The best deals on hotels near Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines, IA.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Hy-Vee Hall
730 3rd St Des Moines, IA 50309
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
At Hilton Des Moines Downtown, being an easy stroll from Hy-Vee Hall is a practical aspect that simplifies event-day preparations.
Guests visiting Hilton encounter polished marble floors, chandeliers, and bright finishes, producing reliable first impressions daily. Each guest room combines blackout drapes, plush pillows, and Serenity Beds, promoting quality rest and refreshed mornings daily. The fitness center with treadmills, ellipticals, and weights helps guests maintain wellness routines consistently while away from home.
With on-site restaurants, indoor pools, fitness rooms, and meeting facilities, Hilton delivers a reliable balance of work and relaxation.
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Because Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center is an easy walk from Hy-Vee Hall, guests can decide to begin their day with a refreshing and simple commute.
With covered drop-off or canopy at many Comfort Inn locations, guests step inside protected from weather before check-in begins, keeping them dry. All guest rooms include secure laptop-size safes and discreet storage niches so valuables remain out of sight while daily activities continue. The lobby mixes lounge seating, high-tops, and charging hubs, functioning as a flexible meet-up zone for quick regrouping on arrival.
Offering free Wi-Fi, breakfast service, fitness rooms, laundry options, and meeting space, stays combine basics with practical extras.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown
Within Des Moines, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown is a short walk from Hy-Vee Hall, which helps the hotel to feel well-connected.
Fairfield Inn situates printers and a business counter near reception so guests can print boarding passes or meeting materials before heading up. Suites provide ergonomic desks, task lighting, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring travelers can remain productive throughout their visits. Market pantries carry drinks, packaged meals, and snacks, ensuring dependable convenience and flexible options for every type of traveler.
With hot breakfast, indoor pool access, a market pantry, and free Wi-Fi, guests receive consistent amenities that simplify travel every day.
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
At Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel, being an easy stroll from Hy-Vee Hall is a central aspect that enhances the freedom of the guest.
Distinctive architecture at Renaissance Hotels showcases local character, offering guests a first impression rooted in cultural discovery. Each guest room integrates high-speed internet, desk space, and accessible outlets, allowing business and leisure tasks to flow smoothly. The restaurant highlights local ingredients and seasonal menus, giving travelers flavorful dining experiences without leaving the property.
Pet-friendly policies, family accommodations, digital key access, and reliable Wi-Fi ensure stays feel flexible, convenient, and connected.
Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown
The quick trip from Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown to Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines means the commute is truly efficient before the stay unfolds.
Hyatt Place reception areas are consistently well lit and staffed, creating dependable first impressions across properties worldwide. Guest rooms highlight Cozy Corner lounges, flat-screen TVs, and USB charging, making it simple to combine rest, entertainment, and work. Bars equipped with table service, cocktails, and lounge seating create relaxed environments where guests can recharge socially together.
Hot breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, and reliable Wi-Fi pair with laundry and pools, covering both comfort and family travel needs.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
From Des Moines Marriott Downtown, Hy-Vee Hall is a short ride, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Concierge availability near entry signals Marriott’s upscale positioning and provides reassurance of personalized guidance if needed. Each guest room has a smart TV, bedside charging ports, and blackout drapes, supporting both entertainment ease and nightly routines. The lobby offers comfortable chairs and wide tables, serving as a central gathering point for guests to connect or wait for companions.
Pet-friendly rooms, concierge desks, and breakfast service align with fitness and parking, creating smooth and flexible guest experiences.
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
Hy-Vee Hall is a quick trip from Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown, a feature that allows for easy planning and spontaneous journeys.
Curated artwork displayed across Embassy Suites atriums conveys polished identity, ensuring arrivals experience consistent and authentic first impressions. Guest rooms contain microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee setups, making quick meals and beverages available throughout the stay. Evening reception lounges offering complimentary beverages, light bites, and lounge chairs create nightly pauses that ease guest transitions.
