Top 12 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Des Moines, Iowa - Updated 2024

Clara
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read

Revamped and upgraded with contemporary style, Des Moines has left behind its reputation as a dull city and replaced it with a cool, hip, and trendy city that has caught the attention of many. As Iowa’s capital and a major city in the U.S., this versatile destination has been enjoyed by many. Experience the exuberant art scene that has wowed and awed many. See the Friday night Broadway shows, the live music venues, the delicious places to eat, and the many museum-hopping opportunities. With so much fun and excitement in store, we understand why this city is now one of the trendiest and hippest cities in the U.S. If you’re planning a visit and are looking for a place to stay, check out top Airbnb vacation rentals in Des Moines, Iowa, to make your artsy stay even more enjoyable.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 29, 2024.

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1. Centrally located boho townhouse (from USD 90)

Looking for the perfect home for rent in Des Moines, Iowa? Look no further than this boho townhouse just minutes from downtown! Step inside, and you’ll be greeted with a bi-level layout that will instantly put you at ease. Head down the stairs to the cozy living room and kitchen or venture upstairs to discover two inviting bedrooms, a charming reading nook, and a full bath.

Whether you’re planning a quick stay or a long-term retreat, the well-equipped kitchen will have you covered. You can also enjoy free parking, a selection of books, and the unbeatable convenience of being just a quick trip from Des Moines’ major attractions. Near the airport, bike trails, and restaurants and bars, this townhouse is the perfect home base for your adventure in Iowa.

Stayed at this property?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
2.88 km (1.8 mi) from Pappajohn Sculpture Park
73 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire townhouse 3 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
kelsey is a wonderful host
kelsey was a great host and gave some recommendations for places to check out
kelsey was a great host and gave solid suggestions of places to check out
Location:
a perfect location to get downtown and around the city
the location is great just a quick drive to anywhere we wanted to go
great place to stay and great location in town
the place is cute comfortable and convenient
the location is convenient quiet and easily accessible to any area of downtown des moines
Cleanliness:
kelsey's place was clean and comfortable
cozy comfortable and clean
Amenities & Room:
the bed was comfy and i loved the quiet work-from-home space and seemingly endless supply of coffee
Read more reviews

2. Charming home near downtown

This Airbnb rental near Des Moines’ downtown area is the ultimate home base for your adventures. Thanks to a fully equipped kitchen, an ethernet connection, and a 55-inch (139.70-centimeter) HDTV here, you’ll have all the comforts of home at your fingertips.

This accommodation also caters to families, providing children’s books, toys, tableware, and board games to ensure everyone has a blast. You can also stay productive with a dedicated workspace in one of the rooms. Then, relax in the private outdoor space or escape to the tranquility of the backyard.

Stayed at this property?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
2.59 km (1.7 mi) from Pappajohn Sculpture Park
108 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
great hosts and very responsive
host was very communicative and check-in was easy
danielle is a great host house was perfect
you won’t find nicer hosts
danielle was a great host and provided a wonderful experience for our time in des moines
Location:
great place close to activities
great location for a des moines/west des moines event weekend
beautiful house and convenient location
this location was easy access to on & off freeway
good location for visiting family in des moines
Cleanliness:
clean and very cozy
very clean cozy and comfortable
beautiful home that was exceptionally clean and welcoming
stylish and clean with the charm of small home built about a hundred years ago
just what we needed clean and comfortable
Amenities & Room:
kids enjoyed the board games and the roku tv
great wifi so i was able to work remote seamlessly
the space is very comfortable and danielle is an excellent host
very comfortable two bedroom home
Read more reviews

3. Rustic and cosy private room (62 USD)

Located in an upscale neighborhood on a beautiful tree-lined street in southern Des Moines, feel free to enjoy the whole bottom floor of a five-level home. Some great features include two extra long adult twin beds, a cosy lounge area with two reclining love seats, a kitchenette, as well as direct access to a home gym. However, do note that guests may have to share a bathroom with other guests depending on the occupancy of the home. Apart from that, make yourself feel comfortable with the other added amenities in this splendid home. For example, the outdoor deck is fully equipped for a night of al fresco dining and fun. Soak in the hot tub after a long day, cook a tasty barbecue, or simply enjoy the fresh air and refreshing Iowa breeze!

