Find hotels near Drake University, Des Moines from $59

Top reasons to visit Drake University

• Exciting Sports Events: Experience the thrill of Drake University basketball games, showcasing the school’s vibrant athletic spirit.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Explore the welcoming Drake Neighborhood, filled with local spots, parks, and recreational opportunities.
• Cultural Attractions: Visit historic civic buildings and enjoy family-friendly activities in the area.
• Nearby Golf Courses: Unwind with a round of golf amidst beautiful scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels catering to different needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Drake University

Discover a range of hotel accommodations near Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa, tailored to meet the needs of every traveler. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a supportive environment for LGBTQIA guests, or essential business services, you'll find welcoming options just minutes away from the campus. Experience comfort and convenience at the closest hotels, designed to make your visit enjoyable and memorable.

• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport: This budget-friendly lodging option boasts a guest rating of 8.6 and is perfect for family and business travelers alike. Located 4 miles from Drake University, Days Inn & Suites provides essential amenities such as complimentary cribs for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Guests appreciate the hotel’s convenient services tailored for both leisure and work needs, making it an excellent choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing comfort.
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University: With a remarkable guest rating of 9.4, this 3-star hotel is just 0.3 miles from Drake University, making it the closest option for visitors. Home2 Suites stands out for its pet-friendly environment, allowing dogs and cats on-site with varying fees. This modern hotel is ideal for business travelers, offering spacious suites and essential amenities tailored for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy amenities like free breakfast and a fitness center, making it a superb choice for both work and leisure.
• Quality Inn West Des Moines - Clive: Located 3 miles from Drake University, this budget-friendly hotel caters to families and business travelers alike. With a range of amenities, including cribs available for a fee and pet-friendly policies, Quality Inn ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. The hotel’s commitment to comfort and convenience, along with its practical location, makes it a solid choice for those seeking a balance of affordability and quality service during their stay in Des Moines.

Where to stay near Drake University

Exploring the area around Drake University offers a delightful mix of family-friendly neighborhoods and vibrant downtown culture. The Drake Neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a welcoming atmosphere, with charming local spots like Mexican Udi and plenty of recreational opportunities. Whether you’re enjoying the local parks or savoring delicious cuisine, you'll find that this region is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation experience.

• Des Moines: As the vibrant capital of Iowa, Des Moines is a bustling metropolis that serves as the home of Drake University. Travelers will find a mix of family-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, and business-focused venues. Peak visitor seasons occur from June to August, making summer the ideal time to experience local events. Shopping malls and fairgrounds offer plenty of leisure options, while the city’s landmarks, including a beautiful lake and the modern college campus, enhance its appeal. Whether you're exploring the local arts scene or enjoying the outdoors, Des Moines has something for everyone.
• Urbandale: Located a mere 3 miles from Drake University, Urbandale is a charming city known for its family-oriented atmosphere and vibrant community. With visitor numbers peaking in April and summer months, it’s a great place to enjoy city-themed excursions and outdoor events. Urbandale features excellent shopping options, including popular malls and an entertainment arena. Local attractions such as a waterpark and theme park provide fun for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families seeking adventure and entertainment.
• Downtown Des Moines: Just 2 miles from Drake University, Downtown Des Moines is the heartbeat of the city, bustling with energy and excitement. This neighborhood attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the spring and summer months. It's renowned for its array of entertainment venues, shopping centers, and dining options. With landmarks like the convention center and modern college facilities nearby, there’s always something happening. Whether you're attending a concert, browsing local shops, or enjoying a family outing, Downtown Des Moines offers a dynamic experience that captures the spirit of the city.

Things to do in Drake University

Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a variety of activities for visitors, including exciting sports events and vibrant local festivals. Basketball games are particularly popular, showcasing the school's athletic spirit. For those looking to unwind, there are also nearby golf courses where you can enjoy a round amidst beautiful scenery. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or seeking leisurely outdoor activities, Drake University has something for everyone.

Shopping

On campus, you can find the Drake University Bookstore for school spirit gear and local gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit Merle Hay Mall, offering a variety of stores, or Jordan Creek Town Center, known for its upscale shopping and dining options.

Recreation

At Drake University, the Wellness Center offers fitness classes, personal training, and wellness workshops to help you rejuvenate. Enjoy outdoor activities at the campus trails, perfect for jogging or walking, while the student-run yoga sessions provide a serene environment for relaxation and mindfulness.

Adventure

At Drake University, explore the scenic campus with its beautiful architecture and vibrant gardens. Engage in recreational activities at the Drake Recreational Center, offering sports facilities and fitness classes. Don’t miss the nearby Gray’s Lake Park for hiking, biking, and kayaking in a picturesque setting.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Drake University with a visit to the Varsity Theater for indie films and cozy atmosphere. For a lively night out, check out the Drake Diner for classic American fare and late-night bites, or unwind at the nearby bar scene with craft cocktails and live music.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Drake University

• 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 refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange 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 through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Drake University

Drake University offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore, including historic civic buildings, fairgrounds, and charming neighborhood areas. These points of interest provide cultural experiences and outdoor activities suitable for families. Whether you're interested in history or looking for family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone to enjoy within and around the university.

• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this family-friendly venue, located 6 miles from Drake University. Known for hosting the famous Iowa State Fair, this fairground is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities, delicious local food, and various entertainment options, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages.
• Iowa State Capitol Building: Just 3 miles from Drake University, this historic building showcases stunning architecture and rich cultural significance. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, take guided tours, and learn about Iowa's history and government in a captivating setting.
• Des Moines Civic Center: Located 2 miles from Drake University, this vibrant arts center hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows and concerts. Enjoy the cultural vibe and immerse yourself in the local arts scene at this premier venue.

Best time to go to Drake University

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

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Drake University

When planning your visit to Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, the primary airport to consider is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located 5 miles away. Nearby hotel options include the Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, a 4.5-star hotel just 4 miles from the airport. Another excellent choice is Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale, also a 4.5-star rating, situated 9 miles away. For those considering alternative airports, Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 92 miles from Drake University, with nearby hotels like The Black Hawk Hotel, a 3.5-star facility just 3 miles from ALO. Fort Dodge Regional Airport (FOD), 71 miles away, offers accommodations like Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 4 miles from the airport.