The Best Historic Hotels in Des Moines, IA from AED 748 in 2026

An aerial view of a city with a prominent building featuring a golden dome and green-topped towers.

Change your mind
Book hotels with free cancellation
Treat yourself
Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
Sign in
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Des Moines Historic Hotels

Tonight

Tomorrow

This weekend

Next weekend

Our top choices for Des Moines historic hotels

1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, WiFi (free), bed sheets

Coffee/tea maker, fridge, microwave, oven

1. Designer Downtown Condo Suite - Splendid View

Downtown Des Moines

"My partner and I were in Des Moines for a quick stop at the capitol building followed by a visit to the Iowa State Fair. Our stay was very comfortable, quiet, and easy to navigate the step by step directions for entry (i.e. keys and parking). The provided amenities were just right for our length of stay. One special feature of the property is its historical designation (surprising given how modern the condo feels). The architecture and design of the lobby are amazing -- SO cool! The location...

Keely

AED 364

AED 748 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Sep - 17 Sep

2. The Cartier Lux DT Apt w/Skyline View

Downtown Des Moines

Amber D.

AED 780

AED 1,421 total

includes taxes & fees

29 Sep - 30 Sep

View all properties

Top Des Moines Hotel Reviews

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Great service"

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

10/10 Excellent

"Great location. Great view. Plenty of parking. Our room might be due for updating but overall clean and comfortable. Bed was awesome. Slept very well. Walking distance to Des Moines Civic Center. So nice to not battle traffic after the show."

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

8/10 Good

"Clean, spacious room. Smelled a little musty"

Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

10/10 Excellent

"Breakfast and Evening snacks were very good!"

Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Very nice staff, easy to get to the airport, no complaints!"

Des Lux Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Clean facilities and rooms, with friendly and helpful staff. The team was attentive, took care of anything we needed, and provided great recommendations for nearby restaurants and other places to check out. Overall, a very pleasant stay and a well maintained hotel."

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

8/10 Good

"The tv has hardly anything on it to watch . I would like more options. Otherwise stay was good"

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

8/10 Good

"Bed was firm as were the pillows."

Frequently asked questions

What can a history enthusiast expect from a trip to Des Moines?

The historical sites in Des Moines are probably at the top of your travel itinerary. And while you're here, you can check out the lively festivals and acclaimed theater scene. You can also discover the area's great live music.

How many historical hotels will I find in Des Moines?

Des Moines is home to 716 hotels and other lodging options bookable on Expedia though you won't find many designated historic hotels.

What are the top historical places and other sights to visit in Des Moines?

Des Moines is notable for landmarks like Salisbury House, Valley Junction, and Walnut Street Bridge. Known for its festivals and live music, cultural venues include Wooly's, Science Center of Iowa, and Hoyt Sherman Place. A couple of additional sights to add to your agenda are Des Moines Civic Center and Casey's Center.

What is a historic hotel like in Des Moines?

By choosing a historic hotel, you can enjoy a vacation in a building that has an official historic designation. A palace, castle, stately home or even a lodge, pub, or skyscraper can be transformed into a historic hotel as long as it's of special interest. Traditional architecture and period features are typically found in the communal spaces and guestrooms of historic hotels in Des Moines, giving a sense of history.

What is the difference between a historic hotel and a heritage hotel?

"Heritage hotel" is more common in Asia and Europe, while "historic hotel" is more common in the U.S. but overall the terms are quite similar. The building and architecture of historic hotels tend to be what's most important. For a heritage hotel, it's mainly the cultural value and how it inspired the community.

Do historic hotels in Des Moines have modern facilities?

Yes. Every effort is made to preserve historic facades and treasured traditions, while interiors have safety features and modern conveniences. Guests can expect the usual amenities from a contemporary hotel such as WiFi, heating and air conditioning, and updated bathroom facilities. In Des Moines, booking a historic hotel doesn't mean you're picking a place that's rundown or uncomfortable for guests.

Room 1

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Des Moines Historic Hotels

Our top choices for Des Moines historic hotels