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Top 24 Hotels Near Grand View University
1200 Grandview Ave Des Moines, IA 50316
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Grand View University is a simple drive from Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center, a setup that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
Upon entering Comfort Inn the layout typically balances durable flooring with decorative focal points to signal a shift to hospitality space. Standard guest rooms offer quiet HVAC, supportive linens, and layered lighting to help guests rest and adjust their routines with ease. Indoor pools and courtyard pools provide lap space and lounge seating, letting guests reset with a swim or unwind between plans.
Between grab-and-go shelves, lobby cafés, fitness centers, and pools, short recharges and light meetings stay on property.
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
From Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG, Grand View University is a quick drive, a convenience that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
At many addresses, Staybridge Suites maintains a 24/7 Pantry, trimming off-site errands when weather shifts or cafés are closed. All suites arrange a dishwasher, sink, and drying space so cleanup runs quickly and counters reset cleanly after simple meals each day. Fitness centers line treadmills, bikes, and free weights with towels and water, keeping routines familiar, plus a small stretch zone.
Free Wi-Fi, a business center, and meeting space connect with coffee and seating, keeping collaboration straightforward.
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
The short drive from Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown to Grand View University in Des Moines means guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Lounge adjacency in Embassy Suites atriums promotes relaxed interaction, letting travelers connect naturally as part of the arrival routine. Suites include televisions in separate living and sleeping areas, giving families the ability to unwind together or independently. Atrium lounges combining sofa clusters and open views deliver communal zones, encouraging groups to relax and reconnect together.
Indoor pools, pet services, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and meeting rooms provide reliable balance for both work and leisure trips.
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
For guests in Des Moines, Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG is a short drive from Grand View University, a spot that supports a variety of travel plans.
Holiday Inn & Suites supports loyalty recognition with digital check-in via the IHG app, letting frequent travelers bypass reception lines. Suites include sofa beds, expanded layouts, and lounge seating, making them flexible accommodations for families or longer-term stays. Pools combining indoor access, towel racks, and seating provide consistent recreation spaces where families can recharge together.
Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and pools connect with business centers and parking, balancing relaxation with work routines.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown
From the moment you check in at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown, Grand View University is a simple drive for a simple start, simplifying your itinerary.
With clear pathways and staff direction, Fairfield Inn makes first-hour navigation feel logical so guests can move on to meetings or leisure fast. Guest rooms highlight lounge seating, flat-screen TVs, and blackout shades, offering travelers comfort and entertainment for balanced stays. Indoor pool areas provide seating clusters, safe depth markers, and clean towels, ensuring relaxation that feels consistent and stress free.
Amenities such as 24/7 Market access, fitness equipment, complimentary Wi-Fi, and breakfast service provide clear routines that reduce daily stress.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
The benefit of a simple drive to Grand View University renders Hilton Des Moines Downtown into a great starting point before the main on-site experience.
Hilton reinforces attentiveness through evening beverage service, showing care that creates rituals easing the shift from travel. Suites supply sofa seating, large TVs, and dining counters, supporting flexible routines for leisure, meals, or informal meetings. Guests enjoying the lobby bar encounter cocktails, music, and relaxed seating, establishing evening rituals of social connection.
Guests enjoy lobby bars, complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, and breakfast buffets, creating social energy alongside reliable comfort.
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
For a visit where a low-stress drive is a priority, Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel is a quick drive from Grand View University, turning the trip into a simple task.
Renaissance Hotels curates evening gatherings with local performers, transforming check-in areas into social hubs of discovery and ease. Guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout drapes, and adjustable climate control, ensuring restful sleep and comfort throughout the stay. Club lounges offer breakfast service and evening hors d’oeuvres, supporting quiet work sessions or relaxed social encounters with ease.
Complimentary breakfast, pet accommodations, enhanced connectivity, and parking services ensure daily routines are maintained without hassle.
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Grand View University is a simple drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown, a convenience that allows for confident planning and easy journeys.