Complimentary breakfast, rooftop pools, business centers, valet parking, and Wi-Fi access ensure guests enjoy reliable daily comfort.
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
For a trip to Des Moines, Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG's location a brief ride from Hy-Vee Hall is a fundamental element of its practical charm.
Concierge desks at Holiday Inn & Suites give guests reliable support, reinforcing comfort and orientation from the start of their stay. Guest rooms present plush bedding, blackout drapes, and climate control, providing dependable comfort and restful nights each stay. Meeting spaces with projection screens, lighting control, and breakout tables give professionals versatile tools for smooth events.
Free breakfast, pet accommodations, and Wi-Fi join with laundry and pools, providing care details for longer-stay travelers easily.
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Guests at Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG can enjoy the quick ride to Hy-Vee Hall as a defining perk of their well-located stay.
Staybridge Suites situates restrooms off the lobby with clear signage, minimizing elevator rides during arrival windows and departures. Suites add a defined dining area beside the kitchen, turning takeout or simple prep into a calm, well-lit meal without clutter on site. Coffee points near seating keep cups, lids, and condiments organized so brief refreshes stay tidy while keys and directions finalize.
Fitness equipment, hydration points, and fresh towels join with Wi-Fi and breakfast, keeping momentum and mornings clear and consistent.
AC Hotel Des Moines East Village
This flexible route to Hy-Vee Hall from AC Hotel Des Moines East Village lets guests enjoy a bit of Des Moines before their event.
Reception zones at AC Hotels emphasize minimalist design and clear sightlines, ensuring arrivals feel intuitive, uncluttered, and immediately calm. Guest rooms deliver flat-screen TVs, strong Wi-Fi, and ample outlets, supporting connectivity and entertainment for routines that stay predictable. Fitness facilities showcase cardio machines, resistance gear, and mats, giving guests reliable wellness tools to sustain balance while traveling.
Daily routines are supported by free Wi-Fi, AC Kitchen croissants, AC Lounge cocktails, and meeting rooms, offering clarity and predictable ease.
Des Lux Hotel
For guests in Des Moines, Des Lux Hotel is a quick trip from Hy-Vee Hall, a position that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
Guests at Des Lux Hotel may find boutique reception spaces, artisanal décor, and complimentary coffee or tea for a welcoming arrival. Rooms typically feature unique furnishings, premium bedding, and curated minibars that underscore a creative boutique-style stay. Shared spaces may include small libraries, stylish cocktail bars, and curated lounges designed to reflect boutique hospitality.
Guests may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, yoga mats, and bike rentals, balancing wellness with boutique travel ease.
Surety Hotel Autograph Collection
Reaching Hy-Vee Hall from Surety Hotel Autograph Collection is a quick trip, a quality that weaves convenience into the fabric of the stay.
Autograph Collection greets arrivals with welcome rituals such as cocktails or small bites, gestures that highlight cultural identity. Suites incorporate soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and spa-quality toiletries, rituals that refresh guests with luxury consistency. The spa features massages, aromatherapy treatments, and saunas, delivering restorative rituals that refresh and restore energy daily.
Amenities include pet-friendly rooms, cocktail bars, breakfast buffets, and business spaces, ensuring productivity and convenience.
Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown
Because Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown is a brief ride from Hy-Vee Hall, guests can appreciate a moment of fresh air before their day begins.
Lobby coffee zones at Residence Inn offer a simple yet impactful courtesy, helping guests reset physically and emotionally at arrival. Guest rooms include dishwashers, stovetops, and refrigerators, enabling long-term guests to maintain personal dining habits with ease. Breakfast spaces with barista coffee, hot buffets, and attentive service provide day-start clarity that helps mornings feel dependable.
Fitness centers, breakfast buffets, business centers, outdoor pools, and complimentary Wi-Fi give guests a dependable set of essentials.
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
The journey from Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown to Hy-Vee Hall is a short ride, an asset that adds flexibility to the stay.
