
Places to stay near Drake University
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Top-rated vacation rentals near Drake University
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Spacious Getaway! Hot Tub • Game Room • Fire Pit
Welcome to The Hay Loft! Centrally located to Downtown Des Moines, sits our fully remodeled, 5 bedroom, 2 full bathroom home that can sleep 14 guests. Privacy for your large group, yet it's also close to everything that Des Moines has to offer Amenities include: spacious hot tub, fire-pit, grill, office space and a fully stocked kitchen. Fiber internet/WiFi + smart TVs in every room. Just a couple of blocks from Drake College, and within three miles of the Iowa Event Center and Casey's Center
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews
Historic Home on 4 Acres - Hot Tub, Pool, Tiki Bar
Our 1948 vacation home is on 4 acres & boasts 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, Bridal Suite (4th bedroom), 70s TV/Game Room, Tiki Bar, & Children's Playroom. Outside we have a pool (guaranteed to be open 5/26 - 9/5) & hot tub (year round). Located 15min away from Downtown DSM & a mile away from a grocery store/restaurants. Up to 2 dogs allowed for an additional fee. ***Events/photo shoots are allowed with written permission only and will be an added fee. No events larger than 25 total.***
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 212 reviews
This is the best Des Moines has to offer!
Welcome to a beautiful 3 story townhome in the heart of Des Moines. If an upscale modern home with an incredible view is your thing, you will be in heaven. Inside you’ll find a clean, bright and well decorated home with all the amenities you'll need to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. Minutes from shopping, dining and nightlife. The bike trail is across the street where you can ride to Gray’s Lake or stroll to downtown DSM and enjoy the Farmer's Market, Civic Center and Principal Park.
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews
Gateway House
Our 100% SMOKE-FREE Gateway House is nestled just west of beautiful Downtown Des Moines. I-235 is 90 seconds away, putting you downtown in 5 minutes, and anywhere else in 15 minutes! Ingersoll Avenue, home to dozens of locally owned restaurants and bars, is a 2–3-minute drive and a 5-10-minute walk. Our charming bungalow has everything you need to function! We proudly display artwork that accents the culture our city has to offer, and you will feel relaxed indoors and out during your stay.
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 245 reviews
Cozy Historic Escape
This comfortable bungalow is stylish with historic charm. The front porch is perfect for morning coffee. The main living space has original hardwood floors and classic brick fireplace with craftsman style built-ins. The house also has fenced in backyard with patio for enjoying temperate days. It is centrally and conveniently located close to Des Moines Playhouse, ~6 minutes from Casey’s Center and Downtown Des Moines, ~13 minutes to Jordan Creek Town Center, and ~15 minutes to DSM Airport.
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 401 reviews
Historic 1-bedroom carriage house apartment
Located in the heart of the Sherman Hill Historic District, this charming one bedroom carriage house has everything you need whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure. It features a plush king bed that guests rave about, a 50” television, massage chair, fully stocked kitchen, large shower, high end linens and beautiful courtyard. The property is within walking distance to downtown, historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater, restaurants, a world class sculpture park and live entertainment.
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 399 reviews
Peaceful Setting & Modern Style
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to your own private oasis with this charming 2 Bedroom Airbnb. The house provides present-day amenities while still honoring the original 1930s character. You’ll enjoy a new and sparkling clean kitchen, complete with all the appliances and utensils you need. The bathroom, laundry, dining room, reading nook and living room have all been beautifully updated as well, ensuring that you'll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 246 reviews
The Carol Anne-Charming 2bd/2ba Victorian near DT!
This Victorian-era duplex is the perfect mix of Victorian and modern for all the comforts of home. Perfect for quick or extended trips. Location can't be beat: Walking distance to Drake University. Minutes by car to downtown, hospitals, Ingersoll district and proximity to I-235 gets you anywhere in the city. Off street parking/electronic locks make check-in a easy. 2 large bedrooms w/queen beds, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, closets, and more making it ideal for multiple guests!
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews
8000sqft Barndo | Indoor Court + 2 Living Qtrs
Welcome to The Lodge on 3rd - a massive 8000 sq ft Barndominum. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With 4 spacious bedrooms and a large loft, there is plenty of room for you and your guests to unwind in style. This property is next door to Luxury Living on Third. airbnb.com/h/luxurylivingonthird These combined properties are ideal for family reunions, etc. ***$200 Pet Fee***
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviews
Woodland Heights hist. district house on the hill.
Beautiful historic duplex house in the heart of woodland heights. Walking distance to downtown and next to Ingersoll avenue which is full of shops, bars, restaurants and more. Our place allows 2 parking spots on site with a side entrance to your upstairs Airbnb. The 800+ sq ft space includes a private kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, and balcony with views of downtown. Picnic table and grassy area below balcony can be used on those nice Iowa days.
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 201 reviews
Homey Drake Cottage Hideaway
Cozy, homey retreat near Drake University and minutes from downtown Des Moines! Relax in a comfortable living space with modern touches, cook in the fully equipped kitchen, and rest easy in bright, welcoming bedrooms. Enjoy fast WiFi, a smart TV, and all the comforts of home including a fully fenced backyard and private parking. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a warm, convenient stay in a friendly neighborhood.
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews
Etta’s Place - private 1b/1b - MidCentury Modern
We love our neighborhood and are excited to share it with you! We have partnered with local restaurants, bars, coffee shops, boutiques, & tea shops to offer exclusive discounts to guests of “Etta’s Place.” It’s our hope that this Airbnb allows you to enjoy the wonderful Ingersoll District. Des Moines is a great place to visit, lots of outdoor activities, amazing food, and unique experiences around every corner!
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 591 reviewsPopular amenities for vacation rentals near Drake University
Other top sights near Drake University
Condo rentals with wifi

