Top 10 Hotels in Central Iowa (from $60) 2026 - Competitive Prices

A historic building with a large central archway and a pond in the foreground.

Upfront pricing
Our total price for your stay includes taxes and fees
Treat yourself
Save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with Member Prices
Learn about One Key
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Go beyond your typical stay in Central Iowa

Pet friendly

Hot tub

Cabin

Family friendly

Apartment

Pool

Apart hotel

Waterpark

Condo

Cottage

Check prices for these dates

Tonight

Tomorrow

Next weekend

In two weeks

Our top choices for Central Iowa hotels

An indoor swimming pool with a hot tub, tiled flooring, and seating area with chairs and potted plants.

A modern hotel room with a central seating area, a flat-screen TV, and a large window with curtains.

A lobby with a large banner of Iowa State University Central Campus, seating area with sofas and tables, and a staircase leading to upper floors.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a TV.

1. Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

Ames

Darren

$89 nightly

$100 total

Oct 11 - Oct 12

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious, modern interior with a long wooden table and bar stools, a seating area with sofas, and a kitchen area with a countertop and shelving.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a large window.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and tables.

2. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

Johnston

Robin

$76 nightly

$85 total

Sep 29 - Sep 30

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel room with a large bathtub, a bed, a chair, and a painting on the wall.

A modern kitchen with a marble island, a refrigerator, and a coffee machine.

A modern building with a sign reading "Wyndham Garden."

A modern building with a prominent entrance, a covered walkway, and a well-lit facade.

3. Wyndham Garden Ankeny/Des Moines

Ankeny

Dateesha

$78 nightly

$88 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

Total with taxes and fees

A La Quinta hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign, a covered entrance, and a brick facade.

A large indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a small seating area.

A hotel room with two beds, a sofa, a desk, and a TV.

A spacious indoor area with multiple seating arrangements, including tables and chairs, a sofa, and a television mounted on the wall.

4. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

Ankeny

Jessica

$85 nightly

$96 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

Total with taxes and fees

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, tiled walls, and a no diving sign.

A modern lounge area with a mix of seating options, including sofas and chairs, a bar area, and a large screen TV.

A reception area with two counters, a green-lit ceiling, and a central doorway.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'La Quinta' sign, a covered entrance, and a parking lot.

5. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

Altoona

Michael

$90 nightly

$101 total

Sep 28 - Sep 29

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a chair, a TV displaying a sunflower image, a bathroom with a sink and mirror, and a patterned bedspread.

A large, historic building with a symmetrical facade, a central courtyard with a flower bed, and a well-maintained lawn.

A coffee station with a coffee maker, cups, and a sign about saving dough.

A clean, modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, a television screen, and a sign encouraging guests to save more for travel.

6. Motel 6 Des Moines, IA - North

Marquisville

Edward

$56 nightly

$63 total

Oct 2 - Oct 3

Total with taxes and fees

A lobby with a stone fireplace, orange and gray seating, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and tables, large windows with views, and a tiled floor.

A hotel room with a bed, a TV on a stand, and a nightstand with a lamp.

A modern lobby with a reception desk, a sofa, a rocking chair, and a coffee table.

7. Spark by Hilton Ames

Ames

Michaella

$89 nightly

$100 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

An outdoor patio area with wooden beams and string lights, furnished with chairs and tables, and a stone wall backdrop.

A hotel with a modern design, featuring multiple floors and a prominent sign.

A modern kitchen with a long counter, a buffet area with plates, and a view into the dining area.

8. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

Ankeny

Michelle

$89 nightly

$100 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious living area with a wooden dining table, comfortable seating, a brick fireplace, and a staircase leading to an upper level.

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, a dining area, and a staircase leading to upper floors.

A hotel room with a dining area, a sofa, a TV, and a bed.

A gym with exercise equipment, a mirror, and a rack of dumbbells.

9. Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

Ames

Mandy

$95 nightly

$106 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a computer, a TV, and artwork on the wall.