Statement lighting and curated décor inside Hampton Inn receptions reinforce brand consistency, offering polished first impressions. Suites include rainfall showers, vanities, and premium toiletries, creating refreshment areas that support dependable guest routines. Grab-and-go lobby markets with frozen meals, snacks, and bottled drinks provide immediate convenience that reduces travel stress daily.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, breakfast buffets, and outdoor pools provide flexible convenience for diverse travelers.
Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown
Grand View University is an easy drive from Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown, a setup that ensures the trip there is always low-stress.
Lobby coffee and tea service at Residence Inn highlight small courtesy gestures, giving guests comfort and warmth at the start of their stay. Suites contain closets, luggage racks, and drawer units, providing functional storage that keeps belongings organized during extended stays. Evening social lounges with complimentary cocktails, light snacks, and casual seating create hospitality rhythms that reduce fatigue.
Complimentary breakfast, rooftop pools, valet parking, Wi-Fi access, and fitness centers support balance between relaxation and productivity.
Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown
At Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown, being a simple drive from Grand View University means a speedy commute for event attendees, enhancing the visit.
Hyatt Place lobbies provide complimentary coffee or tea stations, a courtesy detail that offers comfort and refreshment upon arrival. Guest rooms are fitted with coffee machines, mini-fridges, and blackout curtains, ensuring daily convenience and uninterrupted rest. Outdoor pools surrounded by loungers, umbrellas, and towel racks serve as family-friendly areas where recreation and rest coexist.
Gallery Market snacks, breakfast dining, and Wi-Fi pair with fitness centers and meeting rooms, supporting comfort and productivity.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
For a trip to Des Moines, Des Moines Marriott Downtown's location a short drive from Grand View University is a foundational aspect of its appeal.
Reception staffing levels at Marriott remain high even during events, ensuring check-in moves quickly and arrivals stay stress-free. Guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout curtains, and digital climate controls, helping travelers enjoy restful sleep every night. The business center supplies terminals, printing services, and desk space, letting travelers manage quick tasks or urgent needs easily.
Business centers, free Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms pair with pools and dining service, giving guests balance between work and relaxation.
Surety Hotel Autograph Collection
For guests in Des Moines, Surety Hotel Autograph Collection is a simple drive from Grand View University, a spot that makes for an unhurried start to the day.
With infused water stations and welcome gestures, Autograph Collection reinforces hospitality through daily rituals of consistency. Suites contain rainfall showers, spa-inspired toiletries, and plush robes, rituals that deliver consistent refreshment and relaxation. Guests in the restaurant discover locally inspired menus, seasonal produce, and cultural storytelling, making meals memorable daily.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, rooftop bars, and fitness studios provide travelers with balance, productivity, and convenience daily.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area
A key time-saving feature of Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area in Des Moines is the quick drive to Grand View University, leaving more room in the schedule for other activities.
Econo places a staffed front desk just inside the entrance with clear sightlines and seating clusters to ease arrival and regrouping. Every guest room supplies a desk lamp, blackout curtains, a mini-fridge and a microwave so device charging, rest and snacks are easy. The bar area supplies communal tables, accessible outlets and a focused snack menu so brief team catchups and solo work both fit naturally.
With free Wi-Fi, a grab-and-go breakfast option, meeting rooms, fitness facilities, a marketplace and on-site laundry, travel days feel easier.
Des Lux Hotel
The journey from Des Lux Hotel to Grand View University is a simple drive, a benefit that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
Des Lux Hotel often greets guests with warm staff welcomes, artisanal décor, and complimentary refreshments for a boutique entry. Rooms may highlight eclectic furnishings, plush bedding, and artisanal décor that create a personalized boutique retreat. Amenities may include stylish cocktail bars, locally inspired dining, and curated lounges that highlight a boutique guest experience.
A visit may present Wi-Fi, artisanal breakfast, laundry support, and bike rentals, sustaining boutique practicality during travel.
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton
From the moment you check in at Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton, Grand View University is a short drive, simplifying your itinerary.
