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When Looking for a Place to Stay in Downtown Des Moines
For those traveling to Des Moines that need a place to stay overnight, downtown Des Moines has seven hotels for them to choose from. Those seven are:
- Downtown Marriott
- Embassy Suites
- Holiday Inn Downtown
- Hotel Fort Des Moines
- Quality Inn & Suites Event Center
- Renaissance Savery Hotel
- Suites of 800 Locust Street
Now I’m not in the hotel business but the number of hotels we have downtown seems a little limited. Not only in choices (i.e. no five star hotels) but also in the number of rooms for the size of the city (1,745 rooms by my count) and the events that we are currently drawing. There have long been talks of a new hotel near the Iowa Events Center as well as turing one of the older buildings downtown into a boutique-style hotel, but to-date nothing concrete has appeared. I think we could use a hotel in the Court Avenue neighborhood, and one towards the west-end of the Western Gateway Park as well as a another near the Iowa Events Center that is connected via the skywalk.
I did some research on a lot of different travel sites and complied together in one place some information on our six downtown hotels. Hopefully this will help you or your visitors decide where to stay based on their needs when visiting downtown Des Moines. I think first you should be aware of the “star rating” system that is being used:
These are hotels that offer only the highest level of accommodations and services. The properties offer a high degree of personal service. Although most five star hotels are large properties, sometimes the small independent (non-chain) property offers an elegant intimacy that can not be achieved in the larger setting. They are generally located in the heart of downtown or in resort locations. The hotel lobbies are sumptuous, the rooms complete with stylish furnishing and quality linens. The amenities often include: DVD players, CD stereos, garden tubs or Jacuzzis, in-room video library, heated pools and more. The hotels feature up to three restaurants all with exquisite menus. Room service is usually available 24 hours a day. Fitness Centers and valet and/or garage parking are typically available. A concierge is also available to assist you. Typical National Chains: Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, W. Downtown Des Moines: None
Mostly large, formal hotels with smart reception areas, front desk service and bellhop service. The hotels are most often located near other hotels of the same caliber and are usually found near shopping, dining and other major attractions. The level of service is well above average and the rooms are well lit and well furnished. Restaurant dining is usually available and may include more than one choice. Some properties will offer continental breakfast and/or happy hour delicacies. Room service is usually available during most hours. Valet parking and/or garage service is also usually available. Concierge services, fitness centers and one or more pools are often provided. Typical National Chains: Hyatt, Marriott. Downtown Des Moines: Downtown Marriott, Renaissance Savery, and Suites of 800 Locust Street
Typically these hotels offer more spacious accommodations that include well appointed rooms and decorated lobbies. Bellhop service is usually not available. They are often located near major expressways or business areas, convenient to shopping and moderate to high priced attractions. The hotels usually feature medium-sized restaurants that typically offer service breakfast through dinner. Room service availability may vary. Valet parking, fitness centers and pools are often provided. Typical National Chain: Holiday Inn, Hilton. Downtown Des Moines: Embassy Suites and Hotel Fort Des Moines
Usually denotes independent and name brand hotel chains with a reputation for offering consistent quality amenities. The hotel is usually small to medium-sized and conveniently located to moderately priced attractions. The facilities typically include telephones and TV’s in the bedroom. Some hotels offer limited restaurant service; however, room service and bellhop service is usually not provided. Typical National Chain: Days Inn, LaQuinta Inn, Quality Inn. Downtown Des Moines: Quality Inn & Suites Event Center and Holiday Inn Downtown
Typically smaller hotels managed by the proprietor. The hotel is often 2 – 4 stories high and usually has a more personal atmosphere. It’s usually located near affordable attractions, major intersections and convenient to public transportation. Furnishings and facilities are clean but basic. Most will not have a restaurant on site but are usually within walking distance to some good low-priced dining. Public access, past certain hours, may be restricted. Typical National Chain: Econolodge, Motel 6. Downtown Des Moines: None
| Hotel | Rating | Floors | Rooms | 1 Night Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Marriott | |
33 | 414 | $119 |
| Embassy Suites | |
8 | 234 | Unavailable |
| Holiday Inn Downtown |
|
12 | 251 | $85 |
| Hotel Fort Des Moines | |
12 | 415 | $159 |
| Quality Inn & Suites | |
7 | 155 | $90 |
| Renaissance Savery | |
12 | 224 | $139 |
| Suites of 800 Locust | |
5 | 51 | $185 |
For the pricing examples, I used the following to come up with the price. I used SideStep search engine with a one night stay, for two adults, one room on New Year’s Eve 2008 and checking out New Year’s Day 2009.
