Holiday Inn Express Urbandale Des Moines

The staff were pleasant and service was okay, but I didn't find the hotel worth the price. The place is dated, very open, and bare around the sidewalks and parking lot. Other hotels face both the front and back, so the windows look into another property, with no view or privacy. Inside the room, the TV was about computer-monitor size, the lighting was poor, and the air conditioner was okay, though the room sometimes felt humid and stuffy. There were plenty of problems in the bathroom: a leaking ceiling above the entry door, a broken exhaust fan, a dingy, torn shower curtain, a stained tub, and a toilet seat that wasn't attached properly. Showering soaked the floor. The food was undesirable, and breakfast was an unpleasant place to sit or relax because chairs were left on tables while it was being served. The breakfast needs improvement.

Easy check-in, comfortable beds, and nice rooms. It's close to I-80, and I'd stay again.

The beds are comfortable, though we bring our own pillows because we're picky about them. The spa tub and the room layout we usually get are other favorites, and breakfast is enough for us. The rooms are always clean, but over time they've started to need repairs and replacements. We stay here for the convenience and affordable price, and will keep coming back when we're in the area. Other guests aren't always great company, which can happen at cheaper hotels anywhere. Tonight three guys were smoking weed right outside the exit doors, so be aware if that bothers you.

I was traveling with a tour group, so I hadn't chosen Microtel myself. The room was sparse and utilitarian, and missing basics I like: bathroom counter space, an iron and ironing board, and a closet with hangers. Instead there were pegs around the room that seemed meant for clothes, but most of mine were missing. At least there was a hair dryer. Breakfast was passable. I got a laugh out of the do-not-disturb card saying, "please do not disturb, I'm enjoying my well-designed room." Thankfully it was just one night, though we had to stay here again on the way back to our starting point.