"Breakfast was delicious, featuring waffles, sausage, eggs, fresh fruit, and more."
Chris L from United States
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"the facility was clean and comfortable."
Rumrill from United States
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"The front lobby area smelled great, very clean."
Jen from United States
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"Comfortable bed."
Sharon from United States
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3-star comfort close to downtown Des Moines
Amenities
Sonesta Essential Des Moines offers 109 guest rooms equipped with kitchens, allowing for long-term stays and flexibility in dining options. The hotel includes a 24-hour fitness center, enabling guests to maintain their workout routines while traveling. Additional amenities consist of an outdoor patio and fire pit area, perfect for relaxing evenings.
Rooms
Accommodations at Sonesta Essential Des Moines feature kitchenettes with full-size refrigerators and microwaves in each room. The hotel offers studios and suites, accommodating various travel needs from solo travelers to small families. Guests benefit from comfortable bedding and a work desk in all rooms.
Location
The hotel is located just a few minutes from downtown Des Moines, placing guests near local attractions, dining, and entertainment options. Notable locations like the Iowa State Capitol and the Des Moines Art Center are easily accessible. Close proximity to Iowa State University also offers opportunities for campus visits.
Dining
Complimentary breakfast is served each morning, featuring a variety of hot and cold items designed for different tastes. The on-site convenience market provides snacks and essentials for guests in need. Nearby dining options allow guests to experience local cuisine without traveling far.
Business & Amenities
Sonesta Essential Des Moines includes a meeting room that accommodates up to 50 attendees, making it suitable for business events. The business center is available 24 hours for guests requiring access to computers and printing services. Complimentary parking ensures easy access for both business travelers and visitors.
Highlights
Location: close proximity to Iowa State University
Rooms: full-size refrigerators
Amenities: outdoor patio and fire pit area
Dining: Complimentary breakfast
“The recent refresh has certainly brightened the property, and the staff consistently make a positive impression with their helpfulness. Rooms here are notably clean and quiet, a welcome comfort. Breakfast is a pleasant addition, and the overall value for a budget-friendly stay feels quite right.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Usiowa
Select your room type
Sonesta Essential Des Moines offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Queen Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
22 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Queen Room Two Queen Beds Non-Smoking
2 persons
27 sq. feet
2 Double beds
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Queen Suite Three Queen Beds Non Smoking
2 persons
27 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Sonesta Essential Des Moines offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.2/10Review 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
Show more
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Location
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, 50322,
Explore Des Moines
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Living History Farms
15-minute drive
Living History Farms showcases Iowa's agricultural history through interactive exhibits and interpreters in authentic settings.
Lions Park
5-minute drive
Lions Park features playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas for families to spend quality time outdoors.
Westchester Park
5-minute drive
Westchester Park includes sports fields and scenic walking trails, ideal for both leisure and organized activities.
Trestle to Trestle Trail
15-minute walk
The Trestle to Trestle Trail offers a scenic route for walking or biking, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Lazer X
5-minute drive
Lazer X provides an exhilarating indoor laser tag experience, perfect for family fun or team-building activities.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
4-minute walk
Perkins serves a diverse menu featuring breakfast all day, plus delicious baked goods in a cozy family-friendly atmosphere.
Derry's Lounge
5-minute walk
Derry's Lounge offers classic American cuisine in a relaxed setting, known for its friendly service and great drink specials.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
5-minute drive
Flix Brewhouse combines movies with a brewery, offering a unique dining and cinematic experience, featuring local craft beers.
Haymarket Mall
5-minute drive
Haymarket Mall hosts various shops, cafes, and seasonal events, making it a vibrant spot for family-friendly entertainment.
Getting around
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
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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
Feedback about Sonesta Essential Des Moines from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 521 verified reviews
6.8 /10
Nice
57 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
7.4/10
Comfort
7.4/10
Facilities
7.2/10
Free WiFi
9.1/10
Location
7.8/10
Staff
7.7/10
Value for money
7.4/10
Pros
Clean rooms
Helpful staff
Spacious suites
Affordable rates
Cons
Unsanitary conditions
Strong odors
Guest reviews
based on 450 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.