The best deals on hotels near Southwoods Park 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 Southwoods Park
350 35th St Des Moines, IA 50265
Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek
This convenient drive to Southwoods Park from Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek is a defining feature, because it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
Sleep Inn's welcome wall and large windows brighten the lobby on entry, creating a lighter mood that lowers travel fatigue on first steps in. Each guest room centers on a roomy desk, blackout curtains, in-room coffee and a microwave, helping guests keep routines on track. Breakfast areas provide hot buffet stations, grab-and-go picks and seating with outlets so mornings stay efficient and predictable.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a fitness center, meeting rooms, accessible parking and laundry, stays keep both work and rest aligned.
Element West Des Moines
In Des Moines, Element West Des Moines's location a quick drive from Southwoods Park lets guests move easily before their stay begins.
Element lobbies feature modern furniture, bright windows, and open seating clusters, creating casual hubs for guests to gather comfortably. Suites feature full kitchens with microwaves, fridges, and dishwashers, letting families manage meals conveniently without leaving the property. Motion gyms highlight treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights, supporting daily health routines and giving travelers dependable fitness access.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, Rise breakfast, saline pool access, and full kitchens give guests dependable amenities for long or short travel stays.
The Rewind West Des Moines Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The short drive from The Rewind West Des Moines Tapestry Collection by Hilton to Southwoods Park in Des Moines guarantees the commute is always efficient before the stay unfolds.
Curated décor with local accents across Tapestry receptions conveys attention to detail that frames a memorable and authentic welcome. Guest rooms offer ample storage and luggage benches, providing practical comfort that eases the shift from transit to rest. Poolside gathering spots combine swim access with shaded seating, enabling social pause points immersed in physical relief.
Meeting spaces, hot breakfast, business lounges, outdoor pools, and complimentary Wi-Fi ensure a reliable blend of ease and utility.
Hampton Inn & Suites West Des Moines / SW Mall Area
For travelers aiming to minimize commute times, Hampton Inn & Suites West Des Moines / SW Mall Area is a simple drive from Southwoods Park, making it a smart choice.
Hampton Inn breakfasts with hot buffets and pastries maintain dependable hospitality, helping mornings unfold smoothly and with balance. Each suite provides rainfall showers, premium bath amenities, and soft towels, ensuring refresh routines feel elevated and refreshing. Meeting areas with whiteboards, projectors, and ergonomic chairs support collaboration, providing effective productivity for group tasks.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, valet parking, indoor pools, breakfast buffets, and business lounges deliver convenience that supports each stay.
Homewood Suites by Hilton West Des Moines / SW Mall Area
From Homewood Suites by Hilton West Des Moines / SW Mall Area, Southwoods Park is a short drive, a benefit that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
Homewood Suites reinforces hospitality with infused water stations, providing hydration that reflects care for travelers upon arrival. Each guest room supplies streaming TVs, blackout curtains, and climate control, ensuring both entertainment and relaxation nightly. At the laundry facilities, washers, dryers, and detergent stations allow guests to manage daily needs conveniently on extended visits.
Guests enjoy pet-friendly rooms, free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and laundry services, showing attention to convenience and ease of stay.
Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek
For a trip to Des Moines, Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek's location an easy drive from Southwoods Park is an essential part of its convenience.
Lobby markets at Hyatt Place offer food, beverages, and essentials, providing quick access that supports convenient arrival experiences. All guest rooms include Cozy Corner seating with sofa-sleepers, flat-screen HDTVs, and charging hubs, supporting entertainment and rest. Breakfast setups including hot dishes, cereals, and fruit provide reliable choices that support day-start clarity for all travelers.
Business centers, fitness rooms, and free breakfast connect with Wi-Fi and parking, giving guests a dependable foundation for each stay.
Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines West
Because Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines West is a simple drive from Southwoods Park, guests can easily transition to the next part of their day.
Lounge adjacency in Hilton Garden Inn lobbies creates social connection points, inviting relaxed conversation before guests continue. Guest rooms include sofa beds, televisions, and coffee tables, creating multipurpose spaces that accommodate leisure and family needs. Pavilion Pantry markets with packaged meals, bottled drinks, and frozen items deliver immediate convenience that reduces travel stress.
