Motel 6 Altoona, IA - Des Moines East

I would not recommend this place, or any Motel 6 in Iowa. We had been staying at the West Des Moines location, but after we found out it had bed bugs, they moved us to the Altoona one. Then they took my card and money, and when we tried to get our $50 deposit back, they refused. They usually charge $200, by the way. We had to call the police again just to recover the $50. There is now an ongoing investigation because, as I understand it, other customers have also reported money being taken. My card was stolen too, so I would advise against using yours here unless you want to risk having cards and money taken. The same owner runs all three locations.

The room had holes in the walls and hair all over, including in the bathtub. The shower was filthy, and its water handle was missing. The room reeked of wet dog the whole time, and there was no smoke alarm. Don't stay here, it felt like a nightmare.

The only good thing for us was how close it was to Adventureland. After two nights, the whole family was ready to leave. We barely spent time in the room except to sleep, and I wouldn't choose this place with kids, or if you care about working plumbing and air you can breathe. Outside, there was a run-down RV, someone draining oil from a truck, people smoking on the stairs, and a woman who looked like she might be working, if you know what I mean. Inside, the place smelled musty, possibly from the staff or owners cooking, and the whole building felt worn out. The pool couldn't be used. Our room was upstairs, reached by uneven concrete steps that looked like they had seen accidents. The only ice machine on our floor was out of order, and it looked like you'd need a tetanus shot if it worked. The room smelled strongly of mildew, one light didn't work, and the air conditioner sounded like it was about to give out. Then the toilet stopped working too.

We needed a room at the last minute on Christmas, and they let us check in at 10am without charging extra. The room was clean and quiet. I'd stay here again.