Vacation rentals in Des Moines

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews

The kitchen features classic wooden cabinetry and retro-style appliances, including a pale cream refrigerator. A patterned backsplash complements the checkered floor, while shelves display colorful dinnerware. Natural light fills the space, enhancing the inviting atmosphere for cooking and gathering.

Home in Ankeny

Historic Home on 4 Acres - Hot Tub, Pool, Tiki Bar

Our 1948 vacation home is on 4 acres & boasts 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, Bridal Suite (4th bedroom), 70s TV/Game Room, Tiki Bar, & Children's Playroom. Outside we have a pool (guaranteed to be open 5/26 - 9/5) & hot tub (year round). Located 15min away from Downtown DSM & a mile away from a grocery store/restaurants. Up to 2 dogs allowed for an additional fee. ***Events/photo shoots are allowed with written permission only and will be an added fee. No events larger than 25 total.***

ValueFamilyComfort

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviews

A treehouse, elevated on stilts, is surrounded by various trees and greenery. The wooden structure features large windows and a balcony, with a staircase leading up, inviting guests to its elevated entrance. Bright blue skies provide a clear backdrop.

Treehouse in Norwalk

RARE Spacious Treehouse & Sauna Near Des Moines

Come home to luxury in nature in this spacious, double king-bed treehouse and sleep among the stars. Expansive views of rolling hills greet you as you sip your pour-over coffee on the wrap around balcony twenty feet above ground. Rain? No problem. Tuck away on the three-season screened-in porch to watch the iconic Iowa pink sunsets. Built with special touches including stained glass and intricate woodwork, this treehouse boasts warmth throughout and is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime get-away.

LocationFamilyAccess

A dining area features a large wooden table with seating for twelve. Adjacent is a cozy living space equipped with comfortable sofas, two large smart TVs, and an arcade game. An outdoor area includes a fire pit and hot tub surrounded by wooden seating.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews

The Hay Loft: Hot Tub • Game Room • Fire Pit • BBQ

Centrally located to Downtown Des Moines, sits our fully remodeled, 5 bedroom, 2 full bathroom home that can sleep 14 guests. The Hay Loft offers privacy for your large group, yet it's also close to everything that Des Moines has to offer! Our amenities include: spacious hot tub, fire-pit, grill, office space and a fully stocked kitchen. Fiber internet/WiFi + smart TVs in every room. Just a couple of blocks from Drake College, and within three miles of the Iowa Event Center and Casey's Center

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4.94 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

A spacious living area features large windows, offering expansive views of the skyline. Modern furnishings include a cozy couch, two accent chairs, and a coffee table. A sleek electric fireplace is positioned beneath a wall-mounted TV, enhancing the contemporary design of the space.

Townhouse in Des Moines

This is the best Des Moines has to offer!

Welcome to a beautiful 3 story townhome in the heart of Des Moines. If an upscale modern home with an incredible view is your thing, you will be in heaven. Inside you’ll find a clean, bright and well decorated home with all the amenities you'll need to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. Minutes from shopping, dining and nightlife. The bike trail is across the street where you can ride to Gray’s Lake or stroll to downtown DSM and enjoy the Farmer's Market, Civic Center and Principal Park.

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The living space features a modern gray sectional sofa complemented by a green armchair. A coffee table rests on a patterned rug. Two floral artworks adorn the wall, while warm lighting is provided by standing lamps. Natural light enters through multiple windows.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 399 reviews

Cozy Historic Escape

This comfortable bungalow is stylish with historic charm. The front porch is perfect for morning coffee. The main living space has original hardwood floors and classic brick fireplace with craftsman style built-ins. The house also has fenced in backyard with patio for enjoying temperate days. It is centrally and conveniently located close to Des Moines Playhouse, ~6 minutes from Casey’s Center and Downtown Des Moines, ~13 minutes to Jordan Creek Town Center, and ~15 minutes to DSM Airport.

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Place to stay in Des Moines

A comfortable living area features a black leather sofa adorned with light-colored pillows, complemented by a dark brown ottoman. Soft light emanates from a floor lamp against a navy wall, while sheer curtains gently filter natural light. A massage chair is visible in the background.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 395 reviews

Historic 1-bedroom carriage house apartment

Located in the heart of the Sherman Hill Historic District, this charming one bedroom carriage house has everything you need whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure. It features a plush king bed that guests rave about, a 50” television, massage chair, fully stocked kitchen, large shower, high end linens and beautiful courtyard. The property is within walking distance to downtown, historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater, restaurants, a world class sculpture park and live entertainment.