Peaceful Haven-Media Room/Bedroom

Address: Des Moines, IA, United States (see map)

Price: from 62 USD

Number of Guests: 2

Stayed at this property?

4. Classic countryside ranch (72 USD)

Centrally located just 10 minutes away from downtown, this classic countryside ranch is perfect for couples, solo adventurers, and business travelers. Most suitable for guests who prefer peace and quiet, this lovely home is a calming oasis as it is extremely tranquil and serene. The simple yet comfortable private room has a queen bed just right for two, as well as a dresser and closet with enough storage space. Feel free to hang out on the balcony if you are in need of some fresh air, or make full use of the fully equipped kitchen to whip up some delicious meals. The host resides in the home too, so ask for help if you have any questions!

Classic Mid Century Ranch

Address: Des Moines, IA, United States (see map)

Price: from 72 USD

Number of Guests: 2

Stayed at this property?

5. Peaceful haven for two

Just five minutes from Des Moines International Airport and 10 minutes from downtown, this lovely private bedroom comfortably fits two. Extremely tranquil, stay in style and comfort with basic modern amenities including a king-sized bed, a large closet with ample storage space, a 26 inch cable TV/DVD, as well as a relaxing spa feel. The bathroom is a shared space depending on the occupancy of the house, but is filled with all the basic toiletries and essentials for you to have a nice shower. Feel free to laze around the spacious living room if you feel like it; the many plush couches and armchairs go well with a nice book on a lazy afternoon.

Stayed at this property?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
4.48 km (2.8 mi) from Pappajohn Sculpture Park
246 reviews  
Private room in bed and breakfast 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts are quite lovely
the hosts were welcoming and kind
great place host made us feel like home
susan and todd were wonderful hosts
susan and todd were excellent hosts
Location:
the location is very good
the location was perfect with easy access to many areas of des moines
we highly recommend this location for a peaceful and yet convenient get away
it's really close to a lot of great restaurants and activities
great location quiet at night beautiful house and grounds
Cleanliness:
clean household and very hospitable
extremely clean and pretty room and bathroom
spotless comfortable spacious and wonderful
everything was really clean and the stay over all was amazing
our room was very clean and the bed very comfortable
Amenities & Room:
i was fine with early rising and got to awaken to coffee and a beautiful breakfast
i loved the bed in the "harmony room
the guest space is comfortable and susan shares her living space with her guests generously
also the breakfast was so yummy
we had a comfortable bed and an excellent breakfast
Read more reviews

6. Picturesque and cozy ranch (94 USD)

Fall in love with this gorgeous space in the heart of a big city. This cozy ranch is nestled off 63rd Street, providing quick access to many shops and restaurants. Nicely furnished with hardwood floors, an updated kitchen, and serene bathroom, as well as an entertainment area with great surround sound, visitors will absolutely relish the simple pleasures this apartment holds. This wonderful single bedroom home has an amazing queen-sized bed for you to relax in. Despite catering to three people, the host has not mentioned anything about where the third guest sleeps, so please ask the host if you are interested in this! This space is quiet and tranquil, and is located in a peaceful neighborhood with no disruption, hence, guests are expected to live this way, too!

Cozy Ranch

Address: Windsor Heights, IA, United States (see map)

Price: from 94 USD

Number of Guests: 3

Stayed at this property?

