Iowa State Fairgrounds

To get the full Des Moines experience, stay Downtown where the city’s commercial businesses and shops can be found. As the city centre, it’s the ideal place from which to explore and visit Des Moines’ top attractions.

Foodies and night owls might prefer the East Village which is populated with the city’s best bars and restaurants. Located east of the Des Moines River, the village is quieter than the city centre, but still super central and atmospheric.

West Des Moines, on the other hand, is the city’s go-to shopping destination as Iowa’s biggest mall is located here. It is also often a favourite with families that want easy access to the great outdoors at Raccoon River Park.

With a metro and rentable bikes, it is easy to explore the city from wherever you decide to stay.