The Best Hotels Closest to Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines for 2026

An aerial view of a bustling fairground with various stalls, rides, and a Ferris wheel.

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Our top choices for Iowa State Fairgrounds hotels

A spacious indoor area with multiple tables and chairs, large windows, and a modern ceiling design.

A hotel room with a hot tub, a dining area, and a window with a view.

An indoor swimming pool with clear windows, a lifeguard chair, and a lifebuoy on the wall.

Three vending machines with various snacks and drinks, a payment terminal, and a small window with a view of the outside.

1. Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

0.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Brittany

NT$1,750

NT$1,960 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 3 - Nov 4

A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand, a wall-mounted TV, and a window with curtains.

A multi-story hotel with a brick facade, multiple windows, and a parking lot with several cars.

A compact hotel room with a kitchenette, a flat-screen TV, a small seating area, and a bathroom with a mirror and towel rack.

A modern kitchen with granite countertops, a built-in oven, and a flat-screen TV.

2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Watrous South, 10.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Amanda

NT$2,090

NT$2,341 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 1 - Nov 2

An outdoor seating area with yellow chairs and a colorful sofa, a fire pit, and a wooden ceiling with hanging lights.

A modern restaurant with a long wooden table and chairs, a counter with a beverage dispenser, and shelves with bowls and glasses.

A modern lounge area with a sofa, ottomans, and tables, featuring a mix of red and yellow chairs.

A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a desk, and a television.

3. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Drake, 8.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Cassandra

NT$3,394

NT$3,801 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 9 - Nov 10

A building with a sign reading "WILDWOOD LODGE."

A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, a sofa, and a coffee table.

A spacious lobby with a central seating area, large windows, and a distinctive antler decoration.

An indoor swimming pool with a stone-tiled floor, red-framed windows, and a sign reading "LAKE WILDWOOD".

4. Wildwood Lodge

18.6 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

NT$2,841

NT$3,181 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 11 - Oct 12

A La Quinta hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign, a covered entrance, and a brick facade.

A large indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a small seating area.

A spacious indoor area with multiple seating arrangements, including tables and chairs, a sofa, and a television mounted on the wall.

A spacious lobby with modern furniture, a patterned wall, and a tiled floor.

5. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

12.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Todd

NT$2,667

NT$2,987 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A modern hotel lobby with a round coffee table, sofas, and a TV mounted on the wall.

A buffet setup with various food items, including fruits and cereals, and a soup station.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a tiled floor.

A hotel room with a grey sofa, a matching ottoman, a flat-screen TV on a wooden desk, a standing lamp, and a framed abstract painting on the wall.

6. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

11.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

nola

NT$3,483

NT$3,901 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 8 - Nov 9

An outdoor patio area with wooden beams and string lights, furnished with chairs and tables, and a stone wall backdrop.

A modern kitchen with a long counter, a buffet area with plates, and a view into the dining area.

A hotel sign with "Premier Best Western" and "Ankeny" written on it.

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, a mounted TV, and a seating area with striped chairs.

7. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

12.3 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Nicholas

NT$2,559

NT$2,866 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 1 - Nov 2

A gym with treadmills, a bench press, and a wall-mounted TV.

A restaurant with multiple tables and booths, a bar area, and framed pictures on the wall.

A spacious, modern interior with a long wooden table and bar stools, a seating area with sofas, and a kitchen area with a countertop and shelving.

8. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Johnston

15 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Robin

NT$2,841

NT$3,182 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 20 - Oct 21

A spacious hotel lobby with a central bar, seating area, and a ceiling fan.

A gym with treadmills, elliptical machines, and weight equipment.

A vending machine with snacks and beverages, a shelf with various snack brands, and a sign indicating 'IA TREATS'.

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a television, and a window with a view of trees.

9. Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

Watrous South, 10.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jayson

NT$2,986

NT$3,345 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 24 - Oct 25

A modern hotel lobby with a central reception desk, seating area with sofas and chairs, and a self-service kiosk.

