Drake Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

The exterior and interior of Mars Cafe, featuring a brick facade, large windows, and a red interior with hanging lights and artwork.

Stay near popular Drake attractions

Drake University

8.6/10 (639 reviews)
Explore the campus of Drake University during your travels in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.
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Our pick of the best Drake Hotel Deals

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

3 out of 5
2650 University Ave. Des Moines IA
The price is AU$165 per night from 6 Sept to 7 Sept
AU$165
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Des Moines. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

3 out of 5
7225 Vista Dr West Des Moines IA
The price is AU$158 per night from 6 Sept to 7 Sept
AU$158
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in West Des Moines. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West
Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

2 out of 5
4755 Merle Hay Road Des Moines IA
The price is AU$100 per night from 6 Sept to 7 Sept
AU$100
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Des Moines. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the clean rooms in their reviews. Popular ...
Sonesta Essential Des Moines
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

4.5 out of 5
1000 Walnut St Des Moines IA
The price is AU$204 per night from 6 Sept to 7 Sept
AU$204
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this luxury hotel in Des Moines. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,284 reviews)
"What a gem?! My husband and I loved the whole experience!!"

Reviewed on 29 Aug 2026

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

2 out of 5
1901 Hackley Ave Des Moines IA
The price is AU$106 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
AU$106
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Des Moines. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,820 reviews)
"Best property to stay at if you’re getting in late and just need a room. Cheap parking. Great staff!"

Reviewed on 28 Aug 2026

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

3 out of 5
5000 Merle Hay Rd Urbandale IA
The price is AU$124 per night from 6 Sept to 7 Sept
AU$124
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Urbandale. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
See all 844 properties in Drake
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Our guide on where to stay in Drake

Find the best Drake areas for the activities you enjoy most.
The entrance to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden with a large dome structure in the background.

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.

A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings and a prominent tower.
Photo by Ryan Brohm
Open Photo by Ryan Brohm

Court District

Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while you're in town.

A sign reading "Historic East Village" with a clear blue sky and clouds in the background.

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.

A calm lake surrounded by trees and a stone bridge.

Greater South Side

While there might not be top attractions in Greater South Side, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.

A paved road flanked by trees and bushes, leading into the distance.
Photo by Emily Ruschill
Open Photo by Emily Ruschill

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.

Drake Travel Guide

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