Days Inn by Wyndham Des Moines Merle Hay

We had a great experience and would stay again. The place was very clean, the pool and hot tub were nice, and breakfast was a nice little extra. The front desk staff were helpful and polite. After a shower, the bathroom got awfully steamy. I wish there’d been a fan or a way to crack the window. I know it was winter, but still.

The room was clean, though a bit tight for more than two adults and a teenager. The toilet took three tries to flush everything, and the shower wouldn’t drain. The night manager was friendly enough, but there’s an unadvertised $100 deposit mentioned only on a small sign at the desk. The day manager had to inspect our room before returning it and moved at a turtle’s pace. Breakfast was okay but limited: toast, waffles, a few muffins, plus a small crock of sausage gravy and some biscuits. There was a distinct weed smell in the halls, and someone had thrown up before breakfast. It’s a low three stars for me, really a 2.5 if I could give half stars.

It’s an older building, so the hotel isn’t especially fancy, but it felt cozy and nice. The room was clean, and I’m glad they strictly enforce the no-smoking rule. Staff were courteous and helpful, and having a bar on site was a nice extra. We were in Des Moines for a concert, and it was excellent!

We were glad to find a last-minute room with two queen beds for our family to crash in during a road trip. Service was good, and the Continental breakfast had plenty of options. The rooms smelled really musky and mildewy, though, which put me off. Maybe that’s just because I haven’t stayed in many motels lately. I would’ve liked to use the pool or hot tub, which looked well maintained, but we didn’t have time.