Hyatt Place West Des Moines: Your Dream Iowa Getaway Awaits!
Hyatt Place West Des Moines: Iowa, You're Alright! (And So Is This Hotel, Mostly)
Okay, so you're dreaming of an Iowa escape. Not exactly the Eiffel Tower, I get it. But hey, sometimes you just need to get away. And when the Iowa call whispers in your ear (it's a faint whisper, let's be real), The Hyatt Place West Des Moines is a pretty darn solid option to park your weary bones. Buckle up, buttercups, because this review is gonna be a rollercoaster. Strap in, because this review is gonna be a… a… thing.
Accessibility - First Impressions Matter (And They're Mostly Good!)
Right. First things first: I’m not in a wheelchair, but I'm always scoping out accessibility, and this place scores some serious points. The elevator situation? Good. Ramps? Present and accounted for. The website claims "facilities for disabled guests" which is good, though I'm always curious about specifics. Hopefully, they're actually accessible, not just "technically" compliant. And hey, the 24-hour front desk is a lifesaver – especially if you're clumsy like me and need a midnight bandage after tripping over… I’ll spare you the gory details.
Rooms: Clean-ish, Comfy-ish, and Definitely Air-Conditioned
Let's talk rooms. The basics are covered. You’ve got your air conditioning (thank god, Iowa summers are brutal), your "complimentary tea," (I'm not expecting Earl Grey, but a warm beverage is always a win), and a mini-bar/refrigerator situation to hoard your snacks (essential). They say non-smoking, and hopefully, they actually enforce that because, ew. Now, the "extra-long bed" is a definite bonus for us tall folk - actually got a decent night's sleep, which is a miracle in itself after a long day of… well, whatever it is you do in West Des Moines (more on that later). The in-room safe is handy, and the "blackout curtains" are the real MVPs if you're a light sleeper like me. They're pretty good at keeping out the sun, though not so much the lingering memories of that disastrous karaoke performance I swore I'd never repeat.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Pandemic Edition (It's… Trying)
Okay, deep breath. We’re in the COVID era, folks. I'm a germaphobe, and let me tell you, I was watching this like a hawk. They claim "anti-viral cleaning products," "daily disinfection in common areas," and "rooms sanitized between stays." I'm not a scientist, so I can't independently verify any of that, but the place felt clean. The hand sanitizer stations were plentiful, which is always a good sign. They've got "staff trained in safety protocol," which is encouraging, but honestly, I’m still carrying around my own wipes and sanitizing everything I touch. Call me paranoid, whatever. In terms of overall safety, security [24-hour], fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms are all there so you should be OK.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Food… Is Food.
Alright, the food situation. It's… there. They have a "breakfast [buffet]" which is usually your standard continental fare. Think: cereal, pastries, and maybe some sad-looking scrambled eggs. I was relieved to see "individually-wrapped food options," which is important right now. I didn’t spot any "Asian cuisine," or "vegetarian restaurants," – but this is Iowa, not a culinary mecca. They do have a "coffee shop" which is a must for me, and a “snack bar” that probably has chips and other quick snacks. The "Poolside bar" is a good idea if the weather is nice. In my experience, the "Happy Hour" (if they actually have one!) is a good time to people-watch and mentally judge the tourists. "Coffee/tea in restaurant," is always a plus! They also have "Room service [24-hour]" I, unfortunately, did not use but could be a life saver.
Things to Do (Besides Wondering Why You're in Iowa)
Okay, so here's the thing. The actual West Des Moines experience isn't exactly… action-packed. But, you can relax.
The Pool and Gym: They have a "Swimming pool [outdoor]"! That is a huge plus, especially during the hot months. The "Fitness center" is there if you're feeling ambitious. I, personally, usually end up eating more than working out on vacation, but to each their own.
Spa: Now here's where things gets a little…fuzzy. The hotel details mention a "Spa," "Spa/sauna," "Body scrub," and "Massage," but I couldn't locate an actual spa on-site during my stay. Maybe I’m just blind, or maybe it’s a hidden gem. A "Sauna," "Steamroom," and "Foot bath" are not readily available. Disappointing, as these features always help to de-stress.
Other Options: They have "Indoor venue for special events". I'm guessing it can be useful if you are there for something in a group. If you're feeling extra, they also have "Meeting/banquet facilities", "Seminars," and "Meeting stationery" if you have to combine business with pleasure.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things Matter (And Sometimes Fail)
- Internet: They boast "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" And "Internet access – wireless." Huzzah! Though I noticed that it occasionally dropped out, which is annoying when you're trying to upload pictures of whatever "Iowa-ness" you're experiencing. Other internet services include "Internet" "Internet [LAN]," and "Wi-Fi in public areas".
- Daily Housekeeping: Always appreciate a clean room.
- Convenience Store: Useful for snacks and forgotten toiletries.
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning: Good for those who overpack (guilty).
- Parking: "Car park [free of charge]" – excellent!
- Currency Exchange: Always handy, though I didn’t need it.
- Concierge: Did not use, but always useful.