A modern gym with exercise equipment, a wall-mounted TV, and a mirror.

An indoor swimming pool with wooden beams, lounge chairs, and a sun umbrella.

10. Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines

15.6 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

NT$2,688

NT$3,010 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 1 - Nov 2

A modern bar area with a long counter, multiple bar stools, and hanging pendant lights.

A snack display with various packaged foods and a sign indicating a peak inside for personal items.

A hotel reception area with a modern design, a large welcome sign, and a self-service kiosk.

A modern hotel with a stone facade, a covered entrance, and a clear blue sky.

11. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

10.3 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Christy

NT$3,451

NT$3,865 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 15 - Oct 16

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a computer, a TV, and artwork on the wall.

A modern lobby with a sofa, chairs, a lamp, and a wall with a floral pattern.

A modern hotel lobby with multiple seating areas, including tables and chairs, and a reception desk.

A reception desk with a 'Welcome' mat, a sign for 'Sleep Inn & Suites', and a door to the right.

12. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

12.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

NT$2,984

NT$3,343 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A sunroom with a glass ceiling, wicker furniture, and potted plants.

A hotel room with a bed, a blue armchair, a desk, and a nightstand.

A spacious lobby with a high ceiling, a seating area with sofas and ottomans, a reception desk, and a staircase to an upper level.

A clean, well-lit breakfast area with a self-service station, a coffee machine, and a variety of food items.

13. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Southwestern Hills, 14.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

William

NT$2,760

NT$3,091 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

An outdoor seating area with sofas and tables, stone pillars, and a pathway leading to a building.

A river with a building on the left and a bridge in the foreground.

A hotel room with a large window offering a view of a body of water and a grassy area.

A bar area with a marble counter, a refrigerated display case with beverages, and a wall-mounted decorative piece.

14. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

7.2 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Robert

NT$4,056

NT$4,543 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 15 - Oct 16

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, tiled walls, and a no diving sign.

A reception area with two counters, a green-lit ceiling, and a central doorway.

A modern lobby with a sectional sofa, blue armchairs, and a bar area.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'La Quinta' sign, a covered entrance, and a parking lot.

15. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

9.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Michael

NT$2,702

NT$3,026 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 1 - Nov 2

A hotel with a reflection in a calm body of water, surrounded by open fields.

A pool area with a view of the city, a table with chairs, and a lounge area with chairs.

A modern reception area with a stone accent wall, a seating area with a sofa and chairs, a computer station, and a sign that reads "Connect & Print".

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a large window providing a view of the outdoors.

16. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

7.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

NT$3,791

NT$4,245 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A modern restaurant with a central bar area, multiple seating options including booths and tables, and pendant lighting.

A reception area with a wooden reception desk, a vending machine, and a decorative wall piece.

A modern bar area with a white countertop, black bar stools, and pendant lighting.

A modern living room with a fireplace, green upholstered chairs, a round coffee table, and a large painting on the wall.

17. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott® Norwalk Des Moines

15.8 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

NT$2,778

NT$3,112 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A modern bar area with a variety of beverages and a fruit bowl on the counter.

An indoor swimming pool with a clear blue water, surrounded by grey tiles, and equipped with a metal ladder. There are lounge chairs and tables with red legs, and large windows allowing natural light.

An outdoor patio area with seating and a fire feature, surrounded by trees and a building in the background.

A spacious living area with sofas, a coffee table, and a fireplace.

18. Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines/Urbandale

16.9 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Lisa

NT$3,225

NT$3,612 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A hotel lobby with a reception desk, seating area with a sofa and chairs, a coffee station, and a dining area.

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside lamps, a chair, a nightstand, and a wall-mounted picture.

A modern dining area with a wooden table and white chairs, a large flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, and a bright ceiling light fixture.

