Places to stay near Drake University

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Top-rated holiday rentals near Drake University

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Guest favourite
A vibrant living room features a curvy orange couch, complementing a playful area rug with geometric patterns. A glass window allows natural light to illuminate the space, highlighting the eclectic decor on a nearby shelf. Seating includes a striped chair and a coffee table.
Home in Des Moines
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 265 reviews

MidCentury, technicolor Ranch w/yard, w+d, parking

- Ranch home in Des Moines' friendly Beaverdale neighborhood - Steps from grocery store, ice cream shop+dining - Blocks to more dining+shops - Less than 5 minutes from Drake University - Around 10 minutes from downtown, Des Moines, Arts Center, parks - Easy access within 15 minutes to suburbs - 1000+ feet with open living, dining and kitchen, 2 beds, 1 bath, laundry and on-site parking - Outdoor front porch, back patio+fire pit - Perfect for a family or two couples ***Send your special requests!

Top Guest favourite
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.
Home in Des Moines
5 out of 5 average rating, 115 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

Top Guest favourite
A welcoming entrance features an orange door adorned with a panel of glass. The 'Welcome' sign is prominently displayed on one side, while a 'Bed & Breakfast' sign decorates the other. A doormat lies at the entrance, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 217 reviews

Gateway House

Our 100% SMOKE-FREE Gateway House is nestled just west of beautiful Downtown Des Moines. I-235 is 90 seconds away, putting you downtown in 5 minutes, and anywhere else in 15 minutes! Ingersoll Avenue, home to dozens of locally owned restaurants and bars, is a 2–3-minute drive and a 5-10-minute walk. Our charming bungalow has everything you need to function! We proudly display artwork that accents the culture our city has to offer, and you will feel relaxed indoors and out during your stay.

Superhost
A contemporary tiny house exterior is showcased, featuring a wooden facade and a garage below. A private deck rests atop, surrounded by greenery. Large windows allow natural light, while the entrance is framed by two sleek doors, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming appeal.
Tiny home in Des Moines
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 181 reviews

Des Moines' coolest Tiny Home! +Deck/garage

Kick back and enjoy this calm, stylish tiny house. In an awesome location near downtown, it's the perfect place for a memorable stay in Des Moines! (Fall 2025*, please note there is an active new construction project next door- which shouldn't effect your peace or experience.) You can easily walk to great bars, restaurants, grocery, etc. Peaceful and large deck to relax and unwind.. Convenient garage parking included! *Large trucks may not fit fully in garage. Tiny house experience! 🛖

Top Guest favourite
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.
Place to stay in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 349 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.

Top Guest favourite
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.
Home in Des Moines
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 342 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.

Top Guest favourite
A private patio area is sheltered by a wooden overhang, featuring a comfortable seating arrangement. Decorative lights hang from the ceiling, and a small wind chime adds a subtle decorative touch. Lush greenery surrounds the space, offering a sense of privacy.
Guest suite in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 609 reviews

Cozy, Private Guest Suite & Backyard Oasis

Enjoy a peaceful stay in our private basement suite. You'll love the tall ceilings, natural light, and watching wildlife in our backyard! Private entrance from the back patio, & off-street parking for 1 car. Includes: 1 bedroom with queen bed, bathroom with shower/tub, full kitchen, living room with futon couch, floor mattress, and pack 'n play. Ask for pet policy before booking. If interested in a blocked date, message me (new job=less weekly availability). 10% discount for educators 🏫❤️.

Top Guest favourite
Barn in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 308 reviews

“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 $125***

Top Guest favourite
A warm living area features a brown leather sofa with decorative blue pillows, positioned next to a round coffee table on a soft area rug. A blue armchair complements the seating arrangement, and natural light enters through nearby windows. Archways lead into the adjoining rooms.
Home in Des Moines
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 215 reviews

Peaceful Setting & Modern Style

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to your own private oasis with this charming 2 Bedroom Airbnb. The house provides present-day amenities while still honoring the original 1930s character. You’ll enjoy a new and sparkling clean kitchen, complete with all the appliances and utensils you need. The bathroom, laundry, dining room, reading nook and living room have all been beautifully updated as well, ensuring that you'll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

Guest favourite
The exterior of the duplex features a welcoming porch with multiple seating areas, surrounded by a spacious lawn. The house showcases a combination of red and green siding, with a steep roofline and large windows that invite natural light.
Home in Des Moines
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

The Carol Anne-Charming 2bd/2ba Victorian near DT!

This Victorian-era duplex is the perfect mix of Victorian and modern for all the comforts of home. Perfect for quick or extended trips. Location can't be beat: Walking distance to Drake University. Minutes by car to downtown, hospitals, Ingersoll district and proximity to I-235 gets you anywhere in the city. Off street parking/electronic locks make check-in a easy. 2 large bedrooms w/queen beds, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, closets, and more making it ideal for multiple guests!

Guest favourite
A spacious living area features expansive windows framing city skyline views. A comfortable sectional couch is complemented by a coffee table and a dedicated workspace. Light green plants hang in the windows, adding a touch of nature to the urban setting.
Apartment in Des Moines
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviews

Downtown Dream 2br w/ City Views 2 blocks to Court

Discover urban elegance at this 6th-floor, 2-bed 1-bath haven offering unparalleled city views. Nestled just two blocks from Court Ave, this chic retreat immerses you in the heart of downtown excitement. > 2 bedrooms w/ queen beds & smart TV's > Unparalleled city skyline views from all rooms > Spacious living area w/ 65" smart TV > 1 GIG high speed internet > Blocks from court ave, bars, restaurants & more > Dedicated workspace > Full Kitchen w/ eat in space > In-unit Laundry

Guest favourite
A spacious living area features a round marble coffee table at its center, surrounded by various seating options. A pendant light hangs from the ceiling, while a staircase is visible in the background. Natural light enhances the warmth of the wooden flooring.
Home in Des Moines
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Winter Stay by Ingersoll Ave & Drake Univ

Cozy, winter-ready home one block from Ingersoll Ave and minutes from Drake University. Enjoy fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, comfortable beds, and a fully equipped kitchen for warm nights in. Walk to Ingersoll’s restaurants and coffee shops, with easy access to Downtown DSM and Drake. Self check-in and easy parking make this ideal for remote workers, business travelers, families, and extended winter stays. ✨ Weekly and monthly winter discounts available.

Popular amenities for holiday rentals near Drake University

  1. Airbnb
  2. United States
  3. Iowa
  4. Polk County
  5. Des Moines
  6. Drake University