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Top 24 Hotels Near DES Moines Good Park Swimming
1005 17th St Des Moines, IA 50314-1224
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
The journey from Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University to DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a short drive, a perk that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
Home2 Suites greets pet owners with friendly touches at reception, reflecting care and ensuring families feel welcomed consistently. Suites feature walk-in showers, premium toiletries, and plush towels, refreshing travelers with reliable daily comfort and ease. Guests in the fitness center access treadmills, free weights, and stretching mats, letting them sustain exercise habits away from home.
Guests benefit from laundry facilities, fitness rooms, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi, helping keep routines intact during long stays.
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
From the moment you arrive at Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG, DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a quick drive for a simple commute, making for an easy start.
Holiday Inn & Suites pantry markets remain open all hours, giving guests reliable options to cover travel needs and quick cravings. All guest rooms feature sofa seating, ergonomic chairs, and outlets, providing multipurpose setups for work, rest, and recharge. Business centers equipped with terminals, printers, and Wi-Fi provide clarity and support for professionals managing quick tasks.
Pet-friendly rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi combine with laundry and pools, supporting comfort for families and groups.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown
Guests at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown can depend on the quick drive to DES Moines Good Park Swimming to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
With signage and desk-guided routes, Fairfield Inn makes paths from curb to elevators and seating feel intuitive for first-time arrivals. Every suite provides plush bedding, quiet HVAC systems, and blackout drapes, ensuring consistent sleep environments that feel dependable. Indoor pool areas provide bright lighting, ample seating, and safe design, supporting balanced relaxation and recovery after long travel days.
Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pool access, breakfast service, and business center tools, ensuring productive and balanced routines.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Because Hilton Des Moines Downtown is a straightforward drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming, guests can utilize a low-key journey before their day begins.
Guests at Hilton notice statement lighting, polished finishes, and seating clusters, creating dependable lobbies across locations. Suites contain sofa seating, entertainment systems, and stocked minibars, offering both relaxation and convenience for longer visits. At the lobby bar, cocktails, soft lighting, and casual bites combine to make evenings feel social, comfortable, and consistently inviting.
Guests access fitness centers, indoor pools, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, reinforcing consistency and supporting wellness during travel.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Within Des Moines, Des Moines Marriott Downtown is a quick drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming, a fact that lets the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Concierge services visible from entry reinforce Marriott’s upscale positioning and provide reassurance that tailored help is always nearby. All guest rooms feature ergonomic chairs, spacious desks, and dependable Wi-Fi, allowing professionals to stay connected while away. The lounge serves cocktails and small bites with comfortable seating, encouraging casual gatherings or relaxed moments after meetings.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and indoor pools combine with EV charging and concierge support, making travel simple and dependable.
Des Lux Hotel
From Des Lux Hotel, the brief drive to DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a core benefit before the day begins.
Des Lux Hotel often welcomes arrivals with stylish décor, curated art, and warm staff greetings that reflect boutique hospitality. Rooms may highlight stylish interiors, artisanal touches, and premium bedding designed for a boutique-forward experience. Facilities may provide farm-to-table restaurants, eclectic décor, and cocktail lounges that emphasize boutique-style experiences.
A stay may present complimentary Wi-Fi, bike storage, laundry service, and family-friendly dining, reinforcing ease across guest stays.
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
The journey from Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center to DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a simple drive, a benefit that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
After travel Comfort Inn reception areas commonly offer quick access to water, coffee, or a grab-and-go shelf for simple refreshment. Guest rooms often include blackout drapes and gentle wake lighting to help adjust sleep schedules before early departures or late arrivals. Lobby markets and vending corners stock snacks, water, and sundries, providing late-hour essentials without a trip off property.
With laundry or dry-clean services, business centers, Wi-Fi, meeting support, and on-site dining, extended stays keep wardrobes and work ready.
Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown
DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a simple drive from Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown, a detail that makes the hotel a practical and well-positioned base.
