Des Moines Marriott Downtown

This hotel offers a prime downtown experience, highlighted by its direct skywalk access which provides convenient, weather-protected connections to various city attractions and businesses, making it a standout feature. Guests consistently praise the exceptional staff for their attentiveness and helpfulness, contributing significantly to a positive stay. The hotel is well-suited for business travelers attending conferences or meetings due to its central location and event facilities, while sightseers and couples appreciate its proximity to entertainment and dining options. Families also find the spacious rooms and accommodating service beneficial for their visits. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the extensive skywalk system for exploring, and be aware of the various parking options available beyond the hotel's valet service.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities for guest convenience and enjoyment. The fitness center is frequently lauded as awesome and well-equipped, offering ample opportunities for a full workout. While there is a pool, some guests noted it could be a bit cold, and there is no hot tub available. The lobby bar serves as a popular gathering spot, offering good service and food, and often staying open late. A Starbucks is conveniently located in the lobby. Most guests appreciate the fridges in the rooms, though microwaves are generally not standard but can be requested. Ice machines are available on floors, though some have been reported as non-functional. Laundry facilities are also provided. However, Wi-Fi is not free for all guests, often requiring membership or an additional charge.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is generally positive, with many describing rooms as spacious and very clean upon arrival. However, some guests reported initial issues with dirty rooms, including stained comforters, hair in the bathroom, or un-swept floors, though staff were quick to address these concerns. The beds receive mixed reviews; while many find them comfortable and appreciate the quality linens, some guests, particularly taller individuals, found them too low to the ground or described them as uncomfortable or firm. Bathrooms are generally clean, but some reviews mention issues with low-set toilets, slow flushing, weak water pressure, or a lack of consistent hot water. Noise can be an issue, with reports of thin walls, door slamming, and loud HVAC systems.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers various dining options, though feedback is mixed. The breakfast receives varied comments; while some guests find the buffet good with decent variety, others describe it as overpriced, gloomy, or having limited and cold options. It is generally not included in the room rate. The on-site restaurant and bar in the lobby are often praised for their atmosphere, good service, and quality of food, with some guests enjoying salads and burgers. However, some find the restaurant food to be "blah" and overpriced. Room service is available but is also noted as being very expensive and is no longer offered 24 hours a day, which disappointed some guests. Snacks and beverages available in the lobby are also considered overpriced by many.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in downtown, making it highly convenient for guests. It is within easy walking distance of numerous attractions, including the Wells Fargo Center, Court Avenue District, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Des Moines Farmers Market. A significant advantage is the direct skywalk access, which allows guests to navigate downtown and reach various businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues without braving the weather, especially beneficial during winter. The hotel also offers a reliable shuttle service to the airport and other downtown destinations. Parking is a frequently discussed topic; while valet parking is available and efficient, it is often described as expensive, leading many guests to opt for more affordable self-parking ramps located a block or two away.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, described as friendly, attentive, helpful, and accommodating. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go above and beyond, from assisting with luggage and parking to providing local recommendations and addressing specific requests. The check-in process is generally smooth and efficient, though a few guests reported initial reservation issues or less welcoming interactions. The valet service is highly praised for its efficiency and the friendliness of the attendants. The shuttle service is also noted as reliable, timely, and convenient for airport and downtown transportation. While housekeeping is generally good, some guests experienced inconsistencies with daily room cleaning, though towel delivery was prompt when requested.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that Wi-Fi is typically not free and often requires joining a loyalty program or paying an additional fee, which is a common point of frustration. While the hotel is generally considered a beautiful and first-class facility, some reviews suggest certain areas or features, like the pool or specific room elements, might feel a bit outdated compared to recently refreshed sections. The hotel is well-equipped to host events and conferences, offering ample space for large gatherings. However, some guests noted that the hotel's policy regarding daily room cleaning requests was not always consistently followed. Additionally, the executive lounge may be closed on weekends, impacting loyalty program benefits for some guests.