Bright lighting and open layouts at Hampton Inn receptions support orientation clarity, giving travelers smooth navigation cues at check-in. Every guest room contains microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting guests prepare snacks and drinks with dependable ease. Lobby lounges with coffee service, community seating, and curated décor foster relaxed conversation, giving arrivals welcoming social cues.
Fitness rooms, complimentary breakfast, laundry access, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi connectivity deliver ease that supports daily routines.
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton
From the moment you leave Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton, Hy-Vee Hall is a brief ride, simplifying your plans.
When arriving at Curio, eclectic décor and community tables emphasize individuality while offering a hub to pause after travel. Every guest room includes spa-inspired bathrooms, rainfall showers, and premium amenities, helping travelers refresh with ease. The bar highlights craft cocktails, regional wines, and ambient lighting, offering a space that fosters evening relaxation and connection.
Dining outlets, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness areas, meeting rooms, and pet policies combine to make travel straightforward and dependable.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
In Des Moines, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG is situated a quick drive from Hy-Vee Hall, a spot that keeps travel easy.
Reception areas at Holiday Inn Express are supported by attentive staff, reinforcing dependable service at the start of each stay. All guest rooms contain ergonomic chairs, spacious desks, and fast Wi-Fi, enabling professionals to maintain effective routines. Lobby areas with communal chairs, charging hubs, and open layouts encourage social interaction and serve as orientation points.
Free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and fitness centers pair with indoor pools and business spaces, keeping work and leisure in clear balance.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Because Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University is a quick drive from Hy-Vee Hall, guests can decide on the travel method that best suits their needs.
After check-in, Home2 Suites offers infused water stations near seating clusters, showing attentiveness through small, thoughtful gestures. Every suite contains dishwashers, full refrigerators, and microwaves, ensuring meal preparation is simple and efficient every day. The fitness room with cardio machines, weights, and mats provides tools that help guests maintain exercise habits while traveling.
Amenities like fitness centers, laundry service, Wi-Fi, and breakfast simplify extended stays, giving guests balance and dependability.
Cozy Rest Motel
This accessible commute to Hy-Vee Hall permits Cozy Rest Motel to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
Arrivals at Cozy Rest Motel may highlight vending machines, compact reception, and exterior entries that reinforce budget-friendly arrivals. Guest rooms typically include compact bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and modest seating, reinforcing practical ease throughout budget-friendly stays. Facilities often provide compact breakfast rooms, vending access, and modest seating that sustain reliable routines for budget travelers.
A stay may feature Wi-Fi, vending corners, coin-operated laundry, and parking, maintaining straightforward consistency in guest routines.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds
This easy drive to Hy-Vee Hall from Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds allows guests to feel oriented and comfortable in the Des Moines area.
At many Econo locations, mobile check-in via the brand app shortens desk time so arrivals can proceed to elevators sooner when ready. Suites provide a separate sitting area, a sizeable desk, a refrigerator and in-room coffee so families or colleagues can spread out and plan. Business centers provide computer terminals, printing and scanning so guests can finish documents and board with fewer outside stops.
From complimentary Wi-Fi and hot breakfast to pool access, meeting rooms, a marketplace and laundry services, stays support both work and rest clearly.
Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive to Hy-Vee Hall gives Hampton Inn Des Moines-Airport guests options in how they plan their local travel.
Regional décor and curated finishes in Hampton Inn lobbies reinforce consistent identity, producing polished impressions for arrivals. Suites feature sofa beds, televisions, and lounge seating, providing flexible spaces where families can relax comfortably after long days. Indoor pools with spa tubs, towel racks, and lounge chairs provide relaxation spaces that support recovery and comfort throughout visits.
