Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines
Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown sits along the Des Moines River at the western edge of the Historic East Village, placing guests between the Iowa State Capitol and the central Downtown Des Moines business and entertainment districts. The Principal Riverwalk and Simon Estes Amphitheater are immediately beside the hotel, while the Iowa Events Center, Casey’s Center, Des Moines Civic Center, Court Avenue, and East Village restaurants and shops are all within the surrounding downtown area.
Built in 1990 and renovated in 2011, the property is an eight-story, 234-room all-suite hotel centered around a large open atrium. The layout is a signature Embassy Suites design, with 234 two-room suites that provide separate living and sleeping areas. The atrium serves as the architectural and social centerpiece of the hotel, creating a more open interior than the traditional corridor layout found in many downtown hotels.
The hotel offers more than 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including multiple meeting rooms and a large ballroom for conferences, weddings, and group events. Guests also have access to a free made-to-order breakfast, complimentary evening reception, indoor pool, fitness center, business center, pet-friendly accommodations, and on-site dining at Liberty's - An Iowa Grill. River-view and city-view suites are available, including a King Suite with River View and a King Corner Suite with City View.
The location works particularly well for business and government travelers visiting downtown offices or the Iowa State Capitol, convention and event guests attending functions at the Iowa Events Center or Casey’s Center, and leisure travelers who want walkable access to the Historic East Village, Des Moines River waterfront, Principal Riverwalk, Court Avenue, and downtown attractions. Families also benefit from the additional space provided by the hotel’s two-room suite layout.
Request a West-Facing Suite
Opt for a high-floor suite facing West to enjoy stunning sunset views over the Des Moines River and the downtown skyline.
Maximize the Free Amenities
Take full advantage of the complimentary made-to-order breakfast and the daily evening manager's reception for free drinks and light appetizers.
Explore the Riverwalk
Skip the rental car for local exploring; the Principal Riverwalk is right outside the door, providing easy pedestrian access to Principal Park and downtown attractions.
What Will I See From My Room?
Room views vary by which direction your window faces. Use this as a guide when selecting your floor in the viewer above.
Des Moines City Hall Overlooks E Locust St and the historic Des Moines City Hall, with glimpses of the riverwalk to the northwest.
E Walnut St Parking Structure Partially obstructed views of adjacent parking facilities and commercial buildings. Not recommended for city sightlines.
Views of the vibrant Historic East Village, with higher floors offering direct, picturesque sightlines to the golden dome of the Iowa State Capitol.
West-facing rooms provide the most open sightline, looking across the Des Moines River and Principal Riverwalk toward Simon Estes Amphitheater, the Locust Street Bridge, and the Downtown Des Moines skyline. This orientation corresponds with the hotel’s dedicated river-view room category.
Rooms 820, 818, 824, and 829 are among the best choices for west-facing views of the Des Moines River, Principal Riverwalk, and downtown skyline. In general, west-facing rooms offer the strongest views at the hotel.
South-facing rooms generally offer the least desirable views. In particular, consider avoiding the smaller rooms ending in 11, including Rooms 811, 711, 611, and 511, if exterior sightlines are a priority.
What is the Evening Reception at Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown?
The complimentary Evening Reception is held nightly in the atrium bar from 5:30 to 7:30 PM and includes two complimentary alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, or cocktails) plus light snacks for each registered adult guest. This is a brand-wide Embassy Suites benefit included with every room night and does not require an additional charge.
Does Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown have an indoor pool?
Yes, the hotel features a heated indoor swimming pool accessible year-round for guests
What time is check-in and check-out at the Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown?
Check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Is Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown actually in downtown Des Moines?
Yes. The hotel is at 101 East Locust Street in the Historic East Village, directly along the Des Moines River and immediately adjacent to the Principal Riverwalk.
What parking options are available at Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown?
Self-parking is available across the street from the hotel for $10 per day, while valet parking is available for $38. Secured and covered parking with in/out privileges is available. EV charging is also offered through valet parking for an additional fee.
Does the Embassy Suites Des Moines offer an airport shuttle to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)?
No, the hotel does not operate a dedicated airport shuttle. However, the Des Moines International Airport is only 5.4 miles away, making rideshare services or local taxis a fast, 15-minute transit option.
When did Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown open?
The hotel opened in 1990. It is an eight-story all-suite property with 234 guest rooms built around a large central atrium.
Is Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown a pet-friendly hotel?
Yes, Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown is a pet-friendly hotel that welcomes both dogs and cats. The property permits up to two pets per suite, with a non-refundable pet fee that varies based on whether guests stay 1–4 nights or 5+ nights.
Does Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown have an on-site restaurant?
Yes. The hotel offers on-site dining at Liberty's - An Iowa Grill, a bistro-style restaurant serving casual American fare with a focus on Heartland ingredients and local flavors. It is open daily from 5 PM to 11 PM.
Which rooms have the best views at Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown?
High-floor west-facing river-view rooms are the strongest choice. They face the Des Moines River and offer the most open sightlines toward the riverfront, bridges, and Downtown Des Moines skyline.