At Curio, visible lobby bars and soft seating clusters combine function with comfort, easing orientation while encouraging connection. Guest rooms offer minibars, wireless charging, and plush seating, balancing modern convenience with guest comfort. Lobby spaces showcase curated artwork, flexible seating, and community tables, encouraging orientation and informal conversation.
Breakfast service, gyms, Wi-Fi connections, meeting areas, and valet parking simplify daily routines while sustaining variety for travelers.
Super 8 by Wyndham Des Moines
When visiting Grand View University in Des Moines, the drive from Super 8 by Wyndham Des Moines is a quick drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel for rest.
Seating clusters in Super 8 lobbies with nearby outlets support both decompression and practical routines while waiting on others. All guest rooms provide coffee stations, microwaves, and mini-fridges, delivering daily convenience for travelers across properties. Business centers containing printers, computers, and Wi-Fi ensure travelers have quick access to productivity support while away.
Business lounges, Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets combine with parking and laundry, supporting professionals with reliable routines.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
When the day's schedule in Des Moines is packed, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG's location a short drive from Grand View University is a major benefit.
Holiday Inn Express features complimentary breakfast areas visible from the lobby, providing clarity and convenience each morning. All guest rooms feature ergonomic work desks, bright lighting, and strong Wi-Fi, making it simple to maintain productivity. Breakfast setups with buffets, cereals, and coffee machines create predictable routines that simplify mornings for all travelers.
Meeting spaces, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi join with breakfast and parking, making trips simple for both business and leisure travelers.
Motel 6 Des Moines IA - North
From Motel 6 Des Moines IA - North, the straightforward drive to Grand View University minimizes navigation stress for easy navigation for all guests.
Morning coffee stations at Motel 6 are typically visible from reception, helping travelers orient and refresh before heading to their rooms. Each guest room pairs a flat-screen TV with Wi-Fi, combining straightforward entertainment with connectivity for work or personal use. Vending machines accept coins, bills, or cards at most properties, making access to drinks and packaged food simple for all travelers.
With free morning coffee, vending areas, parking, and Wi-Fi, properties streamline mornings while supporting connection and daily needs.
Quality Inn Des Moines North
Reaching Grand View University from Quality Inn Des Moines North is an easy drive, a feature that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
Quality Inn positions breakfast or coffee taps within sight of reception to let guests plan mornings while check-in completes. Standard rooms include blackout curtains, supportive mattresses, and quiet HVAC for restorative sleep before early meetings or travel days. Fitness centers combine treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights with towel service and water stations so guests fit quick workouts into travel days.
Accessible rooms, clear wayfinding, and event parking support attendees with mobility needs so arrivals, sessions, and departures proceed with clarity.
Red Roof Inn Des Moines
From Red Roof Inn Des Moines, Grand View University is a simple drive, a convenience that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
Complimentary coffee in the Red Roof Inn lobby serves as a constant, welcoming beacon for travelers, no matter when their journey ends. All guest rooms include hangers and a place to store clothing, helping travelers keep their garments wrinkle-free for the next day. The outdoor pool (at select locations) is a fantastic bonus amenity, providing a space for fun and relaxation that adds value to any stay.
A practical suite of amenities, including free parking, laundry, a pool, and free Wi-Fi, helps guests stick to their budget and routine.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
A notable benefit of Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University in Des Moines is the easy drive to Grand View University, meaning less time with maps and more time enjoying the stay.
With sofas, community tables, and flexible chairs, Home2 Suites ensures lobbies provide social spaces where groups can pause together. Suites highlight sofa beds, streaming TVs, and dining spaces, creating flexible layouts for relaxation and casual meals during trips. At the Home2 Market, packaged meals, beverages, and travel items are available, giving guests convenient access to essentials anytime.
With fitness centers, complimentary breakfast, self-parking, and pools, routines remain dependable across different hotel locations.
Cozy Rest Motel
Reaching Grand View University from Cozy Rest Motel is an easy drive, a feature that weaves ease into the start of any day.
