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Des Moines Vacations from $320

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Your Des Moines Vacation

From its progressive thinking to its friendly locals and rural countryside, there are countless reasons to stay in the riverfront city of Des Moines. Discover these highlights and more when you lock in your vacation package to Des Moines. Eager to start exploring your surroundings? Iowa State Fairgrounds, Iowa State Capitol Building and Blank Park Zoo are just three of the best places to visit during your trip to Des Moines. Your perfect Des Moines vacation is a couple of clicks away. Explore hotels, flights and more on Expedia for an adventure that's tailored to suit your style.

The Latest Des Moines Vacation Packages

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
  • Dec 10 - Dec 13

    Cozy Rest Motel + Flight

    Indianola Hills
    3 nights
    2.0 star property
    7.8/10 - Good (694 reviews)
    Roundtrip • Denver (DEN) - Des Moines (DSM)
    DEN - DSM • Nonstop DSM - DEN • Nonstop
    $375
    $320
    per traveler
    found 1 hour ago
    Cozy Rest Motel
  • Dec 10 - Dec 13

    Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG + Flight

    Downtown Des Moines
    3 nights
    3.0 star property
    7.6/10 - Good (1,001 reviews)
    "Ac didn’t work in the building. 81 degrees was plenty hot. It wasn’t disclosed to us, we found out through others"
    Reviewed November 6, 2026
    Roundtrip • Denver (DEN) - Des Moines (DSM)
    DEN - DSM • Nonstop DSM - DEN • Nonstop
    $434
    $366
    per traveler
    found 1 hour ago
    Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
  • Dec 10 - Dec 13

    Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport + Flight

    Greater South Side
    3 nights
    2.5 star property
    8.8/10 - Excellent (1,004 reviews)
    Roundtrip • Denver (DEN) - Des Moines (DSM)
    DEN - DSM • Nonstop DSM - DEN • Nonstop
    $491
    $422
    per traveler
    found 1 hour ago
    Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport
  • Dec 10 - Dec 13

    Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Urbandale/Des Moines + Flight

    Urbandale
    3 nights
    2.0 star property
    7.4/10 - Good (1,001 reviews)
    "I know it's an older building, but the halls smelled like an old folks home. The individual rooms were even worse and there was no way to properly vent or air out the room, it was almost overwhelming at first. The bathroom tile floor was visually clean but sticky like it had not been properly cleaned. The bed was harder than I'm used to. The walls were thin and I could make out the conversations and programs being watched in the next room. Thankfully, the neighbors didn't stay up too late."
    Reviewed November 4, 2026
    Roundtrip • Denver (DEN) - Des Moines (DSM)
    DEN - DSM • Nonstop DSM - DEN • Nonstop
    $384
    $334
    per traveler
    found 1 hour ago
    Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Urbandale/Des Moines
  • Dec 10 - Dec 13

    Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown + Flight

    Downtown Des Moines
    3 nights
    3.0 star property
    8.2/10 - Very good (1,005 reviews)
    "Staff was great. I ended up needing to stay an extra night and they were very accommodating and made it easy."
    Reviewed November 8, 2026
    Roundtrip • Denver (DEN) - Des Moines (DSM)
    DEN - DSM • Nonstop DSM - DEN • Nonstop
    $426
    $372
    per traveler
    found 1 hour ago
    Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Where to stay in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a vibrant blend of family-friendly attractions and outdoor adventures. Explore the city's parks and recreational areas, or take excursions to nearby regions for a taste of local charm. Whether you're seeking entertainment or business opportunities, the welcoming atmosphere is sure to enhance your travel experience.

West Des Moines

Discover West Des Moines, a vibrant city perfectly suited for travelers seeking a mix of business and leisure. With attractions like Drake University, Living History Farms, and the West Glen Town Center, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences from education to recreation. Nestled within the Des Moines area, West Des Moines offers easy access to shopping and event venues, making it a smart choice for hotel bookings that cater to diverse interests.

Ankeny

Experience the charm of Ankeny, a perfect hub for family travelers looking to explore the excitement of the Des Moines area. With attractions like Adventureland amusement park for thrills, Saylorville Lake for outdoor adventures, and the Des Moines Area Community College for educational opportunities, Ankeny offers a well-rounded getaway. Ideally located in Des Moines, this city provides easy access to various activities, making Ankeny a smart choice for your hotel booking during your visit.

Urbandale

Make your vacation planning effortless by staying in Urbandale, a haven for family travelers and those seeking a city experience due to its easy access to attractions like Drake University, Casey's Center, and the Iowa Events Center. With ample shopping options and entertainment venues nearby, Urbandale offers a vibrant atmosphere year-round. Located within the Des Moines area, it provides a smart choice for hotel bookings, ensuring you’re close to all the excitement while enjoying a comfortable stay.