- Elevator: Essential.
- Business Facilities: Includes "Business facilities," "Meeting/banquet facilities," "On-site event hosting," "Projector/LED display," "Xerox/fax in business center."
The "Almost" Perfect Moment (aka, My One Big Complaint)
Okay, here's the real, unvarnished truth. I had a slight issue. It involved a late-night pizza order, a missing fork, and some serious hangry-ness. I ordered room service at a very late hour, and it was slow, and the pizza was not the best. Small issues of course, but it didn't make for the best experience.
For the Kids (and Those Who Act Like Them)
They claim to be "Family/child friendly". They also have "Kids facilities", and may offer "Babysitting service".
Getting Around
- Airport Transfer: I didn’t use this but it's generally convenient.
- Car Park Free
- Taxi service Available
- Car power charging station
Final Verdict: Is This Your Dream Iowa Getaway? Maybe.
Hyatt Place West Des Moines isn't going to blow your mind. It's not the Ritz-Carlton. But it’s clean, comfortable, and generally well-equipped. It's a practical choice.
Here's the REAL truth: It’s the kind of place you stay when you need a place to be rather than a place to experience. If you’re in town for business, visiting family, or just passing through, it's a safe bet. If you're looking for a luxurious, Instagrammable experience? Look elsewhere. However, If you lower your expectations accordingly, you can find some peace.
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Lancaster's Crown Jewel: The Crown Hotel Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's perfectly-formatted itinerary. We're going on a trip to the Hyatt Place West Des Moines, and trust me, navigating that hotel and the surrounding wilds is going to be a ride. Let's see – day one, shall we?
Day 1: Arrival and the Eternal Quest for the Perfect Coffee (and a Working Showerhead)
1:00 PM - Arrival & The Lobby Labyrinth: Okay, so I thought I booked a room with two beds. Turns out, "two beds" in the hotel's computer system translates to "One King, and the existential despair of realizing my travel buddy snores like a freight train." I drag my suitcase – which, let's be honest, is more of a wheeled beast of burden – through the lobby. It feels vast, almost like an airport. And the smell! Is it cinnamon? Cleanliness? The faint ghost of someone's forgotten microwave popcorn? I have to know.
- Side Note: The lobby's "business center" is basically a sad little corner with one flickering computer. I'm already plotting to steal their coffee, it looks and smells delicious.
1:30 PM - The Room Revelation (and the Showerhead Struggle): Finally, the room. And…it's fine. Actually pretty nice, but the first thing I do? Check the showerhead. Because, let's face it, a bad hotel showerhead can make or break a trip. And guess what? It's one of those infuriating, low-pressure, "drizzle-only" situations. I feel a rage bubbling. I'm going to need a long soak tonight to soothe my soul.
- Mood Check: Mild grumbling evolving into a simmering frustration.
2:00 PM - Coffee Quest (and the Breakfast Buffet Betrayal): Okay, coffee is a priority. I've heard rumors of stellar coffee in a hotel, and I need it. I stumble downstairs, only to discover the "grab-and-go" area might provide something, but not what I want. And the breakfast buffet? Oh man, let me tell you about the breakfast buffet. The fruit looks suspiciously like it's been sitting out under a heat lamp since the Ice Age. I grab a pastry because I figure, "How bad can a croissant be?".
- Emotional Reaction: A wave of crushing disappointment. The pastry? Dry as the Sahara. I'm starting to think the hotel is actively trying to sabotage my morning.
3:00 PM - Errands and Discovering the City: Alright, time to push through the coffee catastrophe and explore. I pop by a local Target (the same one that gave me a gift card after my last trip went sideways!) to get some essentials (decent coffee, for starters).
- Anecdote: I swear, the parking situation here is a nightmare. Almost as bad as that time I tried to parallel park in Rome and, well, we'll just say the Vespa wasn't happy.
5:00 PM - The "Happy Hour" Hope (and a Very Meh Experience): Time for happy hour! Fingers Crossed that the drinks aren't… terrible.
- Quirky Observation: Everyone at the bar looks like they're trying to escape something. Maybe it's the same thing I'm trying to escape - the unyielding cycle of laundry day!
7:00 PM - Dinner Dilemmas (and the Quest for Edible Food): I head out for dinner. It's a late start, and I'm starving. I have so much to choose from, but it seems the city doesn't like people who book last minute reservations. Finally I grab some takeout. Food is… fine. The hunger has been satiated, if nothing else.
- Mood Check: Ambivalent. Still slightly annoyed by the showerhead.
9:00 PM - Room Retreat and the Great Shower Head Debate: back to the room. Now, I'm gonna try to re-evaluate that showerhead. Maybe, maybe, I can convince it to perform at a tolerable level. Wish me luck.
- Emotional Reaction: Sigh, I may need a bath!
- Final Thoughts: This is a marathon, not a sprint. Tomorrow, the quest for decent coffee continues… and possibly a new showerhead.