A Sleep Inn & Suites building with a stone facade, multiple windows, and a clear sky.

A modern lobby with a sofa, chairs, a lamp, and a wall with a floral pattern.

A reception desk with a 'Welcome' mat, a sign for 'Sleep Inn & Suites', and a door to the right.

10. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

Ankeny

Chrisshanna

$94 nightly

$105 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a window with blinds, a framed picture on the wall, and a bedside lamp.

A modern restaurant with a bar area, seating arrangements, and a kitchen in the background.

A row of white, modern, front-loading washing machines in a clean, white-walled laundry room.

11. My Place Hotel - Altoona/Des Moines, IA

Altoona

Craig

$76 nightly

$85 total

Sep 28 - Sep 29

Total with taxes and fees

A lobby with a fireplace, seating area, and a reception desk.

A lobby with blue armchairs, a wooden table, and a brick wall.

A lobby with a fireplace, green and blue sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a reception desk.

A swimming pool with a 4' 12" depth, surrounded by lounge chairs and a view of the outdoors.

12. Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

Ames

Rachelle

$100 nightly

$112 total

Oct 19 - Oct 20

Total with taxes and fees

A modern kitchen with a dining area, wooden flooring, and a large window.

A restaurant with tables and chairs, a kitchen area, and a flat-screen TV.

A reception area with a counter, a brown leather chair, and a TV mounted on the wall.

A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a lamp, and a wall-mounted clock.

13. Best Western Plus Altoona Inn

Altoona

Jim

$62 nightly

$69 total

Oct 11 - Oct 12

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel reception area with a marble counter, a red carpet, and a chair with a patterned cushion.

A hotel room with two beds, green walls, wooden headboards, white bedding, and a patterned carpet.

A hotel room with a dining area featuring wooden tables and chairs, a sofa, and a decorative door with geometric patterns.

14. Quality Inn & Suites Altoona - Des Moines

Altoona

Laurel

$63 nightly

$71 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

Total with taxes and fees

An indoor swimming pool with wooden ceiling beams, tiled walls, and a clear view of the outside through large windows.

A spacious living area with a stone fireplace, multiple seating options, and a ceiling fan.

A hotel room with a wooden desk, a lamp, a sofa, and a view through a door to a bathroom and kitchen area.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a television, a mirror, and a bathroom.

15. AmericInn by Wyndham Ankeny/Des Moines

Ankeny

Leslie

$80 nightly

$90 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

An indoor swimming pool with tiled walls, wooden ceiling beams, and lounge chairs.

A spacious lobby with a wooden staircase, a fireplace, and comfortable seating areas.

A hotel room with a large bed, a separate bathroom with a bathtub, and a nightstand with a lamp.

A spacious lobby with a patterned carpet, seating areas, and a staircase.

16. Best Western Holiday Manor

Newton

Kendra

$93 nightly

$105 total

Sep 28 - Sep 29

Total with taxes and fees

An indoor swimming pool with wooden beams, tiled walls, and a seating area with tables and chairs.

A hotel room with a bed, a vanity with a mirror, a television, and a microwave.

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, a wooden staircase, and a blue mat with "American Inn" text.

A spa area with a hot tub, wooden ceiling beams, tiled walls, and a view through large windows.

17. AmericInn by Wyndham Ames

Ames

Jonathan

$80 nightly

$90 total

Sep 28 - Sep 29

Total with taxes and fees

An outdoor seating area with a fire feature, wicker ottomans, and a sofa under a pergola with string lights.

A hotel reception desk with a modern design, featuring a wooden panel wall, a glass display case with apples, and a sign indicating 'HOME 2' and 'Hilton Honors'.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a wardrobe.

An indoor swimming pool with a clear view of the poolside area, including seating and a wall with a motivational quote.

18. Home2 Suites By Hilton Ames

Ames

Maddox

$111 nightly

$124 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A modern hotel with a stone facade, labeled "Springhill Suites by Marriott," featuring a covered entrance and multiple windows.