Altoona

Altoona serves as a prime spot for families and adventure seekers interested in combining excitement with relaxation. Nestled within the Des Moines area, it offers easy access to popular attractions like Adventureland amusement park, the Iowa State Fairgrounds, and the versatile Casey's Center. With its moderate seasonal visitor trends, Altoona is perfect for a summer getaway or a weekend retreat in the fall. Choosing Altoona for your stay means enjoying a vibrant atmosphere while being close to Des Moines’ offerings.

Clive

Travelers visiting the area often choose Clive, especially families and business travelers seeking close proximity to Des Moines. This vibrant city offers a blend of urban experiences, from the engaging Living History Farms to the academic charm of Drake University and the lively West Glen Town Center. With its easy access to shopping and entertainment, Clive provides a convenient base for exploring the region. Opting for Clive as your hotel destination ensures a well-rounded stay in central Iowa.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Des Moines

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Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines is an ideal destination for family vacations, outdoor adventures, and business trips. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping at local malls and centers, attending lively summer festivals, and exploring the fairgrounds. Additionally, the city offers an amusement park and a comprehensive activity guide to ensure a memorable experience for everyone. Whether you're seeking entertainment or relaxation, Des Moines has something for everyone.

Shopping

Experience shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center, a vibrant mall with entertainment and family-friendly activities. Don't miss the Downtown Farmers' Market for local produce and unique gifts. The Outlets of Des Moines also offer great deals on popular brands in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

At Principal Park, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events while enjoying healthy concessions. Hoyt Sherman Place offers a cultural escape with captivating performances, perfect for a delightful evening out. For music lovers, Val Air Ballroom presents an entertaining vibe with live concerts that rejuvenate the spirit.

Adventure

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park offers a thrilling experience with wall-to-wall trampolines for bouncing fun and exciting arcade games. For outdoor adventure, explore the scenic Greenbelt Trail, perfect for hiking amidst nature. Don’t miss the Sky Glider East for a unique aerial view of the area.

Nightlife

Des Moines boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, perfect for any visitor. Check out the trendy High Life Lounge for classic cocktails and a retro vibe. For live music, head to the Gas Lamp, where local bands play regularly, creating an energetic atmosphere that keeps the night alive.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa, is an ideal destination for family vacations, outdoor adventures, and business trips. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, event venues, and modern colleges. With its blend of outdoor activities and vibrant city experiences, Des Moines caters to travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement, making it a perfect spot for a memorable getaway.

  • Adventureland: Experience the thrill of Adventureland, an amusement park filled with rides and attractions for the entire family. Enjoy outdoor adventures, from roller coasters to water rides, all set in a vibrant atmosphere that promises fun and excitement.
  • Iowa State Fairgrounds: Visit the Iowa State Fairgrounds, a hub of outdoor family activities. Known for its annual state fair, this venue hosts numerous events throughout the year, showcasing local culture, delicious food, and entertainment that brings people together.
  • Drake University: Explore Drake University, a modern college campus with stunning architecture and a lively atmosphere. Located in the city, it offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural events, and beautiful green spaces for relaxation and exploration.

Best time to go to Des Moines

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

Tips to save on your trip to Des Moines

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Des Moines.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of vacation packages are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines, known for its family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities, offers vacation packages tailored to various travel styles:

  • Family-friendly package: A package built around a stay at Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown, rated 7.8 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms and an indoor pool, with travelers often praising its excellent location.
  • Couples package: Consider a package with a stay at Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, a 4.5-star property rated 9.2 out of 10 by travelers, which features a bar/lounge and restaurant, with travelers frequently highlighting its excellent staff and great food.
  • Budget package: Some hotels fall into the budget tier, providing more affordable options for your Des Moines vacation package.
  • Breakfast-included package: Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, such as Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, rated 9.2 out of 10 by travelers, providing a convenient start to your day.
  • Pet-friendly package: For travelers with pets, Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport, rated 9.1 out of 10 by travelers, is a strong choice, offering pet-friendly accommodations, and guests often note the helpful staff and clean rooms.
  • Airport shuttle package: Hotels like Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, rated 9.2 out of 10 by travelers, provide airport shuttle services for added convenience.

How much does a Des Moines vacation package cost?

A Des Moines vacation package typically costs around $900 per adult for a weekend trip, which is the most common duration. Lower-priced options start around $550 per adult, while packages with premium accommodations can reach up to $1,600.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How do I find cheap Des Moines vacation package deals?

The cheapest Des Moines vacation package deals can be as low as around $550 per adult for weekend trips. Separately, September and April typically have the lowest average monthly prices, around $770 to $780 per adult, both usually for 2-day trips. Bundling flights and hotel together also typically saves money on a weekend trip — most Des Moines packages include some savings versus booking separately, typically around $30 per adult. Longer, week-long trips can save even more, often around $60 per adult. Browse cheap vacation packages in Des Moines on Expedia for current deals.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

What is the best time to go to Des Moines?