Spacious&Clean, Parking Included! Prime Location!
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 517 reviews
Cozy West Des Moines Two Bedroom Condo with Deck
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews
Great location + Price Clean and Comfortable
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews
Downtown 2 Bed 2 Bath Condo
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 43 reviews
Stylish & Posh Downtown Mid-Rise Executive Suite
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 25 reviews
1 Bedroom Mid-Century Modern Condo
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 80 reviews
NEW appliances! Midcentury Modern Garden Unit
4.78 out of 5 average rating, 233 reviews
Designer Downtown Condo Suite - Splendid View
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 216 reviewsFamily-friendly house rentals

Big Groups/Pool/Hot tub/Large backyard/Fire Pit
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews
Des Moines Bungalow in Drake University Area
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews
Peaceful oasis, private wooded back yard, games
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 132 reviews
MidCentury, technicolor Ranch w/yard, w+d, parking
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 347 reviews
Welcome to Riley's Place in Des Moines, Iowa!
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews
Heartland BNB~Hot Tub~Sauna~fire table~2 kings
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviews
Walkable Neighborhood Close to BEST Restaurants
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 173 reviews
Hot Tub - Movie Theater - Firepit - Near Downtown
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 170 reviewsApartment rentals with air conditioning

Downtown Dream 2br w/ City Views 2 blocks to Court
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 144 reviews
High-rise Oasis
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews
Historical Gem! Reserved Parking & Skywalk Access
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews
Unique "Little Italy" Apartment
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1001 reviews
Newly Renovated Aloha Apt.
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 367 reviews
Free Parking|Downtown near Wells Fargo
4.77 out of 5 average rating, 137 reviews
Luxury | Skyline View | Downtown| Walk |Dream Room
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviews
Hillside Haven | Private Entry | Near Downtown
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviewsOther great vacation rentals near Drake University

Junction Oasis
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews
Tranquility in the Heart of Des Moines
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews
Walnut Street Penthouse | Downtown Des Moines
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 187 reviewsLuxury Hotel Condo in Downtown Des Moines
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 237 reviews
RARE Spacious Treehouse & Sauna Near Des Moines
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews
Wooded Glamping Experience - Saylor Creek Hideaway
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 328 reviews
White Oak Hillside Oasis
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviews
Charming home by Drake/Downtown!
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 40 reviews




