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From80US$ /night
Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
-
Close to Buccaneer Arena
Very good
7.0
7.1
/10
2.8
4.3
/5

Amenities

Sonesta Essential Des Moines offers a variety of amenities that cater to both relaxation and entertainment needs. Guests can enjoy complimentary coffee or tea in the lobby, laundry facilities, and an arcade game room for recreational fun. The hotel also has an on-site gift shop for travel essentials and snacks.

Rooms

The hotel provides a range of room options, including pet-friendly accommodations, select rooms with a sofa bed, and suites featuring an in-room hot tub and balcony. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, and microwave for convenience. The ergonomic desk and USB charging ports in every room enhance the work and relaxation experience.

Location

Sonesta Essential Des Moines is strategically located just a short drive from downtown Des Moines and numerous local attractions. The hotel is in close proximity to the Wells Fargo Arena, Iowa State Capitol Building, and Merle Hay Mall. This central location allows guests to easily explore both cultural landmarks and shopping options.

Dining

A complimentary hot breakfast is served daily in the lobby dining area, including a variety of tasty favorites. This breakfast setting aims to fuel guests for an active day ahead. The hotel's dining options ensure a simple and convenient start to the morning.

Group Travel

Sonesta Essential Des Moines caters to groups with its Sports Certified Group Travel status, ensuring the hotel can accommodate sports teams and family reunions effectively. Group amenities include complimentary meeting spaces and high-speed Wi-Fi. This aspect of the hotel supports a seamless experience for teams looking to focus on their activities.

Highlights

Location: Short drive from downtown Des Moines

Rooms: Pet-friendly accommodations with hot tub suites

Dining: Complimentary hot breakfast daily

Group Travel: Sports Certified for teams

“In my opinion, considering the price point, location may be convenient for budget travelers needing access around Des Moines; however, some rooms apparently lack basic amenities, such as phones and towel bars. Reports of cleanliness issues and noise problems raise concerns about value. I suggest travelers explore other options.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Queen Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Queen Room Two Queen Beds Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Queen Suite Three Queen Beds Non Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Very good
7.4/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Security
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Shops/Commercial services

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • BBQ facilities

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Patio

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel Location

4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
Map view
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
Nearby
American Reading Academy
1900 ft
Restaurants
Derry's Lounge
1300 ft
4845 Merle Hay Rd Ste B
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
1100 ft
4601 Merle Hay Rd.
Taco Bell
1000 ft
4875 Merle Hay Ln
Wendy's
1400 ft
4935 Merle Hay Road Ste 1
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
2300 ft
4504 Merle Hay Rd
Bamboo Buffet and Grill
3400 ft
4349 Merle Hay Rd
Explore Des Moines
Explore Des Moines
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Lions Park
25 minutes walking
Lions Park offers spacious green areas, trails, and playgrounds, perfect for families and picnics.
Living History Farms
Living History Farms
15-minute drive
An interactive outdoor museum showcasing Iowa's agricultural history with live exhibits and educational programs.
Terra Lake
10-minute drive
A scenic spot ideal for nature lovers, featuring trails, fishing areas, and picnic spots along the lakeside.
Westchester Park
25 minutes walking
A family-friendly park boasting playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails for leisure and recreation.
Trestle to Trestle Trail
15 minutes walking
A beautiful hiking and biking trail offering scenic views and a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
Lazer X
20 minutes walking
An indoor laser tag arena perfect for thrill-seekers, offering exciting games in a fun-filled environment.
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
9 minutes walking
A cozy local coffee shop ideal for relaxation, serving artisanal brews and homemade pastries.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
4 minutes walking
A family-friendly diner known for hearty breakfasts and delicious baked goods; great for any meal.
Derry's Lounge
Derry's Lounge
5 minutes walking
A casual bar and grill with a relaxed atmosphere, serving a variety of pub favorites and local beers.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell
4 minutes walking
Fast-food chain featuring Tex-Mex favorites; perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
5-minute drive
A unique cinema offering craft beer and dining options along with the latest movie screenings.
Family-friendly events at local parks
25 minutes walking
Check out seasonal events like outdoor movies and festivals held regularly in nearby parks for family fun.
Getting around town
City Centre
Des Moines14 min  ·  5.5 mi
Airports
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)24 min  ·  9.9 mi
Boone Municipal (BNW)92 min  ·  37.7 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Sonesta Essential Des Moines provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2007
Number of rooms:
137
Former name
econo lodge inn & suites des moines

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 467 verified reviews
6.9/10
Nice
58%
Recommend
Breakfast
6.6/10
Cleanliness
7.6/10
Comfort
7.5/10
Facilities
7.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Location
8.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
7.8/10
Value for money
7.6/10
Pros
Easy check in
Clean room
Good location
Cons
Poor lighting
Guest reviews
based on 416 reviews
7.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Sonesta Essential Des Moines
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
How far is Sonesta Essential Des Moines from Des Moines International Airport?
The hotel is 20 km from Des Moines International Airport, which takes approximately 22 minutes by car.
Is parking available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Ample free parking is available on-site for cars, RVs, buses, and trucks.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Rooms include air conditioning, microwaves, refrigerators, cable television, and some have coffee makers and sofa sleepers.
Which nearby attractions can be found close to Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby attractions include the Iowa Events Center (4 km), the Des Moines Art Center (8 km), and the Iowa State Fairgrounds (5 km).
Are there any restaurants within walking distance of Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby restaurants include Wendy's (0.5 km) and Castaways Bar & Grill (0.5 km).
Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines offer breakfast options?
The hotel offers a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast with waffles.
What business services are available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel provides access to copy and fax services, and has a meeting room that can accommodate up to 150 people.
Is there a gym or fitness center at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Yes, the hotel features a fitness center for guests.
What recreational activities are available near Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Outdoor activities include golfing, tennis, boating, and fishing in the surrounding area.

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Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
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12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room