Find a Hotel in Downtown Des Moines

Seize Your Someday with our amazing deals for the whole family!

Save an extra 10% or more on select hotels with Member Discounts

Access exclusive hotel deals, only with the Travelocity app

Downtown Des Moines Hotel Guide\n

As the proverb goes, “A well beaten path does not always make the right road.” Des Moines, Iowa, may not be one of the first cities that comes to mind when you think of vacation destinations, but perhaps that, too, is one of its greatest charms. Savor the authenticity of a place untrammeled by the many footfalls of tourism and seek the hidden gems within Iowa's largest city. Visit in August to listen to music and explore agricultural exhibits at the famous Iowa State Fair, or come any other time of year to explore local museums such as the Des Moines Art Center and wander the Great Des Moines Botanical Garden. Amidst the seemingly endless sea of cornfields is a city packed with farmers markets, culture, and political discourse to fascinate your senses. Check in to one of our downtown Des Moines hotels, such as the Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown, and soak in all the flavors of this Midwestern jewel.

Where are the best places to eat in Des Moines?

Des Moines boasts a broad diversity of culinary options, from classic American burgers to BBQ to sushi. You'll even find some curious fusions, such as Asian-themed pizza or a Mexican-style pub. If you're just coming from a tour of the State Capitol, the nearby East Village is home to scores of beloved local eateries, including plenty of popular burger joints with creative creations. Cross the river into the downtown district to find more excellent options, from modern Italian fare to a German beer hall. Many of these options are quite close to the Des Lux Hotel; trust us, you'll be glad to have a nearby bed where you can descend into a food coma. If you're stumped, just order anything with bacon—it's a local obsession.

What is there to do in Des Moines at night?

When you're back from a busy day of exploring the local attractions, park your downtown Des Moines rentals and explore the city's nightlife scene on foot. See the Des Moines Symphony in action or catch a show at the magnificent Hoyt Sherman Place. If you'd rather get out and mingle, the Court District is packed with bars, breweries, and dance clubs, so take a stroll around the neighborhood and follow the strands of drifting music into bars with live bands or clubs where the syncopated pulse of bass is so strong it can be felt. Whether you're looking for a sports bar, a dive, or a brewery, there are dozens of options all within close range of each other. Hop between bars and rub elbows with the locals; while chatting with a fellow patron here and there, you’ll catch a glimpse of what it's like to be a resident of Des Moines.

Travel into the land of corn and see with your own eyes what it's like to live in the Midwest. Let Travelocity help you book reservations at the best Des Moines downtown hotels where you'll have convenient access to many of the city's attractions, both cultural and gastronomical. The regional terrain may be flat, but your visit certainly won't be.

Why visit Downtown Des Moines

Great hotels in Downtown Des Moines

Things to do in Downtown Des Moines

Where to go in Downtown Des Moines

Best time to go to Downtown Des Moines

What to eat in Downtown Des Moines

How to save money on a vacation in Downtown Des Moines

Top reasons for your vacation to Downtown Des Moines

Fascinating History: Explore the rich history of Iowa at the State Historical Museum, where you can learn about the state's past through exhibits and artifacts.
Vibrant Nightlife: Experience the electric atmosphere of downtown Des Moines at night, with its lively bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Exciting Activities: From sports events like basketball and football games to live music and theater performances, there's always something happening in Downtown Des Moines.
Shopping Delight: Shopaholics will be thrilled with the various shopping centers and boutiques offering a wide range of products and unique finds.
Charming Downtown: Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, where you'll find charming architecture, quaint shops, and a cozy atmosphere.

Find your favorite hotels in Downtown Des Moines

If you're planning a family vacation to Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, you'll find a variety of hotel options to suit your needs. From luxurious downtown hotels offering modern amenities to historic hotels with charming character, there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for the best hotels in the area or affordable options, you'll have plenty of choices to ensure a comfortable stay. Consider staying at the Surety Hotel for a unique and memorable experience. Enjoy exploring the vibrant downtown area during your visit.

Hotel name	Type	Stars	Description
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton	Hotel	4.5	This 4.5-star rated hotel is an excellent option for your family vacation. It offers close proximity to sports, live music, basketball, football, theater, dancing, dining, swimming, biking, and entertainment facilities.
Surety Hotel	Hotel	4.0	With a 4.0-star rating, the Surety Hotel is another great choice for your family vacation. It is conveniently located near sports, live music, basketball, football, theater, dancing, dining, swimming, biking, and entertainment facilities.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown	Hotel	3.5	The Hilton Des Moines Downtown is a 3.5-star rated hotel that provides a comfortable stay for families. It is in close proximity to sports, live music, basketball, football, theater, dancing, dining, swimming, biking, and entertainment options.

Explore the best activities and sights in Downtown Des Moines

When visiting Downtown Des Moines, you'll find a wide range of family-friendly activities to enjoy. From sports events like basketball and football games to live music and theater performances, there's something for everyone. Dining options are plentiful, with a variety of restaurants to choose from. If you're looking for outdoor fun, you can go swimming or biking in the nearby areas. For entertainment, there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep the whole family engaged. Whether you have a passion for Broadway shows or simply want to have a dream day exploring the local attractions, Downtown Des Moines has it all.