19. Comfort Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

15.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Christopher

NT$2,795

NT$3,130 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

An indoor swimming pool with a waterfall feature, surrounded by Adirondack chairs and a wooden deck.

A wooden interior with a reception desk, a mounted moose head, and a staircase.

A hotel room with a large bed, a fireplace, a TV, and a jacuzzi.

A cozy room with a stone fireplace, a flat-screen TV mounted above it, a sofa, a bed, and a window with blinds.

20. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

16.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jacklyn J

NT$3,115

NT$3,488 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 11 - Oct 12

View all properties

Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Property	Property class	Guest rating
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area	7.2 Good 1,000 reviews	View
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport	8.6 Excellent 1,819 reviews	View
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University	9.4 Exceptional 1,004 reviews	View
Wildwood Lodge	9.6 Exceptional 1,219 reviews	View
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA	9.2 Wonderful 1,051 reviews	View

Hotels recommended for families near Iowa State Fairgrounds

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

Fairground

NT$1,750

NT$1,960 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 3 - Nov 4

A spacious lobby with a wooden reception desk, a staircase, and a second-floor balcony.

An indoor pool area with a hot tub, seating, and a view of the outdoors.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, tiled flooring, and multiple seating areas around the pool.

A hotel room with a flat-screen TV, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a bathroom with a bathtub.

Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

Pleasant Hill

NT$2,070

NT$2,318 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 2 - Nov 3

A spacious hotel lobby with a blue sofa, a grey armchair, and a flat-screen TV mounted on a textured wall.

A Comfort Inn hotel with a modern facade, multiple floors, and a parking lot with cars.

A hotel lobby with a blue sofa, a beige armchair, a flat-screen TV mounted on a textured wall, a fireplace, and a dining area in the background.

An indoor swimming pool with a blue and white color scheme, a lifeguard station, and seating areas with chairs and tables.

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Downtown Des Moines

NT$2,959

NT$3,314 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A luxurious living room with a stone fireplace, a large mirror, and two blue armchairs.

A spacious hotel lobby with high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and a bar area.

A hotel lobby with a polished marble floor, a grand chandelier, and traditional decor including lion statues.

Des Lux Hotel

Downtown Des Moines

NT$5,424

NT$6,075 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 15 - Oct 16

An outdoor patio area with tables and chairs, a fire pit, and string lights.

A hotel reception area with a wooden reception desk, a decorative wall piece, and a snack shelf.

A modern restaurant with green booths, wooden tables, and a brick wall.

A Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent '207' sign, multiple floors, and a well-lit entrance area.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown

Downtown Des Moines

NT$3,064

NT$3,431 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 8 - Nov 9

A modern kitchen with dark cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a tiled backsplash.

A hotel room with a bed, a TV on a dresser, a desk with a chair, a sofa, and a window with curtains.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a TV, a sofa, and a large window with curtains.

A hotel lobby with a fireplace, framed artwork, a reception desk, and a seating area.

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Downtown Des Moines

NT$3,635

NT$4,071 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A modern dining area with a large island table, multiple chairs, and a chandelier.

A modern indoor swimming pool area with clear signage, including a 'No Lifeguard On Duty' sign, and a separate shallow pool with a 3 ft depth marker.

A modern living room with beige sofas, a round coffee table, and decorative vases.

A hotel room with a wooden desk, a bed, a TV, and a large window with a view.

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Downtown Des Moines

NT$3,373

NT$3,778 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

Altoona

NT$4,056

NT$4,543 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 15 - Oct 16

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"X"

Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

8/10 Good

"IT WAS CLEAN, NEAT AND FRIENDLY STAFF. THE BREAKFAST WAS GOOD CHOICES."

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

8/10 Good

"The room looked very clean until we pulled the bed out of the couch and found old wrapers and crumbs. Other then that everything was great including the breakfast and the pool area. Would stay again. The biggest thing I loved about the stay was they had a parking garage to park in. Yes it does cost to stay in it but I'd pay it to keep my vehicle safe and not have to fight for a street parking that u have to Pay for every 4 hours."

