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Central Iowa Vacations

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  • Discover the most popular places to visit in Central Iowa

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    Photo by Lana Garmon

    Jordan Creek Town Center

    Rating: 9.2/10 (1,624 reviews)

    You can enjoy retail therapy at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

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    An aerial view of a bustling fairground with various stalls, rides, and a Ferris wheel.

    Iowa State Fairgrounds

    Rating: 8.8/10 (945 reviews)

    Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

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    A city skyline with a river and a bridge.

    Iowa Events Center

    Rating: 8.8/10 (573 reviews)

    Learn about the events happening at Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

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    Casey's Center

    Rating: 8.8/10 (976 reviews)

    Catch an event at Casey's Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

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    Jack Trice Stadium

    Rating: 9.4/10 (327 reviews)

    Catch an event at Jack Trice Stadium during your trip to Ames. In the area, you can attend a football game or basketball game.

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    Des Moines Civic Center

    Rating: 8.8/10 (374 reviews)

    Enjoy an outing to Des Moines Civic Center during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and lively festivals.

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    UNI-Dome

    Rating: 8.8/10 (176 reviews)

    Catch an event at UNI-Dome during your trip to Cedar Falls. Discover the beautiful waterfalls and casinos in this family-friendly area.

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    EMC Expo Center

    Rating: 8.4/10 (188 reviews)

    Learn about the events happening at EMC Expo Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

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    Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels

    Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

    A lobby with blue armchairs, a wooden table, and a brick wall.
    • Address: 603 South 16th Street, Ames, IA, 50010, US
    • Location: 27.5 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2.5/5
    • Guest rating: 9/10 (Wonderful, 1000 reviews)
    • Price: CA $120, CA $134 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 22 - Nov 23, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels

    Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

    A spacious living area with a wooden dining table, comfortable seating, a brick fireplace, and a staircase leading to an upper level.
    • Address: 2500 University Blvd., Ames, IA, 50010, US
    • Location: 29 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2.5/5
    • Guest rating: 8.6/10 (Excellent, 1000 reviews)
    • Price: CA $105, CA $118 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 15 - Nov 16, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels

    SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames

    An outdoor seating area with stone walls, a fire pit, and modern furniture.
    • Address: 1810 SE 16TH STREET, Ames, IA, 50010, US
    • Location: 25.2 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2.5/5
    • Guest rating: 9.4/10 (Exceptional, 672 reviews)
    • Price: CA $144, CA $161 total, includes taxes & fees, Dec 13 - Dec 14, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels
    • Review: The general manager at the front desk was super nice and helpful. Property was very clean and well maintained.

    Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

    An indoor swimming pool with a hot tub, tiled flooring, and seating area with chairs and potted plants.
    • Address: 2100 Green Hills Drive, Ames, IA, 50014, US
    • Location: 29.2 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 3/5
    • Guest rating: 9.2/10 (Wonderful, 1437 reviews)
    • Price: CA $122, CA $137 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 15 - Nov 16, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels
    • Review: The staff was so friendly! And we really enjoyed the restaurant on site. The hotel is close proximity to Iowa State University. Clean and well maintained. Will stay here the next time we visit our son at ISU!

    Comfort Inn Story City

    A buffet setup with various food items and a 'RISE & SHINE' sign on the wall.
    • Address: 425 Timberland Dr, Story City, IA, 50248, US
    • Location: 34.1 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2.5/5
    • Guest rating: 8.8/10 (Excellent, 452 reviews)
    • Price: CA $119, CA $134 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 24 - Nov 25, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels

    Sonesta Essential Ames

    A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.
    • Address: 1400 S Dayton Place, Ames, IA, 50010, US
    • Location: 24.5 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2/5
    • Guest rating: 7.6/10 (Good, 1001 reviews)
    • Price: CA $89, CA $100 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 24 - Nov 25, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels
    • Review: Very nice

    Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames

    Lobby
    • Address: 2216 Se 16th St, Ames, IA, 50010, US
    • Location: 24.6 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2/5
    • Guest rating: 7.8/10 (Good, 1000 reviews)
    • Price: CA $94, CA $105 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 24 - Nov 25, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels
    • Review: It was all good

    Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus

    A spacious lobby with a brown sofa, armchairs, and a coffee table.
    • Address: 1310 Dickinson Avenue, Ames, IA, 50014, US
    • Location: 32.7 km from Central Iowa
    • Star rating: 2.5/5
    • Guest rating: 8.8/10 (Excellent, 1000 reviews)
    • Price: CA $115, CA $128 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 23 - Nov 24, for Top Scuba Diving Central Iowa Hotels

    Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does a Central Iowa vacation package cost?

    The most affordable Central Iowa package is , so your dream trip can become a reality — without breaking the bank. Combine flights, hotels, car rentals and more to tailor a package that matches your traveling style.

    How do I get a cheap travel package to Central Iowa?

    Bundle, bundle, bundle. Flights, rental cars and hotels — combine whatever you need into a Central Iowa vacation package to save tons of cash. Score even bigger bargains when you add extras such as sightseeing tours to your booking. But that's not the only good part. You have the flexibility to put together your trip your way. We offer over 550 partner airlines and 1,000,000 hotels all over the world, so that everyone has a chance to travel and fulfill those vacation fantasies.

    Where should I stay in Central Iowa?

    You can't go wrong in Des Moines. Renowned attractions, like Adventureland and Iowa State Fairgrounds, will keep you busy in this vibrant city.

    What are the top hotels in Central Iowa?

    La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines and Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport know how to make their guests feel at home in Des Moines. If you also plan to visit Clear Lake, take a look at Best Western Holiday Lodge and Super 8 by Wyndham Mason City. Both are popular with travelers.

    How far in advance should I book my Central Iowa vacation?

    It depends on the airline, but you can usually compare international fares on Expedia nearly a year in advance. While it's generally a good idea to book ahead of time, lucky travelers will occasionally nab a cheaper ticket only weeks before departure dates.

    What does an Expedia Central Iowa travel package include?

    It all boils down to what kind of trip you want to have. Central Iowa vacation deals can include hotels, flights and car rentals. You can mix and match to find the bundle that works for you! You can also add on activities and experiences after you've booked to land even bigger discounts.

    What should I know before booking a Central Iowa travel package?

    Find deals that match your budget with an Expedia package. Flights, hotels, rental cars — we have them all. You'll save big bucks just by combining your bookings. Whether you're heading away on a winter adventure or relaxing on a sunny beach, your perfect vacation is only clicks away.

    Can I choose my airline with a Central Iowa Expedia vacation package?

    Yes — and it's easy too. Expedia has access to more than 550 partner airlines all over the world. Our vacation packages give you the flexibility to take your pick of available flights, hotels and activities that suit you.

    If I'm not able to travel, can I cancel my Central Iowa vacation package?

    Certainly, and we're here to help. You may be able to amend or cancel your Central Iowa vacation package for free if you booked in the last 24 hours. But you may incur a fee from your airline, hotel or car rental company if you booked more than 24 hours ago. If your travel plans suddenly change, visit our Customer Service Portal for more information.

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