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

Suite, Multiple Beds | Desk, soundproofing, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds
Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub | Desk, soundproofing, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds
Exterior
Lobby
Restaurant

Reviews

7.4 out of 10
Good

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
  • Wells Fargo Arena
    ‪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

  • 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
  • Wells Fargo Arena - 13 min drive - 7.8 miles
  • Iowa Events 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 banquet hall, and a vending machine.
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 30 per pet, per night, plus a deposit of USD 30 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 deposit: USD 30 per night
  • Pet fee: USD 30 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 Jun 15, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Des Moines on Jun 29, 2025 start from $62.0, 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 Wells Fargo Arena and Principal Park. You'll also find Merle Hay Mall and Val Air Ballroom within a short drive.

Is parking available on site 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.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

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

Are there hot tubs at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

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 30 per pet, per night. The property also provides food and water bowls and litter boxes. A deposit of USD 30 per night is collected.

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).

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. 322 out of 1007 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 295 out of 1007 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 175 out of 1007 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 100 out of 1007 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 115 out of 1007 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

2/10 Terrible

Taylor

Business traveler
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Refrigerator in my room, the interior and gasket were covered in mold. Red substance running down the front of the couch. Boogers wiped on the wall. Garbage under the bed. Requested a room move. 2nd rrom was better but had a large wet spot on bed and the sheets had lots of hair. Had to request new linens.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Milli

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

dawn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great clean!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Miriam

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
The front desk staff person was not particularly friendly and hard to understand since he muttered his words. It seemed like he didn't like his job. Other than that, the hotel received a nice upgrade, was clean and the breakfast was good the next morning.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Inside hotel room was nice and clean. Good selection on the breakfast items. Front door to the lobby needed to be repaired. Front of hotel area was nice looking, but i parked on the back side and the dumpster area looked bad. Staff was nice.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tara

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

john

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

8/10 Good

Christy

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Josephine

Traveled with family
Liked: Amenities
The hotel was clean and reasonable price.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Awesome staff and nice clean hotel. They have an awesome breakfast
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Miranda

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Other than the area. And how you enter the facilities. The place in general is great. Inside is great. Clean rooms. Towels. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion. Insude you csnt hear outside either.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Belinda

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

2/10 Terrible

Lisa

Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was very rude.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Bill

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Can’t take food to room
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Yuliza

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
A good location, lines in the parking lot need a touch up.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Allyson

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Probably should not advertise sound proof rooms…. It’s not terrible but certainly not sound proof. Rooms are newly remodeled, which is nice. Small but nice to have a microwave and fridge. It’s nice for the price. You can tell they put a lot of money into the remodel. Beds are comfortable! Just not enough hot water and shower head didn’t have enough pressure.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
All
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kamran

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room were clean and front office person were super helpful. Thanks for your hospitality.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Christian

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property kept us warm in -13 degrees. However the heater was loud and made noises.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Monica

Liked: Room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

4/10 Poor

Juan

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very clean plenty of room I had a 3 bed suit with balcony yes I recommend
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Elizabeth

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

10/10 Excellent

Tim

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025