Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

The building is beautiful, peaceful, and clearly well cared for. It’s a historic property with lovely grounds, and my clean room had a great view of the downtown buildings. I’ll definitely stay here next time I’m in Des Moines. From the moment I pulled up, the service was great. The valet was helpful and friendly, and I’d spend the money to use valet. Check-in was quick, and the staff greeted me as soon as I walked up. Thanks to everyone at Hotel Fort Des Moines!

We chose this hotel for our dad’s 80th birthday family celebration because on our last trip it was just finishing renovations, and my sister had enjoyed its clean, comfortable rooms and good location. I’d recommend it and would stay again. The Hilton app made things really smooth. I picked my preferred floor and room during check-in, activated the digital key on my phone, and checked out through the app too. Our room had good space, plenty of bathroom counter room, and a walk-in shower. The shower pressure wasn’t great, though it was decent enough. My roommate found the pillows too soft, so if you like firm ones, bring your own. The hotel’s history is shown on each floor through the years, with interactive mirrors where you can try period clothing for fun photos. There’s also an amazing scent in the lobby that relaxed me and lifted my mood whenever I came in or got off the elevator. We had a packed visit, so I didn’t get to try the Speakeasy or the hotel restaurants. They were all bustling. I’d like to check them out next time. There are several good restaurants within walking distance, and a Starbucks nearby.

The building has some charm, but I’d be very wary of staying at Hotel Fort Des Moines. We booked in advance in September 25, checked in, and started unpacking. Within an hour, another guest used his key card to walk into our room while my wife and I were in the bedroom. It seems the room had been double-booked. At checkout, the front desk attendant asked how the stay was. We described what happened, and the “Director of Rooms” came over and promised we wouldn’t be charged because of the inconvenience. A couple of weeks passed without any sign of a refund, so I contacted the hotel. At first, I got replies saying they were working on it but couldn’t easily issue refunds because of the corporate structure. After that, my emails went unanswered. When four months passed with no progress, I contacted Hilton and explained that the hotel had promised a refund it couldn’t deliver. The Hilton representative said there were no notes on my reservation and sent me back to Hotel Fort Des Moines. A double-booked room, a promise that wasn’t kept, and multiple ignored emails don’t suggest a hotel that puts customers first. Management has issues, and if you want a good hotel experience, keep looking.

The hotel has a lot of personality and is beautifully finished, and we enjoyed staying here. I also appreciate that pets aren’t allowed. I love my own pets, but leave them at home when I travel, and don’t want to breathe in other people’s pet dander or anything else they might leave behind.