Hyatt Place West Des Moines: Your Dream Iowa Getaway...Maybe? Let's Dive In! (FAQ's and My Rambling Thoughts)
Okay, so you're thinking Hyatt Place in West Des Moines? Smart move... potentially. I've been there. Multiple times. Let's get this straight: I'm not some hotel reviewer, I'm just a regular person with opinions, and a deep, deep love (and sometimes frustration) for travel. Here's what you *really* need to know, alongside my highly subjective and often messy thoughts:
1. What's the deal with the free breakfast? Is it actually edible?
The free breakfast at Hyatt Place? Ah, the cornerstone of any budget-conscious stay! Let's just say... it's a mixed bag. "Free" usually translates to "expectation management required." They have *some* hot options – usually scrambled eggs (sometimes questionable!), sausage (always a gamble), and potentially some sort of potato concoction. The quality fluctuates more than my mood swings on a Monday.
**My take:** One time, the scrambled eggs tasted suspiciously like they'd been hanging out with a plastic container. I kid you not! Another time, though, the sausage was surprisingly decent. I guess it depends on the chef they snagged for the day. Don't go in expecting a Michelin-star brunch, but it'll do the trick to get you going. The continental stuff (fruit, yogurt, bagels) is generally reliable. Just... don't go in *starving*.
2. Are the rooms clean? And are the beds comfy? Because sleep is paramount.
Cleanliness? Generally, yes. I've never encountered anything truly horrifying (thank goodness!). The housekeeping team seems to be on point. They do a good job of keeping the place tidy; its not perfect all the time, a smudge here and there. I haven't found any suspicious stains, which, let's be honest, is a win in any hotel stay.
The beds... oh, the beds. This is where Hyatt Place *usually* shines. The mattress is usually pretty good, offering a decent night's sleep. I'm talking, the kind of good sleep that makes you forget about your overbooked schedule and looming deadlines, and actually be in the moment. The sheets are usually crisp and clean. I swear, the power of freshly laundered white sheets is therapeutic, and has been the best part of the experience.
3. What's the pool and gym situation? Worth a dip or a sweat sesh?
The pool is okay. It's indoors, usually, which means you can use it regardless of the Iowa weather, which, let's be honest, is a rollercoaster. Don't expect a luxurious resort pool, but it's a decent place to take a quick swim. Sometimes there's a hot tub. I love a good hot tub for a bit. Keep your expectations in check. It can get crowded, especially with families. I prefer going at off-peak hours.
The gym? Okay, it's there. It has the basics: treadmills, a few weights, some cardio machines. Don't expect a fully-equipped fitness center. It's fine for a quick workout if you're trying to avoid complete inactivity while traveling. I've never been blown away, but I've also never been disappointed. I'm just grateful it has a treadmill.
4. Is the location convenient? Let's be real, I don't want to drive for an hour to get anywhere.
The West Des Moines location is actually pretty decent. It's close to a bunch of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. You're not stranded in the middle of nowhere. You can easily walk to a restaurant or two, I remember the first time I visited, I was surprised at how good the choices are! You're also a relatively short drive from downtown Des Moines. I'd give the location a solid "B+". It's a very good spot.
A little anecdote: One time, I stayed there for a conference. Found a great little Mexican restaurant just a short walk from the hotel, and it was fantastic! The margaritas were strong, the food was delicious, and I stumbled back to the hotel feeling very satisfied. Pro-tip: ask the front desk for recommendations.
5. What's the vibe? Is it a party hotel, a family-friendly zone, or something in between?
The vibe? It's usually pretty chill. Think "business traveler meets family vacation." I've never felt like it was a wild party scene. Its definitely geared towards a more relaxed atmosphere. It seems to be a safe space. It's definitely family-friendly, but not overwhelmingly so. You'll see kids, but it's not like a Disney resort.
One time, I was there during a large youth sports event. It got a *little* rowdy, with kids running around the lobby, but even then, it wasn't unbearable. Most of the time, it's just a mellow place to crash after a long day. Bring earplugs just in case, though! You never know when someone decides to have a late-night phone conversation right outside your door.
6. Parking and Wi-Fi - the modern traveler's necessities. Tell me everything!
Parking? Usually free and easy, which is always a relief. I hate paying extra for parking, it feels like a sneaky charge. There's plenty of space, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding a spot. Score!
Wi-Fi? Okay, the Wi-Fi... It's usually reliable, but don't expect lightning-fast speeds. It's fine for checking emails, browsing the web, and *maybe* streaming a movie if you're lucky. I've occasionally experienced slow connections at peak times. Be prepared to embrace the patience of a saint. Honestly, in today's day and age, Wi-Fi quality can make or break a stay. I do wish it were consistently faster, but its not a deal-breaker.
7. Customer Service? Are the staff friendly?
The staff? Generally friendly and helpful. They try! I've always found the front desk staff to be polite, and generally willing to help with whatever you need. They are there to help. They will help point you in the right direction for food, directions, and anything you need to make yourself comfortable. I've had a few minor issues resolved quickly and efficiently. Don't be afraid to ask for extra towels or anything you need.
8. My5 Star Stay Find
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