The Hilton Des Moines Downtown is a large, full-service hotel positioned near the Iowa Events Center, the district that holds an arena, a convention hall and a theater. That makes it a natural choice for visitors attending concerts, sports events and trade shows. The hotel is also within reach of the Principal Riverwalk and the East Village, so leisure travelers can use it as a base for exploring downtown on foot.\n\nRooms are spacious and comfortable, with the standard Hilton features of good bedding, work space and updated bathrooms. Higher floors may have views of the Capitol dome or the river. Amenities typically include a fitness center, on-site dining and meeting space. The hotel's size means you will find a range of room types, including suites and accessible rooms.
The location is the key. Walk across the street to events, or stroll to restaurants and bars in the East Village in about ten minutes. The Capitol is a pleasant walk up the hill. A skywalk connection may help in cold weather, depending on the route. Court Avenue and the Western Gateway are a short ride away.\n\nOn event nights the lobby and surrounding streets can be busy, and rates rise for big shows.
Book early if your dates match a major concert or tournament, and check the event calendar. If you want quiet, request a room away from the main entrance. Families with children will find the size convenient, though check pool and breakfast options when booking.\n\nParking is usually available on site or nearby for a fee. Rideshare is plentiful if you prefer not to pay for parking.
Business travelers can use the meeting rooms and business services, and loyalty members enjoy points and potential upgrades.\n\nWho should stay? Concert-goers, sports fans, conference delegates and travelers who want a predictable, well-located Hilton. It is less characterful than the historic hotels, but its event-district position and full amenities make it a practical choice.\n\nIf you are attending an event, build in extra time for arrival and parking, and confirm the doors-open time so you can eat beforehand.
The East Village has many restaurants and cafes within a short walk, which makes it easy to eat well without driving. In summer, the riverside paths provide a pleasant evening stroll, and in winter the nearby skating plaza adds seasonal charm. Ask the front desk about shuttle options or recommended rideshare pickup points for event nights, because traffic can build quickly after big shows. A room on a higher floor tends to reduce street noise and improves the view of the Capitol dome.
Why stay here
- ✓Near the Iowa Events Center
- ✓Walkable to the East Village
- ✓Fitness center
- ✓On-site dining
- ✓Meeting and event space
- ✓Capitol views from some rooms
- ✓Accessible rooms
- ✓Parking nearby
Good questions
Is the Hilton near the Events Center?+
Yes, it sits beside the Iowa Events Center district, handy for concerts and sports.
Can I walk to the East Village?+
Yes, in roughly ten minutes.
Who is it best for?+
Event-goers, conference delegates and visitors wanting a reliable Hilton downtown.






