Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro
From
US$570
/ night
Select dates to see prices and availability
From
US$570
/ night
About this property
Historic 1895 home completely remodeled with all new bathrooms and kitchen and original hardwood oak floors refinished throughout. Brand new kitchen with island seating and large dining table. Original fireplace with infrared insert. Walkin...
Location
Drake, a neighborhood in Des Moines, is home to this vacation home. Jordan Creek Town Center is worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Iowa Events Center or Casey's Center.
Refrigerator
TV
Microwave
Hair dryer
Desk
Towels
Guest reviews of Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro
9.9
Exceptional
Based on 53 verified reviews
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Across reviews, Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro stands out as a spacious, clean, thoughtfully equipped house near Drake and downtown, ideal for big families, teams, and gatherings, with comfortable beds and responsive hosts.
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What guests think
Across reviews, Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro stands out as a spacious, clean, thoughtfully equipped house near Drake and downtown, ideal for big families, teams, and gatherings, with comfortable beds and responsive hosts.
Guests highlight kid friendly touches, game and gathering spaces, and a well stocked kitchen and dining setup that works well for large groups. Travelers report nearby groceries and restaurants and straightforward check in and check out. A few reviews mention challenges with exterior steps and isolated issues like ants or uneven heating, but these were not common. Expect a relaxed, group friendly stay.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
Guests appreciate family friendly extras like toys, a game room, and a piano, plus a large front porch and patio for gathering. The kitchen, laundry, and dining areas are well stocked for groups.
Related guest reviews
10
J R.
15 Sept 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
10
Family M.
26 Nov 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
10
Kurt B.
3 Dec 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
10
Troy H.
27 Aug 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
We really enjoyed the weekend that we spent at your property. The house has been remodeled very nicely with all the amenities. It was stocked very well with dishes in the kitchen and towels, and sundries for bathrooms and the outside. The house was very clean, and the outside porch was very usable, and had plenty of seating. The beds were very comfortable and the rooms were clean and large.
We really enjoyed the weekend that we spent at your property. The house has been remodeled very nicely with all the amenities. It was stocked very well with dishes in the kitchen and towels, and sundries for bathrooms and the outside. The house was very clean, and the outside porch was very usable, and had plenty of seating. The beds were very comfortable and the rooms were clean and large.
10
jeremy g.
25 Aug 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Spacious and very comfortable and convenient for our family. Loved the piano, too! Thank you for a lively stay.
Spacious and very comfortable and convenient for our family. Loved the piano, too! Thank you for a lively stay.
10
Keith C.
22 Aug 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
10
kimberly m.
19 Jul 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
This is an older home but has been decorated and kept well. The littles loved the bunk beds, game room and many kid friendly extras!! Everyone slept well on comfortable beds and the house was very clean! We loved the amount of space we had and especially loved the large table that allowed us all to sit around it and visit! Our hosts were easy to communicate with and very friendly, I would suggest using the WiFi to communicate from the house if needed as I couldn't count on Verizon from there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend it and stay there again!
This is an older home but has been decorated and kept well. The littles loved the bunk beds, game room and many kid friendly extras!! Everyone slept well on comfortable beds and the house was very clean! We loved the amount of space we had and especially loved the large table that allowed us all to sit around it and visit! Our hosts were easy to communicate with and very friendly, I would suggest using the WiFi to communicate from the house if needed as I couldn't count on Verizon from there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend it and stay there again!
10
Robyn M.
22 Aug 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We stayed here during our annual trip to the Iowa State Fair and Adventureland. We had 5 couples and 2 children. We had plenty of space for all of us, including bedrooms. There were even toys for the kids! We had plenty of seating at meal time and found everything we needed in the kitchen for meal preparation. The beds were so, so, so comfortable! We would definitely stay here again!
We stayed here during our annual trip to the Iowa State Fair and Adventureland. We had 5 couples and 2 children. We had plenty of space for all of us, including bedrooms. There were even toys for the kids! We had plenty of seating at meal time and found everything we needed in the kitchen for meal preparation. The beds were so, so, so comfortable! We would definitely stay here again!