On-site dining, fitness studios, complimentary internet, outdoor pools, and business centers support convenience for work and leisure alike.
Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - West Des Moines
This useful drive to Southwoods Park is a key feature of Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - West Des Moines, as it allows for a smooth and simple commute.
A consistent and friendly reception is a hallmark of Extended Stay America, where staff are trained to be helpful and efficient. The generous counter space in the kitchen area of each suite provides plenty of room for meal prep, adding to the room's functionality. The swimming pool area is a great social spot for guests, providing a relaxed setting to enjoy the afternoon with family or friends.
A complete amenity set, from the full kitchen and laundry to a fitness center and pool, supports a fully independent and comfortable stay.
Courtyard Des Moines West / Jordan Creek
Within Des Moines, Courtyard Des Moines West / Jordan Creek is a quick drive from Southwoods Park, which helps the hotel to feel both convenient and accessible.
Upon arrival, Courtyard situates reception desks beside modular seating and open layouts, ensuring orientation clarity and efficiency. Suites feature sofa beds, hardwood finishes, and minibars, stylish and practical setups that provide comfort and consistency. At the 24/7 Market, travelers access packaged snacks, bottled water, and frozen items, reliable details that simplify daily routines.
Amenities include Starbucks® coffee, meeting spaces, free Wi-Fi, and fitness studios, giving professionals productivity and comfort daily.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Des Moines West / Jordan Creek
The fundamental convenience of a stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Des Moines West / Jordan Creek in Des Moines is the easy drive to Southwoods Park, which streamlines the entire process of daily planning.
Something Borrowed® spaces at TownePlace Suites make forgotten items available, easing arrivals through resourceful, caring hospitality. Guest rooms feature full kitchens and spacious work desks, allowing travelers to cook meals and remain productive throughout their stay. Lobby seating combines magazines and soft textiles, giving guests casual reading points that nurture both transit and planning moments.
Outdoor pool, pet-friendly policy, and breakfast buffet combine relaxation, warmth, and routine nourishment for stays that feel home-like.
Residence Inn by Marriott Des Moines West
For guests in Des Moines, Residence Inn by Marriott Des Moines West is a simple drive from Southwoods Park, a spot that makes for a graceful start to any day.
Grab-and-go counters positioned inside Residence Inn lobbies simplify arrival by offering convenient refreshments that reduce travel stress. Guest rooms feature premium toiletries, spacious vanities, and bright lighting, ensuring daily routines feel supported and comfortable. Indoor pools with whirlpools, towel racks, and lounge seating supply restorative spaces that combine comfort, balance, and shared leisure.
Fitness centers, breakfast buffets, business areas, complimentary internet, and rooftop pools balance leisure and productivity easily.
Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel
The hotel's spot an easy drive from Southwoods Park gives Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel guests choices in how they plan their local travel.
In Sheraton lobbies, statement chandeliers, polished floors, and floral arrangements create luxury signals that feel consistent globally. Every suite highlights soaking tubs, upgraded bath products, and bright lighting, refreshing guests with spa-inspired daily routines. At the lobby bar, crafted cocktails, soft seating, and music provide a casual hub that supports relaxation and social interaction.
Guests benefit from 24/7 markets, hot breakfast buffets, fitness centers, and meeting rooms, simplifying routines across each stay.
Quality Inn
The journey from Quality Inn to Southwoods Park is a quick drive, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Quality Inn arrival signage and staff presence help guests identify elevators, parking, and breakfast areas quickly, reducing backtracking. Guest rooms provide sealed windows or sound-mitigating finishes where possible, reducing exterior noise for more reliable overnight rest. The lobby mixes sofas, community tables, and charging hubs to form flexible meet-up zones for quick catch-ups and device power-ups between plans.
Meeting rooms with AV hookups and event parking simplify small conferences, keeping logistics on site and reducing coordination burden.
Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA
The hotel's spot a short drive from Southwoods Park gives Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA guests a direct way to manage their daily schedule.