Complimentary breakfast, self-parking, EV charging, fitness centers, and business facilities cover essentials that keep travel consistent.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Guests at Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport can count on Hy-Vee Hall being within easy reach to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Maps and directories sit near elevators at Days Inn, making room ranges obvious and reducing backtracking on the first walk to corridors. Guest rooms may add cribs or rollaway beds on request, keeping sleep options flexible while layouts remain simple to navigate. Corridors put exit icons, room ranges, and ice symbols at interval markers, guiding movement through unfamiliar floors at a glance.
With breakfast seating, tray returns, and utensil stations plus Wi-Fi and a market, morning flow remains orderly during busy windows.
AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Reaching Hy-Vee Hall from AmericInn by Wyndham Des Moines Airport is an easy drive, a quality that allows guests to ease into their day's schedule.
With lobby cafés or kiosks, Wyndham enables a quick coffee before elevators, helping guests reset energy right after the drive or flight. Guest rooms supply complimentary bottled water, bedside reading lights, and blackout curtains, giving travelers a simple routine for rest. Poolside loungers with towels and side tables give guests a calm pause, helping families and colleagues decompress between commitments.
High-speed internet, breakfast windows, business printer access, pool seating, pet policies, and shuttle pickups support varied traveler needs.
Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines North
Hy-Vee Hall is a simple drive of Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines North, a detail that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Baymont clusters trash and recycling by lobby seating, helping quick coffee stops remain tidy as guests head to rooms without delay. Each guest room offers Wi-Fi included and a comfortable chair at the window, supporting reading or calls while light stays controlled. Patio seating, where available, frames sturdy tables and shade, turning open time into comfortable outdoor space close to lobby paths.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast seating, and coffee pair with a small market and microwaves, keeping early starts and late snacks uncomplicated.
Super 8 by Wyndham Des Moines
Reaching Hy-Vee Hall from Super 8 by Wyndham Des Moines is a simple drive, a trait that weaves ease into the start of any day.
Lobby seating at Super 8 includes simple chairs and tables, allowing families or groups to regroup comfortably after check-in. Suites present multiple televisions, sofa seating, and mini-fridges, supporting family travel with expanded comfort and practicality. Vending areas with packaged snacks, bottled drinks, and travel items simplify convenience, ensuring guests can cover daily needs.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and business corners align with pools and parking, covering both professional and leisure routines.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Hy-Vee Hall Local Area Guide
Hy-Vee Hall, recently renamed the EMC Expo Center, stands as the premier exhibition and convention destination within the expansive Iowa Events Center complex in downtown Des Moines. This multi-level facility serves as a vital anchor for the capital city, hosting major trade shows, statewide conventions, and high-energy youth sports championships throughout the year. This guide is designed to help attendees, exhibitors, and visiting guests navigate the logistics of the downtown district and the 150,000 square feet of continuous exhibit space. You will learn about the best parking strategies, skywalk connectivity, and the most convenient hotel clusters for large traveling groups and professional teams. Whether you are arriving for a multi-day conference or a regional athletic competition, this orientation provides the practical details needed for a smooth and productive trip.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Hy-Vee Hall (Des Moines, IA)
Hy-Vee Hall is centrally situated in the northern quadrant of Downtown Des Moines, bordering 3rd Street and Crocker Street within the integrated Iowa Events Center campus. Accessing the venue is highly efficient via Interstate 235, where travelers should utilize Exit 8A to reach the primary street-level entrances located at 3rd Street. The facility is just a short drive from the Des Moines International Airport, typically taking fifteen to twenty minutes depending on the flow of daily city traffic. Primary parking is located north of the venue in the Iowa Events Center lot, which offers 1,400 spaces and strictly accepts pre-paid reservations via the JustPark mobile app. Attendees can also utilize major city garages such as the 7th & Center Park and Ride or the 5th & Keo Garage, both of which offer direct skywalk access. Smart arrival tactics include entering the district from the north via 5th Avenue to bypass potential bottlenecks at the busy Court Avenue entertainment intersections. Rideshare drop-offs are most efficient near the south entrance box office along Center Street, providing a direct path for those arriving via United Cab or Lyft. The neighborhood is characterized by its walkable urban grid, featuring high-density commercial blocks and direct proximity to the Raccoon River trails. Many participants choose to navigate the city's extensive Skywalk system, which connects the expo halls to multiple hotels and dining corridors without ever stepping outside. Public transit is provided by the DART system, with the D-Line Downtown Shuttle offering free transit along the Grand and Locust avenues. During peak convention hours, pedestrian traffic is heavy, so guests should remain alert when crossing the 2nd and 3rd street corridors. The area remains well-monitored by security services, ensuring a professional and safe atmosphere throughout the duration of your tournament or show.