Book on our site
Save up to 10% more
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From85US$ /night
Check-in
07Feb2026Select date
Check-out
08Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, United States, 50322
-
Close to Buccaneer Arena
Nice
6.9
7.0
/10
2.8
4.3
/5

Sonesta Essential Des Moines - A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and proximity to local attractions

Sonesta Essential Des Moines provides straightforward accommodations with free deluxe continental breakfast, including waffles, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel features 150 air-conditioned rooms, some equipped with sofa sleepers, microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, while select suites offer hot tubs and balconies. Guests can utilize a meeting room that accommodates up to 150 people, along with business services like copying and faxing. Located in the Lovington neighborhood, the hotel is minutes from the Iowa Events Center, Des Moines Art Center, and Wells Fargo Arena. Outdoor activities such as golfing, tennis, and fishing are accessible nearby. A 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, and free parking for trucks, RVs, and cars are available. Safety features include carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and a security system.

Pros

Free hot breakfast with waffles and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Convenient location near attractions like Merle Hay Mall and Wells Fargo Arena.

Meeting facilities for events accommodating up to 150 guests.

Pet-friendly rooms available for travelers with service animals.

Ample parking space for large vehicles, including RVs and trucks.

Cons

No on-site spa or fitness facilities.

Limited dining options within walking distance.

View all

Select your room type

Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Queen Room Two Queen Beds Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
2 King Size 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
Superior King Suite Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Room Rates & Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free 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
Show more

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
Lions Park
25 minutes walking
Lions Park features playgrounds and picnic areas, perfect for families seeking outdoor fun and relaxation.
Living History Farms
15-minute drive
Living History Farms showcases Iowa's agricultural history with interactive exhibits, walking tours, and seasonal events.
Terra Lake
10-minute drive
Terra Lake offers scenic walking trails and fishing spots, ideal for enjoying nature in a tranquil setting.
Merle Hay Mall
25 minutes walking
Merle Hay Mall features a variety of shops and eateries, perfect for a leisurely shopping experience.
Trestle to Trestle Trail
15 minutes walking
The Trestle to Trestle Trail is excellent for biking or walking, offering scenic views along the way.
Lazer X
20 minutes walking
Lazer X provides thrilling laser tag experiences for families and friends looking for high-energy fun.
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
9 minutes walking
Twisted Bean Coffee Company is a cozy coffee shop offering relaxing vibes and delicious beverages.
Derry's Lounge
5 minutes walking
Derry's Lounge is a casual spot serving comfort food with a friendly atmosphere and great service.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
4 minutes walking
Perkins Restaurant offers a menu of homestyle meals and bakery delights, along with a cozy dining atmosphere.
Taco Bell
4 minutes walking
Taco Bell provides quick and tasty Mexican-inspired fast food, perfect for a casual meal on the go.
Wendy's
5 minutes walking
Wendy's is known for its fresh, made-to-order burgers and salads, offering quick service and familiar favorites.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
20 minutes walking
Flix Brewhouse combines dining with cinema, showing films while serving craft beer and meals in a unique setting.
Hy-Vee Arena
15-minute drive
Hy-Vee Arena hosts various sports and entertainment events, providing a lively atmosphere and diverse programming.
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
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
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
FAQs
About Sonesta Essential Des Moines
How far is Sonesta Essential Des Moines from Des Moines International Airport?
The hotel is 20 km from Des Moines International Airport, which takes approximately 22 minutes to reach by car.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Check-in is at 15:00, and check-out is by 11:00.
What amenities are available in the rooms at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Rooms include air conditioning, cable television, microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers.
Is breakfast included at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
The hotel offers a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast with waffles.
Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have a fitness center?
Guests can utilize the on-site fitness center for their workout needs.
What parking options are available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Ample free parking is available on-site, accommodating most trucks, RVs, buses, and cars.
Are there any local attractions near Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Nearby attractions include the Iowa Events Center (3 km), the Des Moines Art Center (5 km), and the Iowa State Fairgrounds (6 km).
What dining options are close to 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 business services?
Business services include access to copy and fax services and a meeting room that accommodates up to 150 people.
Can guests enjoy outdoor recreation near Sonesta Essential Des Moines?
Guests can enjoy activities such as golfing, tennis, boating, and fishing in the surrounding area.
Check-in
07Feb2026Select date
Check-out
08Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Need more options?
Check Top hotels near Sonesta Essential Des Moines
Days Inn By Wyndham Des Moines Merle Hay Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

Days Inn By Wyndham Des Moines Merle Hay

7.7
Very good156 reviews
176m from property
USD 59USD 53
per night
Holiday Inn Express Des Moines-At Drake University, An Ihg Hotel Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

Holiday Inn Express Des Moines-At Drake University, An Ihg Hotel

8.7
Great79 reviews
6567m from property
USD 104USD 93
per night
Motel 6-Des Moines, Ia - North Beds photo
Mobile-only price

Motel 6-Des Moines, Ia - North

5.5
Guest rating242 reviews
7883m from property
USD 59USD 53
per night