Seating zones with simple chairs and tables in Super 8 lobbies support regrouping and help ease transitions from travel to rest. All guest rooms emphasize comfortable beds, blackout shades, and quiet HVAC systems, supporting restorative sleep at the end of each day. Breakfast areas offering cereals, fruit, and coffee service deliver dependable clarity, helping all guests begin mornings easily.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast setups, and parking combine with vending and pools, ensuring predictable routines across property visits.
Wildwood Lodge
This accessible drive to Southwoods Park permits Wildwood Lodge to provide a convenient yet peaceful setting before the stay unfolds.
At Wildwood Lodge, arrivals may highlight boutique furnishings, eclectic art, and artisanal details that frame a personal welcome. Guest rooms typically offer stylish furnishings, curated minibars, and bathrooms with boutique finishes for a polished retreat. Shared spaces may highlight curated cocktail bars, artisanal cafés, and intimate lounges that reinforce boutique individuality and charm.
A stay often features pet-friendly policies, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and bike rentals, aligning boutique ease with convenience.
Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive
The hotel's spot a simple drive from Southwoods Park gives Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive guests a direct way to manage their daily schedule.
Courtyard highlights its Bistro in the lobby, signaling convenience with food and beverage options that simplify daily routines. Each guest room delivers USB charging hubs, ergonomic seating, and strong Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to remain productive daily. In the meeting lounge, ergonomic chairs, projection screens, and flexible layouts ensure productivity during professional events.
Guests benefit from breakfast service, outdoor pools, 24/7 markets, and Wi-Fi, ensuring convenience and wellness remain consistent.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive
For guests in Des Moines, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive is an easy drive from Southwoods Park, a position that makes for an unhurried start to the day.
Brightly lit lobbies at La Quinta create dependable first impressions, giving guests clarity and orientation comfort from the start. Each guest room features coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges, letting travelers keep essential conveniences within reach. Breakfast setups offering buffets, cereals, and coffee machines deliver day-start clarity that travelers can rely on consistently.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and laundry pair with parking and fitness centers, making daily travel routines smooth and balanced.
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive
Within Des Moines, Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive is a simple drive from Southwoods Park, a detail that delivers a sense of connection to the place.
Where a small market is present, Days Inn organizes coolers, microwavables, and utensils near seating to keep one-stop grabs efficient. Each guest room maintains free Wi-Fi and a comfortable chair near the window, supporting reading or calls while glare stays controlled. Ice rooms and vending near the lobby corridor create a convenient quick-stop cluster kept close to exits and guest elevators.
Guest laundry, folding ledges, and detergent vending plus Wi-Fi and seating fit refresh cycles neatly around meals, calls, and quiet time.
Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites
Reaching Southwoods Park from Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites is an easy drive, a trait that weaves convenience into the fabric of the stay.
Best Western keeps visible staffing during peak periods, triaging questions up front so the check-in lane advances at a steady, measured pace. Standard guest rooms keep full-length mirrors, hair dryers, and vanity lighting together, turning daily prep into a predictable routine. Courtyards where present include seating, heaters, or umbrellas, providing casual regroup space that doesn’t pull guests off schedule.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, fitness access, and guest laundry, travelers keep connection, energy, and upkeep aligned through changing plans.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA
Because Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA is a simple drive from Southwoods Park, guests can decide on the travel method that best suits their needs.
With market cases, a café counter, and seating in one cluster, Radisson reduces the mental load of first-hour choices so you can focus on plans. Every guest room features a work surface, task lighting, multiple USB outlets, and sightlines that support in-room productivity. Poolside seating areas provide loungers, umbrellas, and side tables, helping guests relax between activities and keep daily plans on track.
With Wi-Fi, meetings, a restaurant, a small gym, laundry services, and pet options, guests balance work and downtime smoothly.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG
This easy drive to Southwoods Park enables Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG to serve as a calm starting point before a quick trip to the event.
Holiday Inn Express offers complimentary breakfast areas visible from the lobby, providing clarity and dependable morning routines. Each guest room highlights plush mattresses, blackout drapes, and modern HVAC systems, supporting deep rest without distraction. Pools furnished with loungers, towel racks, and family-friendly seating create balanced recreation and relaxation during each stay.
Business centers, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi align with fitness facilities and parking, delivering predictable routines each stay.