Wells Fargo Arena: This dynamic arena offers an exhilarating entertainment experience. Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere as you witness thrilling sports events like basketball and football. Dive into the refreshing swimming pool or participate in exciting festivals that bring the community together. For the adventurous souls, explore the vibrant biking trails surrounding the arena. Enjoy the rhythm and melodies of live music performances or indulge in the captivating world of theater and art. With its wide range of activities, Wells Fargo Arena guarantees an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Iowa Events Center: As a premier conference venue, Iowa Events Center provides a professional and business-oriented experience. Host or attend sports events like basketball and football in this state-of-the-art facility. Take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of festivals. Explore the scenic biking trails or groove to the beats of live music performances. Unwind with recreational activities or delve into the captivating world of theater and art. Iowa Events Center offers a diverse array of options, making it an ideal choice for a business-oriented visit.
Principal Park: For sports enthusiasts, Principal Park is a haven of excitement. Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of sports events such as basketball and football. Join in the festivities of vibrant festivals or enjoy the harmonious melodies of live music. Take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or set off on an invigorating biking adventure. Experience the captivating world of theater and art or engage in thrilling recreational activities. Principal Park is the ultimate destination for an adrenaline-pumping sports experience.

Where to stay near Downtown Des Moines

Get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Downtown Des Moines! With its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and an array of exciting activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the fascinating history of Iowa at the State Historical Museum, or take a short trip to nearby cities like West Des Moines and Ankeny for even more adventures. Shopaholics will delight in the various shopping centers and boutiques, while night owls can experience the electric atmosphere of the downtown area. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the historic downtown area, where charming architecture and quaint shops await. Get ready for a vacation filled with fun, culture, and endless memories!

Des Moines: Des Moines is a vibrant multi-city vicinity located just 0.4 miles away from Downtown Des Moines. It offers a variety of experiences for families to enjoy. Sports enthusiasts can catch exciting basketball and football games, while music lovers can indulge in live music performances. The city also boasts a thriving theater scene and opportunities for swimming and biking. Families can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring the dining options and even trying out some dancing. With its diverse range of activities, Des Moines ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Ames: Located 30.1 miles away from Downtown Des Moines, Ames is a city that offers a perfect blend of sports, education, and entertainment. Families can cheer on their favorite teams at the university's football and baseball games or enjoy live music and theater performances. The city also offers soccer facilities for those looking to engage in some active fun. With its family-friendly atmosphere and shopping opportunities, Ames provides a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages.
West Des Moines: Just 7.9 miles away from Downtown Des Moines, West Des Moines is a city that caters to the whole family. It is known for its excellent shopping options and family-friendly theaters. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy basketball games, while music lovers can indulge in live music performances. The city also offers entertainment options such as opera and is situated near a river, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. With its diverse range of attractions, West Des Moines ensures a memorable vacation for families.

Best times to go to Downtown Des Moines

The travel seasons of Downtown Des Moines

Trips to Downtown Des Moines show no change in popularity throughout the year. The peak season to visit is from May to July, with July being the highest month. Off-peak season starts from October to December, and December sees the least travelers.

Downtown Des Moines has something in store for you whenever you visit. January is the coldest month of the year, while July is hottest, with average temperatures up to 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit. The wettest month in Downtown Des Moines is May, so pack accordingly.

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

Food and dining in Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines is a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse range of local cuisines. One must-try spot is Gusto Pizza Bar, a highly popular pizzeria known for its delicious and creative pizzas. Another top choice is Fongs Pizza, which is also renowned for its unique pizza creations. If you're in the mood for North American and New American flavors, Americana is a highly rated restaurant that will leave you satisfied. After enjoying a meal at Proudfoot, a downtown restaurant, you can head to Hobnob Coffee or Doozie's Bar for a refreshing drink. Whether you're craving pizza, American cuisine, or a cozy coffee spot, Downtown Des Moines has it all.

How do I find a great hotel with Travelocity?

Ensure your entire crew enjoys an unforgettable vacation. Explore our extensive range of family-friendly hotels with special amenities for kids. Our convenient custom filters allow you to find accommodations closest to top attractions, offering enhanced cleaning and within your budget.

Why should I book with Travelocity?

Conference calls, to-do lists, and, of course, football practice. Busy lives and packed schedules require hassle-free journeys. Our aim is to provide worry-free travel for you and your family every time you make a reservation with us, so you can spend less time fretting and more time creating precious memories. To achieve this, we will assist you in finding and planning your ideal trip, as well as offering transparent pricing and verifiable reviews. Additionally, we guarantee 24/7 customer support before, during, and after your vacation.

How can I save money on my trip to Downtown Des Moines?

If you're looking to save money on your trip to Downtown Des Moines, consider visiting during the less popular season from October to December. You can also save money by bundling your flights, hotel, and car bookings together for a discounted price. When exploring the area, take advantage of the inexpensive local affinities such as live music performances, biking along the trails, and enjoying affordable dining options. There's plenty to do in Downtown Des Moines without breaking the bank!