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Top reasons to visit Des Moines

• Family-Friendly Activities: Des Moines offers a plethora of attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring fun for everyone.
• Vibrant Urban Parks: Enjoy beautiful green spaces perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures amidst the city hustle.
• Historic Civic Buildings: Explore the rich history and architecture that shape the cultural landscape of Des Moines.
• Exciting Amusement Parks: Experience thrills and excitement at local amusement parks that cater to adventure seekers.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Find a range of welcoming places to stay, from business-friendly hotels to pet-friendly motels.

Find great hotels in Des Moines

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Des Moines, catering to every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly hotel or a pet-friendly motel, the city offers a welcoming environment for all, including LGBTQIA travellers. With top-rated hotels like Quality Inn and a range of comfortable hotel rooms, you're sure to find the perfect place to unwind after exploring the charming sights of Iowa's capital.

• Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA: This budget-friendly accommodation is a great choice for those seeking a simple and comfortable stay in Des Moines. The Motel 6 West Des Moines prides itself on being pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions with open arms. With amenities like free on-site parking and basic room features, it offers convenience without breaking the bank. Guests appreciate the straightforward approach to lodging, making it suitable for travellers looking for a no-frills experience while enjoying the local attractions.
• WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines: Designed for extended stays, WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines offers a blend of comfort and functionality, ideal for business travellers and families alike. This budget-friendly hotel features pet-friendly policies, ensuring your four-legged friends can accompany you on your journey. The suites come equipped with kitchen facilities, enabling guests to prepare their own meals. Additionally, the on-site laundry facilities provide extra convenience for those staying longer. The welcoming atmosphere and focus on practicality make it a solid choice for both business and leisure stays.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport: With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport is well-regarded for its family-friendly services. This budget-friendly hotel features amenities specifically catering to children, such as complimentary cribs and a warm, inviting environment. Located conveniently near the airport, it provides easy access for travellers on the go. The blend of comfort, practicality, and thoughtful services makes it a popular choice for families and business travellers seeking a reliable stay.

Where to stay in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a delightful blend of midwestern charm and urban excitement, perfect for a family-friendly getaway. Explore the vibrant downtown, where local malls and eateries thrive, or venture to West Des Moines for a taste of suburban life. With its friendly atmosphere and numerous outdoor activities, Des Moines promises a memorable vacation experience, whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure in this welcoming metropolis.

• West Des Moines: Nestled in the heart of Iowa, West Des Moines is a vibrant city that offers a blend of family-friendly activities and business-oriented experiences. The city boasts a variety of shopping centres, including expansive malls that cater to all your retail needs. If you’re in the mood for outdoor fun, the local fairgrounds host exciting events throughout the year. Notable attractions include picturesque lakes and event conference venues, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and corporate travellers. The best times to visit are in April and from June to July, when the local events and activities are in full swing.
• Ankeny: Ankeny is a charming city teeming with outdoor adventures and family-centric experiences. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this city features a range of educational facilities, amusement parks, and campgrounds, perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors. The local theme parks and waterparks provide endless fun for families, while the city's event conference venue caters to business visitors. Much like its neighbours, Ankeny sees a peak in visitor numbers during April and from June to July, making it a lively destination to enjoy.
• Urbandale: Located close to Des Moines, Urbandale is a bustling city ideal for families and business visitors alike. With a variety of shopping malls and centres, you’ll find everything you need for a fulfilling shopping experience. The arena entertainment facility is a highlight, offering numerous events throughout the year. Families can enjoy the nearby theme parks and waterparks, ensuring fun for all ages. Urbandale also experiences peak visitor numbers in April and during the summer months, making it a vibrant place to visit.

Things to do in Des Moines

Shopping

In the heart of Des Moines, you’ll discover the Jordan Creek Town Center, featuring a variety of shops for all your gifting needs. Nearby, the Historic East Village offers unique boutiques and local crafts, perfect for finding that special souvenir to take home.

Recreation

In Des Moines, the Spa at the Renaissance Savery Hotel offers a tranquil environment with rejuvenating treatments tailored to enhance relaxation. Nearby, the Des Moines Botanical Garden provides a serene escape, where you can wander through lush gardens and unwind amidst vibrant flora and soothing water features.

Adventure

Explore the Des Moines River on a kayak or paddleboard for an exhilarating water experience. Alternatively, head to the High Trestle Trail for hiking or biking, where you'll traverse stunning landscapes and enjoy views from one of the longest bridges in the US.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Des Moines by sipping craft cocktails at the stylish Exile Brewing Co. For a lively atmosphere, check out the popular Hessen Haus, where you can enjoy German brews and traditional fare. Cap off your night at the iconic Wooly’s for live music and dancing.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Des Moines

To save money on your trip to Des Moines, consider visiting from November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Take advantage of free attractions like Drake University, the Iowa State Capitol, and the Des Moines Art Center. For transport, buses are a budget-friendly option; however, walking is a great way to explore the city. Book your hotel through Expedia, and look for package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Remember, Monday is the least expensive day to stay, while Saturday tends to be the priciest.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Des Moines are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Des Moines is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Des Moines is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Des Moines hotel reservations with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a fantastic mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business opportunities. Visitors can explore vibrant urban parks, historic civic buildings, and exciting amusement parks. Whether you're after a city experience or a day in nature, Des Moines and its surroundings provide a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travellers looking for a memorable holiday.

• Adventureland: This amusement park offers an exciting day out with a variety of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and entertaining shows. Nestled in Des Moines, Adventureland is perfect for those seeking outdoor fun and adventure, catering to visitors of all ages.
• Ankeny Art Center: A cultural gem in Des Moines, the Ankeny Art Center showcases a diverse range of local artwork and hosts various exhibitions throughout the year. It’s an inspiring place to appreciate creativity and engage with the local arts community.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the Iowa State Fairgrounds is a hub of family-friendly activities and outdoor events. Visit during the fair season for a taste of local culture, crafts, and delicious food.

Best time to go to Des Moines

The best time to visit Des Moines is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Des Moines

Flying into Des Moines, Iowa, is convenient with Des Moines International Airport (DSM) located 6.4km from the city centre. Recommended hotels nearby include the 4.5-star Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, and the Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, both 6.4km from the airport. Cedar Rapids International Airport (CID) is 162.5km away, with options like the 4-star Doubletree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, situated 9.7km from CID. Alternatively, Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 146.4km away, featuring the 3.5-star Black Hawk Hotel just 4.8km from ALO. Each hotel provides easy access to their respective airports.