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West
Upon arrival at Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West, Southwoods Park is an easy drive with no need for a long commute, simplifying your visit.
Fairfield Inn aligns reception sightlines with bench seating and power hubs to make short meetups, device top-ups, and quick planning straightforward. Suites feature comfortable seating, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges, giving guests relaxation space and entertainment without leaving the room. Indoor pools include lounge chairs, towel service, and bright décor, giving guests consistent leisure spaces where they can relax and refresh.
Free Wi-Fi, fitness center access, breakfast options, and market snacks provide services that help travelers manage flexible daily routines.
Staybridge Suites West Des Moines by IHG
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, Staybridge Suites West Des Moines by IHG is an easy drive from Southwoods Park, making for a low-stress trip.
When The Social is scheduled, Staybridge Suites signs the Great Room with hours and stations for complimentary appetizers, beer, and wine. Suites often add a separate bedroom door and a second TV, improving privacy and keeping wind-down flexible when schedules differ. Meeting rooms accept movable seating, AV hookups, and sign-in tables, keeping briefings and small gatherings straightforward to stage.
Accessible parking, automatic doors, and elevators pair with Wi-Fi and clear signage, keeping first walks direct for varied mobility needs.
Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive
Southwoods Park is a simple cross-town drive from Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive, a setup that ensures the commute itself is a pleasant one.
Hampton Inn lobby coffee and tea stations demonstrate attentiveness, giving guests dependable refreshment during all hours of the day. Every guest room features blackout drapes, premium mattresses, and thermostats, producing personalized environments for better rest. Outdoor pools with shaded tables, loungers, and towel racks create welcoming spaces, encouraging leisure and social energy together.
Pet-friendly options, complimentary breakfast, Pavilion Pantry counters, fitness rooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity ensure comfort and ease.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Southwoods Park Local Area Guide
Southwoods Park is a multi-sport complex that serves as a hub for amateur athletics, hosting numerous youth and adult tournaments. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and team coordinators looking to navigate the facilities and surrounding areas efficiently. You'll find practical information on getting to the park, on-site logistics, dining options, and local amenities to help manage your team's schedule and ensure a smooth experience. Plan your visit with insights into parking, team gathering spots, and nearby conveniences that make hosting or attending an event here stress-free.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Southwoods Park (Des Moines, IA)
Southwoods Park is situated in the southwestern part of Des Moines, Iowa, offering convenient access from major roadways. The park's primary entrance is located off 35th Street, which connects directly to Army Post Road, a key artery for eastbound and westbound travel throughout the city. Interstate 35 and Interstate 80 are easily accessible, providing direct routes to and from surrounding areas and the Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Driving into the park typically involves navigating local streets from these highways, with potential for some congestion during peak tournament hours or major event weekends. Public transportation options are limited directly to the park, making personal vehicles or rideshare services the most common methods of arrival. For those flying in, the Des Moines International Airport is approximately a 10-15 minute drive away, depending on traffic. Smart arrival tactics often involve leaving a bit earlier than you think you might need, especially on Saturday mornings, to account for the influx of teams and spectators converging on the park. Understanding the flow of traffic on 35th Street and Army Post Road will be key to a timely entrance.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Southwoods Park
The area around Southwoods Park primarily consists of sports facilities and some light industrial or commercial zones, with residential neighborhoods further out. Hotel clusters are not directly adjacent to the park itself but are found within a 5-10 minute drive, particularly along the main commercial corridors near the airport and along Fleur Drive. These hotels cater to travelers and tournament participants, offering a range of options from budget-friendly to mid-tier accommodations. For traveling teams, booking accommodations in this nearby zone makes accessing the park for early morning games straightforward, while also providing convenient options for team meals and evening downtime. Parking demand spikes dramatically during large tournaments; booking hotels early is a practical tactic to secure rooms and potentially better rates, especially if your event coincides with other city-wide activities. Utilizing map filters to identify hotels within a 5-mile radius is highly recommended for proximity.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport is a 10-15 minute drive away, offering convenient air travel access.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled game time to navigate parking and team check-in.
- Explore local eateries along Fleur Drive for post-game meals and team regrouping opportunities.