Reception desks at Hyatt Place sit in direct view of entry, giving first-time guests immediate orientation and easing arrival routines. Each guest room has Cozy Corner seating, large TVs, and ample outlets, creating relaxation spaces that extend beyond the bed itself. Breakfast dining spaces with buffets, cereals, and coffee stations create predictable and convenient starts for travelers every day.
Pet-friendly rooms, laundry support, and breakfast buffets align with Wi-Fi and pools, simplifying extended visits for all travelers.
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton
The hotel's location is defined by its predictable commute to DES Moines Good Park Swimming, which is an easy drive away, making travel a non-issue.
When arriving at Curio, infused water and community tables signal hospitality that balances refreshment with a hub for regrouping. Each suite provides espresso machines, minibars, and plush bedding, blending indulgence with everyday convenience. Fitness centers include ellipticals, yoga mats, and resistance machines, supporting consistent routines in a guest-focused environment.
Outdoor pools, gyms, Wi-Fi access, meeting spaces, and in-room dining together shape stays that are flexible and stress-free.
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
Because Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel is a straightforward drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming, guests can decide to begin their day with a quick and simple commute.
Renaissance Hotels positions lobby artwork and curated displays as immediate signals of local culture, grounding guests in a sense of place. All guest rooms include flat-screen TVs, streaming capability, and premium sound systems, allowing easy entertainment after busy days. The lobby bar hosts live music and crafted cocktails, creating social opportunities that enrich evenings and encourage spontaneous connection.
Dry cleaning, meeting room availability, enhanced internet, and breakfast buffets cover practical needs that make extended stays manageable.
Surety Hotel Autograph Collection
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, with DES Moines Good Park Swimming a straightforward drive away, framing the stay around easy automotive access.
Autograph Collection highlights cultural storytelling with local art and curated displays, offering guests orientation to place. Each guest room provides ergonomic seating, coffee service, and premium bedding, ensuring reliable comfort across every stay. At the rooftop terrace, cocktails, lounge chairs, and fire pits provide indulgent hubs for social connection and relaxation daily.
With complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness rooms, art lounges, and pools, travelers enjoy convenience balanced with cultural enrichment daily.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
For guests in Des Moines, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG is a simple drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming, a location that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Complimentary hydration setups at Holiday Inn Express lobbies provide coffee or tea, creating simple but consistent courtesy touches. Suites add lounge areas, multiple televisions, and sofa beds, supporting extended-stay comfort and group flexibility consistently. Pools featuring loungers, towel racks, and family seating create balanced recreation and rest spaces that fit into varied travel needs.
Self-parking, hot breakfast, and fitness centers pair with reliable Wi-Fi and pools, ensuring comfort and clarity across all visits.
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
In Des Moines, Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown is situated a short drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming, a position that adds value to the guest experience.
Complimentary breakfasts at Embassy Suites each morning reflect dependable hospitality, making daily routines stress-free and consistently supported. Each suite features microwaves, mini-fridges, and storage cabinets, letting guests enjoy in-room dining with practical convenience. Evening reception areas with light bites and casual seating highlight courtesy gestures, offering reliable comfort every night.
Pet services, complimentary breakfast, fitness areas, business centers, and Wi-Fi ensure convenience remains central to every stay.
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
The journey from Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG to DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a simple drive, a perk that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
Staybridge Suites keeps visible elevator ranges and clear directories, making orientation simple from counter to corridor on day one. Guest rooms route blackout drapes and quiet HVAC with bedside power, supporting deep rest and predictable wakeups on any schedule. Shared lounges balance soft lighting and low TV volume, keeping conversation comfortable while background channels stay unobtrusive.
From courtyard tables and shade to grills and a fire feature plus a market and Wi-Fi, outdoor time stays comfortable and covered on site.
Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown
The short drive from Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown to DES Moines Good Park Swimming in Des Moines ensures guests have a pleasant preamble to their day's main activities.
Open lobby layouts with natural light at Residence Inn create orientation clarity that reduces confusion and fosters calm arrival impressions. All guest rooms contain dishwashers, microwaves, and coffee makers, letting guests maintain meal and beverage routines throughout their stay. Lobbies with sofa clusters, community tables, and grab-and-go markets provide comfortable regrouping areas that simplify arrival routines.