10
Eugene Q.
2 Aug 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
This home had everything we needed and more. New stylish bathrooms with great hot water and good pressure. The beds were super comfortable with very nice quality bedding. The sofas and chairs were great for both sitting and napping!! The kitchen was well stocked, washer and dryer, fridge and dishwasher were all high quality. Our family of 7 ranged from age 11-70 and all of us loved the home. It was perfect for active entertainment for the children, and had charming quiet corners for adults to work or read. The porch was delightful for evening chats and games. The owner responding within hours to one request we had and he was entirely pleasant to deal with. This charming old home was refurbished with attention to detail.
This home had everything we needed and more. New stylish bathrooms with great hot water and good pressure. The beds were super comfortable with very nice quality bedding. The sofas and chairs were great for both sitting and napping!! The kitchen was well stocked, washer and dryer, fridge and dishwasher were all high quality. Our family of 7 ranged from age 11-70 and all of us loved the home. It was perfect for active entertainment for the children, and had charming quiet corners for adults to work or read. The porch was delightful for evening chats and games. The owner responding within hours to one request we had and he was entirely pleasant to deal with. This charming old home was refurbished with attention to detail.
10
Lynda G.
30 Apr 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
We were in town for our 30th anniversary, graduating from Drake. The house was perfect for 5 of us - bedrooms were comfortable and bathrooms were clean. Plenty of space to hang out inside and out - numerous Scrabble games on the front porch. Highly recommend!
We were in town for our 30th anniversary, graduating from Drake. The house was perfect for 5 of us - bedrooms were comfortable and bathrooms were clean. Plenty of space to hang out inside and out - numerous Scrabble games on the front porch. Highly recommend!
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Reviews consistently describe the house as very clean and well maintained. One review mentions ants in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Related guest reviews
10
Erica N.
17 May 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Super house! Very clean, kitchen things were labeled, lots of seating. Loved all the bedrooms and beds available. Host had great communication and very friendly.
Super house! Very clean, kitchen things were labeled, lots of seating. Loved all the bedrooms and beds available. Host had great communication and very friendly.
10
Jody J.
28 Jun 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Ryan was a wonderful host. Very helpful and answered quickly. Hose was very clean and nicely remodeled
Ryan was a wonderful host. Very helpful and answered quickly. Hose was very clean and nicely remodeled
10
Family M.
26 Nov 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
10
Jaclyn B.
22 Feb 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We came to Des Moines for state wrestling. The house is big, was very clean and accommodating. I had one question about the internet while we were there and the owner was very responsive. Check in and out were very easy. They have games, exercise equipment and plenty of room for everyone to spread out. We would definitely stay there again!
We came to Des Moines for state wrestling. The house is big, was very clean and accommodating. I had one question about the internet while we were there and the owner was very responsive. Check in and out were very easy. They have games, exercise equipment and plenty of room for everyone to spread out. We would definitely stay there again!
8
Anel P.
17 Apr 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Everything was great. Anything we needed was there only thing we had a problem was there were ants in the kitchen and bathrooms, But other than that the stay was comfortable and great.
Everything was great. Anything we needed was there only thing we had a problem was there were ants in the kitchen and bathrooms, But other than that the stay was comfortable and great.
10
Troy H.
27 Aug 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
We really enjoyed the weekend that we spent at your property. The house has been remodeled very nicely with all the amenities. It was stocked very well with dishes in the kitchen and towels, and sundries for bathrooms and the outside. The house was very clean, and the outside porch was very usable, and had plenty of seating. The beds were very comfortable and the rooms were clean and large.
We really enjoyed the weekend that we spent at your property. The house has been remodeled very nicely with all the amenities. It was stocked very well with dishes in the kitchen and towels, and sundries for bathrooms and the outside. The house was very clean, and the outside porch was very usable, and had plenty of seating. The beds were very comfortable and the rooms were clean and large.
