Clarion by Choice Hotels Des Moines Airport

The hotel's most notable feature is its highly praised airport shuttle service and park & fly program, which guests consistently describe as reliable, fast, and efficient, making it an ideal choice for airport travelers and those utilizing the park & fly option. However, many guests report significant issues with noise levels, citing thin walls and disturbances from other rooms, hallways, and even a courtyard with a pool and event venue. The hotel is frequently described as outdated and in need of extensive renovation, with many areas appearing run-down and not matching advertised images, often appearing as a "dump" to some. While some guests found the hotel clean, numerous reviews highlight serious cleanliness concerns, including pests and unkempt rooms. Despite these challenges, the staff generally receives praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. This hotel might suit budget-conscious travelers who prioritize airport access, but families and couples seeking a quiet, pristine environment may find it challenging. To enhance your stay, guests are advised to verify room conditions upon arrival and be prepared for potential noise disturbances.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers various facilities, though their condition and functionality receive mixed feedback. The pool area, while large and potentially appealing, is frequently reported as being out of order, freezing cold, lacking towels, and appearing unkempt with peeling paint and trash. Some guests noted a gym is available, but concerns were raised about its security and broken equipment. Many rooms lack USB ports, and the heating and air conditioning units are often described as old and ineffective, leading to uncomfortable room temperatures. While some guests found the Wi-Fi reliable, others experienced frequent disconnections and slow speeds, making streaming difficult. A significant concern across reviews is the hotel's security, with multiple reports of exterior doors lacking functional locks and room doors being difficult to secure, raising safety issues. The lobby is generally considered nice and well-decorated, and parking is available and appreciated by guests. The single elevator is noted to be inconveniently located far from the front desk.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is overwhelmingly negative. Many rooms are described as outdated and in poor condition, with peeling paint, mold, and signs of general disrepair, including unfinished elements like missing curtains or TV stands. A recurring and serious issue is the presence of pests, particularly cockroaches, found in rooms and even the breakfast area. Guests frequently reported dirty sheets, stained bedding, and uncleaned surfaces, with some finding hair or other debris in showers and on floors. While some found the beds comfortable, others noted they sagged significantly or had uncomfortable pillows. Bathrooms are often described as dirty, with mold, peeling paint, broken showers, and inconsistent hot water or low water pressure. Noise from adjacent rooms, hallways, and the pool area is a common complaint, impacting the ability to sleep peacefully, despite initial claims of soundproofing.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive mixed, often critical, reviews. The complimentary breakfast is a frequent point of contention; while some guests found it good with decent options, many reported issues such as cold food, stale bread, outdated milk, and a lack of basic items like coffee or juice. A significant concern was the presence of cockroaches on the breakfast counter and even inside food containers, leading some guests to avoid it entirely. In contrast, the attached Mexican restaurant is widely praised for its great food and buffet, with many guests recommending it as a highlight of their stay. An on-site bar is also available and appreciated by some guests for convenience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major positive, particularly its proximity to the airport, often described as being less than a mile away. This makes it highly convenient for airport travelers and those utilizing the park & fly service, with efficient shuttle transfers to and from the terminals. Guests also appreciate its easy access to downtown areas and various local restaurants and attractions, making it a suitable base for exploring the city. The surrounding neighborhood offers cool things to do, and the hotel is well-situated for those wanting to explore Des Moines. The availability of parking on-site is also a noted convenience for guests traveling by car, with many finding it secure and ample, contributing to a hassle-free stay for those with vehicles.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and polite demeanor, with many guests highlighting their willingness to assist and accommodate requests. The shuttle service drivers are particularly commended for their efficiency and pleasant interactions, often going out of their way to assist guests. However, feedback on specific service aspects is mixed. While some experienced quick check-in processes, others reported significant delays and issues with reservations or payment processing, sometimes due to unfamiliarity with new systems. Housekeeping services are a frequent point of criticism, with guests noting unmade beds, lack of fresh towels, and rooms not being cleaned during their stay. Some guests also reported difficulties communicating due to language barriers or encountered unresponsiveness when addressing issues like room cleanliness or amenity functionality.

Additional Information
The hotel appears to be undergoing renovations, with some guests noting new paint and remodeled areas, though the quality of these updates is debated, with some describing them as "sloppy" or superficial. Despite these efforts, many guests report significant safety concerns beyond room security, including a lack of visible fire extinguishers, an unsecured gym door, and the main entrance being left propped open at night, raising questions about overall security. The hotel also hosts events in its banquet spaces, but some organizers reported disorganization, lack of preparation, and inadequate audio-visual setups, leading to frustrating experiences. Guests should be aware that the hotel's current appearance often does not match its advertised images, leading to disappointment for many. Some guests also noted issues with the internet speed being too slow for streaming, and a few mentioned challenges with the ice storm conditions in the parking lot.