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Hy-Vee Hall
Hotel clusters near Hy-Vee Hall are densely concentrated within the immediate blocks of the Iowa Events Center, providing roughly 1,900 rooms in the downtown core. The Hilton Des Moines Downtown is the premier option for logistics, as it is physically attached to the center via the climate-controlled skywalk system. Other high-quality properties like the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel and the Des Moines Marriott are within a five-minute walk through the indoor skywalk corridors. For groups seeking suite-style accommodations, the Staybridge Suites and Hyatt Place Des Moines Downtown offer spacious layouts roughly four blocks from the arena gates. Demand for these rooms spikes significantly during the Iowa State Fair, high-profile political events, and major regional sports showcases. Practical booking tactics include checking for blocks at the Fairfield Inn & Suites, which is located directly across from the Hall on Crocker Street. Attendees can use the Skywalk to avoid the need for downtown vehicle transit, making walkable hotels a high-value priority for multi-day events. If the immediate vicinity is full, the hotels near the airport offer a short commute and often provide dedicated shuttle services to the events center. Many groups prefer staying in the East Village area to enjoy a more eclectic boutique atmosphere just a ten-minute rideshare from the expo floors. Consistent early booking is essential for major weekends as local availability often vanishes months in advance.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the closest hub and is located just a quick fifteen minute drive south.
- Utilize the JustPark mobile app to reserve a prepaid spot in the Iowa Events Center lot for direct campus access.
- The Des Moines Skywalk system offers a climate-controlled walkable hangout that connects multiple hotels, cafes, and professional dining hubs.
- The Science Center of Iowa provides a high-quality indoor fallback option for convention attendees looking to escape rainy gameday weather.
- The Junior Ballroom or the expansive main lobby serves as the ideal indoor regrouping zone for large traveling groups.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at the Downtown Des Moines perimeter at least sixty to ninety minutes before your scheduled session to account for parking and security check-ins. Security at Hy-Vee Hall utilizes walk-through metal detectors and enforces a strict clear bag policy for all major convention and sports events. Note that clear bags must not exceed twelve inches by six inches by twelve inches, while non-clear clutches are limited to four and a half inches by six and a half inches. Attendees should have their digital credentials or tickets saved to a mobile wallet to ensure a smooth transition through the 3rd Street lobby entrances. This early window allows your group to visit the information desk for map details regarding the multi-level floor layout and loading bay access.
During the Event
Inside the 150,000-square-foot exhibit space, the environment is defined by its state-of-the-art flexibility and expansive clear-span floors for booths and courts. Concession stands are permanent fixtures along the concourse, offering a variety of gameday fare and beverages that operate on a strictly cashless basis. Guests should utilize the extensive Skywalk system to move between Hy-Vee Hall and the attached Community Choice Convention Center for breakout sessions or meetings. Hydration is important during long exhibit days, and while outside beverages are prohibited, water fountains are available throughout the halls for attendee use. Restrooms are located on every level and typically see the highest volume during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon session breaks.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting the facility following the final session is streamlined through the multiple glass doors leading back to the 3rd and 5th street parking lots. To avoid the maximum vehicle surge in the IEC lot, many guests choose to walk the Skywalk back to their hotels for a post-event meal. Traffic control officers are often present to assist vehicles merging onto the I-235 on-ramps to flush the downtown district after high-capacity events. Rideshare pickups are most successful if requested from the Hilton or Marriott lobbies to escape the primary pedestrian flow at the arena gates. Ensure all personal gear is accounted for and medical needs are met at guest services before the facility closes for the night.