A modern hotel lobby with wooden cabinetry, a self-service beverage station, and a staircase leading to another level.

An outdoor seating area with stone walls, a fire pit, and modern furniture.

A modern hotel lobby with a seating area, a dining space, and a large window providing natural light.

19. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames

Ames

Judith

$101 nightly

$113 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious lobby with a wooden reception desk, a staircase, and a second-floor balcony.

An indoor pool area with a hot tub, seating, and a view of the outdoors.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, tiled flooring, and multiple seating areas around the pool.

A hotel room with a sofa, armchair, small table, TV, and a large bathtub.

20. Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

Pleasant Hill

Austin

$68 nightly

$76 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

Total with taxes and fees

View all properties

Vacation Rentals in Central Iowa

Aparthotel

A room with a foosball table, two arcade machines, and a sofa with colorful cushions.

A modern living room with a blue sofa, orange and green vases, and yellow chairs.

A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a microwave, and a dishwasher.

A modern kitchen with a large island, dark wood cabinets, a built-in TV, and stainless steel appliances.

Kasa Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines

"The apartment was perfect for what we needed. Very reasonable price with excellent value. ."

Apartment

A house with a red double door, a stone pillar, and a window with a decorative design.

A bedroom with a bed, a nightstand, a lamp, and a chair.

A dining area with a table set for four, a sofa, and a ceiling fan.

A kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, a sink, and a dish rack.

2 Mi to Main St: Newton Guest House

Newton

Vacation Home

A backyard with a swimming pool, lounge chairs, a fire pit, and a covered patio area.

A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a central island, and stainless steel appliances.

A modern dining area with a white table, a woven placemat, and a neon sign.

A modern living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden tray, and a kitchen area with bar stools.

The Palms Mirage House 3 Bedroom Home

Southwestern Hills

"The house is lovely for a weekend of meditation or connecting with nature, but I wouldn't recommend it for very outgoing families, as the local community is very sensitive about music. I actually felt stressed by the surrounding environment; in my view, renting a house implies having more freedom to have fun, but that wasn't the case here. Next time, I’d choose a hotel instead—I’d have a better time and save money, too."

Cottage

A kitchen with white cabinets, a coffee maker, and a bowl of fruit on the counter.

A covered porch with a white chair, a small table, and a chair with a checkered pattern.

A dining area with a wooden table, chairs, and a chandelier. There are windows and a door leading to another room.

Family-friendly Des Moines Retreat w/ Patio!

Drake

Cottage

A compact, multi-level living space with a loft bedroom, kitchen, and seating area.

A small, single-story building with a metal roof and a front porch.

A compact living space with a dining area, a sofa, a TV, and a kitchenette.

A bedroom with a checkered bedspread, a kitchenette in the background, and a sloped ceiling with recessed lighting.

Quaint Montezuma Cabin Near Lake Ponderosa!

Montezuma

"Great stay. Nice roomy place to stay. Stayed nice and cool during hot summer. Had a small issue and Kelly fixed it right away. Definitely will stay here again. "

Cottage

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island, and a dining area with a wooden table and bar stools.

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a black refrigerator, a microwave, an oven, and a dining area with two stools.

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a black refrigerator, and a dining area with a wooden table and chairs.

A kitchen with wooden cabinets, a black refrigerator, a coffee maker, a sink, and a dining table with benches.

Charming Iowa Abode Near Knoxville Raceway!

Knoxville

"There are no pet friendly hotels in Knoxville so we were very happy to find this pretty house for our stay when back for a family funeral. Pros: ample parking, good location, very clean, large space, nice kitchen, large yard, DISH TV, pet friendly, rapid response from owner, sleeps multiple people Cons: sleeps multiple people but only 1 key provided, couches don’t face TV, 2 BRs have no doors so there is privacy only for people in upstairs BR, outlet in basement bath not working "

See all vacation rentals

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Central Iowa attractions

A colorful salad with various vegetables and cheese.

