See all properties

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Property class: 2

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Sonesta Essential Des Moines

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a built-in desk, a vanity with a bathtub, and a large window with curtains.
A reception area with a white counter, a clock, and a digital display.
A multi-story hotel with a modern design, featuring a stone facade and multiple windows.
A hallway with vending machines and a clean, tiled floor.
A restaurant with multiple tables and chairs, a kitchen area, and a stone accent wall.

Reviews

7.4 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Business services

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 King Room

A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a desk, and a chair.

King Room

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Queen Room

Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds (surcharge), WiFi (free)

Queen Room

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed

A modern hotel room with a large bed, bedside lamps, a window with curtains, and a view of greenery outside.

Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a television, a microwave, and a window with curtains.

Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

A hotel room with a bed, two nightstands, a bright green sofa, and a wooden floor.

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed

A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a chair, a television, a microwave, and a window with curtains.

Room, 1 Queen Bed

7.6 out of 10
Good
(33 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand, a chair, and a window with curtains.

Room, 1 Queen Bed

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

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds

A hotel room with two beds, a green armchair, a nightstand with a lamp, and a wall-mounted artwork.

Room, 2 Queen Beds

7.2 out of 10
Good
(25 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Suite, 1 King Bed

A hotel room with a large bed, a bright green chair, and a view of a building outside.

Suite, 1 King Bed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Suite, Multiple Beds

A hotel room with three beds, a bright green chair, and a wooden floor.

Suite, Multiple Beds

  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

You may also like

Ad
Lobby

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

Fairground
  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
7.0 out of 10, Good, 1,004 reviews
$58 nightly
The price is $65
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Total with taxes and fees
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Des Moines Fairgrounds Area

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 - 5.4 miles
  • Jordan Creek Town Center - 11 min drive - 12.0 miles
  • Adventureland - 12 min drive - 13.8 miles
  • Casey's Center - 12 min drive - 10.1 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Flix Brewhouse - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

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 a banquet hall.
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
Lovington
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
7.6 out of 10, Good, 1,022 reviews
$68 nightly
The price is $76
Sep 6 - Sep 7
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
  • Heating
  • 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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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; cash is not accepted
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. Cash is not accepted. 
  • 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 15, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Des Moines on Aug 24, 2026 start from $71, including 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 Buccaneer Arena within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Free RV/bus/truck parking and wheelchair-accessible 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?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like Netflix as well as a free daily 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.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have connecting rooms available?

Yes, this hotel has connecting rooms 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 at Sonesta Essential Des Moines that offer a balcony.

Sonesta Essential Des Moines Reviews

Reviews

7.4

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 402 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 223 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 166 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 83 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 128 out of 1002 reviews

7.4/10

Cleanliness

7.6/10

Staff & service

6.8/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Tauni

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was clean and the staff was helpful, they also had a laundry room we could use for laundry
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Allen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice clean hotel and friendly staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Roy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, good breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kari

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were great- room was clean. Bed was comfy.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Marko

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice clean hotel
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very good price for the room. It has been recently remodeled so it looked nice. The staff was very helpful with my questions.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean room, better than average towels, breakfast with eggs and sausage was good.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Jasmine

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness
The breakfast was okay.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were clean and relaxing. The staff was polite and helpful. Breakfast was okay. I would go back.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Ashley

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Would never stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Christal

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hot tub in the room was awesome
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tara

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I am very impressed with this motel. The cost was low for how nice it was. It is basic, but super clean, quiet, and a nice breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Paul

Breakfast was ok, but not enough seating. Had to stand and eat.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Vanesa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Property nice and clean
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bradford

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean room and friendly service
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Yes it was very clean and comfortable.. the breakfast was so good and staff as well very courteous
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Maury

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great overnight stay
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bade

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, general ambience was very good.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Conner

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This hotel was not cleaned and falling apart. Our room was disgusting and the hotel was not safe. There were homeless people in the lobby and using the bathrooms inside the hotel. We ended up getting a refund and going to a different hotel.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Anne

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The property looked well worn. I used the stairs to the second floor. The carpet was almost black, it was so dirty. My room needed a good sweeping. The bed was comfortable and the temperature was good. If someone was out in the hall, I could hear everything. I won’t be staying here again
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sheila

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room is clean and neat. Check in was a breeze. Clean decor and good staff makes this a good deal. I'd stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Very clean, good amenities. Excellent price. Subtracted a star, because of LED lights in the room.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Reginald

Disliked: Amenities
Room was ok, no elevator, I was on the 2nd floor.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mona

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Leila

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

More to Explore