The Best Hotels Closest to Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines - 2026 Updated Prices

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.

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

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.

1. Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

0.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Brittany

฿1,919

฿2,150 total

includes taxes & fees

3 Nov - 4 Nov

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

A reception area with a stone mosaic wall, a wooden panel design, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

A hotel lobby with a leather sofa, dining area, kitchen, and large windows with curtains.

A Days Inn & Suites sign, a parking lot, and a building with multiple floors and windows.

2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Watrous South, 10.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Amanda

฿2,196

฿2,460 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

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

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

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.

3. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Southwestern Hills, 14.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Robert

฿2,899

฿3,247 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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.

4. Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines

15.6 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Merlin

฿2,824

฿3,163 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

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

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

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

A modern lounge area with a mix of seating options, including sofas and chairs, a bar area, and a large screen TV.

5. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

9.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Terri

฿2,779

฿3,112 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

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

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

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

A hotel with a modern exterior, a covered outdoor seating area, and a traditional building in the background.

6. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Drake, 8.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Cassandra

฿3,481

฿3,898 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Nov - 5 Nov

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

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

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

An outdoor patio with stone walls, a fire pit, and outdoor seating.

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

15.8 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jodi

฿2,924

฿3,275 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, a pool ladder, and a tiled floor.

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

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

8. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

10.3 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Christy

฿3,539

฿3,963 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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.

A hotel with a stone facade, a covered entrance, and an American flag.

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.

9. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

11.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

nola

฿3,660

฿4,099 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

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

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

10. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

7.2 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Robert

฿4,262

฿4,773 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

A hotel room with two large beds, a television, a desk, and a mirror.

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

11. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

7.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jeffrey

฿3,983

฿4,461 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

A swimming pool with four lounge chairs and a view of trees through large windows.

A modern breakfast bar with a coffee machine, cereal and fruit options, and a yogurt, eggs, and milk dispenser.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and an orange chair.

A reception area with two reception desks, a blue geometric wall design, and hanging pendant lights.

12. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

12.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

gary

฿3,322

฿3,721 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Nov - 5 Nov

A building with a sign reading "WILDWOOD LODGE."

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

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.

13. Wildwood Lodge

18.6 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Kristian

฿3,109

฿3,482 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

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

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

A Sleep Inn & Suites building with a stone facade, multiple windows, and a clear sky.

14. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

12.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Susan

฿3,141

฿3,518 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a desk with a flat-screen TV, and a window with curtains.

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

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

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

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

12.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Todd

฿2,724

฿3,051 total

includes taxes & fees

7 Oct - 8 Oct

An outdoor seating area with a glass-top fire pit, wicker ottomans, and a sofa.

A modern gym with weightlifting equipment, a bench, and a mirrored wall.

A modern hotel building with a sign reading "HOME 2 Suites by Hilton" and a well-lit entrance.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a bathroom visible through an open door.

16. Home2 Suites By Hilton Altoona Des Moines

10.3 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

todd m

฿3,799

฿4,254 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

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 reception desk with a wooden finish, a sign reading "welcome to Des Moines," and a framed picture above the door.

17. Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

Watrous South, 10.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jayson

฿3,138

฿3,514 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Oct - 25 Oct

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

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

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

A hotel with a modern design, featuring multiple floors and a prominent sign.

18. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

12.3 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Nicholas

฿2,688

฿3,011 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

A reception desk with a sign reading "AmericInn" and a clock on the wall.

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and two lamps.

A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a dining area with chairs.

A restaurant with wooden furniture, a chalkboard wall, and a ceiling fan.

19. AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Watrous South, 10 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Milagros

฿2,139

฿2,396 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

A hotel exterior with a stone fire feature, outdoor seating, and a curved building facade.

A swimming pool with chairs and a view of the outside.

A Courtyard by Marriott hotel with a covered entrance, multiple floors, and a landscaped front area.

A modern bar area with a wooden counter, bar stools, and a variety of beverages.

20. Courtyard Marriott Ankeny

12.2 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Kendra

฿3,275

฿3,668 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Oct - 10 Oct

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Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Property	Property class	Guest rating
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area	7.2 Good 1,004 reviews	View
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport	8.6 Excellent 1,826 reviews	View
Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport	9.4 Exceptional 1,202 reviews	View
Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines	9.4 Exceptional 167 reviews	View
La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines	9.0 Wonderful 1,359 reviews	View

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

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!"

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

10/10 Excellent

"Parking not great, have to pay. No breakfast included and shop is pricey. Hotel itself is great. Very clean and great customer service."

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Clean great stay!!!"

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."

Des Lux Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"The ambiance of this historical hotel makes it an experience, they went all out for Halloween! The staff was so friendly and helpful with directions on parking. And a bonus was the breakfast selection - so much better than many other hotel breakfasts!"

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

10/10 Excellent

"Everything was great here. Staff were nice and friendly and gave a great dinner recommendation. Enjoyed my stay."

Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

8/10 Good

"Breakfast was awesome and great for a single mom and four kids! Loved it!"

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."

Cozy Rest Motel

10/10 Excellent

"Above-average budget motel. The bed was comfortable and the room was nice-looking. Staff was friendly and helpful."

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 theatre 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 theatre 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 theatre 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 during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre 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, take a look at the 14 hotels and other accommodation options 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 traveller 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 be able to find near Iowa State Fairgrounds?

Expedia has 14 hotels and other accommodation options 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, you'll find most hotel reservations are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to get the best options available near Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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.

Search Hotels Near Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines

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Be picky

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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. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

4. Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines

5. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

6. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

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

8. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

9. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

10. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

11. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

12. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

13. Wildwood Lodge

14. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

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

16. Home2 Suites By Hilton Altoona Des Moines

17. Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

18. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

19. AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

20. Courtyard Marriott Ankeny

Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

Des Lux Hotel

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill - Des Moines

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

Cozy Rest Motel

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