Downtown Marriott
700 Grand Avenue, 515-245-5500
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Located in the center of the financial district, the Des Moines Marriott Downtown provides the corporate traveler easy access via the skywalk to businesses downtown and throughout the greater Des Moines area. Relax in the comfort of one of the 415 guest rooms. Guest rooms are designed for business travelers and feature luxury bedding and high-speed Internet. Each room is also equipped with two-line phones with voice mail and data ports and offers in- room coffee and a complimentary USA Today. When additional business needs arise, take advantage of the 24-hour business center.
Dining options range from the Rock River Grill and Tavern to the culinary creations of a banquet chef. Refresh yourself in the health club and pool. To accommodate your meeting requirements, fifteen meeting rooms totaling 25,000-sq. ft. of flexible meeting space are available. The hotel also offers catering and event services on and off-site.
Also check out the latest chatter about the Downtown Marriott at AbsoluteDSM.com
Embassy Suites on the River
101 East Locust Street, 515-244-1700
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The Embassy Suites On The River is located in the historic East Village of downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The hotel is adjacent to the Principal Riverwalk connecting the east and west sides of downtown Des Moines. Just a few steps away, the Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater is home to many concerts and fun festivals throughout the year. Many eclectic shops, restaurants, attractions and corporations are also within walking distance. The Iowa State Capitol is one- half mile away. Within one mile of the hotel are the Wells Fargo Arena and the Iowa Events Center.
Complimentary cooked-to-order buffet breakfasts are served daily. Lunch and dinner entrees are served at the Doozies bar and grill. Wired and wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel’s meeting and exhibit spaces for a fee. The business center features photocopy, fax and notary public services. Recreational amenities include an indoor pool, spa tub and fitness center with cardiovascular equipment.
The guestrooms at the Embassy Suites On The River feature separate bedrooms and living rooms. Kitchenettes have microwave ovens and refrigerators. Included in each room are Wireless Internet access for a fee, video game consoles and televisions with premium cable channels. Complimentary bottled water and daily newspapers are provided. A manager’s reception featuring a variety of beverages is held each night for all guests.
The Embassy Suites Des Moines hotel features an eight story tropical atrium and 16,000 square feet of flexible social and corporate meeting space, wireless high-speed Internet access throughout, and a beautiful, relaxing decor. Doozie’s Bar and Grill offers fine American cuisine within a fun, sporty environment. A complimentary cooked-to-order daily breakfast and evening manager’s reception add to the extensive list of amenities for which Embassy Suites hotels are known. All suites provide the security of electronic door locks and open to the lush atrium below.
Holiday Inn Downtown
1050 6th Avenue, 515-283-0151
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Located near I-235, the is less than a half-mile from the Iowa Event Center and Wells Fargo Arena. Guest rooms are designed for families and business travelers and features complimentary high-speed wireless internet access and in-room coffee makers. The hotel includes Genevieve’s Restaurant, Maroney’s Lounge, fitness center, and a complimentary downtown/airport shuttle. The hotel also offers some business services and meeting rooms. The hotel as both an indoor pool and fitness center.
Hotel Fort Des Moines
1000 Walnut Street, 515-243-1161
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The Hotel Fort Des Moines is one of Iowa’s landmark hotels, catering to the needs and wishes of travelers for over 80 years, this hotel’s guests will appreciate the old-time warm hospitality and modern-day convenience.
From the spacious, luxurious guest rooms, to convenient, functional meeting space, and of course, elegant dining, the Hotel Fort Des Moines can accommodate your every need and desire. Enjoy a convenient location, fine elegant accommodations and superb service at the Hotel Fort Des Moines, not far from shopping and entertainment venues.
Also check out the latest chatter about Hotel Fort Des Moines at AbsoluteDSM.com
Quality Inn & Suites Event Center
929 3rd Street, 515-282-5251
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Located near I-235, the is less than a half-mile from the Iowa Event Center and Wells Fargo Arena. Guest rooms are designed for families and business travelers and features complimentary high-speed wireless internet access and in-room coffee makers. The hotel also offers some business services and meeting rooms. The hotel as both an indoor pool and fitness center.
