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From85US$ /night
Check-in
24Feb2026Select date
Check-out
25Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
-
Near Buccaneer Arena
Very good
7.0
7.0
/10
2.8
4.3
/5

Sonesta Essential Des Moines - A pet-friendly hotel with meeting facilities and free breakfast near Merle Hay Mall

Located in the Lovington shopping district, this 2-star Des Moines hotel features 150 air-conditioned rooms equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and cable TV. Sonesta Essential Des Moines provides complimentary amenities including WiFi, continental breakfast with waffles, and parking for trucks, RVs, and buses. The property maintains a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and a meeting room that accommodates up to 150 people. Guest rooms include essential amenities such as shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and coffee makers, while select units feature sofa sleepers and hot tubs. Sonesta's location puts guests within 1 mile of Merle Hay Mall, 2 miles of Terra Lake, and a 15-minute drive from Drake University and Wells Fargo Arena.

Pros

Safety features include carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and a security system

Recreational activities available nearby, including golfing, tennis, and boating

Television and vending machines in common areas

Express check-in/check-out services available

Cons

12.5 miles from Des Moines International Airport

Limited on-site dining options

“This place feels like a budget stopover needing more than just a surface clean; reports describe deep-seated issues that cleaning alone can't fix. I get the sense of a place struggling to overcome a history, where quick fixes mask more serious problems. It might suit travelers who need only the bare minimum, but anyone expecting comfort should probably look elsewhere.”
Hotel logo
Isabella MooreSenior Editorial Director at Petfriendlyhotels
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Select your room type

Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special deals
Queen Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Queen Room Two Queen Beds Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Queen Suite Three Queen Beds Non Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and room availability calendar

Check availability and rates for your selected dates!

Facilities

Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet
Facilities: Very good
7.4/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Security
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Shops/Commercial services

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • BBQ facilities

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Patio

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel Location

4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
Map view
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
Nearby
American Reading Academy
1900 ft
Restaurants
Derry's Lounge
1300 ft
4845 Merle Hay Rd Ste B
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
1100 ft
4601 Merle Hay Rd.
Taco Bell
1000 ft
4875 Merle Hay Ln
Wendy's
1400 ft
4935 Merle Hay Road Ste 1
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
2300 ft
4504 Merle Hay Rd
Bamboo Buffet and Grill
3400 ft
4349 Merle Hay Rd
Explore Des Moines
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Living History Farms
Living History Farms
15-minute drive
A working farm museum showcasing Iowa's agricultural history through interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters.
Lions Park
25 minutes walking
A serene park featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, ideal for families and leisurely strolls.
Westchester Park
25 minutes walking
This park offers expansive green spaces, sports facilities, and a playground, perfect for outdoor play and relaxation.
Terra Lake
10-minute drive
A scenic lake with trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas, great for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Trestle to Trestle Trail
15 minutes walking
A scenic, paved trail perfect for walking or biking, offering beautiful views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Lazer X
20-minute drive
An exciting indoor laser tag arena that delivers fun for individuals or groups, suitable for thrill-seekers looking for adventure.
Yoga & Wellness Studio
5-minute drive
A local yoga studio offering classes for relaxation and mindfulness, ideal for guests seeking a calming experience.
Farmers Market
15-minute drive
A vibrant market featuring local produce and crafts open on Saturdays, celebrating community and local goods.
Derry's Lounge
Derry's Lounge
5 minutes walking
A cozy lounge serving American comfort food and a variety of drinks, perfect for a casual meal or unwind with friends.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
4 minutes walking
A family-friendly diner known for hearty breakfasts and homemade desserts, ideal for all-day dining. Reservations are not needed.
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
9 minutes walking
A charming coffee shop featuring local brews and baked goods, perfect for a caffeine fix or enjoying a light snack.
Truck Stop
10-minute drive
A unique restaurant offering a menu of eclectic dishes in a funky, lively atmosphere. Great for trying something new.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
5-minute drive
A cinema brewery that combines movies with craft beer and casual dining, hosting events like trivia and film screenings.
Des Moines Funny Bone
15-minute drive
A comedy club featuring stand-up performances in an intimate setting, ideal for guests looking for an evening of laughter.
Urbandale Community Theater
15-minute drive
A local theater showcasing plays and musicals, offering family-friendly shows and cultural performances throughout the year.
Live Music at Local Bars
10-minute drive
Numerous local bars feature live music nights, ideal for enjoying a vibrant atmosphere and discovering local talent.
Getting around
City Centre
Des Moines14 min  ·  5.5 mi
Airports
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)24 min  ·  9.9 mi
Boone Municipal (BNW)92 min  ·  37.7 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Sonesta Essential Des Moines provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2007
Number of rooms:
137
Former name
econo lodge inn & suites des moines

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 463 verified reviews
6.9/10
Nice
58%
Recommend
Cleanliness
7.6/10
Comfort
7.5/10
Facilities
7.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Location
8.0/10
Staff
7.8/10
Value for money
7.6/10
Pros
Convenient location
Clean rooms
Comfortable beds
Good breakfast
Competitive pricing
Cons
Poor maintenance
Guest reviews
based on 410 reviews
7.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Sonesta Essential Des Moines
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Sonesta Essential Des Moines from Des Moines International Airport?
The hotel is 20 km from Des Moines International Airport, approximately a 22-minute drive.
What nearby restaurants can guests find around Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby restaurants include Wendy's (0.5 km), Castaways Bar & Grill (0.5 km), and Bamboo Buffet and Grill (1 km).
Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines offer on-site breakfast?
The hotel provides a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast that includes waffles.
What are the main facilities available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, free parking, a 24-hour reception, and a meeting room for up to 150 people.
What amenities are included in the guest rooms at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Guest rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, cable television, and option for coffee makers.
Is there a fitness center available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel features a fitness center for guests.
How far is Sonesta Essential Des Moines from local attractions?
The hotel is minutes away from the Iowa Events Center, Des Moines Art Center, Iowa State Fairgrounds, and the Science Center of Iowa.
What additional recreational opportunities does Sonesta Essential Des Moines offer?
Guests can enjoy outdoor activities such as golfing, tennis, boating, and fishing in the surrounding area.

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