Things to Do Near Hy-Vee Hall
Walkable
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Located just a few blocks west of the convention center, this 4.4-acre park features over two dozen world-class sculptures. It provides a stunning open-air sanctuary that is perfect for a light team walk or a quiet cultural break between convention sessions. The park is free to the public and offers an iconic backdrop for group photos against the Des Moines city skyline. It is widely considered a favorite family-friendly activity for those visiting the downtown core during the warmer months.
1330 Grand Ave · 0.7 miScience Center of Iowa
This interactive museum offers hands-on science exhibits that provide unique learning experiences for guests of all ages. It is an ideal fallback option for convention attendees looking to escape rainy weather while staying within walking distance of the expo floors. The facility includes a planetarium and rotating world-class exhibitions that can keep families entertained for hours during event downtime. It is located near the Raccoon River, offering a refreshing educational detour for sports and business groups.
401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy · 0.6 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Situated just across the Des Moines River, this geodesic indoor conservatory is filled with thousands of tropical and desert plants. Visitors can explore themed indoor gardens and expansive outdoor grounds that provide picturesque views of the city skyline. It is a high-value cultural stop that offers a peaceful, climate-controlled change of pace from the high-energy convention environment. The garden frequently hosts educational programming and is a favorite for out-of-town guests during the spring blossoms.
909 Robert D. Ray Dr · 0.8 miBlank Park Zoo
A short ten-minute drive south brings you to the premier zoo in Iowa, featuring animal habitats ranging from African savanna to tropical rainforests. Your group can enjoy animal encounters, feeding experiences, and a miniature train that circles the beautiful zoo grounds. It provides an ideal group outing for teams and families looking for a structured activity away from the downtown business district. The zoo is consistently voted as one of the top family destinations in the Des Moines metropolitan area.
7401 SW 9th St · 4.8 miBeyond the Event: Step back in time at Living History Farms, a 500-acre open-air museum that explores the history of Iowan agriculture across several centuries. Visitors can walk through pioneer villages and see working historical farms that capture the authentic spirit of the American heartland. It provides a memorable half-day excursion for convention guests and sports teams staying in the western suburbs.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Hy-Vee Hall
Inside & Adjacent
OVG Hospitality Concessions
The permanent concessions inside Hy-Vee Hall provide the most convenient fueling option for attendees on a tight schedule. Guests can find a variety of gameday staples including hot dogs, nachos, and Iowa-themed snacks that are perfect for a fast lunch. All sales are strictly cashless, and the kiosks are strategically placed along the exhibit floor perimeter for easy access. It is the most practical choice for those who want to maximize their time on the convention floor.
730 3rd St · On sitePark Street Kitchen and Bar
Located just steps from the venue's north entrance, this restaurant offers elevated American fare in a modern and inviting setting. It is a favorite gathering spot for convention delegates and guests, providing a high-quality sit-down environment for breakfast or dinner. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and a sophisticated bar program that captures the urban spirit of downtown Des Moines. Its proximity to the Hall makes it a reliable staple for your post-event social itinerary.
435 Park St · 0.1 miNearby Gathering Spots
Buzzard Billy's
Situated directly across from the Iowa Events Center, Buzzard Billy's is a quintessential gameday gathering spot with high-energy fan vibes. The restaurant specializes in Cajun-Creole favorites and hearty American comfort food that provides excellent value for large tournament groups. It is a premier choice for parents and coaches to regroup after a long day on the expo floor, featuring many TVs. The casual atmosphere and proximity make it one of the most popular social hubs in the district.