10
Jody J.
5 Aug 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Nice house. Very clean and organized
Nice house. Very clean and organized
10
kimberly m.
19 Jul 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
This is an older home but has been decorated and kept well. The littles loved the bunk beds, game room and many kid friendly extras!! Everyone slept well on comfortable beds and the house was very clean! We loved the amount of space we had and especially loved the large table that allowed us all to sit around it and visit! Our hosts were easy to communicate with and very friendly, I would suggest using the WiFi to communicate from the house if needed as I couldn't count on Verizon from there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend it and stay there again!
This is an older home but has been decorated and kept well. The littles loved the bunk beds, game room and many kid friendly extras!! Everyone slept well on comfortable beds and the house was very clean! We loved the amount of space we had and especially loved the large table that allowed us all to sit around it and visit! Our hosts were easy to communicate with and very friendly, I would suggest using the WiFi to communicate from the house if needed as I couldn't count on Verizon from there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend it and stay there again!
10
Connie S.
25 Sept 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
The house was much larger then we expected. It is a very beautiful house. Very clean. The only issue we had there are several steps up to the house.
The house was much larger then we expected. It is a very beautiful house. Very clean. The only issue we had there are several steps up to the house.
10
Lynda G.
30 Apr 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
We were in town for our 30th anniversary, graduating from Drake. The house was perfect for 5 of us - bedrooms were comfortable and bathrooms were clean. Plenty of space to hang out inside and out - numerous Scrabble games on the front porch. Highly recommend!
We were in town for our 30th anniversary, graduating from Drake. The house was perfect for 5 of us - bedrooms were comfortable and bathrooms were clean. Plenty of space to hang out inside and out - numerous Scrabble games on the front porch. Highly recommend!
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms are spacious with many bedrooms and multiple hangout areas, and guests repeatedly praise the very comfortable beds and remodeled bathrooms. A few mention quirks of the older home, including occasional uneven heating or confusion about bed configurations.
Related guest reviews
10
Aarika B.
25 Sept 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The house is super nice and all of the beds were very comfortable!
The house is super nice and all of the beds were very comfortable!
10
J R.
15 Sept 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
10
Family M.
26 Nov 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
10
Paul K.
10 Dec 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Large house and pictures do justice . A lot of bedrooms and great living room
Large house and pictures do justice . A lot of bedrooms and great living room
10
Kurt B.
3 Dec 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
10
Adam B.
1 May 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
My coworkers and I had a fantastic stay at this house. We each got our own bedroom which was a big plus and there were plenty of bathrooms and amenities for all of us. Would definitely stay here again!
My coworkers and I had a fantastic stay at this house. We each got our own bedroom which was a big plus and there were plenty of bathrooms and amenities for all of us. Would definitely stay here again!
10
jeremy g.
25 Aug 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Spacious and very comfortable and convenient for our family. Loved the piano, too! Thank you for a lively stay.
Spacious and very comfortable and convenient for our family. Loved the piano, too! Thank you for a lively stay.
8
karen m.
15 May 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The place was nice it was clean. The only problem I had was listing said there were two queens in the living space and there was not. There was just two sofas that did not pull out. So I was short beds, and one of our families had to go to a hotel. Bunkhouse occupied the kids, but as for my single adults that I thought I was getting separate beds for that became a problem. By the family leaving and going to the hotel that freed up the bunkhouse for my single adults.
The place was nice it was clean. The only problem I had was listing said there were two queens in the living space and there was not. There was just two sofas that did not pull out. So I was short beds, and one of our families had to go to a hotel. Bunkhouse occupied the kids, but as for my single adults that I thought I was getting separate beds for that became a problem. By the family leaving and going to the hotel that freed up the bunkhouse for my single adults.
10
Lori K.
