Des Moines, IA
Travel Guide
Visit Des Moines
Where to stay in Des Moines
Downtown Des Moines
Downtown Des Moines boasts corporate campuses, fine dining, and unique retail destinations. Explore the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and enjoy easy access to DART transit and skywalk connections.
Historic East Village
Directly east of Downtown Des Moines, this nationally recognized historic district boasts the Iowa State Capitol complex, State of Iowa Historical Museum, and Des Moines Botanical Gardens. Explore eateries, boutique shops, and loft-style housing in its charming structures.
Court District
Court District is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while in the area.
Drake
If you're spending some time in Drake, Knapp Center and La Casa Cultural Center are top sights worth seeing.
Southwestern Hills
While Southwestern Hills might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.
Greater South Side
While Greater South Side might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Impressed with how clean & friendly the staff was
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Exactly what I needed for the price! Easy and affordable and clean. Did the job great.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Great location, easy check in, will definitely come back
Reviewed on 3 May 2026
Fabulous 2-bedroom house with AC in Des Moines
Great value for the price point. The only thing I would caution is there are a lot of air fresheners so very strong odor so if you’re sensitive to smells might not be the best option. Owner was very responsive. Nice off street parking. Nice little fenced in yard. Overall nice and way better than ...
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Fun, group friendly house close to fair! Sleeps 8
Very nice, cozy home away from home! Close to all Des Moines has to offer!
Reviewed on 26 April 2026
Popular places to visit
Jordan Creek Town Center
You can enjoy retail therapy at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.
Iowa State Fairgrounds
Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.
Iowa Events Center
Learn about the events happening at Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theater scene.
Iowa State Capitol Building
After visiting Iowa State Capitol Building, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and lively festivals.
Principal Park
Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theater scene.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Explore the great outdoors at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a lovely green space in Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.