Valet service, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, Wi-Fi access, and meeting rooms ensure dependable routines for business travelers.
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a quick drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown, a layout that ensures the pre-event journey is always a speedy one.
Sofa clusters across Hampton Inn lobbies provide natural regrouping zones, allowing families and groups to pause comfortably. Each suite includes ergonomic desks, reliable Wi-Fi, and multiple outlets, giving business travelers supportive setups to remain productive. Fitness studios with cardio machines, mats, and resistance equipment maintain health routines, helping travelers sustain energy easily.
Fitness rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, laundry service, and Pavilion Pantry offerings provide practical support every day.
AC Hotel Des Moines East Village
This useful drive to DES Moines Good Park Swimming from AC Hotel Des Moines East Village is a central feature, because it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
AC Kitchen offerings at AC Hotels include croissants, meats, and cheeses, reinforcing a dependable ritual that supports structured daily starts. Each guest room contains flat-screen TVs, connectivity panels, and Wi-Fi, allowing leisure and business travelers seamless entertainment access. AC Kitchen breakfast rooms present cereals, croissants, and fruit with coffee, reinforcing dependable rituals that reduce planning stress daily.
Guests benefit from AC Kitchen breakfasts, AC Lounge wine, complimentary Wi-Fi, and parking, ensuring dependable support for every visit.
Cozy Rest Motel
In Des Moines, Cozy Rest Motel boasts a well-connected location to DES Moines Good Park Swimming, letting guests connect with the area before their stay begins.
At Cozy Rest Motel, arrivals may feature modest front desk service, vending machines, and direct parking that sustain daily travel ease. Guest rooms may present cable channels, climate control, and modest seating, creating practical balance across guest routines daily. Shared spaces may present vending corners, modest seating, and laundry facilities that reinforce simple routines for traveling guests.
A stay may present Wi-Fi, coin-operated laundry, vending access, and parking, reinforcing straightforward convenience for budget travelers.
Quality Inn West Des Moines - Clive
From Quality Inn West Des Moines - Clive, DES Moines Good Park Swimming is an uncomplicated drive, a perk that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
At check-in Quality Inn commonly makes luggage storage and early-check options visible so guests can lighten loads and head out while rooms are readied. Every guest room places a clear path from door to desk to bed so late arrivals can settle quickly and depart without friction the next day. Co-working areas pair power access with comfortable seating and modest privacy, enabling remote work without reserving private rooms.
Fitness rooms and towel service pair with lap or seasonal pools at select sites, giving travelers practical recovery and low-effort wellness options.
Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport
From Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport, DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a simple drive, a feature that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
Community tables in Hampton Inn receptions encourage relaxed collaboration, giving guests functional hubs to organize plans together. Every guest room contains microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting travelers prepare snacks and drinks with everyday ease. Breakfast areas with hot buffets, pastries, and coffee stations give guests clarity at day’s start, ensuring mornings begin with dependable ease.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, indoor pools, pet-friendly policies, and meeting spaces maintain consistent balance for guests.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
This flexible location means DES Moines Good Park Swimming is an easy drive from Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport, letting guests travel with ease.
Days Inn commonly routes vending and ice along the lobby corridor, turning late-night grabs into quick stops before the elevator. Guest rooms may add cribs or rollaway beds on request, keeping sleep options flexible while layouts remain simple to navigate. Indoor pools post lifeguard-free rules, depth markers, and railings, supporting predictable cooldowns with easy returns to elevators.
Business center PCs, printer access, and Wi-Fi connect with seating and coffee so handouts and confirmations wrap without detours.
Super 8 by Wyndham Des Moines
For a trip to Des Moines, Super 8 by Wyndham Des Moines's location a simple cross-town drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming is a fundamental piece of its appeal.