Renaissance Savery Hotel
401 Locust Street, 515-244-2151
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This Georgian-style architectural landmark offers all the amenities of a luxury hotel with the personalized service of a boutique. The 12-story hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been a landmark in downtown Des Moines since 1919. Located downtown and two blocks from the civic center and three blocks from the Des Moines River, the hotel is connected to surrounding businesses by the city’s extensive system of climate-controlled skywalks.
The 224 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites have provided accommodations and hospitality services to such notables as Woodrow Wilson, Herbert Hoover, Harry S. Truman, Eleanor Roosevelt, Lady Bird and Lyndon Johnson. Rooms are decorated with antique-style furnishings, decorative wall trim, and patterned fabrics. All rooms provide coffeemakers, complimentary weekday newspapers, and cable TV with pay movies and video-game consoles.
An expanded health club offers both steam and dry saunas, eucalyptus aromatherapy, an indoor pool, two whirlpools, a tanning bed, hair salon and two complete exercise facilities. Staff will provide a memorable stay and crisp, attentive “Savvy Service”.
Amenities include a contemporary restaurant, lounge with weekly live jazz, and gift shop with Iowa crafts and specialty items. Eleven function rooms provide meeting space and banquet facilities for up to 550 guests.
When it’s time to relax, guests will find an indoor pool, two spa tubs, and two exercise facilities. A eucalyptus inhalation room, tanning bed, and wet and dry saunas are also provided. Wireless Internet access is available in most public areas (surcharge, network cards not provided), and valet parking is provided in a nearby garage. Smoking is not permitted inside hotel rooms.
The Iowa Room – This restaurant serves traditional Midwestern fare that highlights Iowa products in a setting marked by contemporary furnishings and historic images. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Monihan’s Speakeasy – Signature drinks, such as Fat Boy Margaritas and Bathtub Gin Cocktails, draw a crowd to this lounge near the lobby. Live jazz performances on Thursday and Saturday nights.
On the Go @ 401 – This counter on the second lobby level features baked goods and Starbucks coffee.
Also check out the latest chatter about the Renaissance Savery at AbsoluteDSM.com
Suites of 800 Locust Street
800 Locust Street, 515-288-5800
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Situated in downtown Des Moines, the Suites of 800 Locust is a European-style boutique hotel that exudes grace and grandeur. Its 51 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, which include fireplaces or whirlpools, come complete with custom-designed Americanville furniture, pillow-top Simmons Posturepedic mattresses, multiple phones, Aveda bath products, hairdryers, irons, ironing boards, coffee makers, refrigerators, and high-speed Internet access. The Cosmopolitan Lounge offers an extensive martini selection, as well as, wines, imported and domestic beers, and premium liquor. Enjoy the latest fitness equipment and beauty treatments at the Spa.
Overview Map of Downtown Hotel Locations:
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Posted under Living Downtown | Last modified on October 2nd, 2009.
Tags: Hotels | Maps | Neighborhoods | Property Spotlight | Wi-Fi
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Pete Jones on Sun, 19th Oct 2008 2:03 pm
Wow Larry! You want to Blog for me too? This is a tremendous amount of detail. Great work.
MulderDSM on Sun, 19th Oct 2008 3:39 pm
Thanks Pete! I think I have my work cut out for me.
Chad on Mon, 20th Oct 2008 8:35 am
Here’s a recent article from the Business Record about some rehab work in store for Hotel Fort Des Moines.
Rehab in store for Hotel Fort Des Moines
By Kent Darr
The Hotel Fort Des Moines is being evaluated for a “soup to nuts” renovation, owner Jeffrey Hunter said.
The 89-year-old structure at 10th and Walnut streets has undergone a series of partial updates over the last decade, the most recent announced in 1999 when Hunter received $400,000 in city financing to complete a $2.6 million upgrade.
Hunter, who bought the hotel from a partnership of which he was a member in June 1999, said he is working with an architect and contractor to establish costs for the project.
“We want to do it 100 percent, rather than take an incremental approach,” he said.
It is possible that the hotel will close during the renovation, but a decision on that will not be made until after the first of the year, Hunter said.
Hunter said he is evaluating funding options for the project.
