GrandStay Hotel & Suites leads with a perfect Wi-Fi score and sits right on Merle Hay Road. For the highest cleanliness near the mall, Aloft by Marriott Waukee’s 9.5 rating takes the crown.
Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines offers solid shopping and dining—these nearby hotels let you roll out of bed and into the stores without wasting time.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 14 properties and over 3,900 verified guest reviews to compile this list of hotels near Merle Hay Mall, prioritizing those with an average guest score of 8.0/10 or higher and a clear proximity advantage.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Right on Merle Hay Road: #9 GrandStay Hotel & Suites→ Rates
#10 Quality Inn & Suites – Merle Hay→ Rates - Top overall rating: #1 Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines→ Rates
- Cleanest stay: #13 Aloft by Marriott Waukee→ Rates
- Best value: #5 Motel 6-West Des Moines→ Rates
- Pet-friendly + kitchen: #9 GrandStay Hotel & Suites→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines – Johnston | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Country Inn & Suites Des Moines West | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Motel 6-West Des Moines, IA | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 6. AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Sonesta Simply Suites Des Moines | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 9. GrandStay Hotel & Suites Johnston-Des Moines | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Quality Inn & Suites – Merle Hay Road | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 11. WoodSpring Suites West Des Moines | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Qube Hotel – Polk City | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Aloft by Marriott Waukee | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 14. MainStay Suites Waukee-West Des Moines | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Hotels Near Merle Hay Mall Reviewed: The Full Breakdown
1. Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines
The Vibe
This is the highest-rated overall property near the mall—a 9.1 with 700+ reviews backing it up. Staff friendliness scores 9.5, and the breakfast gets special mention from guests who call it a “wonderful” start to the day. Cleanliness and comfort both hit 9.4.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with flat-screen TVs and work desks. The outdoor swimming pool is seasonal, and there’s a fitness center for morning sessions. Free private parking makes it easy to drive the 12 minutes to Merle Hay Mall. The 9.5 location score reflects how central West Des Moines feels—close to restaurants and the interstate. Elevator access means no hauling luggage up stairs.
Choose this if: You want a reliable, high-scoring hotel with a real breakfast spread before you hit the mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines →
2. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines – Johnston
The Vibe
This hotel has a distinct rustic-lodge feel that stands out from the chain-hotel crowd. The indoor pool and hot tub are year-round draws, and the location score of 9.0 confirms it’s well-placed for Merle Hay Mall access. Free parking is a bonus.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature flat-screen TVs and some include kitchenettes with a stovetop—handy for families. Wi-Fi scores a strong 9.0, and the continental breakfast is included. The property is pet-friendly with a $25/night fee for dogs up to 50 lbs. Adjoining rooms are available, but they’re request-only, not guaranteed. The check-out time flexibility until 11:00 AM is nice for slow mornings.
Choose this if: You want a unique vibe with a kitchenette and don’t mind a short drive to the mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines – Johnston →
3. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA
The Vibe
Cleanliness scores 9.0 here, and guests consistently call it “one of the cleanest hotels in the Des Moines region.” The staff ratings are impressive at 9.1, and the indoor pool is big enough for lap swimming. Location hits 9.2—solid for accessing West Des Moines and Merle Hay Mall.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a microwave and mini-fridge (no full kitchen). Free on-site parking is available, and the property accepts pets with fees. Nearby restaurants include El Rodeo and Cracker Barrel per guest Q&As. The breakfast is rated “good” by guests with rotating options. There’s no elevator mentioned, so request a ground floor if stairs are an issue.
Choose this if: Cleanliness and a proper indoor pool are your top priorities near the mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA →
4. Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport
The Vibe
This one is for the budget-conscious traveler who also needs easy airport access—it’s less than a mile from DSM. The 7.1 rating reflects solid value, and the free airport shuttle is a real perk. Location scores 8.3, and the indoor pool adds a low-cost amenity.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include a bathtub and air conditioning. The continental breakfast is included. Note that pets are not allowed here—strict policy. Extra beds or baby cots are available for the King Suite and Queen Room with Two Queen Beds. The 24-hour front desk means late check-ins are no problem.
Choose this if: You’re flying in and want a cheap base with a pool before hitting the mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport →
5. Motel 6-West Des Moines, IA
The Vibe
This is the most pet-friendly budget option—pets stay free with no extra charges. The outdoor pool has a sun terrace, and the value score of 8.2 shows guests feel they get their money’s worth. Staff scores 8.0, and the Wi-Fi is solid at 8.4.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have expanded cable TV and air conditioning. There’s a restaurant on-site that takes reservations. Free parking is available. The 20-minute drive from Des Moines International Airport is manageable. The 7.4 rating is honest—this is a basic, clean motel that does the job without frills.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with pets on a tight budget and need a place to crash near the mall.
6. AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines
The Vibe
This hotel sits right on Merle Hay Road, making it one of the closest options to the mall. The staff score of 8.6 is a highlight, and the indoor pool adds year-round appeal. It’s a solid mid-range pick with scores above 8.0 for staff, location, and Wi-Fi.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have standard amenities with free Wi-Fi. The continental breakfast is included, and there’s free private parking. Pets are allowed with a $25/night fee. Note the minimum check-in age is 21—important for younger travelers. The property sits along Interstates 80 and 35, making it easy to reach.
Choose this if: You want to be as close to Merle Hay Road as possible without breaking the bank.
Check Tonight’s Price for AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines →
7. Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines
The Vibe
This 4-star inn scores 9.2 for location and 9.0 for comfort—guests mention the rooms are quiet with good lighting options. The staff gets a 9.0, and cleanliness hits 8.9. It’s a newer, well-maintained property that’s further from the mall but offers a quieter stay.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are soundproofed with multiple lighting options. The indoor pool and fitness center are available. Free parking on-site includes truck parking on the south side. Pets are allowed for $25/night, max 2 per room. The continental breakfast is included. Wi-Fi is complimentary and scores 8.3.
Choose this if: You prioritize a quiet, clean room and don’t mind a longer drive to the mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines →
8. Sonesta Simply Suites Des Moines
The Vibe
This is an extended-stay property with full kitchens in the suites. The 8.4 location score is solid for West Des Moines access. The 2-star rating means minimal frills, but the kitchenettes make it practical for longer stays or meal prep before a mall day.
What You Actually Get
One-bedroom queen suites include a pull-out sofa bed in the living room. Kitchens have full-size appliances. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.0, and there’s an on-site fitness center. Pets are allowed with fees. Check-in starts at 4:00 PM—later than most. A physical ID is required at check-in; digital copies aren’t accepted.
Choose this if: You’re staying for multiple days and want to cook your own meals.
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9. GrandStay Hotel & Suites Johnston-Des Moines, IA
The Vibe
This property is a top contender near Merle Hay Mall, scoring 9.0 overall with a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi. Cleanliness hits 9.4, comfort 9.3, and location 9.3—it’s a standout across the board. Guests rave about the location for dining and the overall cleanliness.
What You Actually Get
Suites include full kitchens with stovetops and full-size refrigerators. The complimentary “Grand Start” breakfast runs 6-9 AM on weekdays and 6-10 AM on weekends with hot options. Free private parking is available. Pets are allowed with a $25/night fee and a $100 security deposit (max 3 pets). The indoor pool and fitness center add value. Late check-in is available until midnight.
Choose this if: You want the best combination of location on Merle Hay Road, cleanliness, and kitchen access.
Check Tonight’s Price for GrandStay Hotel & Suites Johnston-Des Moines, IA →
10. Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines – Merle Hay Road
The Vibe
This hotel sits right on the corner of I-35/80 and Merle Hay Road—literally the closest address to the mall on this list. The 7.0 rating reflects honest budget-tier quality, but the location is the real draw. The indoor pool is open year-round.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have private bathrooms with showers or tubs. A “good breakfast” is included. Free parking is on-site. Pets are allowed with fees. Note the minimum check-in age is 25—this is stricter than most. A cash or credit card deposit between $50-$100 is required at check-in.
Choose this if: You want to park your car and walk to Merle Hay Mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines – Merle Hay Road →
11. WoodSpring Suites West Des Moines
The Vibe
This is an extended-stay property with a practical focus—full-size refrigerators and microwaves in every room. The 7.0 rating reflects the no-frills approach, but the location score of 8.1 is solid for West Des Moines. No age restriction here, which is helpful for younger travelers.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air conditioning and the aforementioned full-size fridge. Wi-Fi scores 7.5, and there’s a fitness center. Dogs are accepted but no other pets. Check-in closes at 9:00 PM—not 24-hour, so plan arrival times carefully. Coffee pots are available for purchase at the front desk rather than in-room.
Choose this if: You need an extended-stay layout with a real fridge and have an early check-in time.
Check Tonight’s Price for WoodSpring Suites West Des Moines →
12. Qube Hotel – Polk City
The Vibe
This is an independent, non-chain hotel surrounded by green space—guests love the quiet and fresh air. It’s further from the mall (20-min drive) but offers a unique experience. Cleanliness scores 8.8, and the Wi-Fi is perfect at 10.0. The outdoor patio is a nice bonus.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are clean and comfortable with private bathrooms. There’s a hot tub and fitness center. Free private parking is available. Breakfast is continental/buffet style. Pets are not allowed here. The friendly owner gets consistent praise in reviews. It’s a good option if you want to escape the chain-hotel experience.