LocationValueCleanliness

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 330 reviews

Barn in Des Moines

“The Miles Barn” Gorgeous Industrial Loft

Welcome to our beautiful open concept industrial loft. Upon entering our cozy abode, you'll find a clean, bright, well decorated home with many great amenities where you can kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. If high ceilings and beautiful polished concrete floors are your thing, you will be in heaven. Steel railings give it a true industrial feel. Everything needed for your stay is well thought out and ready to be used. We hope you love our loft as much as we do! ***Pet Fee is $175***

LocationFamilyAir conditioning

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 997 reviews

Apartment in Des Moines

Unique "Little Italy" Apartment

Drive into the attached garage and go upstairs where you will find your very private entrance to a quiet, peaceful, and restful living. Located 1 mile from the downtown area on a street loaded with large Oak and Walnut trees. A huge back yard in which to stroll or barbecue. It is the top half of my house complete with it's own kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. My residence is the bottom half of the house. Lots of excellent restaurants nearby. Check out the "Guide to Restaurants".

ValueFamilySleep quality

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviews

A spacious living area features a modern design with a large sofa and two green accent chairs. A sleek entertainment unit with a fireplace is centered on the wall. Large windows provide natural light, enhancing the open and airy atmosphere.

Barn in Des Moines

8000sqft Barndo | Indoor Court + 2 Living Qtrs

Welcome to The Lodge on 3rd - a massive 8000 sq ft Barndominum. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With 4 spacious bedrooms and a large loft, there is plenty of room for you and your guests to unwind in style. This property is next door to Luxury Living on Third. airbnb.com/h/luxurylivingonthird These combined properties are ideal for family reunions, etc. ***$200 Pet Fee***

LocationFamilyParking

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

The living room features comfortable seating with light-colored sofas and accent pillows. A flat-screen TV is mounted above the fireplace, while large windows flood the space with natural light. A soft area rug anchors the room, and a decorative table adds a touch of style.

Home in Urbandale

Stunning Suburban Home in Quiet Neighborhood

Bring the whole family to this amazing suburban home with lots of room for fun. Enjoy billiards, reading, board games inside, or escape outdoors on the large deck with peaceful greenspace in the background. Easy access to I-80/I-35 and Hwy 235. Community trails, playgrounds and parks are within a 5 min walk. Direct 15 min access to downtown Des Moines. This newly remodeled 4 bed, 3.5 bath is in a safe and quite neighborhood, has everything you need to relax on your trip!

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A charming exterior features a brick facade with warm orange accents. A covered front porch offers seating around a table, while steps lead to a well-maintained yard surrounded by greenery. Natural light filters through large windows, creating an inviting entrance.

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 241 reviews

Charming Des Moines Home with a GREAT location!

Location, location, location! Charming 4 bedroom on a quiet tree lined street in central Des Moines. A 3-minute drive to the interstate which takes you Downtown or to West Des Moines in 10 minutes either way. Nature and bike trails a 5-minute walk from the front door. Newly renovated this last year, everything is clean and updated. Fire pit to sit outside and relax at the end of the day and pool table/ping pong in the basement to enjoy as well!

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Apartment in Downtown Des Moines

A comfortable living area features a large brown leather sectional sofa and a wooden coffee table displaying a magazine. On the blue wall, a colorful collection of framed artwork is visible. A subtle area rug complements the wooden flooring, while a stylish pendant light hangs above.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 236 reviews

Luxury Hotel Condo in Downtown Des Moines

Relax in this 1920s historical Liberty Mutual building condo. Bask in the abundant light from the large windows atop this ninth floor condo in the Hyatt Place Hotel. View the sunset over the State Capital and the iconic Travelers sign. Pick out some vinyl to play on the stereo. Enjoy our collection of original artwork or read a book from our eclectic biography library. For a video walkthrough go to: YouTube: search 418 Liberty Luxury Hotel Condo

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Popular amenities for Des Moines vacation rentals

Self check-in

Gym

BBQ grill

Laptop-friendly workspace

Wifi

What Airbnb hosts recommend seeing in Des Moines

Find unforgettable activities and unique points of interest near you. Our hosts share their favorite things to do and must-visit places to see in Des Moines.

