Drake Travel Guide
Des Moines
Popular places to visit
Iowa State Fairgrounds
Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.
Jordan Creek Town Center
You can do some window-shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.
Iowa Events Center
Learn about the events happening in Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.
Iowa State Capitol Building
A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.
Principal Park
Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theatre scene.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Experience the tropics in an indoor garden oasis nearly 100 years old alongside a meandering river in this Midwestern city.
Top hotels in Drake
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
"Very friendly and helpful and a great room"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
"Very pretty"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
"Very nice basic hotel. Stayed with family while driving though. Clean rooms, comfy beds, sofa bed! Breakfast was very nice."
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West
"Great breakfast"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines
"Awesome place to stay"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Des Lux Hotel
"We were very pleased with the hotel. The bartender, Shari? kept the bar open later than advertised which allowed us (and others) to get a drink after an evening out. She was very personable and friendly which made our stay even more enjoyable. The hot breakfast was good with fresh fruit and a large ..."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Drake
Downtown Des Moines
The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.
Historic East Village
Historic East Village is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Wooly's and Iowa State Capitol Building while you're in town.
Court District
Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market while you're in town.
Southwestern Hills
Though Southwestern Hills may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.
Columbus Park
While Columbus Park may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Principal Park and Science Center of Iowa.
