We just returned from a one-night stay in a corner fireplace suite (about $275 plus tax), room 311. The room was very large, clean and comfortable. The bathroom was huge, with whirlpool tub and glass/marble shower. Maybe it's not much to say this is the best hotel in Des Moines (and probably in Iowa) but if you find yourself in Des Moines needing a place to stay and don't have to stay somewhere cheap, this is your best choice. See my photos of the lobby and our room.

Pleasant stay at the Suites of 800 Locust. Our room was a fireplace corner on the 5th floor and was more spacious than expected with a foyer/entrance, adequate sized bathroom and large seating area and bedroom. Highlights were a lofty 20 foot ceiling and dramatic wrap around windows with high quality draperies and interesting views of downtown; a very comfortable king bed with high thread count linens and bedding; a beautiful gas fireplace with cherry mantle, wide crown molding and traditional furnishings. Quiet room with no background noise. Common areas are equally formal and luxurious. Staff was curteous and pleasant. Spa area good with large hot tub and adjacent steam room and adequate quality and number of exercise machines and weights. Full hot breakfast in the morning was served in a small lounge area on the main floor. A chef was present and made to order omlets which were good. Various fresh fruits, dry cereal, juices, coffee, danish and hot waffles were served. The negatives were the lack of restaurant in the hotel, small and often crowded eating area in the lounge for breakfast during prime time, location requires driving to most hot spots for dining and pricey room rate ($229/night). Overall, a superior choice for luxury and formality and likely a top choice in Des Moines.

This place is very average. Rooms are decent sized and in good condition. But unless you like REALLY hard water, don't plan on enjoying your shower. Also, don't plan on any room service because there is none available. And if you want to grab a beer/cocktail outside of what is in the mini-bar......good LUCK! Nearest convenience store/grocery is about 4-5 miles down Locust. HO HUM>>>>

Fine hotel, but I don't know what the big deal is about. Everything looked nice and luxurious, but the rooms were pretty much like a business traveler hotel room anywhere. Nothing seemed bad, or outstanding.

Lack of a Lack of a restaurant is a big drag. No room service and totally sub-par breakfast buffet.

This was a fine hotel, but not anything to get all excited about.