7 Shocking Upgrades And Hidden Perks At The Des Moines Marriott Downtown You Must Know Before Booking
The Des Moines Marriott Downtown has cemented its status as the premier destination for travelers in Iowa's capital, not just by being a centrally located hotel, but by undergoing a massive transformation that has redefined the guest experience. As of late December 2025, the hotel stands as a testament to modern luxury and connectivity, following an extensive multi-million dollar modernization project that touched nearly every corner of the property.
This article dives deep into the hotel’s most significant recent changes, revealing the hidden perks—like exclusive access to the Des Moines Skywalk System—and the must-try dining experiences that make it a compelling choice for both business travelers and leisure guests exploring the vibrant Downtown Des Moines (DSM) area. Forget outdated information; this is your essential, up-to-the-minute guide to the new face of the Des Moines Marriott Downtown.
A Detailed Look at the $18 Million Modernization Project and Hotel Profile
The Des Moines Marriott Downtown is far from the standard business hotel; it is a hub of activity and a showcase of contemporary design. The hotel’s recent, significant investment—an $18 million modernization project—has completely revitalized the property, ensuring it meets the high standards of the modern Marriott Bonvoy traveler. The project focused on transforming key public spaces and, most importantly, all guest accommodations.
- Hotel Address: 700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50309
- Total Rooms: 417 guest rooms and suites
- Key Renovation Focus: All 417 guest rooms, the Great Room Lobby, and the City Center Lounge were completely reimagined.
- Luxury Bedding: Guest rooms now feature signature Marriott bedding, premium bedding, and luxurious Frette Italian sheets, elevating the sleep experience.
- Exclusive Access: The hotel features a Concierge Level for elite members and those who choose to upgrade, providing exclusive access to a private lounge.
- Parking Note: A crucial detail for travelers is the parking situation: the hotel offers convenient valet parking, but recent reviews confirm there is no option for self-parking on-site.
The Unbeatable Connectivity: Your Gateway to the Des Moines Skywalk System
One of the most valuable and often-underrated features of the Des Moines Marriott Downtown is its direct connection to the city's unique Skywalk System. This enclosed, climate-controlled network is a game-changer, especially during Iowa’s colder months, transforming the downtown area into a highly accessible, year-round pedestrian zone.
The hotel’s 2nd floor provides direct access to over four miles of the Skywalk. This means guests can easily walk to a multitude of nearby destinations without ever stepping outside. This feature is particularly beneficial for those attending large-scale events or conventions.
Key destinations accessible via the Skywalk include:
- The Iowa Events Center (which encompasses Wells Fargo Arena and the Iowa Convention Center)
- Numerous corporate offices and business centers
- A variety of shopping and dining options
- The Civic Center
For business travelers, the ability to seamlessly transition from their room to a meeting at a nearby office or the convention center is a major time-saver and convenience. For leisure visitors, it means exploring downtown’s vibrant culture and entertainment is always comfortable, regardless of the weather.
Mash + MARROW: The On-Site Culinary Destination
The hotel’s dining scene is anchored by Mash + MARROW, a modern and bold restaurant that serves as much more than just a hotel eatery. It is a destination in its own right, reflecting the growing culinary sophistication of Downtown Des Moines.
The concept behind Mash + MARROW is to offer locally inspired cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a vibrant, social atmosphere. The menu is a blend of familiar favorites and upscale twists, perfect for a casual lunch, an evening cocktail, or a full dinner.
Popular Menu Highlights:
- The M+M Burger: A signature handheld item that has quickly become a guest favorite.
- Classic Cobb: A highly-rated salad option perfect for a lighter meal.
- Turkey BLT: A classic sandwich, often cited as a top-liked featured item.
Beyond the main restaurant, the hotel also features a dedicated bar and lounge area—the recently renovated City Center Lounge—which is ideal for unwinding after a long day or meeting colleagues for a pre-dinner drink. A small café is also on-site for quick coffee and breakfast options.
The Hub of Des Moines Events and Local Attractions
The Des Moines Marriott Downtown is strategically positioned to be the central lodging option for major city events and a launchpad for exploring Iowa’s cultural capital. Its extensive 33,000 square feet of flexible event space makes it a frequent host for major regional and national gatherings.
In 2025, the hotel continues its role as a key event venue, hosting significant gatherings like the 2025 Wine, Food & Beer Showcase in March and the NCUTCD Midyear Meeting in June, demonstrating its ongoing importance to the community and corporate world.
Must-Visit Attractions Within Walking Distance
The hotel’s location on Grand Avenue places guests within a short walk or a quick Skywalk trip of some of Downtown Des Moines' most beloved landmarks and cultural institutions. For those looking to explore the city's unique charm, the following entities are highly recommended:
- Principal Riverwalk: A stunning 1.2-mile recreational loop along the Des Moines River, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering beautiful city views.
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park: An 4.4-acre outdoor museum featuring 31 works of art from internationally renowned artists, located just a short walk from the hotel.
- Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge: A distinctive pedestrian bridge that is part of the Principal Riverwalk, providing a picturesque spot for photos.
- Hoyt Sherman Place: A historic mansion and performing arts center offering a glimpse into local history and hosting a diverse range of shows.
- Soldiers and Sailors Monument: A prominent historical landmark located nearby, offering a connection to Iowa's past.
- Court Avenue District: The city's primary entertainment area, known for its nightlife, restaurants, and the Court Avenue Brewing Company, is easily accessible via the Skywalk or a short walk.
Amenities That Define the Experience
The recent renovations were not just cosmetic; they enhanced the core amenities that travelers rely on. The focus was on providing modern comfort and convenience, reinforcing the hotel's position as a top-tier Downtown Des Moines property.
Core Amenities & Features:
- Indoor Pool: A large, well-maintained indoor swimming pool provides a relaxing escape, popular with both families and business travelers.
- 24-Hour Fitness Center: The fitness center is fully equipped with modern cardio and weight training equipment, accessible around the clock to accommodate any schedule.
- High-Speed Connectivity: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, essential for both remote work and streaming entertainment.
- Modern Rooms: The guest rooms are now sleek and contemporary, featuring spacious desks, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bathrooms with enhanced amenities.
In summary, the Des Moines Marriott Downtown is currently operating at its peak, offering a newly renovated, luxurious experience directly connected to the pulse of the city via the Skywalk System. Its commitment to modern comfort, excellent dining at Mash + MARROW, and proximity to major attractions and event centers makes it the definitive choice for anyone visiting Des Moines in 2025 and beyond.
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