At Cozy Rest Motel, arrivals may provide vending access, compact reception, and exterior parking that sustain functional routines for guests. Accommodations often include compact bathrooms, modest desks, and Wi-Fi, maintaining practical clarity across guest visits daily. Shared spaces typically present vending access, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that create reliable routines for budget travelers.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, vending machines, guest laundry, and ice dispensers, creating reliable routines across budget-conscious travel.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ankeny
The uncomplicated drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Ankeny to Grand View University in Des Moines means guests have a reliable way to arrive without confusion.
Hampton Inn weekday breakfast bags provide courtesy convenience, ensuring morning nutrition remains simple for guests on the go. All guest rooms feature blackout drapes, quiet HVAC, and plush mattresses, ensuring nightly rest is consistent and restorative. Breakfast nooks with fresh fruit, cereal stations, and hot items give travelers consistent routines, making mornings feel dependable.
Complimentary internet, breakfast bags, business lounges, indoor pools, and self-parking support ease that reduces common travel stresses.
WoodSpring Suites Ankeny Des Moines
The hotel offers a well-connected position, with Grand View University a simple drive away, allowing for a flexible itinerary.
WoodSpring Suites reinforces safety and comfort with well-lit reception areas, creating confidence for guests entering at night. Each suite provides stovetops, microwaves, and cupboard storage, supporting independence for guests staying multiple weeks or more. Guest laundries are equipped with multiple machines and vending for detergent, making routine care easier for extended-stay travelers.
Between housekeeping refresh, stovetops, free Wi-Fi, and vending, amenities give travelers dependable ways to maintain order and ease.
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Grand View University Local Area Guide
Welcome to Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa. This guide is designed to help students, faculty, visiting families, and event attendees navigate the campus and its surrounding area. You’ll find information on getting around, nearby attractions, dining options, and practical tips for making the most of your visit. Whether you're here for a game, a class, or a campus event, this guide aims to provide essential local context for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Grand View University (Des Moines, IA)
Grand View University is situated in the southwest part of Des Moines, Iowa, a vibrant capital city with a growing metropolitan area. The university’s address places it within a predominantly residential neighborhood, offering a relatively quiet atmosphere that’s still remarkably accessible to the city's amenities. Major thoroughfares like Grandview Avenue, Hull Avenue, and the nearby Fleur Drive provide direct routes to downtown Des Moines and other key city districts. Access to I-235, a critical artery for east-west travel within the metro, is a short drive away, connecting you efficiently to the wider region.
The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located approximately 5 to 7 miles southwest of the university campus. Depending on traffic, the drive from the airport to Grand View typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes. Public transportation options are available, with various bus routes servicing the areas around the university, providing connectivity to different parts of Des Moines. For those driving, campus parking is available, though specific lot access may vary by event or visitor status. It’s advisable to check university guidelines for visitor parking well in advance. Smart arrival tactics often involve planning your route to account for potential rush hour traffic, especially on weekdays during typical commuting times, and allowing extra time for parking and campus navigation.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Grand View University
Hotel accommodations are primarily clustered in several areas around Des Moines, with a significant number located near the downtown core and along the major interstate corridors, especially east of Grand View University towards I-235. While there aren't extensive hotel options directly adjacent to the university, many visitors find that a short drive of 10-15 minutes puts them within range of reputable establishments. Areas west of downtown and south towards the airport also offer hotel clusters that are convenient for travelers.
For those attending events or visiting students, staying within a 3-5 mile radius of the campus offers a good balance of convenience and choice. Many visitors opt for hotels near downtown Des Moines or in the western suburbs, both of which provide easy access to the university via Grandview Avenue and other connecting roads. It's important to note that hotel demand can surge around major university events, such as graduation, homecoming weekends, or significant athletic competitions, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended. Utilizing map filters on booking sites to show hotels within a specific driving distance or neighborhood can greatly aid your search.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport is about a 20-minute drive to campus.
- Plan arrival 30 minutes early; check university visitor parking advisories.
- The Drake Neighborhood offers nearby cafes and shops for a casual outing.
- The Des Moines Central Library provides a quiet, indoor space for study or relaxation.
