"Right off the interstate/highway, so it makes the rest of the city very accessible."
Nicole from United States
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"This hotel was very clean and smelled fresh upon entering."
Kimberly from United States
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"My room was right next to parking spot and I got good deal thru online booking."
Xavier from United States
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3-star hotel with complimentary hot breakfast in Des Moines
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
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 Queen-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Queen Room Two Queen Beds Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet
2 Double beds
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Queen Suite Three Queen Beds Non Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet
3 Queen Size Beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Room rates & availability calendar
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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
7.1/10Review 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 Location
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, 50322,
Map view
City landmarks
Amusement Park
Lions Park
1.3 mi
Amusement Park
Westchester Park
1.3 mi
Museum
Living History Farms
4.3 mi
Landmark
Terra Lake
2.0 mi
Landmark
Saint Aidan's Anglican Church
3200 ft
Landmark
Trestle to Trestle Trail
3500 ft
Landmark
Lew Clarkson Park
1.6 mi
Mall
Haymarket Mall
4300 ft
Church
Urbandale Baptist Church
4300 ft
Landmark
New Hope Assembly of God Student Campus
4400 ft
Church
Saint Mary of Nazareth Church
4400 ft
Church
New Hope Assembly of God Church
4400 ft
Church
Westchester E-Free Church
4600 ft
Landmark
Westchester Evangelical Free Church
4700 ft
Landmark
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
1.1 mi
Landmark
Des Moines Mennonite Church
5000 ft
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
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
9 minutes walking
A cozy local coffee shop ideal for relaxation, serving artisanal brews and homemade pastries.
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
5 minutes walking
A casual bar and grill with a relaxed atmosphere, serving a variety of pub favorites and local beers.
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 Moines 14 min · 5.5 mi
Airports
Des Moines International (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
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
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
Cleanliness
7.3/10
Comfort
7.3/10
Facilities
7.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Location
7.7/10
Staff
7.5/10
Value for money
7.4/10
Guest reviews
based on 595 reviews
6.9/10
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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