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"I recently had the most wonderful time staying at this beautiful hotel in the heart of the city. The spacious suites provided such a comfortable retreat after a long day of exploring local landmarks 🏙️. I was thoroughly impressed by the friendly service and the delicious breakfast options available each morning. It is truly the perfect location for anyone looking to enjoy the vibrant culture nearby 🎭. My experience was absolutely flawless, and I cannot wait to return for another relaxing visit soon. Thank you to the entire team for making my stay so memorable and pleasant!"

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"Valet was great. Restaurant & breakfast buffet were good; however, the food on the buffet was cold. Starbucks staff was friendly."

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

10/10 Excellent

"It was excellent. The bed was very comfortable. The room was very clean. Air conditioning kicked butt in the room. The staff were very friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable. And the location was perfect for my needs during that stay."

Other attractions near Iowa State Fairgrounds

A large government building with a golden dome, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.

Iowa State Capitol Building

9.0/10 (354 reviews)

A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.

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The exterior of the State of Iowa Historical Building with a clear blue sky and clouds.

State Historical Museum of Iowa

Learn about early settlement and battles as well as bicycle races and the movie industry in this museum in Iowa’s state capital.

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A large geodesic dome structure with a wooden walkway leading to its entrance.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

8.6/10 (254 reviews)

Experience the tropics in an indoor garden oasis nearly 100 years old alongside a meandering river in this Midwestern city.

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Sky Glider East

6.0/10 (1 review)

You can take time to visit Sky Glider East during your travels to Des Moines. Experience the acclaimed theater scene and great live music in this family-friendly area.

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Sleepy Hollow Sports Park

7.4/10 (3 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, a lovely green space in Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theater scene.

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Copper Creek Golf Course

6.6/10 (7 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in Pleasant Hill at Copper Creek Golf Course. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and lively festivals.

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Grand View Golf Course

6.0/10 (1 review)

Enjoy a round of golf in Des Moines at Grand View Golf Course. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

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Wooly's

You can make plans for a show at Wooly's on your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and great live music.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Iowa State Fairgrounds is located in a welcoming area of Des Moines known for its lively festivals. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 14 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.

What's the best hotel to stay close to Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers an indoor pool and free parking. It's located just a short 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from Iowa State Fairgrounds. Other good options within a few miles include Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton and Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown.

How many hotels will I find near Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Expedia has 14 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from Iowa State Fairgrounds.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Iowa State Fairgrounds, will I receive a refund?

Yes! The majority of room reservations are fully refundable if cancelled prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to cancel it and get a refund within 24 hours of booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then use the filter option "fully refundable" to view the best options available near Iowa State Fairgrounds.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Iowa State Fairgrounds?

To find more details about rescheduling or cancelling your stay near Iowa State Fairgrounds, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.

What can I see and do near Iowa State Fairgrounds?

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates, Science Center of Iowa, and State Historical Museum of Iowa feature a variety of fascinating exhibits to see while you're in town. Learn about local history at Walnut Street Bridge and Temple Theater. You can catch a show at Wooly's, Hoyt Sherman Place, and Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater.

Find hotels near Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines from NT$1,960

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Treat yourself

Be picky

Check prices for these dates

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Our top choices for Iowa State Fairgrounds hotels

1. Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

3. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

4. Wildwood Lodge

5. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

6. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

7. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

8. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Johnston

9. Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

10. Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines

11. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

12. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

13. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

14. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

15. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

16. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

17. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott® Norwalk Des Moines

18. Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines/Urbandale

19. Comfort Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

20. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Hotels recommended for families near Iowa State Fairgrounds

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Des Lux Hotel

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

Other attractions near Iowa State Fairgrounds

Iowa State Capitol Building

State Historical Museum of Iowa

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Sky Glider East

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park

Copper Creek Golf Course

Grand View Golf Course

Wooly's

Frequently asked questions

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