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Sonesta Essential Des Moines

2.0 star property
Hotel in Des Moines with free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk

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Photo gallery for Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Suite, Multiple Beds | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi
Exterior
Restaurant
Property amenity
Restaurant

Reviews

7.4 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Laundry
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, IA, 50322
  • Place, Merle Hay Mall
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Drake University
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Casey's Center
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Airport, Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)
    ‪20 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed

Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Room, 1 Queen Bed

7.4 out of 10
Good
(19 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed

Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Room, 1 Queen Bed

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds

Room, 2 Queen Beds | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Room, 2 Queen Beds

7.0 out of 10
Good
(16 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Suite, 1 King Bed

Suite, 1 King Bed | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Suite, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, Multiple Beds

Suite, Multiple Beds | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

Suite, Multiple Beds

  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

Des Moines

Located in Lovington within a mile (2 km) of Merle Hay Mall, Sonesta Essential Des Moines is within a few miles (5 km) of Pioneer Hi-Bred Headquarters. This 150-room hotel has conveniences like free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Merle Hay Mall - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Drake University - 8 min drive - 4.2 miles
  • Val Air Ballroom - 9 min drive - 5.2 miles
  • Iowa Events Center - 11 min drive - 9.1 miles
  • Casey's Center - 12 min drive - 9.3 miles

Getting around

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪7 Brew Coffee - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬17 min walk

About this property

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Hotel in Des Moines with free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk
Guests of Sonesta Essential Des Moines enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, coffee in a common area, and a meeting room. Free parking is available if you drive. The 24-hour front desk has staff always at the ready. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls and litter boxes. Additional amenities include laundry facilities, an ATM, and a vending machine.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and 43-inch TVs with satellite channels and Netflix. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and free local calls. Housekeeping is available on request.

Similar properties

Lobby
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
7.6 out of 10, Good, 1,004 reviews
$53 nightly
The price is $59
Nov 19 - Nov 20
Total with taxes and fees
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM on weekdays and 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM on weekends
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Business services

  • Meeting room

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel

More

  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch TV with premium satellite channels
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 50 per pet, per night
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 2 total pets
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Food and water bowls and litter boxes are available
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
  • Administrative fee: USD 3.00 per accommodation, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 50 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Choice)
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.
  • This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Choice).

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Econo Lodge Inn Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road
Hotel Econo Lodge Inn & Suites - Des Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites - Des Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Suites Des Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Moines Merle Hays Road
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Des Moines
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Suites Des Moines/Merle Hays Road

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

Sonesta Essential Des Moines provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

As of Nov 12, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Des Moines on Nov 19, 2025 start from $60.43, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see within easy reach of Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

This hotel is situated in Lovington, close to Casey's Center, Merle Hay Mall, and Living History Farms. You'll also find Val Air Ballroom and Des Moines Community Playhouse within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking and free RV/bus/truck parking are also available for guests.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines include a casino at the property?

No, Sonesta Essential Des Moines doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is Sonesta Essential Des Moines a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like Netflix as well as free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Sonesta Essential Des Moines offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Will Sonesta Essential Des Moines allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at Sonesta Essential Des Moines for a fee of USD 50 per pet, per night. The property also provides food and water bowls and litter boxes.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have connecting rooms?

Yes, this hotel has connecting guestrooms you can book for your group event or vacation.

How far is the airport from Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

The closest major airport to Sonesta Essential Des Moines is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), which is 22.4 mi away (29 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Sonesta Essential Des Moines.

Sonesta Essential Des Moines Reviews

Reviews

7.4

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 360 out of 1006 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 261 out of 1006 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 175 out of 1006 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 95 out of 1006 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 115 out of 1006 reviews

7.4/10

Cleanliness

7.8/10

Staff & service

7.0/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Timothy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
I like this property bc they have rooms with three beds. No hot breakfast, though, and considering the price, it's not a great value.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very close to a wedding I attended. It was affordable. Updated. Pillows were nice. I slept well. Didn't stay for breakfast..
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leila

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, nice amenities and friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Anthony M

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
On line photos are deceptive and not an accurate representation of the property
The Venue
The wife
The sites
The theme
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Hayleigh

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Barbra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Brian

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Decent place to stay for 1 night
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Christine, New Haven

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Q
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Simeon, Hutchinson

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Hall ways are a little confusing. Pa4king lot seems a little sketch but no issues. The teash panda was cute.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Bed was starting to dip in the middle Food was good for breakfast
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

moonsik

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Good

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Decent place if you're on a tight budget

A bit pricey for the place but decent for a budget hotel. Generally the area seemed pricier than other places that I've traveled. Beds comfortable. Clean. F
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Theresa

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

tiffany

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness
Check-in was smooth and quick. The staff was helpful, and the lobby was clean. Initially, I thought the room was okay, but that changed when I opened the curtains and saw a large crack in the glass, and there were no screens on the window. We went downstairs to catch a breeze outside, but there were no benches anywhere. There were also no containers for smokers, which was not surprising since butts were everywhere. Breakfast started at 0630 on weekends, and by 0650-0700, it was all gone, and about 15 minutes later, it hadn't been replenished. The price was decent, and it was close to where I needed to be. May book again if I have to be somewhere on short notice.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Noe

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tammy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Theresa

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Ruby

Traveled with group
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place looked good on the listing, but when we showed up it was gross. The room was musty and everything felt damp. We killed a cockroach on our first night. Some sort of alarm went off our second night that woke everyone up. There were people walking, talking and banging around all night. Breakfast was fine and the lobby appeared clean but we were unable to sleep for a majority of our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Katy

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

keith

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Low key, friendly staff, central location near highway and main roads breakfast included helped budget.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Adilene

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We checked in and immediately checked out after seeing the condition of the room. The property was not well maintained—there was a strong odor upon entering the lobby, and the room itself was in unacceptable condition. We found pee stains on the floor, visible mold, nail clippings, and dirty nightstands. The bedding appeared unclean, and overall hygiene was very poor. Additionally, we observed concerning activity around the property, which made us feel unsafe. This was not at all what we expected and we would not recommend staying here.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

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