- Main campus quad or nearby parks offer pleasant spots for groups to gather.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Strategize your arrival to maximize your event day experience. Aim to be on campus at least 45-60 minutes prior to the scheduled start time, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area or if a large crowd is anticipated. This buffer allows ample time for navigating campus, locating parking, and finding your specific building or venue. Familiarize yourself with campus maps beforehand, noting designated visitor parking areas. Consider grabbing a quick coffee or snack near campus before heading to your final destination to avoid congestion within buildings.
During the Event
Once settled, take a moment to note the nearest restrooms and information points. If attending a performance or lecture, consider arriving a few minutes early to secure preferred seating. For athletic events, understand the venue’s specific policies regarding bags and prohibited items. Take advantage of breaks between sessions or periods to stretch your legs and reorient yourself. If you need assistance, campus security or event staff are typically stationed at key points to help direct attendees.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting campus after a major event can involve temporary traffic congestion. It’s often wise to wait 10-15 minutes after the main crowd disperses before beginning your departure. This small delay can significantly ease your journey back to your hotel or next destination. If using rideshare services, identify the designated pick-up zones in advance, as these are often communicated by event organizers to manage flow. Alternatively, pre-plan your driving route, considering main roads and potential detours if necessary.
Things to Do Near Grand View University
Walkable
Grand View University Campus
Explore the main academic buildings, libraries, and athletic facilities that form the heart of Grand View University. The campus itself offers pleasant walking paths and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll or finding a quiet spot to read. Depending on the university's schedule, you might catch student events, athletic practices, or simply enjoy the collegiate atmosphere. Check the university’s public events calendar for any lectures, performances, or athletic competitions open to the community during your visit.
1200 Grandview Ave · On siteWaterworks Park
This expansive urban park, situated a little over a mile from campus, provides a refreshing natural escape. Waterworks Park features miles of paved trails that are ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling, winding through scenic landscapes and alongside the Des Moines River. The park is also a popular spot for picnicking, birdwatching, and enjoying outdoor recreation. During warmer months, you can find open spaces for frisbee or simply relaxing under a tree. Its proximity makes it an easy addition to your itinerary for some fresh air.
Park Ave · 1.1 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Drake University Campus
Just a short drive east, Drake University offers another vibrant campus environment to explore. Known for its historic architecture and beautiful grounds, Drake provides a different collegiate feel than Grand View. You can wander through its academic quads, visit the iconic Sheslow Auditorium, or catch a Bulldogs athletic event if schedules align. The area around Drake also features various local businesses and cafes that cater to students and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into a lively university district.
2507 University Ave · 2.5 miDowntown Des Moines & East Village
Venture a few miles east to discover the heart of Des Moines' urban center. Downtown offers a mix of historical architecture, modern skyscrapers, and a thriving cultural scene. Explore the Pappajohn Sculpture Park for impressive outdoor art installations, visit the historic State Capitol Building, or stroll through the trendy East Village, known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The Des Moines Riverwalk also provides scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Downtown Des Moines · 3.2 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate campus and city center, the greater Des Moines area offers more expansive recreational spaces and cultural institutions. A slightly longer drive can lead you to more extensive trails, large shopping centers, and specialized museums. Consider exploring destinations like the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden or the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library if your visit allows for more extensive travel within the metro area.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Grand View University
Inside & Adjacent
Grand View University Cafeteria
For convenient and casual dining right on campus, the Grand View University cafeteria offers a straightforward option. It typically serves a variety of standard cafeteria fare, including hot meals, sandwiches, salads, and snacks. This is an ideal choice for students, faculty, or visitors seeking a quick bite between classes or events without leaving the university grounds. Meal plan options may be available for students, and visitor access and hours should be confirmed with the university directly.
1200 Grandview Ave · On siteGateway Greens Restaurant & Bar
Located just a short walk from the university, Gateway Greens offers a local pub atmosphere with a menu that includes American classics like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, alongside a selection of appetizers and drinks. It's a convenient spot for a casual meal or to unwind after a day of campus activities. The laid-back environment makes it suitable for small groups or individuals looking for a relaxed dining experience close to campus.