The hotel has accounted for its share of state and national history. In 1969 in the hotel’s ballroom, Vice President Spiro Agnew launched a verbal attack on television newscasters that evolved into a crusade against the news media. A decade earlier, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev booked a room – the presidential suite – during a tour of Iowa.
The intersection of 10th and Walnut has been a focal point of redevelopment efforts downtown. The 13-story Davis Brown Tower, which counts Hunter as an investor, occupies space where the Hotel Fort Des Moines’ parking ramp once stood.
Chad on Thu, 23rd Oct 2008 11:07 am
A recent article in the Business Record talks about the need to build a new 400-room hotel connected to the Convention Center quickly.
Supervisors to consider Hy-Vee Hall expansion, hotel soon
http://www.businessrecord.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=6&ArticleID=7053&TM=46924.44
BY SARAH BZDEGA
What to do with Hy-Vee Hall, the Polk County Convention Complex and a potential hotel connected to the Iowa Events Center was once again the focus of discussion at the Polk County Board of Supervisors’ meeting this morning.
County Administrator Ron Olson said the county has been working with Economic Research Associates for the past six months on a study on the Iowa Events Center and possible expansion of Hy-Vee Hall, while an architecture firm has worked on potential plans. He expects a final draft of the report will be available to the supervisors to consider by the end of the month.
Matt Homan, general manager of the Events Center, and Greg Edwards, president of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, stressed the need for more flexible meeting space and a ballroom in Hy-Vee Hall, as well as a 400-plus room hotel attached to the complex.
The need has become more urgent, Olson added, as other convention centers have developed across the state, including in Coralville, Sioux City and Dubuque, causing statewide conventions to move around rather than remain in Des Moines. Des Moines also faces competition regionally with cities such as Kansas City, which have convention halls with hotels attached.
“I’m concerned that if we don’t address this issue, the competition we’re facing on these conferences and conventions is going to be intense,” Olson said.
Edwards said Des Moines has lost out on hosting 11 groups in the past six months specifically because it did not have an attached hotel to its convention center.
Homan said his staff has had to get creative with its space, such as hosting classes for the American Quilters Society Expo in the locker rooms. He also said that the Convention Complex has become outdated and could face some major repairs in the near future, with warped airwalls and an old dishwasher that could cost around $80,000 to replace.
Due to tough financial times and tighter city and county budgets, Edwards said it could be hard justifying using public dollars to subsidize a hotel, but similar projects in other markets have all had public funding to move them along. Supervisor Tom Hockensmith noted he was against using public money to fund a hotel.
Eric Bennett on Sat, 25th Jul 2009 7:10 pm
My name is Eric Bennett, recently my kids qualified for the AAU Junior Olympic Games in Des Moines. We do not have the money to travel to and from Iowa never mind trying to pay for a hotel. I want to keep my kids focused on school and sports, not their parent’s financial situation. I started this quest to get my family to Iowa by getting on this computer and reaching out to everyone I can. I know that there are crazy people out there in the world but I’m praying that there still are good Christian people willing to help others out there too. What I’m specifically asking for is a place for my family to stay August 1st to August 8th leaving the morning of August 9th heading back home to Ohio. The following is what I have been sending people on Craigslist in the Des Moines area, and a blog that I set up in the Des Moines Register:
***WE NEED YOU’RE HELP PLEASE***
Hello, my name is Eric Bennett and my family and I live in Lima, Ohio. For the past 6 years we have been involved with the AAU Junior Olympic Games, http://www.aaujrogames.org through our local team The Lima Striders. Three out of our four kids are competing this year at the AAU Junior Olympic Games. The kids made it to Des Moines by qualifying in our Regional Qualifier: Lil’ Eric, The All American placed 1st in the Javelin, 2nd place in the Discus, and 3rd place in the Shot Put, this is his 6th consecutive year qualifying for the AAU Junior Olympics Games. Aerica placed 2nd in the Shot Put, qualifying her for the AAU Junior Olympics Games her 3rd consecutive year. And last but not least is Rodney who placed 1st in the Shot Put which is his first year qualifying. Getting to the point, this year we need to head back to your town but financially we cannot afford to so I’m asking for help in putting my family and I up for the week of August 2nd to August 8th leaving the morning of the 9th. We would have great references from our city officials, we are a clean family, we have owned our home for the past ten years, and our kids are great Christian raised kids. Please consider our request. You will be blessed in so many ways.
Eric J. Bennett
(419) 371-5710cell