Super 8 breakfast areas near reception provide dependable clarity, allowing guests to start mornings with ease and predictability. Guest rooms offer branded bath products, modern showers, and linens, providing reliable refreshment across morning and evening routines. Lobby seating clusters with chairs, tables, and bright finishes provide regrouping points that aid orientation for new arrivals.
Complimentary breakfast, vending stations, and Wi-Fi combine with pools and parking, creating clarity for simple and balanced stays.
AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
The hotel's spot a simple drive from DES Moines Good Park Swimming gives AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport guests a easy way to manage their daily schedule.
Travelers get a calm pause as seating set back from the entry at Wyndham reduces door traffic, letting them collect themselves before rooms. Each guest room pairs a work desk and ergonomic chair with high-speed Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV, enabling focused productivity. Meeting lobbies showcase reception desks, digital signage, and coat racks, providing clear arrival points for groups and vendors alike.
High-speed internet, breakfast options, business printing, pool access with loungers, laundry service, and shuttle routes support tight itineraries.
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport
DES Moines Good Park Swimming is within easy reach of Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport, a convenience that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Quality Inn frames arrival with staffed front desks and visible reception seating so arriving guests orient quickly and move toward rooms. Suites add extra storage, larger surfaces, and multiple seating options so collaborative planning and family routines stay organized. Meeting pre-function foyers provide signage, seating, and beverage points to keep arrivals organized and transitions punctual and calm.
Business centers and reliable in-room Wi-Fi support last-minute printing and quick virtual calls, keeping agendas moving without off-site stops.
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DES Moines Good Park Swimming Local Area Guide
Welcome to Des Moines Good Park Swimming, a community cornerstone for summer recreation. This guide is designed for families, local swimmers, and visitors looking to make the most of a day at the pool and explore the surrounding area. Discover essential information about accessing the park, nearby dining, and local attractions to plan your perfect summer outing.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Des Moines Good Park Swimming (Des Moines, IA)
Des Moines Good Park Swimming is centrally located on the east side of downtown Des Moines, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. Situated within the larger Good Park, it benefits from mature trees and a parkland setting. The primary access route is from East 17th Street, which connects to major thoroughfares like Fleur Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, facilitating straightforward drives from different neighborhoods and the airport. Public transportation options are available, with bus routes running along nearby streets, though services may be less frequent on weekends or evenings. For those arriving by car, consider traffic patterns during peak summer afternoons; arriving earlier in the day or on weekdays can help avoid congestion, especially as families gather for swimming sessions.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Des Moines Good Park Swimming
The Good Park Swimming pool is part of a public park system, meaning lodging is not immediately adjacent but rather concentrated in several clusters around Des Moines. The closest hotel options will likely be a short drive away, typically within a 10-15 minute radius, particularly in the downtown Des Moines area or along major arteries like University Avenue. Families and groups often choose accommodations that offer amenities suitable for downtime between pool visits, such as rooms with mini-fridges or easy access to other parks and attractions. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the summer months when the pool is most popular and local events can increase hotel demand. Utilizing map filters to look for hotels within a 3-5 mile radius will yield the most convenient options.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is a 15-20 minute drive away.
- Arrive early to secure parking and good spots near the pool deck.
- Explore the trails and open spaces within Good Park itself.
- Visit the nearby Des Moines Public Library for a quiet retreat.
- Regroup at a picnic table in Good Park for snacks or lunch.
Event Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your desired swim time, especially on warm, sunny days when the pool is a popular destination. Parking is available directly adjacent to the pool facility within Good Park. Upon arrival, head to the entrance to pay your admission fee or present any pre-purchased passes. Once inside, scout out a good location on the pool deck for your towels, chairs, or a small blanket before changing. Familiarize yourself with the pool layout, including shallow end, diving areas, and any specific rules posted for different zones.