The best time to go for a Des Moines vacation package is July and June, which are the busiest months for travelers. These months offer peak demand for the city's attractions and outdoor activities.


For a more affordable Des Moines vacation, consider traveling in September or April, when package prices tend to be lower. These months can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What's included in a Des Moines vacation package?

A Des Moines vacation package lets you combine round-trip flights, a hotel stay, and a rental car, offering convenience for exploring this outdoor and nature destination. Many hotels in Des Moines offer free breakfast, providing a great start to your day without extra planning. Additionally, many properties provide airport shuttle services to and from Des Moines International Airport (DSM), adding ease to your travel.


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

What's the best vacation package for Des Moines?

For families, a Des Moines vacation package built around a stay at Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown is a strong choice. This 3.5-star property, rated 7.8 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms, an indoor pool, and kitchenettes, with travelers often highlighting its excellent location and great food.


Couples might prefer a package with accommodations at Des Moines Marriott Downtown, a 3.5-star hotel rated 8.2 out of 10 by travelers. It features a bar/lounge, indoor pool, and restaurant, and travelers frequently praise the great rooms and friendly staff.


For those seeking value, a package with a stay at Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport offers a comfortable option. Rated 7.9 out of 10 by travelers, this hotel costs around $100 per night and includes free breakfast and an indoor pool, with guests appreciating the free breakfast and convenient location.


*Package availability and prices may change depending on dates and demand.

Is Des Moines a good choice for a family vacation package?

Des Moines is a good choice for family vacation packages, with some bookings being family trips. Many hotels cater to families with amenities like family rooms, indoor pools, and complimentary breakfast.


For example, the 3.5-star Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown, rated 7.8 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms, an indoor pool, and free breakfast, with travelers often praising the always friendly staff and great food.


Families can also enjoy attractions such as Adventureland, a theme park located about 13 miles from central Des Moines, or the Iowa State Fairgrounds, about 7 miles from the city center, which hosts various family-friendly events.

What is the best time to book a Des Moines vacation package?

Book your Des Moines vacation package around 3 weeks in advance. It gives you time to secure your preferred flights and hotel while rates are still competitive. Most travelers book between 1 and 6 weeks out.


May, August, and October are the most popular months for Des Moines packages, so booking earlier is advisable if you're traveling during those times.

What are the top things to do in Des Moines?

A Des Moines vacation offers a mix of family-friendly attractions and urban entertainment:


Browse and book things to do in Des Moines on Expedia.

How many days do you need for a Des Moines vacation?

Most Des Moines vacation packages are around 2 days, with many travelers choosing weekend trips. This duration allows you to explore key attractions like the Iowa State Fairgrounds, catch an event at Casey's Center, or visit the Iowa Events Center.


While weekend trips are popular, some travelers opt for week-long trips to delve deeper into the city's offerings, and a select few choose around two weeks for extended stays.

Is Des Moines a good destination for a weekend vacation?

Des Moines is an excellent choice for a weekend vacation package, as most travelers choose weekend trips to the city. A typical Des Moines vacation package lasts around 2 days, which is ideal for experiencing many of the city's highlights.


During a weekend visit, you can easily attend an event at Casey's Center or the Iowa Events Center, or enjoy a performance at the Des Moines Civic Center. These central attractions are perfect for a focused, short getaway.

Do you need to rent a car in Des Moines, or is public transport enough?

For a Des Moines vacation package, renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially since many attractions are spread out. While some hotels offer airport shuttle services to and from Des Moines International Airport (DSM), a car makes it easier to explore beyond the immediate downtown area.


For example, the Iowa State Fairgrounds is about 7 miles from central Des Moines, Adventureland is about 13 miles away, and the Val Air Ballroom is about 10 miles from the city center. Hotels like Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport are about a 15-minute walk from DSM, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport is about 1 mile from DSM, making them convenient for airport access. However, a car is recommended for reaching the various outdoor and urban attractions that define a Des Moines vacation.

Are Des Moines vacation package hotels conveniently located?

Des Moines vacation package hotels offer a range of locations, from downtown to areas closer to the airport. Properties like the 4.5-star Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton are about a 15-minute walk from central Des Moines, while the 4-star Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection is about a 10-minute walk away, placing you close to urban attractions.


For those preferring to be slightly outside the immediate city center, Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University is about 2 miles from central Des Moines. Hotels near the airport, such as Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport and Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport, are about 5 miles from central Des Moines, offering convenience for air travelers.

Can I change or cancel my Des Moines vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking Des Moines vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more with Member Prices on over 500,000 stays worldwide and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Des Moines vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Des Moines vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How can I save money on a Des Moines vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Des Moines package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary

How do I find last-minute vacation packages to Des Moines?

To find last-minute vacation packages to Des Moines, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

How does free cancellation work on Des Moines vacation packages?

Free cancellation on a Des Moines vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines vacation as a package or separately?

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Des Moines getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Why should I book my Des Moines vacation package with Expedia?

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.