Choose this if: You want a quiet, independent stay with great Wi-Fi and don’t mind the drive.
13. Aloft by Marriott Waukee
The Vibe
This is the highest-scoring property on the list alongside #1—a 9.1 with a cleanliness score of 9.5. It’s a modern Marriott property with a bar and restaurant on-site. Guests love the comfortable beds and proximity to I-80. The location score of 9.4 confirms it’s well-placed for the Waukee area.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have Amazon Prime available for streaming. The Re:fuel area offers breakfast for purchase daily. There’s an indoor pool and fitness center. Free on-site parking is included. The minimum check-in age is 18—the lowest on this list. Staff scores 9.4, and comfort hits 9.5. It’s a short drive to Merle Hay Mall via I-80.
Choose this if: You want the cleanest possible stay near the mall with modern amenities.
14. MainStay Suites Waukee-West Des Moines
The Vibe
This 4-star property scores a 9.0 overall with a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi and a 9.5 for location—the highest location score on the list. Guests call it “very clean” and appreciate the spacious rooms. Staff scores 9.3, and comfort is 9.2. It’s adjacent to restaurants and stores.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are spacious with comfortable bedding. The indoor pool and fitness center are available. Free parking is on-site, and a continental breakfast is included. Pets are allowed with fees (call for current rates). The property is in the same complex as Sleep Inn (#7) but offers more suite-style layouts.
Choose this if: You want the best-rated location and spacious suites with perfect Wi-Fi.
Check Tonight’s Price for MainStay Suites Waukee-West Des Moines →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#9 GrandStay Hotel & Suites Johnston-Des Moines
Perfect Wi-Fi, 9.4 cleanliness, full kitchens, and a prime Merle Hay Road location—this hits every mark near Mall.
Check Tonight’s Price for GrandStay Hotel & Suites Johnston-Des Moines, IA →
💰 Best Value
#5 Motel 6-West Des Moines, IA
Free pets, outdoor pool, solid 7.4 rating, and the lowest price point among these hotels near Merle Hay Mall.
✨ Editor’s Choice
#1 Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines
9.1 overall, staff at 9.5, and a hot breakfast included—reliable quality that repeat guests keep coming back to.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines →
How We Ranked These Hotels
I evaluated 14 properties near Merle Hay Mall using 3,900+ verified reviews to find the best hotels near Merle Hay Mall for every traveler type—from budget stays to top-rated suites.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 50+ verified reviews were included
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location, cleanliness, and staff scores—the categories that matter most for mall access stays
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities like kitchens, pools, and pet policies against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to Merle Hay Mall specifically—properties on Merle Hay Road ranked higher
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotel is closest to Merle Hay Mall?
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines – Merle Hay Road (#10) sits directly on the corner of I-35/80 and Merle Hay Road, making it the closest address. AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines (#6) and GrandStay Hotel & Suites (#9) are also on Merle Hay Road within a 2-5 minute drive.
Are pets allowed at these hotels near Merle Hay Mall?
Yes—most properties on this list allow pets with fees. Motel 6-West Des Moines (#5) is the standout option with free pets and no extra charges. GrandStay Hotel & Suites (#9) charges $25/night with a $100 deposit (max 3 pets). Stoney Creek (#2) and Quality Inn – Merle Hay (#10) also allow pets. Quality Inn Airport (#4) and Qube Hotel (#12) do not allow pets.
Which hotels have kitchens for extended stays near the mall?
GrandStay Hotel & Suites (#9) offers full kitchens in suites with stovetops and full-size fridges. Stoney Creek (#2) has kitchenettes with stovetops. Sonesta Simply Suites (#8) and WoodSpring Suites (#11) both have full-size fridges and microwaves—ideal for longer mall-area stays.
What’s the best time to visit Des Moines for shopping?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather ideal for walking between stores. December is busy with holiday shopping at Merle Hay Mall. Summer can be humid, but indoor pools at many hotels provide a cool-down option after a day of shopping.
Which hotel has the best free breakfast near the mall?
Drury Inn & Suites (#1) serves a “wonderful” hot breakfast with eggs, sausage, and Belgian waffles included. GrandStay Hotel & Suites (#9) offers a “Grand Start” breakfast with hot options, running 6-10 AM on weekends. Country Inn & Suites (#3) also gets praise for its good breakfast with variety.
Can I check in late at any of these hotels?
GrandStay Hotel & Suites (#9) allows check-in until midnight—the latest on this list. Most properties have standard 3:00 PM check-in with 24-hour front desks. Quality Inn Airport (#4) has a 24-hour front desk for very late arrivals. WoodSpring Suites (#11) closes check-in at 9:00 PM, so arrive early there.