7. Beautiful condo in the heart of downtown (104 USD)

Well-appointed with all the comforts fit for a business trip or a weekend getaway, experience life in Des Moines with a space so stylish it will bring a smile to your face! Offering easy access to downtown businesses, shopping, great art, pubs, food, and cultural destinations, this condo for rent in Des Moines, Iowa, is truly in the best location. Feel free to use the 24-hour gym and sauna, which are both condo amenities. Nicely furnished and extremely cosy, enjoy the firm queen-sized bed, which comfortably fits two. There is even a walk-in closet for you to hang all your glamorous outfits, as well as a vanity dresser for you to check yourself out. Laze around the plush and soft couch while keeping up with some of your favourite shows — it is really comfortable! The kitchen is fully equipped and always ready for use, but if you are craving for something special (beverages and food), the generous host will be more than happy to get it ready for you before your stay!

Beautiful Condo in Heart of Downtown Des Moines!

Address: Des Moines, IA, United States (see map)

Price: from 104 USD

Number of Guests: 2

Stayed at this property?

8. Unique Spanish-style home (from USD 138)

Centrally located, this Spanish-style home is unique and oozing with personality for anyone willing to give it a chance! Featuring an extensive collection of art from local and regional artists, this lovely space is nicely decorated with vibrant colours and cheerful furniture. Enjoy two charming bedrooms for the ultimate zen experience. The first is a bedroom with a queen-sized bed, closet, and dresser. The second is a bedroom with a twin bed and a study space. The living room is also comfy with a sofa bed fit to sleep one. Beds aside, wander down to the basement for an interactive game of pool, or an intense workout in the indoor gym. Yearning for some fresh air? The beautiful private deck is a great spot for some al fresco dining, as it overlooks the lush and wonderful backyard!

Stayed at this property?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
6.53 km (4.1 mi) from Pappajohn Sculpture Park
338 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire bungalow 3 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
she has truly earned the designation of super host
heather was a great host
heather is a wonderful host who is responsive and kind
heather was very prompt and helpful with responses to questions and needs
heather is such a kind and friendly host
Location:
location is great close to downtown
location was great for food delivery and runs to walmart and grocery store
it’s close to the grocery store and to many of des moines’ other attractions
heather’s place is very cute and cozy
the location was ideal as everything we wanted to see and do was within 10 minutes
Cleanliness:
clean inspiring and cozy
clean and lots of fun decorations
clean neat and so many great touches
it was sparkling clean and very stylish
wonderful peaceful clean and stylish
Amenities & Room:
bed is comfy and air conditioner worked great
very comfortable with good ac - it 100 degrees when we stayed there
comfortable beds and lots of extra special amenities we haven't seen at other airbnbs
everything was comfortable and we loved morning coffee in the shaded backyard
heather's spanish style bungalow is truly a home full of original artwork great style and cozy details
Read more reviews

9. Luxurious home away from home

Located in the up-and-coming downtown neighborhood of East Village, this amazing apartment for rent in Des Moines, Iowa, gives you easy access to a wide variety of shopping, dining, nightlife, and more!

Enter the apartment and be greeted by the neutral colour scheme that instantly provides comfort. The plush sofa bed is a calming spot for one. Head into the bedroom that has a queen-sized bed and laze around the comfortable bed built for two. Bed aside, also make use of the dresser and closet, which gives you ample storage space for those pretty outfits! Put a chicken in the oven, for the kitchen is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Other modern amenities include an outdoor lounge, a complimentary coffee bar, a fitness and yoga studio, and on-site parking.

Stayed at this property?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
2.07 km (1.3 mi) from Pappajohn Sculpture Park
92 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 3 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
first of all josiah is a great host
josiah is a great host and was very communicative
amazing place from an amazing host
josiah has been extraordinarily helpful in finding ways to accommodate our stays in des moines
josiah was a great host always in contact if i needed the space was great
Location:
the location was great
close to downtown convenient location amazing view
nice place walking distance to everything in the east village
close to fun would recommend
amazing place to stay conveniently close to downtown and adorably decorated
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
flat was clean and beautiful
very clean very safe
convenient clean modern and quiet
it was clean and exactly as pictured
Amenities & Room:
the bed was comfortable and having a washer/dryer was very convenient
the apartment looked exactly like the photos and was cleaner than the average hotel room
it’s so nice to stay somewhere with a dishwasher washer & dryer a small table to work etc
excellent apartment can probably throw a football into downtown from where it is
looks like a room taken straight from the ikea store
Read more reviews