- In case of inclement weather, consider indoor family entertainment centers or movie theaters nearby.
- The park's open fields serve as a natural regroup zone between games for teams and families.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival, your first priority is locating your team's assigned field or check-in area. Parking can become challenging, especially on busy tournament days, so factor in time for this. Team managers or coaches should typically arrive early to confirm registration and gather necessary information. Once settled, direct your players to their designated warm-up spots, which are often on adjacent grass areas or sidewalks. Familiarize yourself with the nearest restroom facilities and water fountains as you find your base. Remember to have any required player credentials or waivers ready for quick verification to keep the flow moving smoothly.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games or during breaks in the schedule, finding a comfortable spot to regroup is essential for maintaining energy and team morale. Southwoods Park offers ample open green space that can serve this purpose; many teams bring chairs and canopies for shade. This downtime is perfect for reviewing game strategy, hydrating, and having a quick team meal or snacks. Locate shaded areas or picnic tables if available, though many families opt to set up their own comfortable zones. Keep an eye on the clock and ensure everyone knows the designated meeting point and time for the next match or activity.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your team's final game concludes, begin the process of packing up gear and ensuring all personal belongings are collected. Team coordinators should conduct a final sweep of the immediate area to leave it clean. Be mindful that a large number of departures can coincide, so an organized exit strategy from the parking lot is advisable. If planning for post-game team dinners or celebrations, have your next destination mapped out. Allow for extra time to exit the park and navigate local traffic, especially if departing during typical rush hour periods.
Things to Do Near Southwoods Park
Walkable
Southwoods Park Playground
This playground offers a welcome break for younger siblings or players needing a change of pace between games. Located within the park complex, it provides a safe and accessible space for children to burn off energy. The playground typically features standard equipment like swings, slides, and climbing structures, surrounded by open grassy areas suitable for simple games or picnics. It’s a convenient spot for families to relax while keeping an eye on the sporting activities, making it an integral part of the park's overall appeal for attendees of all ages.
On siteSouthwoods Park Open Fields
Beyond the scheduled sports fields, Southwoods Park boasts numerous open green spaces that serve as informal gathering and recreation areas. These expansive fields are ideal for families to set up picnic blankets, throw a frisbee, or simply enjoy the outdoors between scheduled events. They offer a relaxed atmosphere where younger children can play freely or team members can conduct informal warm-ups. During tournaments, these areas often become de facto team lounges, with groups setting up chairs and canopies for shade and comfort throughout the day.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Blank Park Zoo
Located a short drive from Southwoods Park, the Blank Park Zoo offers a fantastic diversion for families and teams looking for non-sporting entertainment. It's a compact, engaging zoo featuring a variety of animals from around the world, including a popular big cat exhibit and a children's zoo area. The zoo provides shaded walking paths and indoor exhibits, making it a pleasant option regardless of the weather. It’s an excellent choice for a post-tournament outing or an activity for those with downtime during a multi-day event.
1.7 miJohn & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
A vibrant outdoor art installation, the John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a testament to Des Moines' thriving arts scene. Featuring over 30 large-scale contemporary sculptures set within a beautifully landscaped urban park, it provides a unique and accessible cultural experience. Visitors can stroll through the park at their leisure, admiring diverse artistic creations. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk, photography, or simply to appreciate public art in an open-air setting, offering a sophisticated contrast to the sporting environment.
5.1 miBeyond the Event: Beyond these attractions, the area surrounding Southwoods Park offers more opportunities for recreation and entertainment. Consider exploring local parks for light trails or visiting nearby shopping centers for additional amenities. The proximity to the Des Moines International Airport also means there are various dining and casual entertainment options available within a short drive for those looking to extend their stay or find activities outside of sports.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Southwoods Park
Inside & Adjacent
Concession Stands
Throughout Southwoods Park, various concession stands operate during tournaments and events, offering standard game-day fare. Visitors can typically find options like hot dogs, nachos, pizza, popcorn, and a selection of soft drinks and water. These stands are conveniently located near the main sporting fields, making them an easy choice for quick snacks or meals without needing to leave the park premises. They are essential for keeping players and spectators fueled throughout long days of competition.
