Top 10 Hotels Near Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines for 2026

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

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and tables.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a large window.

A spacious, modern interior with a long wooden table and bar stools, a seating area with sofas, and a kitchen area with a countertop and shelving.

1. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

15 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Maureen

RM334

RM374 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

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

An indoor swimming pool with clear windows, white chairs, and a blue and white color scheme.

A brick building with a covered entrance and a car parked in front.

2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Watrous South, 10.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

kathleen

RM269

RM302 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

An outdoor seating area with sofas and tables, stone pillars, and a pathway leading to a building.

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

A modern hotel with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

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

3. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

7.2 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

natallie

RM518

RM580 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A luxurious living room with a stone fireplace, a large mirror, and two blue armchairs.

A hotel lobby with a polished marble floor, a grand chandelier, and traditional decor including lion statues.

A spacious hotel lobby with high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and a bar area.

A hotel facade with a brick exterior, large windows, and a prominent entrance sign.

4. Des Lux Hotel

Court District, 6.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Heidi

RM584

RM654 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

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

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

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

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".

5. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

7.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Tiff

RM465

RM521 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

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

A modern hotel with a prominent 'La Quinta' sign, a covered entrance, and a parking lot.

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

6. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

9.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Michael

RM367

RM411 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

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

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

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

A snack display with various packaged foods and a sign indicating a peak inside for personal items.

7. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

10.3 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Christy

RM435

RM487 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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.

An indoor swimming pool with clear glass walls, white lounge chairs, and a tiled floor.

A spacious lobby with a high ceiling, a seating area with sofas and ottomans, a reception desk, and a staircase to an upper level.

8. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Southwestern Hills, 14.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Robert

RM364

RM408 total

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

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.

9. Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

Watrous South, 10.1 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jayson

RM374

RM419 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Oct - 24 Oct

A modern hotel lobby with a round coffee table, sofas, and a TV mounted on the wall.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a tiled floor.

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.

10. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

11.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

nola

RM502

RM562 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

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

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

A reception desk with a 'Welcome' mat, a sign for 'Sleep Inn & Suites', and a door to the right.

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

11. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

12.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Chrisshanna

RM381

RM427 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 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.

12. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

12.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

gary

RM404

RM452 total

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

A modern hotel lobby with a central reception desk, seating area with sofas and chairs, and a self-service kiosk.

A modern lobby with a reception desk, colorful chairs, a purple sofa, and a wall with a 'SOUTHEAST' sign.

A modern gym with exercise equipment, a wall-mounted TV, and a mirror.

13. Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines

15.6 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Nathan

RM365

RM408 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

A spacious lobby with high ceilings, large windows, and a chandelier.

A grand lobby with a piano, a chandelier, and a seating area.

A spacious lobby with a central round table, green seating, and large arched windows.

A double door entrance to a hotel with a sign above reading "PROUDFOOT & BIRD".

14. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Western Gateway, 6.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Todd

RM515

RM577 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a window with blinds, a framed picture on the wall, and a bedside lamp.

A row of white, modern, front-loading washing machines in a clean, white-walled laundry room.

A modern restaurant with a bar area, seating arrangements, and a kitchen in the background.

A modern kitchen with a black microwave, coffee maker, and a refrigerator.

15. My Place Hotel - Altoona/Des Moines, IA

8.6 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Craig

RM327

RM366 total

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

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

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

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

A large indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a small seating area.

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

12.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jessica

RM345

RM386 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A modern kitchen with dark cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a tiled backsplash.

A hotel room with a bed, a TV on a dresser, a desk with a chair, a sofa, and a window with curtains.

A hallway with a door, shelves stocked with snacks, and a refrigerator with beverages.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a TV, a sofa, and a large window with curtains.

17. Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

Historic East Village, 5.4 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Dawn R.

RM555

RM622 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

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

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.

A modern hotel with a brick facade, multiple floors, and a prominent entrance.

18. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Drake, 8.5 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Ashley

RM432

RM484 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A modern dining area with a large island table, multiple chairs, and a chandelier.

A modern indoor swimming pool area with clear signage, including a 'No Lifeguard On Duty' sign, and a separate shallow pool with a 3 ft depth marker.

A modern living room with beige sofas, a round coffee table, and decorative vases.

A hotel room with a wooden desk, a bed, a TV, and a large window with a view.

19. Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

Court District, 5.7 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Jesse

RM432

RM483 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

A reception area with a wooden wall, a reception desk, and seating with red chairs.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a television, and a window with curtains.

A gym with cardio machines, a weight bench, and a mirror.

A modern kitchen with a granite countertop, built-in appliances, and pendant lighting.

20. Comfort Inn Altoona-Des Moines

8.8 km from Iowa State Fairgrounds

Rubyt

RM323

RM362 total

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 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 1,002 reviews	View
GrandStay Hotel & Suites	9.2 Wonderful 826 reviews	View
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport	8.6 Excellent 1,821 reviews	View
Des Lux Hotel	9.8 Exceptional 1,102 reviews	View
Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines	9.4 Exceptional 932 reviews	View

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Des Lux Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"We stayed for one night and it was amazing. The room was clean and the staff were so respectful and helpful!"

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"Rooms are nice and clean. The staff is very friendly. The treadmills were out if order."

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

8/10 Good

"location. street parking"

WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant Hill

10/10 Excellent

"I had a great experience staying at WoodSpring Suites in Pleasant Hill, Iowa. The staff was absolutely amazing and always helpful. Tonya was especially wonderful—she always greeted me with a smile, was friendly, helpful, and never made me feel like I was a bother. She truly made my stay more comfortable and welcoming. I would definitely recommend staying here if you’re looking for a clean, friendly place with great customer service. Thank you to Tonya and the entire staff for making my stay such a positive experience!"

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?

Science Center of Iowa, State Historical Museum of Iowa and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates 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.

Hotels near Iowa State Fairgrounds

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Our top choices for Iowa State Fairgrounds hotels

1. GrandStay Hotel & Suites

2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

3. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

4. Des Lux Hotel

5. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

6. La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines

7. Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines

8. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

9. Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport

10. Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines Airport

11. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

12. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

13. Tru By Hilton Norwalk Des Moines

14. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

15. My Place Hotel - Altoona/Des Moines, IA

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

17. Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG

18. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

19. Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown

20. Comfort Inn Altoona-Des Moines

Compare popular hotels close to Iowa State Fairgrounds

Top Iowa State Fairgrounds Hotel Reviews

Des Lux Hotel

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Des Moines Marriott Downtown

WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant Hill

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