Mid-Day Regroup
As the day progresses, especially if you plan an extended visit, take breaks from swimming. The park offers shaded areas and picnic tables that are ideal for enjoying packed lunches or snacks. Staying hydrated is crucial; bring plenty of water. If you need to leave briefly, check the facility's re-entry policy at the entrance. This mid-day window is also a good time to explore other parts of Good Park, like the walking paths, or if children need a break from the water, find a grassy spot for some non-aquatic play.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your swim session concludes, begin gathering your belongings about 15-20 minutes before closing time. Ensure all personal items are collected and that the area you occupied is left tidy. Lockers may be available for securing valuables, or you may prefer to keep them with you. Proceed to the changing rooms and restrooms for showering and changing into dry clothes. Be mindful of other patrons also departing, and allow for a smooth exit from the park. Parking lot traffic is usually light immediately after closing, but can build up as everyone leaves simultaneously.
Things to Do Near Des Moines Good Park Swimming
Walkable
Good Park
Good Park offers a green oasis adjacent to the swimming pool, perfect for a break from the water or a pre- or post-swim stroll. Paved walking paths wind through mature trees, providing shaded routes and open grassy areas suitable for picnics or casual games. Several playgrounds and sports fields are also integrated into the park, offering additional recreational opportunities for all ages. It’s a pleasant space to relax, read a book under a tree, or simply enjoy the summer weather outside the immediate pool area, making it a convenient extension of your visit.
1005 17th St · On siteM.L. King Jr. Parkway Trail
This scenic trail runs along Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, offering a paved path for walking, jogging, or biking with views of the Des Moines River. It connects various parks and green spaces on the city’s east side, providing a tranquil escape from urban bustle. The trail is generally well-maintained and accessible, making it suitable for a leisurely walk after swimming. Its proximity to Good Park means you can easily incorporate a segment of this trail into your day, enjoying more of Des Moines's natural beauty without straying far from your starting point.
Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway · 0.3 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Iowa State Capitol Building
The Iowa State Capitol Building is an impressive architectural landmark offering guided tours that delve into the state's history and government. Its gilded dome is visible from many parts of the city, and the building itself houses ornate legislative chambers, law library, and executive offices. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the intricate interior design, and learn about Iowa's political landscape. It provides a dose of culture and history, serving as an excellent educational and visually stunning outing for those looking to expand their itinerary beyond outdoor activities.
E Grand Ave · 1.5 miDes Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center features a diverse collection spanning various artistic periods and styles, housed within architecturally significant buildings. Its exhibits include a strong focus on American and European art, with notable pieces in painting, sculpture, and photography. The center also offers educational programs and special exhibitions that change throughout the year, providing a rich cultural experience. It’s a perfect indoor escape on a hot day or a way to engage with the arts after a refreshing swim, appealing to a wide range of interests.
4700 Grand Ave · 2.6 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking more active pursuits or unique shopping experiences, the East Village neighborhood, located just a few minutes west of the park, boasts a vibrant collection of boutiques, cafes, and local businesses. Alternatively, explore the expansive Blank Park Zoo, which offers a variety of animal exhibits and family-friendly entertainment suitable for an entire afternoon. These options provide diverse ways to complement your visit to Good Park Swimming with additional city attractions.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Des Moines Good Park Swimming
Inside & Adjacent
Good Park Concessions
While not a full-service restaurant, the concession stand at Des Moines Good Park Swimming is the most convenient spot for quick refreshments. Typically offering classic poolside fare such as hot dogs, nachos, ice cream, and cold beverages, it's designed to satisfy cravings during a day of swimming. It’s an ideal option for grabbing a simple snack or a kid-friendly meal without leaving the park premises, allowing for minimal disruption to your planned activities and maximizing your time enjoying the water.
1005 17th St · On sitePicnic Areas in Good Park
For a more personalized dining experience, the numerous picnic tables scattered throughout Good Park provide an excellent setting for enjoying a packed meal. Families and groups can bring their own coolers filled with favorite foods and drinks, offering a budget-friendly and customizable dining option. This allows for flexibility in meal choices, catering to specific dietary needs or preferences, and provides a relaxed outdoor atmosphere for eating between swimming sessions or during a break from the sun.
