling. The house is big, was very clean and accommodating. I had one question about the internet while we were there and the owner was very responsive. Check in and out were very easy. They have games, exercise equipment and plenty of room for everyone to spread out. We would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adam B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property!

My coworkers and I had a fantastic stay at this house. We each got our own bedroom which was a big plus and there were plenty of bathrooms and amenities for all of us. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rachael B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Retreat

This was a great well stocked location. Plenty of room for our retreat. It had everything we needed. We would stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrew R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for what we needed

It was really close to downtown. The place was great for us, and accommodated all of our needs!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jody J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Ryan was a wonderful host. Very helpful and answered quickly. Hose was very clean and nicely remodeled
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great find!

The rambling old home is warm and inviting. The wide open space and windows adds charm to the house and the many rooms afford plenty of space.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Business Trip

My team was in Des Moines working on a project. Their stay was wonderful - clean, accommodating, comfortable. We will definitely be booking again. thank you for your wonderful hospitality.
Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

State Pool Crew

We had such a great weekend and this was an amazing place to stay. Can’t tell you enough how comfortable the beds and the whole house was. Only thing missing was a pizza cutter but they had plenty of knifes that did the job. I would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a great place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Erica N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it

Super house! Very clean, kitchen things were labeled, lots of seating. Loved all the bedrooms and beds available. Host had great communication and very friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Taylor B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great

It was perfect for a bachelorette party and what we needed it for!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Keith C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Stay for the Fair

We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Big, Spacious Home

This house is very nice and spacious. We were able to sleep 12 comfortably here. Very clean too. Would recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beau F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay for a wedding

A group of eight of us drove over from Chicago for a wedding in downtown Des Moines. The house is huge with lots of sleeping options, and multiple spots to hang out. We had a great time and would stay again. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Courtney V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Place

This place was wonderful to stay in. It was clean, comfy, and had so many activities for the kids. The property manager is also so kind and accommodating. My mother-in-law was ready to move in. I would recommend any group to stay here. My family is already thinking about when we can stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023