On siteParkside Pavilion (Event Catering)
For pre-arranged team gatherings or events hosted at Southwoods Park, catering services may be available, often managed through a parkside pavilion or designated event area. This can range from simple boxed lunches for teams to more elaborate buffet-style meals, depending on the event organizer's arrangements. Inquiring with the park administration or your tournament director is the best way to ascertain available catering options and set up these services for your group’s convenience.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Anchor Bar & Grill
Located a short drive from Southwoods Park, the Anchor Bar & Grill is a popular local spot offering a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu. It's known for its pub-style food, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, alongside a selection of beers. This makes it a suitable option for teams looking for a casual place to gather after games for a meal and to decompress. The comfortable setting can accommodate groups, providing a pleasant environment to discuss the day's events.
1.9 miCarlos O'Kelly's Mexican Cafe
Carlos O'Kelly's provides a vibrant setting with a menu focused on Mexican-inspired cuisine, featuring a variety of tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and craft cocktails. It's a family-friendly establishment that can accommodate larger groups, making it a good choice for team dinners or celebrations. The lively ambiance and diverse food offerings can appeal to a wide range of tastes, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for players and their families after a day of competition.
2.1 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Americana
Americana offers a refined dining experience with a menu that highlights American cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant boasts a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere, making it ideal for coaches or team organizers looking for a slightly more upscale meal. It's a place where one can enjoy well-crafted dishes and a good selection of beverages, providing a pleasant way to celebrate a successful tournament or to discuss team strategies in a relaxed setting.
4.8 miCentro
Situated in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Centro is known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative Italian-American menu. With a focus on fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes, it offers a lively dining experience suitable for groups celebrating achievements or enjoying a night out. The restaurant is well-regarded for its pasta dishes, pizzas, and a robust wine list, providing an elevated option for those seeking a memorable meal away from the immediate park area.
5.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Tournament weekends on Southwoods Park can cause significant traffic delays on 35th Street and Army Post Road; plan for extra travel time.
- Hydration is key during Iowa’s warm summers; ensure easy access to water or bring plenty for your team.
- Picnics are popular for teams between games; check park rules on bringing outside food and coolers.
- Local youth sports leagues often use the fields, so always confirm your specific field assignments in advance.
- Parking can be a challenge during major tournaments; consider rideshares or carpooling when possible.
Weather & Seasons at Southwoods Park
- Winter: Winter in Des Moines is cold, with average temperatures well below freezing. Snowfall is common, often blanketing the park's fields and making outdoor sports impossible. Visitors should pack heavy, insulated clothing, including hats, gloves, and waterproof boots, for any necessary travel to or from the area. Indoor activities are the primary focus during these months.
- Spring & early summer: Spring weather can be variable, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm. Rain is frequent, and fields may become soft or waterlogged, potentially leading to game delays or cancellations. Light jackets and comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended. As summer approaches, expect increasing warmth and humidity.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Des Moines is typically hot and humid, with average highs in the upper 80s Fahrenheit. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can quickly disrupt outdoor events. Visitors should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, hats, and ensure they stay hydrated. Games may be scheduled for cooler morning or evening hours.
- Fall season: Fall brings cooler, more pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal season for outdoor sports. Days are generally sunny and crisp, with highs often in the 60s and 70s. Layered clothing is advisable, as mornings can be cool and afternoons warmer. This season generally sees fewer weather-related disruptions for games.
- Rain & snow: Rain can impact outdoor play significantly at Southwoods Park, potentially leading to temporary shutdowns of fields. Snowfall during winter months renders the fields unusable for sports. Visitors should always check event status and park advisories during inclement weather, and be prepared with appropriate gear like umbrellas and waterproof outerwear for any conditions.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Amateur sports complex)
- Neighborhood: Southwest Des Moines
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Ample lots, can fill during peak events
- Walkable district: Limited to park amenities
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee and Fareway nearby
- Pharmacy: Walgreens and CVS within a short drive
- Urgent care: Broadlawns Medical Center ER nearby
- Downtime: Local parks, cafes, or family entertainment centers
- Pro tip: Confirm field assignments and parking maps before arriving for tournaments.