1005 17th St · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Americana
Americana, located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu focused on American cuisine, often featuring seasonal ingredients. Known for its well-crafted dishes and extensive wine list, it provides a refined atmosphere suitable for a nice meal after a day of activity. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality food in a comfortable yet upscale setting, making it a great option for a celebratory dinner or a relaxed evening out.
1312 Grand Ave · 1.2 miCourt Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.
Situated in the historic Court Avenue district, this establishment combines a restaurant with a microbrewery, offering a lively atmosphere and a selection of house-brewed beers. The menu features a range of American pub-style favorites, from burgers and sandwiches to more substantial entrees, designed to pair well with their craft brews. It’s a classic spot for groups looking for a casual meal and a good selection of drinks in a vibrant downtown setting.
309 Court Ave · 1.4 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Mitch's
Mitch's is celebrated for its modern American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and creative preparations. The restaurant aims for an elevated dining experience, suitable for those seeking a memorable meal. Its downtown location makes it easily accessible from nearby hotels and attractions, offering a refined ambiance for dinner or a special lunch. Expect thoughtfully curated dishes and attentive service.
303 Walnut St · 1.3 miThe Republic on Grand
The Republic on Grand offers a unique blend of Southern-inspired dishes and classic American fare, set in a stylish, contemporary space. The menu is known for its flavorful options, including seafood, steaks, and creative small plates, complemented by a well-selected beverage program. This venue provides a sophisticated yet approachable dining environment, perfect for those looking for a high-quality meal and a pleasant atmosphere after a day out.
216 SW 5th St · 1.4 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic can be heavier on 17th Street during peak pool hours, especially on hot summer afternoons.
- Weekends are the busiest for Good Park Swimming; weekday evenings offer a more relaxed experience.
- Carry cash for the pool entrance fee and any small purchases at concessions, as card readers may not always be available.
- Bring your own towels, chairs, and potentially a small umbrella for shade on the pool deck, as seating can be limited.
- Check the Des Moines Parks and Recreation website for current pool hours and any potential schedule changes due to weather or maintenance.
Weather & Seasons at Des Moines Good Park Swimming
- Winter: Des Moines winters are cold, with average temperatures often below freezing. Snowfall is common, creating a landscape suitable for winter sports like ice skating at outdoor rinks, but the swimming pool is closed and inaccessible. Visitors should pack heavy, insulated clothing, including coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots for navigating the icy conditions.
- Spring & early summer: Spring weather in Des Moines can be unpredictable, transitioning from cool to warm, with occasional rain showers. Temperatures gradually rise, making it pleasant for outdoor activities in the park, but the swimming pool typically opens later in the spring or early summer. Layers are recommended for changeable conditions, and waterproof outerwear can be useful for rainy days.
- Mid-summer: July and August are the hottest months, with average highs in the high 80s Fahrenheit. This is prime swimming season, and the pool at Good Park is at its most popular. Sunscreen, hats, and light, breathable clothing are essential. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms, which can cause temporary pool closures for safety.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and comfortable temperatures, ideal for walking and enjoying the changing foliage in Good Park. The swimming pool typically closes by late August or early September. Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable, with a light jacket or sweater recommended for cooler evenings. The park remains a pleasant destination for outdoor recreation before winter sets in.
- Rain & snow: Rain is most common in late spring and early summer, potentially impacting pool operations with closures for thunderstorms. Snowfall is a winter phenomenon, making the park accessible for snow-covered walks but rendering the pool unusable. Be sure to check local weather forecasts before your visit, especially during transitional seasons or if severe weather is predicted, to ensure the pool is open and safe for swimming.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Public Pool)
- Neighborhood: East Village / Capitol Area
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: On-site lots within Good Park
- Walkable district: Good Park trails and nearby M.L. King Jr. Parkway Trail
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee or Fareway within a 5-minute drive
- Pharmacy: Walgreens or CVS nearby
- Urgent care: Broadlawns Medical Center or MercyOne Urgent Care (multiple locations)
- Downtime: Good Park picnic areas, Des Moines Public Library
- Pro tip: Pack a full day's worth of snacks and drinks to maximize your pool time and minimize trips.

