Drake University Tours



Visit Drake University, a highly-regarded educational facility in the local community. Look on as the enthusiastic students dash to and from classes.

Drake University is an interesting place to begin discovering Des Moines. This modern university comes recommended by fellow travelers, but it isn't the only thing to do here. Set aside time for other sights like Iowa State Fairgrounds, Iowa State Capitol Building, and Blank Park Zoo to fully experience what's on offer in the area.

Plan a trip to see Drake University

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Motel 6 Des Moines, IA - North
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Motel 6 Altoona, IA - Des Moines East

Reviews of Drake University

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
104
5 - Excellent 60%
4 - Good
44
4 - Good 25%
3 - Okay
22
3 - Okay 13%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
4
1 - Terrible 2%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Drake relays were enjoyable albeit cold. Loved the pole-vaullting indoors!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

10 min drive to Drake

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

3 out of 5
2650 University Ave., Des Moines, IA
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

4.5 out of 5
1000 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Des Lux Hotel

Des Lux Hotel

3.5 out of 5
800 Locust St, Des Moines, IA
Des Lux Hotel
Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro

Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro

Des Moines
Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro
Forest Ave Historic Rutledge home 8 beds close to everything in the metro.

Forest Ave Historic Rutledge home 8 beds close to everything in the metro.

Des Moines
Forest Ave Historic Rutledge home 8 beds close to everything in the metro.
Roomy 4BR by Drake Sleeps 13 HUGE yard

Roomy 4BR by Drake Sleeps 13 HUGE yard

Des Moines
Roomy 4BR by Drake Sleeps 13 HUGE yard
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG

3 out of 5
1050 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
Sleepover: Attractive Studio and Gym - Des Moines

Sleepover: Attractive Studio and Gym - Des Moines

Des Moines
Sleepover: Attractive Studio and Gym - Des Moines
Sleepover: Classic Studio and Gym - Des Moines

Sleepover: Classic Studio and Gym - Des Moines

Des Moines
Sleepover: Classic Studio and Gym - Des Moines
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Drake University

At Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, visitors can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with sports events, festivals, and thrilling basketball games. Explore local events and venues, dive into the nightlife, and partake in live performances that reflect the community's spirit. Outdoor experiences also abound, making it easy to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while engaging with fellow students and locals alike.

Shopping

For shopping near Drake University, you can visit Merle Hay Mall, just 3 miles away, offering a variety of stores and entertainment. The Downtown Farmers' Market is 2 miles away, perfect for local goods. If you're up for a drive, check out Valley West Mall, located 5 miles away.

Recreation

Principal Park offers an exciting sports atmosphere, perfect for catching a game and enjoying the local sports culture. Val Air Ballroom provides a lively entertainment vibe, hosting concerts and events. For outdoor enthusiasts, Waveland Municipal Golf Course features beautiful greens for a relaxing round of golf.

Adventure

Experience thrilling fun at Air Lanes Bowling Center, located 4 miles from Drake University, where you can enjoy bowling with friends. For hiking enthusiasts, the Greenbelt Trail, 5 miles away, offers scenic views and outdoor adventures. Finish off your day at Pole Position Raceway, 8 miles away, for an adrenaline-pumping karting experience.

Nightlife

In Des Moines, Hoyt Sherman Place is a charming theater just a mile from Drake University, showcasing a variety of performances. The nearby Lauridsen Amphitheater, two miles away, offers outdoor events, while the Des Moines Community Playhouse, also a mile away, features engaging family-friendly shows.

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

Find the best attractions near Drake University

During your visit to Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, you'll find a variety of attractions to explore, including event venues, entertainment arenas, and fairgrounds. These points of interest offer a mix of cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures. Be sure to check out nearby attractions, the closest mall, and other sights to enhance your stay and fully enjoy what the area has to offer.

  • Wells Fargo Arena: Located 2 miles from Drake University, this vibrant arena is the heart of live entertainment in Des Moines. Enjoy thrilling sports events, concerts, and family shows in a lively atmosphere that brings the community together.
  • Iowa State Fairgrounds: Situated 6 miles away, this iconic fairground is famous for its annual state fair. Experience outdoor fun with rides, games, and various food options, all perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
  • Iowa Events Center: Just 2 miles from Drake University, this modern venue hosts business conferences and events. It offers a professional environment while also being versatile enough for trade shows and public gatherings.

Best time to go to Drake University

The best time to visit Drake University is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November40.5°F (4.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Drake University

To save money on your trip to Drake University, consider visiting between November and January for lower accommodation prices. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to compare hotel options and filter for eco-friendly choices. Booking a package that combines flights, hotel, and activities can also lead to significant savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership provides exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Lastly, 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 Drake University are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, 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 Drake University is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Drake University is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred destination, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Drake University with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia