Hotels near Des Moines Art Center Des Moines

Awakening the Imagination: A Journey Through the Artful Oasis of Des Moines

Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Des Moines, the Des Moines Art Center is a cultural gem that beckons art lovers and curious travelers alike. This renowned art museum showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artwork, surrounded by serene landscapes and lush gardens. Explore the nearby Capitol Park and the captivating Sculpture Park, where outdoor art mingles with nature. With the picturesque riverfront just a stroll away and the lively atmosphere of the Des Moines Theater scene, this destination offers a delightful blend of creativity and urban charm, making it a must-visit for those seeking inspiration. For the best hotel rates near Des Moines Art Center and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay near Des Moines Art Center

When visiting the Des Moines Art Center, you'll find a range of accommodations to suit your needs. Close to the center, there are top-rated hotels offering modern amenities and comfort, as well as charming boutique options that provide a unique experience. For budget-conscious travelers, motels in the area also offer convenient stays. Whether you prefer upscale suites or cozy inns, there's something for everyone in Des Moines, ensuring a pleasant visit to the art center. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Des Moines Art Center:

1. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown, an IHG Hotel is a 2.5-star hotel located approximately 3.0 miles from the Des Moines Art Center. This hotel is ideal for travelers seeking an adventure, business, or family vacation experience. It offers various business amenities including an accessible business center and meeting rooms. For those looking for outdoor activities, guests can enjoy nearby hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, which include free cribs and window guards for safety.
2. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window: Positioned about 3.0 miles from the Des Moines Art Center, Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel perfect for travelers looking for a high-end experience. This property combines comfort with elegance, making it a great choice for those seeking a luxurious stay while exploring the art and culture of Des Moines.
3. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake UniversityOpens in a new window: Just 2.0 miles away from the Des Moines Art Center, Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University is a 3.0-star hotel that welcomes both business and leisure travelers. This hotel caters to families and pet owners, offering amenities such as multiple meeting rooms and a 24-hour accessible business center. Families can benefit from free cribs, and pets are permitted with a waived service animal fee, making it a convenient choice for all guests.

Things to do near Des Moines Art Center for first time

Three days in Des Moines offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure. Visit the Des Moines Art Center for outstanding exhibitions, explore the downtown skywalk, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local festivals. Don't miss outdoor activities like biking and hiking in scenic parks, adding to your unforgettable experience. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Des Moines Art Center:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Des Moines Civic Center, where you can catch a live performance or simply admire the impressive architecture. After soaking in the culture, stroll over to the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, which offers lovely views of the city and the river—perfect for some memorable photos. Wrap up your day with a visit to 801 Grand, where you can enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the stunning skyline views from one of the tallest buildings in Iowa.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where you can explore the iconic fairgrounds and learn about Iowa’s agricultural heritage. Next, head to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a lush oasis filled with beautiful plants and flowers—a great spot to relax and enjoy nature. Conclude your day at the Iowa State Capitol Building, where you can take a guided tour to admire its stunning gold dome and learn about Iowa's legislative process.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the historic Salisbury House, a stunning estate that offers insights into art and architecture. After a cultural fix, make your way to Gray’s Lake Park, where you can unwind with a walk around the water or rent a paddleboat for a fun afternoon on the lake. Finish your day in Valley Junction, a vibrant area filled with unique shops and eateries, perfect for browsing local art and grabbing a bite to eat.

5 tips to find a great Des Moines Art Center hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit the Des Moines Art Center is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a great value experience, consider staying for at least 2-3 days to fully explore the key attractions in the area. Nearby, you'll find a mix of landmarks and local culture that make your visit worthwhile and memorable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to the Des Moines Art Center, Hotels.com offers a great opportunity to save on nearby accommodations. To uncover potential discounts, navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you're more likely to find reduced rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, so you can seize opportunities for great savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses near the Des Moines Art Center.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to main attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable rates, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel near Des Moines Art Center and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat near Des Moines Art Center

Here are some famous dishes near Des Moines Art Center, Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America:

• Maid-Rites: Often referred to as loose meat sandwiches, maid-rites are a quintessential Iowa dish. They consist of seasoned ground beef served on a bun, allowing for personal customization with toppings like pickles, onions, and mustard. This dish is a staple in local diners, celebrated for its simplicity and comforting flavors, making it a popular choice for a casual meal.
• Loose Meat Sandwiches: Similar to maid-rites, loose meat sandwiches feature tender, seasoned ground beef served without the traditional burger patty. They offer a unique convenience, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the Des Moines Art Center. Many local eateries serve their own twist on this classic, encouraging diners to personalize their experience.
• Sweet Corn: Iowa is famous for its sweet corn, which is often enjoyed fresh during the summer months. Whether grilled, boiled, or served on the cob, this sweet and juicy vegetable embodies the region's agricultural heritage and is a must-try for visitors seeking authentic local flavors.

Best time to go to Des Moines Art Center

Des Moines Art Center experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.7°F (-5.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.8°F (23.8°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere at Des Moines Art Center, February, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, March, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.