Family-friendly vacation rentals in Polk County

Historic Home on 4 Acres - Hot Tub, Pool, Tiki Bar

Our 1948 vacation home is on 4 acres & boasts 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, Bridal Suite (4th bedroom), 70s TV/Game Room, Tiki Bar, & Children's Playroom. Outside we have a pool (guaranteed to be open 5/26 - 9/5) & hot tub (year round). Located 15min away from Downtown DSM & a mile away from a grocery store/restaurants. Up to 2 dogs allowed for an additional fee. ***Events/photo shoots are allowed with written permission only and will be an added fee. No events larger than 25 total.***

This is the best Des Moines has to offer!

Welcome to a beautiful 3 story townhome in the heart of Des Moines. If an upscale modern home with an incredible view is your thing, you will be in heaven. Inside you’ll find a clean, bright and well decorated home with all the amenities you'll need to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. Minutes from shopping, dining and nightlife. The bike trail is across the street where you can ride to Gray’s Lake or stroll to downtown DSM and enjoy the Farmer's Market, Civic Center and Principal Park.

Cozy, Private Guest Suite & Backyard Oasis

Enjoy a peaceful stay in our private basement suite. You'll love the tall ceilings, natural light, and watching wildlife in our backyard! Private entrance from the back patio, & off-street parking for 1 car. Includes: 1 bedroom with queen bed, bathroom with shower/tub, full kitchen, living room with futon couch, floor mattress, and pack 'n play. Ask for pet policy before booking. If interested in a blocked date, message me (new job=less weekly availability). 10% discount for educators 🏫❤️.

Spacious Private Apartment

Welcome to your retreat! This roomy walkout apartment with a private entrance offers a garden view, perfect for unwinding. The entire lower level is yours to enjoy. With easy interstate access, Ames and Des Moines are just a quick trip away. If you prefer to stay local, Ankeny offers great dining, shopping and entertainment options. We live upstairs, so you may hear us occasionally, but we strive to be as quiet as possible. We can't wait to host you and make your visit a memorable one!

Unique "Little Italy" Apartment

Drive into the attached garage and go upstairs where you will find your very private entrance to a quiet, peaceful, and restful living. Located 1 mile from the downtown area on a street loaded with large Oak and Walnut trees. A huge back yard in which to stroll or barbecue. It is the top half of my house complete with it's own kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. My residence is the bottom half of the house. Lots of excellent restaurants nearby. Check out the "Guide to Restaurants".

Windy Pines Suite

Windy Pines offers a spacious bedroom with a comfortable king sized bed and large bathroom. The kitchen and living room are great. This clean, comfortable, & uncluttered space is a home away from home! You will be surrounded by beautiful greenery, in a safe neighborhood with accessible parking. Close to interstate 80 & 35, the Iowa State Fair Grounds, and Downtown Des Moines. WP is attached to our home but with its own separate outside entrance. Please send me any questions.

Spacious One Bedroom apartment

This apartment features over 1,200 square feet of living space. Enjoy a full kitchen with granite countertops, full oven, full refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave oven. Spend time playing ping pong with family or enjoy popcorn and a movie. The location is situated in a quiet and safe neighborhood about 20 minutes from downtown Des Moines. Weather your planning a get-away with family or friends or a relaxing time alone we want our home to be your oasis.

Woodland Heights hist. district house on the hill.

Beautiful historic duplex house in the heart of woodland heights. Walking distance to downtown and next to Ingersoll avenue which is full of shops, bars, restaurants and more. Our place allows 2 parking spots on site with a side entrance to your upstairs Airbnb. The 800+ sq ft space includes a private kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, and balcony with views of downtown. Picnic table and grassy area below balcony can be used on those nice Iowa days.

Etta’s Place - private 1b/1b - MidCentury Modern

We love our neighborhood and are excited to share it with you! We have partnered with local restaurants, bars, coffee shops, boutiques, & tea shops to offer exclusive discounts to guests of “Etta’s Place.” It’s our hope that this Airbnb allows you to enjoy the wonderful Ingersoll District. Des Moines is a great place to visit, lots of outdoor activities, amazing food, and unique experiences around every corner!