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Open-air gallery featuring contemporary sculptures by renowned artists in a vibrant downtown setting

Summarized by AI

Explore 4.4 acres of grassy parkland filled with more than 25 large-scale modern sculptures by world-renowned artists, including quirky favorites like Thinker on a Rock. Wander freely from sunrise to midnight, snap striking photos, have a picnic, or just lie on the grass and people-watch. It’s an easy place for kids to run off energy and for adults to enjoy a slow walk. Afterward, check out the nearby cafés, restaurants, public library, and downtown festivals that often pop up around the park.

Mentioned by 138 local hosts

Des Moines Botanical Garden

Urban oasis featuring a geodesic conservatory, themed gardens, and a delightful cafe

Summarized by AI

Explore the geodesic-domed conservatory with over 1,000 varieties of tropical, temperate, desert, and other exotic plants, plus a notable bonsai collection and seasonal blooms. Wander the 12 acres of indoor and outdoor gardens, including herb and ornamental plantings, and enjoy art shows, classes, and educational programs. In winter, use the warm dome and indoor paths as a cozy escape, then grab lunch at Trellis Café. Time your visit for concerts, or jazz and wine events held throughout the year.

Mentioned by 108 local hosts

Iowa State Capitol

Historic Beaux-Arts building offering free tours, featuring a stunning rotunda and gilded dome

Summarized by AI

Inside the Iowa State Capitol, join a free guided tour or wander on your own to see the five domes, the large gilded main dome, ornate murals and stonework, and richly decorated chambers built in 1886. Step into the old high courtroom, parliamentary room, and the famous Law Library—considered one of the 50 most beautiful in the world—and up to the dome’s Whispering Floor. Notice the Iowa woods, imported marbles, and well-priced gift shop. Outside, walk the art-filled grounds, monuments, and memorials, take in downtown and sunset views, then continue toward the river past the Iowa Supreme Court Building, World Food Prize Building, and Chinese Pagoda.

Mentioned by 94 local hosts

Grays Lake

Popular park with a lighted walking path, beach, and watercraft rentals

Summarized by AI

At Gray’s Lake you can “do the loop,” an easy 2-mile path circling the water for walking, running, or biking, with art, benches, and picnic tables along the way. Get on the water with kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or paddleboat rentals, or relax on the small sandy beach in the summer sun. Enjoy skyline views of downtown Des Moines from the shore or trail. Come back after dark to experience the iconic light-up pedestrian bridge glowing over the lake.

Mentioned by 56 local hosts

Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market

Summarized by AI

Spend a Saturday morning weaving through hundreds of stalls offering Iowa-grown produce, meat, cheese, eggs, honey, wine, baked goods, huge cinnamon rolls, cookies, salsas, flowers, plants, and artisan packaged foods. Grab ready-to-eat street food, fresh drinks, and browse handmade art, crafts, and other goods from local farmers, bakers, artists, and crafters. Stay for the live music and entertainment that run throughout the market and soak up the energetic, community-focused atmosphere in the Historic Court District.

Other great vacation rentals in Des Moines

A spacious great room features large glass wall panels that invite natural light and views of the tranquil backyard. Comfortable seating arrangements include a long sofa and armchairs, accented by indoor plants. The concrete floor creates a seamless connection with the outdoors.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 98 reviews

The Draper-MCM Spacious Ranch minutes to it all

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5.0 out of 5 average rating, 24 reviews

Home in Ankeny

Spacious 5BR Retreat w Game Room, Huge Drive & Pri

FamilyLocationIndoor spaces

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 18 reviews

Home in Norwalk

The Beardsley House Norwalk Iowa

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5.0 out of 5 average rating, 7 reviews

Home in Urbandale

Boho Luxury Oasis | Pool & Sauna | Sleeps 13+

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Apartment in Downtown Des Moines

4.74 out of 5 average rating, 35 reviews

Downtown Historic Studio - Free Parking - Gym

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4.97 out of 5 average rating, 74 reviews

The living room features a comfortable sectional sofa and two accent chairs, arranged around a striped area rug. Natural light is welcomed through large windows, complemented by light curtains. A dining table with chairs is visible in the background, creating a welcoming space.

Home in Norwalk

Chic 4bdrm 3bath-10mins to airport

FamilyLocationBathroom

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

Home in Urbandale

Peaceful · 4 BR · 2 BA · Ranch · Backyard · Deck

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