Hotels near Hy-Vee Hall
730 3rd St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Hotels near Hy-Vee Hall
Swipe to find hotels on the map.
- 1
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
- 2
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
- 3
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown
- 4
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
- 5
Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown
- 6
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
- 7
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
- 8
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
- 9
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
- 10
AC Hotel Des Moines East Village
- 11
Surety Hotel Autograph Collection
- 12
Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown
- 13
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
- 14
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton
- 15
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Booking with a group?
9+ rooms unlocks group rates — save up to 70%, everyone pays separately.
Which hotel fits best?
Best brands for conventions & expos and amenities that actually matter.
What's around the venue?
Food, traffic, and event-day tips you won't find on other booking sites.
15 Hotels near Hy-Vee Hall
Multiple hotel sources, one search — rates you won't find on a single booking site.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Where heritage meets innovation so expo days flow into networking nights.
- Gather with colleagues over complimentary evening appetizers in Executive Lounge
- Rent vehicles without leaving the property at the on-site desk
- Recharge on plush top mattresses designed for deep, restorative sleep
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center
Reliable stays designed for those balancing information overload with genuine rest needs.
- Sink into Comfort Signature Bedding after long convention days ahead
- Unlock your room instantly with smartphone digital key access feature
- Reserve meeting space equipped with audio-visual technology for group sessions
Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Marriott's flagship promises the predictable comfort that makes three-day conferences survivable.
- Fuel networking with purpose-designed catering options for convention-style gatherings
- Review event materials on high-definition flat-screen television displays
- Start convention days with hot buffet service for M Club members
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
Tailored to conventioneers who prefer vibrant neighborhoods over predictable comfort zones.
- Enjoy artisan coffee and premium espresso at dedicated lounge stations
- Browse locally inspired menus for convenient in-room dining service
- Taste regional flavors through curated local beverage and food presentations
Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown
Where the hallway conversations matter more than the keynote — and comfort helps.
- Configure meeting spaces to match your convention schedule and needs
- Enjoy free Wi-Fi with enhanced speeds for World of Hyatt members
- Savor all-natural bacon and cage-free eggs each convention morning
Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown
The only hotel that separates your work zone from your networking zone every single stay.
- Savor light appetizers and snacks during nightly atrium gatherings
- Explore nearby venues with local area shuttle service connections
- Sleep soundly on premium Serta mattresses designed for recovery
Booking 9+ rooms? Get group rates.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
This flagship delivers what convention travelers trust most: dependable polish and quiet professionalism.
- Stay energized with fresh fruit available twenty-four hours daily
- Enjoy complimentary evening hors d'oeuvres at M Club service nightly
- Travel between airport and convention center using shuttle service provided
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
Comfort that works hardest when trade show fatigue hits your body hardest.
- Grab hot breakfast buffet items before heading to convention sessions
- Order room service late-night at select full-service hotel locations
- Decompress with handcrafted cocktails in the comfortable lobby lounge area
Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
Extended-stay DNA means three-day schedules feel less like a marathon.
- Arrive via free airport shuttle service available at select properties
- Block out light completely with room-darkening blackout shades
- Access your room with secure digital key on your phone
AC Hotel Des Moines East Village
This brand serves professionals who treat downtime as seriously as worktime.
- Host breakout sessions in sleek meeting rooms with contemporary collaborative design
- Access complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi for effortless conference app connectivity
- Grab expertly crafted Nespresso beverages before early breakout sessions begin
Surety Hotel Autograph Collection
Thoughtfully curated spaces reward attendees who value character over cookie-cutter predictability.
- Stay energized with locally sourced snacks delivered to your guest room
- Fuel up with innovative dishes at the independent restaurant helmed by chef
- Park with ease using convenient valet service at this location
Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown
Extended stays shaped this franchise into a decompression zone for attendees.
- Sleep soundly on thick custom Marriott mattresses between convention sessions
- Enter your room with a tap using Mobile Key technology
- Copy handouts and schedules at the business center anytime
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Friendly service and reliable routines keep early risers moving without stress.
- Print event schedules and handouts with complimentary business services
- Personalize room settings remotely via the Hilton Connected Room app
- Recharge with rotating hot eggs and sausage before exhibit halls
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton
Independent character meets recovery-focused design for attendees who stand all day.
- Grab locally crafted snacks from the artisanal lobby market anytime
- Experience independent chef-driven cuisine at the on-site restaurant
- Park securely in the hotel's dedicated self-parking garage facility
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Engineered for efficiency so attendees maximize networking time instead of logistics.
- Store your vehicle safely in illuminated parking facilities overnight
- Refresh under multifunction showerhead with plush cotton towels
- Check in digitally through the IHG One Rewards mobile app
Hy-Vee Hall Travel Guide
We built this guide so your team doesn't have to figure it all out from a Google search. Neighborhoods, restaurants, game day logistics, local tips — it's all here.
