Des Moines International Airport: where to stay, areas and…

Des Moines is a compact city: from Des Moines International to downtown is barely 10 minutes, with little reason to stay near the terminal unless it's a very short layover. Fleur Drive, the airport's own street, has hotels with a free shuttle, convenient for those arriving late or who just need to sleep. Travelers wanting to visit downtown, the Iowa State Capitol or the Wells Fargo Arena head into the heart of Des Moines, among historic buildings and the river; a few steps away, the East Village adds galleries, bars and restaurants for the evening.

Fleur Drive, airport area

Airport area · Free shuttle or 3-5 minutes by car from the terminal along Fleur Drive

Best for: For those arriving late, departing at dawn, or who just need to sleep near the terminal

Pros

A step from the terminal, with a free shuttle in both directions
A quiet area in the evening, convenient for those flying the next day

Cons

Few restaurants within walking distance besides those in the hotels
Downtown Des Moines is still 10 minutes away by car

Recommended hotels in this area

Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport: Adjacent to the terminal on Fleur Drive, with a free shuttle and the in-house Johnny's Italian Steakhouse restaurant.
Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport: Across from the terminal, with a round-the-clock free shuttle and hot breakfast included.
Homewood Suites Des Moines Airport: Full-kitchen suites a few minutes from the terminal, convenient for stays of more than one night.

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Downtown and Court District

City centre · 10 minutes by car from the terminal, with no direct public transit connection

Best for: For those who prefer the historic downtown, the Iowa State Capitol and the Wells Fargo Arena on foot

Pros

A historic building from 1919 in the heart of downtown, a step from the Wells Fargo Arena
Walking distance from the Iowa State Capitol and the Des Moines River

Cons

Getting from the airport always requires a car or a taxi
Hotel parking is almost always paid

Recommended hotels in this area

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton: A historic 1919 building in the heart of downtown, a mile from the Wells Fargo Arena.
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel: A restored historic hotel on Locust Street, with a free airport shuttle.

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East Village

Neighbourhood · 10-12 minutes by car from the terminal

Best for: For those seeking galleries, bars and restaurants in the liveliest downtown neighborhood

Pros

The downtown neighborhood with the highest concentration of galleries and restaurants
A few steps from the pedestrian bridge over the river to the historic downtown

Cons