615 3rd St · 0.1 miFong's Pizza
A legendary Des Moines institution, Fong's is world-famous for its unique fusion of Chinese-inspired toppings on traditional pizza crust. Your group can experience iconic items like the Crab Rangoon pizza in a vibrant and quirky environment that visitors absolutely love. It is a fantastic pick for groups wanting to experience the authentic local culinary scene just a short walk from the gates. The service is known for being fast and hospitable to the influx of convention travelers.
223 4th St · 0.4 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Iowa Taproom
For a quintessential Iowa experience, this massive taproom in the East Village features over 99 local Iowa beers on tap. The kitchen focuses on Iowan-inspired comfort food like hand-breaded pork tenderloins and Iowa ham balls that reflect the state's heritage. It is an ideal spot for a celebratory victory dinner where teams can enjoy a huge, historic space with ample seating. The restaurant provides three private event spaces that are perfect for hosting large group gatherings or convention mixers.
215 E 3rd St · 0.9 miZombie Burger + Drink Lab
Located in the trendy East Village, this high-concept restaurant offers a "GORE-met" menu of over-the-top burgers and specialized milkshakes. It is a standout destination for teams and families looking for a fun and memorable dining experience with a zombie-themed twist. The restaurant provides a lively and stylized interior that is well-equipped to handle the energetic crowds from the nearby expo halls. It captures the playful side of the Des Moines food scene for all out-of-town travelers.
300 E Grand Ave · 0.8 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- DART Central Station is just blocks away and provides a free shuttle that travels through the downtown and East Village social districts.
- The Iowa Events Center is strictly cashless, so attendees should ensure they have digital payment methods or credit cards ready for all purchases.
- Hy-Vee Hall is officially renamed the EMC Expo Center as of January 2025, but many locals still refer to it by the former name.
- The Skywalk system is the best way to move between hotels and the expo floors to avoid cold wind or rainy Iowa afternoons.
- Download the ParkDSM app before arrival to locate available street meters and city garages that are connected to the Hall via the skywalks.
Weather & Seasons at Hy-Vee Hall
- Winter: January and February are intensely cold and often windy, with average highs of 33°F and lows dipping to 17°F. While the Hall is climate-controlled, the walk from the perimeter parking lots requires heavy winter gear, including warm coats and gloves. Snowfall is common during these months and can occasionally impact gameday arrival times on the primary interstate corridors.
- Spring & early summer: This is a transition period with temperatures rising from 50°F in March to the high 70s by late May. April is often the wettest month of the year, so carrying a portable umbrella for the walk into the skywalk is recommended. The blooming campus landscapes around the Botanical Garden make for beautiful morning walks before the daily expo sessions begin.
- Mid-summer: July and August are the hottest months, with average daily highs reaching 86°F and significant humidity that can feel oppressive outdoors. Constant hydration is mandatory for any outdoor excursions, though the air-conditioned expo halls remain a cool sanctuary for participants. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent and can pass quickly, so guests should monitor local radar when traveling downtown.
- Fall season: September and October offer the clearest skies and most comfortable weather, with mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s. This is a favorite season for outdoor team regrouping at the Sculpture Park before the evening session blocks begin. Evenings can get crisp as the season progresses, so a light jacket or fleece is advised for late-night departures.
- Rain & snow: Des Moines receives about 34 inches of annual snowfall and 37 inches of rain, with June typically being the wettest month. Significant rain can cause brief flash flooding in low-lying areas near the Raccoon River, potentially affecting local road transit. Always monitor Des Moines International flight schedules during the winter, as sudden snow alerts can impact regional gameday travel plans.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Various Event Partners
- Neighborhood: Downtown Des Moines
- Nearest airport: DSM (Des Moines Intl)
- Parking: IEC Lot / Skywalk Garages
- Walkable district: Downtown / Skywalk System
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee (Nearby)
- Pharmacy: CVS (University Ave)
- Urgent care: Mercy Medical Center
- Downtime: Science Center of Iowa
- Pro tip: Use the Skywalk system