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.
Neighborhood Overview
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.
Where to Stay
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.
Quick-Plan Overview
Getting There
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the closest hub and is located just a quick fifteen minute drive south.
Arrival & Parking
Utilize the JustPark mobile app to reserve a prepaid spot in the Iowa Events Center lot for direct campus access.
Food & Dining
The Des Moines Skywalk system offers a climate-controlled walkable hangout that connects multiple hotels, cafes, and professional dining hubs.
Rainy Day Plan
The Science Center of Iowa provides a high-quality indoor fallback option for convention attendees looking to escape rainy gameday weather.
Rainy Day Plan
The Junior Ballroom or the expansive main lobby serves as the ideal indoor regrouping zone for large traveling groups.
- 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.
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
Walkable
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
0.7 miLocated 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.
Science Center of Iowa
0.6 miThis 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.
5–15 Minutes Away
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
0.8 miSituated 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.
Blank Park Zoo
4.8 miA 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.
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. 0.7 mi
- Science 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. 0.6 mi
5–15 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. 0.8 mi
- Blank 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. 4.8 mi
Food & Drink
Inside & Adjacent
OVG Hospitality Concessions
On siteThe 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.
Park Street Kitchen and Bar
0.1 miLocated 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.
Nearby Gathering Spots
Buzzard Billy's
0.1 miSituated 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.
Fong's Pizza
0.4 miA 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.
Local & Elevated Picks
Iowa Taproom
0.9 miFor 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.
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
0.8 miLocated 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.
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. On site
- Park 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. 0.1 mi
Nearby 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. 0.1 mi
- Fong'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. 0.4 mi
Local & 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. 0.9 mi
- Zombie 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. 0.8 mi
Local Tips
The Iowa Events Center is strictly cashless: , so attendees should ensure they have digital payment methods or credit cards ready for all purchases.
Seasonal note: Des Moines features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons that dictate the arrival tactics for every visiting team and guest throughout the year. Spring and fall are widely considered the most pleasant times for exploration, offering mild temperatures perfect for walking the capitol grounds. Summer is warm and humid, often driving social activity into the climate-controlled arena floors and modern downtown eateries. Winter brings a crisp chill and occasional snow that makes the skywalk a vital resource.
- 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.
- Seasonal note: Des Moines features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons that dictate the arrival tactics for every visiting team and guest throughout the year. Spring and fall are widely considered the most pleasant times for exploration, offering mild temperatures perfect for walking the capitol grounds. Summer is warm and humid, often driving social activity into the climate-controlled arena floors and modern downtown eateries. Winter brings a crisp chill and occasional snow that makes the skywalk a vital resource.
Weather & Seasons
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.
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
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
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
| 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 |
| 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions travelers ask before booking near Hy-Vee Hall — answered with the specifics you actually need.
Questions Travelers Ask What people want to know before booking near Hy-Vee Hall
What are the closest hotels to Hy-Vee Hall?
The closest hotel to Hy-Vee Hall is Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night) — a 2-minute drive. Other nearby options include Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night) and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night). Hilton Des Moines Downtown offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center. Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center.
Which hotels near Hy-Vee Hall are good for business travelers?
Several hotels near Hy-Vee Hall cater to business travelers. Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night) all offer free Wi-Fi, meeting space, and a fitness center.
Are there any walkable hotels near Hy-Vee Hall?
Yes — 3 hotels are within walking distance: Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night). The closest is about a 4-minute walk.
Which hotels near Hy-Vee Hall are good for families?
Several hotels near Hy-Vee Hall are well-suited for families. Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night) all offer suites, connecting rooms, a pool, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry.
Which hotels near Hy-Vee Hall are good for team or group travel?
Several hotels near Hy-Vee Hall accommodate team and group travel. Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night) all offer meeting space, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry.
Hotel Amenities & Features Pools, breakfast, pet policies, and more
Which hotels near Hy-Vee Hall have meeting rooms?
Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night) have meeting or event space available.
Which hotels near Hy-Vee Hall offer free breakfast?
Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown (0.56 mi, from $103/night), and Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown (0.64 mi, from $153/night) include complimentary breakfast.
Which hotels near Hy-Vee Hall have a fitness center?
Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night) have an on-site fitness center.
Do any hotels near Hy-Vee Hall offer a shuttle?
Yes — Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown (0.56 mi, from $103/night), and Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown (0.64 mi, from $153/night) offer shuttle service.
Do hotels near Hy-Vee Hall offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes — Hilton Des Moines Downtown (0.18 mi, from $193/night), Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center (0.28 mi, from $120/night), and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown (0.38 mi, from $136/night) offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
Other expo centers nearby
Also planning a multi-venue trip? Check these within 50 miles.
Ready to book near Hy-Vee Hall?
15 hotels to choose from. Lowest rate guarantee, flexible cancellation on most rooms, and a support team that gets sports travel.