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From67US$ /night
Check-in
18Jan2026Select date
Check-out
19Jan2026Select 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
Nice
6.9
7.0
/10
2.9
4.3
/5

Offering 137 rooms, the pet-friendly Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel is near the entertainment district of Des Moines, around 25 minutes' walk from Lions Park. The 2-star hotel offers high-speed Internet access in public areas and has meeting rooms and a business centre for those staying on business.

Location

At this Des Moines hotel, you'll be 2.2 km from the Westchester Park and approximately 7 km from the 500 - acre open - air museum "Living History Farms".

Fairgrounds and a mall can be easily found close to the Sonesta Des Moines.

For those travelling from afar, Des Moines International airport is 22 minutes' drive away.

Rooms

The rooms at the property have a multi-channel TV, along with a microwave for your convenience. Bathrooms are equipped with a separate toilet and a shower, as well as comforts such as hair dryers and a shower cap.

Eat & Drink

Wendy's offers a selection of dishes a few steps from the Sonesta.

Leisure & Business

There is a fitness centre at the hotel.

“This Des Moines property caters to practical travelers who prioritize budget and location. While some past guests have noted inconsistencies in housekeeping, the generally positive experience suggests a reliable option, particularly for weekday stays. In my opinion, the friendly evening staff could be a real asset for guests seeking local recommendations.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Dogfriendly-hotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides many room choices—family rooms, doubles, and pet-friendly suites—with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
Queen Room Two Queen Beds Non-Smoking
2 persons
27 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Queen Suite Three Queen Beds Non Smoking
2 persons
27 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
22 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Superior King Suite Non-Smoking
2 persons
27 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Rates & availability calendar

See current prices and availability for your chosen dates!

Facilities

Hotels feature amenities designed to keep both you and your pet comfortable

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free 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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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
560 m
Restaurants
Derry's Lounge
390 m
4845 Merle Hay Rd Ste B
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
310 m
4601 Merle Hay Rd.
Taco Bell
290 m
4875 Merle Hay Ln
Wendy's
410 m
4935 Merle Hay Road Ste 1
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
680 m
4504 Merle Hay Rd
Bamboo Buffet and Grill
1.0 km
4349 Merle Hay Rd
Explore Des Moines
Activities and Dining Near Sonesta Essential Des Moines
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Living History Farms
Living History Farms
15-minute drive
Historical farm museum showcasing Iowa's agricultural past with interactive exhibits and guided tours available.
Westchester Park
25-minute walk
A scenic green space perfect for picnics, it features walking paths, playgrounds, and open areas for recreational activities.
Terra Lake
10-minute drive
A peaceful lake surrounded by nature trails ideal for walking, running, and bird watching, offering a serene escape.
Lions Park
25-minute walk
Community park featuring playgrounds and sports facilities perfect for families looking to spend the day outdoors.
Biking on Trestle to Trestle Trail
15-minute walk
Bicycling trail that spans multiple parks, great for outdoor lovers. Bike rentals are available nearby.
Yoga Classes at Twisted Bean Coffee Company
9-minute walk
Relaxing yoga sessions in a cozy coffee shop ambiance, perfect for stress relief after a busy day.
Lazer X
20-minute walk
Indoor laser tag experience perfect for thrill-seekers. Booking is recommended during peak times.
Visit the American Reading Academy
7-minute walk
Engaging literary programs for all ages, hosting various events, ideal for book lovers and families.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
4-minute walk
Family-friendly diner known for breakfast all day and signature pies. Great casual spot for all appetites.
Derry's Lounge
Derry's Lounge
5-minute walk
Casual bar atmosphere offering comfort food and cold drinks. Great for unwinding after a long day.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell
4-minute walk
Quick-service chain serving classic Mexican-inspired fast food favorites. A budget-friendly option for a quick meal.
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
9-minute walk
Comfortable coffee shop with a variety of beverages and light bites, perfect for a casual breakfast or afternoon break.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
20-minute walk
Movie theater with a brewery onsite offering craft beers and food, great for a relaxed night out.
Haymarket Mall
15-minute walk
Shopping destination with a variety of stores and dining options, perfect for integrating shopping with leisure.
Lazer X
20-minute walk
A thrilling laser tag arena suitable for both kids and adults, offering an exciting evening of entertainment.
Local transport and travel tips
City Centre
Des Moines14 min  ·  8.9 km
Airports
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)24 min  ·  15.9 km
Boone Municipal (BNW)92 min  ·  60.7 km
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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
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
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.
Is parking available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel offers free private parking on-site, which does not require a reservation.
What is the distance from Sonesta Essential Des Moines to Des Moines International Airport?
The hotel is located 20 km from Des Moines International Airport, approximately a 22-minute drive.
What breakfast options are available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel offers a free deluxe continental breakfast that includes waffles.
What are some nearby dining options from Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby dining options include Wendy's (0.5 km), Castaways Bar & Grill (0.5 km), and Bamboo Buffet and Grill (1 km).
Which amenities are included in the rooms at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Rooms are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, cable television, and some feature coffee makers and sofa sleepers.
Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have meeting facilities?
The hotel has a meeting room that can accommodate up to 150 people for events and functions.
What recreational activities are available near Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby recreational activities include golfing, tennis, boating, and fishing.
Is there a fitness center at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel features a fitness center for guests to use during their stay.
What attractions are close to Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby attractions include the Iowa Events Center, Des Moines Art Center, Iowa State Fairgrounds, and Science Center of Iowa.

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