1000 Grandview Ave · 0.4 miNearby Gathering Spots
Chuck's
Chuck's is a popular local spot known for its lively atmosphere and approachable American comfort food. Serving up dishes like fried chicken, steaks, and classic diner fare, it's a comfortable place to gather with friends or family. The restaurant often features a full bar, making it a suitable choice for an evening out. Its proximity to the university and downtown area makes it a convenient stop for a hearty meal.
710 Grand Ave · 1.6 miCentro
Situated in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Centro is a vibrant Italian restaurant offering a lively atmosphere and a menu filled with creative pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian-inspired entrees. It's a great choice for a group dinner or a celebratory meal, featuring a well-regarded bar and a stylish dining room. The restaurant’s energetic vibe and central location make it a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors exploring the downtown scene.
1003 Locust St · 2.8 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Hessen Haus
For a taste of European flair, The Hessen Haus brings authentic German beer hall culture to Des Moines. Offering a vast selection of German beers on tap, along with traditional Bavarian dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and pretzels, it provides a unique dining experience. The communal seating and energetic ambiance make it an excellent spot for groups to share food and drinks, offering a distinct departure from typical American fare.
1407 Grand Ave · 1.9 miEatery 1933
Eatery 1933, located very close to Grand View University, presents a modern American dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative culinary approaches. The menu often features upscale interpretations of familiar dishes, complemented by a thoughtful wine list and craft cocktails. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a more refined meal in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting, perfect for business dinners or a special occasion.
2015 Grand Ave · 0.7 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Grandview Avenue can be heavy during morning and afternoon university commute times.
- Weekends near campus are generally quieter, but major university events draw significant local traffic.
- Downtown Des Moines often has street closures or event parking restrictions, especially on summer weekends.
- Rideshare services are generally available, but surge pricing can occur during peak demand times or major city events.
- Many local restaurants offer happy hour specials earlier in the evening, catering to the student and young professional crowd.
Weather & Seasons at Grand View University
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures, with daytime highs often hovering around freezing and nighttime lows well below. Snowfall is common, so pack heavy winter coats, insulated boots, gloves, and hats. Road conditions can vary, and visibility may be reduced during snow events, impacting travel times to and from campus. Indoor activities are highly recommended during the coldest periods.
- Spring & early summer: Temperatures begin to warm considerably, though unpredictable weather is common, including rain showers and cooler days interspersed with pleasant sunshine. Pack layers – light jackets, sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes are essential. This season is excellent for exploring the campus and parks, but it's wise to check forecasts daily for potential rain.
- Mid-summer: Summers in Des Moines are typically warm to hot, with humidity increasing as the season progresses. Daytime temperatures frequently reach the high 80s and can climb into the 90s. Light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must. Stay hydrated, especially if engaging in outdoor activities, and take advantage of air-conditioned indoor spaces during the hottest parts of the day.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp, cool air and often vibrant foliage, making it a beautiful time to visit. Temperatures are generally moderate, ideal for walking and outdoor events, though early mornings and evenings can be chilly. Pack layers including sweaters and a light-to-medium jacket. Comfortable footwear is recommended for navigating campus and nearby attractions.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible throughout the year, with spring and summer often experiencing thunderstorms. Be prepared for wet conditions by carrying an umbrella or light raincoat. Winter brings snow, which can accumulate and affect travel. Check road conditions and university alerts if significant precipitation is forecasted, and allow extra time for getting around campus.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Vikings
- Neighborhood: Southwest Des Moines
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Campus lots (check university policy for visitors)
- Walkable district: Campus grounds and adjacent residential areas
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee (short drive away)
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens (within 2 miles)
- Urgent care: UnityPoint Health - Urgent Care (approx. 3 miles)
- Downtime: Campus green spaces, nearby parks, local cafes
- Pro tip: Download campus maps and visitor parking information before arrival.

