Sonesta Essential Des Moines

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

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Three beds with patterned bedspreads line the wall, complemented by a stylish armchair.
Enjoy cooking in this well-equipped kitchen with a stainless steel microwave, dot-patterned backsplash, and grey cabinetry.
Convenient laundry facilities with a washing machine and dryer, along with essentials and a view.
Enjoy cooking and dining in this open kitchen with a curved island and ample counter space.
Welcome to our hotel, featuring a beautifully landscaped entrance with a covered area and potted plants.

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Laundry
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, IA, 50322
  • Merle Hay Mall
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Drake University
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Casey's Center
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)
    ‪22 min drive‬

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Room options

Room, 2 Queen Beds

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Suite, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 1 Queen Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Room, 1 Queen Bed

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

Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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
  • Living History Farms - 10 min drive - 7.5 miles
  • Iowa Events Center - 12 min drive - 7.6 miles
  • Casey's Center - 13 min drive - 7.8 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-Fil-A - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Buffalo Wild Wings - ‬13 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, a vending machine, and an ATM.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch TVs with satellite channels. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and free local calls. Housekeeping is available on request.

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

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)
  • Soundproofed rooms

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

  • 32-inch TV with premium satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

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

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 Aug 1, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Des Moines on Sep 1, 2025 start from $70.0, 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 Iowa Gold Star Military Museum 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?

Amenities at this hotel that appeal to couples include free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

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.

Are there connecting rooms at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

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).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

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

Sonesta Essential Des Moines Reviews

Reviews

7.2

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 325 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 279 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 177 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 101 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 120 out of 1002 reviews

7.4/10

Cleanliness

7.6/10

Staff & service

6.8/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

4/10 Poor

Mark

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Lame breakfast. Dirty property. Sticky floor in room. Even stickier floor at breakfast with syrup all over floor and a table
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was ok
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

4/10 Poor

Kaleb

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
First room i was given hadnt been cleaned inbetween stays of the costumer before me and after i brought it up they tried to blame me for the mess, was upgraded to a bigger room after the manager stepped in
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alicia

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

4/10 Poor

Suleiman

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Lionel

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Thank you
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Angela

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

Nice for a budget

Our room was in great condition and VERY clean. Only downside of the room was that the light above the jacuzzi didn't work. The rest of the hotel was nice. Breakfast was okay, could've had a couple more options but sufficed. Hotel was clean overall! Unfortunately (and this isn't directly the hotel's fault) the other guests were not great. Several rooms around and above us were incredibly loud all day/night and had even louder barking dogs. Not sure why this hotel specifically attracted such a crowd that weekend but hopefully it was a 1 time experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kenny

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was the best time in ever
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Great for the money. Quiet. Rooms are very clean. Beds comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brady

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy to access and staff are friendly
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gian

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

MA

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Linda

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Their was no bar soap in either room
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mardochée Jean

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Hello the hotel 🏨 is greatly but the bathroom lobby is dirty someone bluout but is dirty
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tangelo

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Tanna

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice and comfy very friendly and clean.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sondra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great for a one night stay. The price was cheap and better than I expected! Staff was very helpful and pleasant..building is older but the rooms have been updated!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sherry

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Like
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Richard

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kenny

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

2/10 Terrible

Erin

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
No one was at the front desk to check in for over 30 minutes!! Even tried calling!! Hallways were dirty and dark! Needed to wash a uniform and the guest laundry room had piles of laundry everywhere…probably at least 2 weeks if someone’s clothes…everywhere!!! Would NOT recommend! Didn’t even attempt the breakfast as the lobby had such a strong air freshener odor to cover up the gross smells!! Room was clean though.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

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

8/10 Good

dani

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
People above us were load they took care of it right away. Overall the stay was fine remodeled rooms. Pillows were Terrible
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

2/10 Terrible

Carter

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

Don't stay here.

No wifi. And desk clerk lied about it. No soap in room. Bed not comfortable. Noisy - people loud in hall late at night. Good location- but will drive an extra mile next time to go somewhere better. First time at Sonesta and now I know better.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025