Jordan Creek Town Center

9.2/10 (1,624 reviews)

You can enjoy retail therapy at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

See properties

An aerial view of a bustling fairground with various stalls, rides, and a Ferris wheel.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

8.8/10 (945 reviews)

Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

See properties

A city skyline with a river and a bridge.

Iowa Events Center

8.8/10 (573 reviews)

Learn about the events happening at Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

See properties

Jack Trice Stadium

9.4/10 (327 reviews)

Catch an event at Jack Trice Stadium during your trip to Ames. In the area, you can attend a football game or basketball game.

See properties

Casey's Center

8.8/10 (976 reviews)

Catch an event at Casey's Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

See properties

Knoxville Raceway

9.2/10 (103 reviews)

Catch an event at Knoxville Raceway during your trip to Knoxville. Take in the festivals while you're in the area.

See properties

Des Moines Civic Center

8.8/10 (374 reviews)

Enjoy an outing to Des Moines Civic Center during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and lively festivals.

See properties

UNI-Dome

8.8/10 (176 reviews)

Catch an event at UNI-Dome during your trip to Cedar Falls. Discover the beautiful waterfalls and casinos in this family-friendly area.

See properties

Learn more about Central Iowa

Delve into rural America in the heart of Iowa, where rolling farmland, the state capital and a wealth of cultural attractions await.

See all hotels in Central Iowa

A city skyline with illuminated buildings and a water tower.

Top Central Iowa Hotel Reviews

Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

10/10 Excellent

"The food (morning & evening) were outstanding."

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Room was really clean and didn't smell, got a queen suite but the lady at the front desk upgraded us because it was a handicap accessible room, upgraded to a king suite on the first floor and it was really spacious and the bathroom was clean and the shower was clean and the staff was very nice, parking was kind of difficult after a certain time but other than that it was an amazing experience, 10/10 recommend staying here, did not have breakfast there but smelled amazing"

Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA

8/10 Good

"The staff was helpful, the dog walking area was great- good grassy areas and well lit. Not all the light fixtures in the room were functional. I would return on future trips."

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

10/10 Excellent

"Great location. Walked to the Iowa State football stadium. Quiet and clean property. Will keep staying there!"

Wildwood Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"The room was clean and comfortable. Shower was definitely old and dated but clean and functional. Jenn at the front was an excellent host. She was friendly and very helpful! Would stay again."

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

10/10 Excellent

"Clean quiet quick check in good breakfast"

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA

10/10 Excellent

"Friendly staff, great location decent breakfast"

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"Clean place"

Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

10/10 Excellent

"The staff does not dress professionally, but don't let that fool you. They do a great job."

More cheap stays in Central Iowa

Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA

7655 Office Plaza Dr N West Des Moines IA

$54 nightly

$60 total

Oct 3 - Oct 4

Total with taxes and fees

7.8/10 Good! (1,068 reviews)

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

1901 Hackley Ave Des Moines IA

$64 nightly

$72 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

Total with taxes and fees

8.6/10 Excellent! (1,826 reviews)

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

4755 Merle Hay Road Des Moines IA

$71 nightly

$79 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

5001 Fleur Dr Des Moines IA

$92 nightly

$104 total

Oct 24 - Oct 25

Total with taxes and fees

Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

2500 University Blvd. Ames IA

$95 nightly

$106 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (1,003 reviews)

Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

5291 Stoney Creek Court Johnston IA

$109 nightly

$122 total

Sep 28 - Sep 29

Total with taxes and fees

Hotels in Central Iowa with star-rating

Find out more about Central Iowa

Top reasons to visit Central Iowa

Outdoor Adventures: Central Iowa is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic parks and recreational activities for all ages.
Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a variety of attractions perfect for family vacations, including fairgrounds and event venues.
Vibrant Urban Life: Explore the thriving downtown areas, rich in culture, dining, and entertainment options.
Academic Experiences: Visit modern colleges and universities, enhancing your cultural exploration.
Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly options.

