Holiday Inn Des Moines Dtwn - Mercy Area By Ihg

This hotel is frequently chosen for its convenient location near the Mercy One medical complex and downtown Des Moines, making it ideal for hospital visitors and event attendees. While many guests appreciate the friendly staff and comfortable beds, a significant number of reviews highlight that the property is outdated and in need of renovation. The hotel's shuttle service is a standout feature, providing easy access to nearby attractions. For families and groups attending events, the hotel's proximity to venues is a major draw. To ensure a comfortable stay, it is advisable to inquire about the room's specific location to minimize noise and confirm the current status of the air conditioning system.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though their condition and availability vary. The pool area is a popular amenity, often described as warm and accommodating for groups, though some guests noted the pool room itself could be cold due to broken windows or inadequate heating. A fitness center is available, and some reviews mention a bar and restaurant on-site. However, many guests reported that the bar and restaurant were frequently closed or had limited hours, which was a source of disappointment. Other amenities mentioned include coffee makers and refrigerators in rooms, though some guests experienced issues with them not working. Wi-Fi is available, but its quality was not consistently praised.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is mixed; while some rooms were found to be clean and well-maintained, others reported issues such as dirty window ledges, dirty sheets, and even unpleasant odors in hallways or rooms. The beds are generally described as comfortable, though some found them too soft or worn. A recurring concern is the air conditioning, which many guests found to be subpar or non-functional, leading to warm and humid rooms. Noise levels are a significant issue, with rooms facing the highway or hospital experiencing considerable traffic noise, ambulance sirens, and helicopter noise. Some guests also noted thin windows that do not effectively block sound, and general signs of age like creaking beds or minor damage in rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive varied feedback, with many guests expressing disappointment over the frequent closure of the on-site restaurant and bar, especially during evenings or on specific days. There is no complimentary continental breakfast, which was a common point of contention for guests expecting it. Instead, a paid breakfast is offered, which some found to be a good value with decent food, while others described it as poor quality or limited, sometimes provided as a simple "paper bag" meal. The coffee available in the lobby was generally appreciated. The convenience of being able to charge meals to the room was noted by some, particularly those staying for hospital-related reasons.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in Des Moines is its strongest feature, offering excellent proximity to the Mercy One medical complex directly across the street, and within walking distance or a short shuttle ride to the Wells Fargo Arena and Hy-Vee Hall. It provides easy access to downtown Des Moines and major highways like I-235. This prime location is particularly beneficial for hospital visitors and event attendees. However, the immediate vicinity, especially due to the hospital and highway, results in significant noise from traffic, ambulances, and helicopters, which can be disruptive. While convenient for specific destinations, some guests found the surrounding area less appealing or perceived it as unsafe after dark.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Many guests highlighted positive interactions with front desk staff, shuttle drivers, and housekeeping, noting their efficiency and willingness to assist. The shuttle service is consistently commended as a major asset, providing convenient transportation to nearby venues and the hospital. Guests appreciated the quick check-in process and the staff's responsiveness to requests, such as promptly delivering rollaway beds. However, some guests reported instances of unfriendly or rude front desk staff, poor communication, and a perceived lack of willingness to resolve issues, particularly concerning parking or room problems.

Additional Information
A major and frequently mentioned issue is the parking situation, as the primary parking lot and attached garage have been closed or condemned, requiring guests to park a block or more away in an alternate, often less convenient, lot. This situation is a significant inconvenience, especially when arriving with luggage, in adverse weather, or with mobility challenges. Guests also noted that the hotel's heating and cooling system operates on a "two-pipe system," meaning it can only provide either heat or air conditioning for the entire building, not both simultaneously, which can lead to uncomfortable room temperatures depending on the season. The hotel offers a pet-friendly policy, though finding suitable outdoor areas for pets can be challenging. Some guests also mentioned unexpected charges or a lack of clarity regarding breakfast inclusion.