10. Downtown executive suite with amazing views

Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, this elegant penthouse condo offers you the best of this splendid city. Spacious with lots of windows letting in natural sunlight, enjoy the excellent skyline views of downtown from the comfort of your own home. Wander around this home and relax on the plush sofa bed, which sits in the cosy interior of the living room. A productive study desk has also been set up, for all you workaholics to have a conducive spot for work.

Try out the fully equipped kitchen, for this would not disappoint even the pickiest of chefs. Enter the bedroom and relax on a wonderful queen-sized bed. Also, enjoy a walk-in closet and private bathroom with the most refreshing shower. For your information, guests are allowed to request an air mattress if they have a fourth guest staying over! The penthouse also grants guests access to the gym, sauna, and secured parking garage.

Stayed at this property?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1.02 km (0.7 mi) from Pappajohn Sculpture Park
184 reviews  
Entire condominium 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts were responsive and helpful
the host communicates very promptly and is very helpful
fab hosts who make it easy to mavigate the check-in and check-out
the host when over and beyond to make our stay perfect check-in was easy
petar is an amazing host
Location:
great location and nice apartment
great location in a cool neighborhood
excellent location in downtown des moines
great location in the heart of des moines
absolutely stunning and close to night life
Cleanliness:
this is a remarkably clean and modern apartment
place was clean and well appointed
spotlessly clean; just like a year ago
it is clean and easy to access
loved the clean contemporary styling of the condo
Amenities & Room:
the bed was comfortable and the air conditioning effective
she was very comfortable in the bedroom and i actually ended up sleeping on the couch
the couch was surprisingly just as comfortable as a bed
great views of downtown des moines excellent amenities very clean and well furnished living area and kitchen
amazing loft beautiful view very comfy bed
Read more reviews

11. mid-century modern home (from 156 USD)

This 1952 mid-century modern home is conveniently located near downtown Des Moines, in a peaceful oasis and beautiful neighbourhood. The entrance of this home opens up to a balcony overlooking a living room with soaring ceilings and two-story windows. The highlight of this modern home is the chill out room, complete with a vintage pinball machine and a Sonos music system. This wonderful home comprises three bedrooms: the first with a king-sized bed, and the two others an identical double bed each. Additionally, the host offers bike rentals as there are over 600 miles of biking and running trails nearby.

Mid-Century Modern Gem

Address: Des Moines, IA, United States (see map)

Price: from 156 USD

Number of Guests: 4

Stayed at this property?

12. Large home fit for 10 (234 USD)

Located near downtown Des Moines within walking distance to grocery stores and the Ingersoll business district, this comfy three bedroom home is great for large groups of friends or families. Fully equipped with three bedrooms, take your pick of the comfiest. The large family room has two sleeper sofas that accommodate two each and the three other bedrooms have identical full-size beds for the ultimate slumber. The kitchen is tastefully outfitted, and you are free to prepare any meal you’d like.

There is also an outdoor deck for a night of al fresco dining, and the gas grill can be used to prepare a barbecue. As it is situated in a quiet neighbourhood, do note that guests are required to keep their voices down after 10 pm.

Comfy home sleeps 10 in Des Moines

Address: Des Moines, IA, United States (see map)

Price: from 234 USD

Number of Guests: 10

Stayed at this property?

The great Des Moines awaits your visit

With so many things to do and see, Des Moines is clearly suitable for everyone and anyone to come and enjoy. These perfect Airbnb vacation rentals will be the best home base no matter what you want to do!

Frequently asked questions about the top Airbnb vacation rentals in Des Moines, Iowa


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Clara likes to spend her time daydreaming about countries she has never visited before, and while she is at it, exploring new cafes and cool spots in Singapore. She is passionate about reading and...Read more

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