Find great hotels near Central Iowa

Central Iowa offers a diverse selection of hotels to cater to every traveler's needs, from business-friendly accommodations to pet-friendly stays. Whether you’re looking for a modern hotel in bustling urban areas or a charming agritourism property, you'll find welcoming options that embrace a range of lifestyles, including LGBTQIA-friendly environments. Explore the best hotels in Central Iowa for a memorable and comfortable vacation experience.

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames: Tailored for business travelers and families alike, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames combines functionality with comfort. Located 11 miles from Central Iowa, this hotel is pet-friendly and offers a range of business amenities such as a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms. Families will appreciate the child-friendly features, including free cribs. The hotel's pet policy allows certain pets on the premises, ensuring your furry friends can join your vacation.
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames: With a warm and inviting atmosphere, AmericInn by Wyndham Ames is perfect for family vacations and business trips. Situated 11 miles from Central Iowa, this hotel offers a wealth of amenities, including a business center and meeting rooms for corporate guests. Families can enjoy various activities with children, like books, art supplies, and games, ensuring everyone has a fun stay. The pet-friendly policy allows you to bring your pets along for the adventure, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with their four-legged companions.
Sonesta Essential Ames: A welcoming retreat for all, Sonesta Essential Ames is committed to inclusivity and family-friendly experiences. Located 11 miles from Central Iowa, this LGBTQIA-friendly hotel offers amenities for children, including a video game console. Pet owners will appreciate the flexible pet policy, allowing dogs and cats with certain restrictions. With a focus on creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, this hotel ensures that every guest feels at home during their stay.

Where to stay near Central Iowa

Central Iowa offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore the thriving downtown areas of cities like Des Moines, where vibrant neighborhoods and scenic parks await. Whether you're seeking cultural attractions or tranquil landscapes, Central Iowa captures the essence of a perfect family vacation. Discover the heart of the region, where every corner invites exploration and connection with nature.

Ames: Located 12 miles from Central Iowa, Ames is a vibrant city known for its rich educational culture and community spirit. It's home to Iowa State University, which draws visitors year-round, peaking during the summer months from June to August. Whether you're interested in shopping at its local mall or exploring the energetic campus life, Ames has something for everyone. The city also offers various sports facilities, including a stadium that hosts exciting events, making it a great spot for family outings and cultural experiences.
Colo: Just 3 miles away from Central Iowa, Colo is a charming city perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The best time to visit is from March to May when the weather is ideal for hiking and enjoying the local recreational areas. With picturesque lakes and a modern college university nearby, Colo provides a romantic setting for couples and families alike. Don't miss the chance to explore the local waterpark, which adds a splash of fun to your trip.
Nevada: Situated 4 miles from Central Iowa, Nevada offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. Peak visitor times are during the summer months, particularly June and July. The city boasts a vibrant arena entertainment facility and is close to a modern college university, which enhances its lively atmosphere. With various recreational areas and sports facilities, Nevada is an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy both an active and relaxed vacation. Its romantic settings make it a great choice for couples exploring the area.

Things to do near Central Iowa

Central Iowa is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and family vacations, offering a variety of recreational activities and scenic experiences. Visitors can enjoy fairgrounds and event venues, providing entertainment and educational opportunities. Attractions abound, making it a great destination for those seeking adventure and fun in a picturesque setting.

Shopping

Visit the Outlets of Des Moines, a vibrant shopping mall 27 miles from Central Iowa, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Closer to town, Northview Shopping Center, just 23 miles away, features a variety of shops in a bustling business and city atmosphere.

Recreation

Jack Trice Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for catching a game. Furman Aquatic Center provides family-friendly fun with pools and slides. For golf lovers, Veenker Memorial Golf Course presents a scenic outdoor experience, combining relaxation and sport amidst beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

The High Trestle Trail offers breathtaking views and a unique experience as you bike or hike across its iconic bridge. For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining at the Des Moines Adventure Park, where you can soar above the trees and tackle exciting obstacle courses.

Nightlife

For a fun night in Central Iowa, catch a romantic flick at Valle Drive In, just 27 miles away. Experience excitement at the Story City Carousel, located 15 miles from the heart of the area. For a cultural evening, visit Fred Maytag Bowl, 29 miles away, perfect for family entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Central Iowa

To save money on your trip to Central Iowa, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March or December to January, and aim for a stay on a Monday rather than a Saturday. Use Expedia to search for budget-friendly hotel options, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and accommodations. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future bookings. Additionally, explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Central Iowa are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and August to September, where prices are slightly higher.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Central Iowa is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Central Iowa is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Central Iowa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Central Iowa

Central Iowa offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences, perfect for a memorable vacation. Explore urban parks, visit modern colleges and universities, and attend events at the Iowa Events Center. With a variety of attractions and activities, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant city life while enjoying the picturesque scenery that Central Iowa has to offer.

Iowa State University: Explore the beautiful campus of Iowa State University, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Engage with students and faculty, and enjoy various cultural and educational events throughout the year.
Main Street Cultural District: Immerse yourself in the heart of the community at the Main Street Cultural District, where art galleries, shops, and local eateries come together. Experience the lively city vibes and discover unique local artwork and cultural events.
Stephens Auditorium: Attend a performance or event at the renowned Stephens Auditorium, which hosts a variety of performances ranging from concerts to theatrical productions. Its professional ambiance makes it a hub for arts and culture in Central Iowa.

Best time to go to Central Iowa

The best time to visit Central Iowa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Central Iowa falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Central Iowa falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	15.8°F (-9.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	21.9°F (-5.6000000000000005°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	37.0°F (2.8000000000000003°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	39.9°F (4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Central Iowa

When visiting Central Iowa, you have a few airport options. Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is 38 miles away and offers nearby hotels such as the 4.5-star Hotel Fort Des Moines, located 4 miles from the airport. Cedar Rapids Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is 86 miles away, with excellent accommodations like the 4-star Doubletree by Hilton, just 7 miles from the airport. Lastly, Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 61 miles away, with options like the 3.5-star Black Hawk Hotel located 3 miles from the airport. Each hotel provides convenient access to their respective airports, making travel hassle-free.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Things to do in Des Moines

Find hotels in Central Iowa, IA from $60

Upfront pricing

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in Central Iowa

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Our top choices for Central Iowa hotels

1. Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

2. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

3. Wyndham Garden Ankeny/Des Moines

4. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

5. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

6. Motel 6 Des Moines, IA - North

7. Spark by Hilton Ames

8. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

9. Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

10. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

11. My Place Hotel - Altoona/Des Moines, IA

12. Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

13. Best Western Plus Altoona Inn

14. Quality Inn & Suites Altoona - Des Moines

15. AmericInn by Wyndham Ankeny/Des Moines

16. Best Western Holiday Manor

17. AmericInn by Wyndham Ames

18. Home2 Suites By Hilton Ames

19. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames

20. Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

Vacation Rentals in Central Iowa

Kasa Downtown Des Moines

2 Mi to Main St: Newton Guest House

The Palms Mirage House 3 Bedroom Home

Family-friendly Des Moines Retreat w/ Patio!

Quaint Montezuma Cabin Near Lake Ponderosa!

Charming Iowa Abode Near Knoxville Raceway!

Stay near popular Central Iowa attractions

Jordan Creek Town Center

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Iowa Events Center

Jack Trice Stadium

Casey's Center

Knoxville Raceway

Des Moines Civic Center

UNI-Dome

Learn more about Central Iowa

Top Central Iowa Hotel Reviews

Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

Wildwood Lodge

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

More cheap stays in Central Iowa

Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

Hotels in Central Iowa with star-rating

Find out more about Central Iowa

Top reasons to visit Central Iowa

Find great hotels near Central Iowa

Where to stay near Central Iowa

Things to do near Central Iowa

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Central Iowa

Find the best attractions near Central Iowa

Best time to go to Central Iowa

The nearest major airports for your trip to Central Iowa

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Go further with the Expedia app