29 Dec 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
We were able to sleep 11 people comfortably and never had to worry about being in each others way in this sizable, remodeled, beautiful house! Ryan has done an amazing job setting up the house to accommodate large groups. We slept 11 comfortably and had 15 over for meals regularly. Everything was provided and we were able to find exactly what we needed. As well, the remodeled bathrooms are beautiful. We had a terrific time and hope to be back. My 95 year old mother enjoyed having her bedroom and bathroom on the first floor very close to all of the action! We set up a small artificial tree in the living room and had a great holiday! Thank you Ryan! It was perfect!
We were able to sleep 11 people comfortably and never had to worry about being in each others way in this sizable, remodeled, beautiful house! Ryan has done an amazing job setting up the house to accommodate large groups. We slept 11 comfortably and had 15 over for meals regularly. Everything was provided and we were able to find exactly what we needed. As well, the remodeled bathrooms are beautiful. We had a terrific time and hope to be back. My 95 year old mother enjoyed having her bedroom and bathroom on the first floor very close to all of the action! We set up a small artificial tree in the living room and had a great holiday! Thank you Ryan! It was perfect!
10
Robyn M.
22 Aug 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We stayed here during our annual trip to the Iowa State Fair and Adventureland. We had 5 couples and 2 children. We had plenty of space for all of us, including bedrooms. There were even toys for the kids! We had plenty of seating at meal time and found everything we needed in the kitchen for meal preparation. The beds were so, so, so comfortable! We would definitely stay here again!
We stayed here during our annual trip to the Iowa State Fair and Adventureland. We had 5 couples and 2 children. We had plenty of space for all of us, including bedrooms. There were even toys for the kids! We had plenty of seating at meal time and found everything we needed in the kitchen for meal preparation. The beds were so, so, so comfortable! We would definitely stay here again!
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Hosts are consistently responsive, friendly, and accommodating, with clear communication and easy check in and out. Several guests note prompt help with questions or special requests.
Related guest reviews
10
Amanda D.
19 Apr 2024
·
Stayed 11 nights
My team was in Des Moines working on a project. Their stay was wonderful - clean, accommodating, comfortable. We will definitely be booking again. thank you for your wonderful hospitality.
My team was in Des Moines working on a project. Their stay was wonderful - clean, accommodating, comfortable. We will definitely be booking again. thank you for your wonderful hospitality.
10
Erica N.
17 May 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Super house! Very clean, kitchen things were labeled, lots of seating. Loved all the bedrooms and beds available. Host had great communication and very friendly.
Super house! Very clean, kitchen things were labeled, lots of seating. Loved all the bedrooms and beds available. Host had great communication and very friendly.
10
Jody J.
28 Jun 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Ryan was a wonderful host. Very helpful and answered quickly. Hose was very clean and nicely remodeled
Ryan was a wonderful host. Very helpful and answered quickly. Hose was very clean and nicely remodeled
10
Dirk C.
26 Oct 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The home is beautiful. Ryan was an awesome host, great communicator. Location is close to everything you need or would want to do. There were 12 of us and all loved that there was enough room to spread out and also be together when we wanted that.
The home is beautiful. Ryan was an awesome host, great communicator. Location is close to everything you need or would want to do. There were 12 of us and all loved that there was enough room to spread out and also be together when we wanted that.
10
Jaclyn B.
22 Feb 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We came to Des Moines for state wrestling. The house is big, was very clean and accommodating. I had one question about the internet while we were there and the owner was very responsive. Check in and out were very easy. They have games, exercise equipment and plenty of room for everyone to spread out. We would definitely stay there again!
We came to Des Moines for state wrestling. The house is big, was very clean and accommodating. I had one question about the internet while we were there and the owner was very responsive. Check in and out were very easy. They have games, exercise equipment and plenty of room for everyone to spread out. We would definitely stay there again!
10
Melody S.
30 Dec 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Our family loved the thoughtful and fun amenities provided in this large home. The small Christmas tree was especially thoughtful since we were gathering for the holidays! The host had good communication as well when we had questions. One note - the outside stairs and railings leading into the house are run down and not up to code. The risers are different heights, and the treads are uneven (especially the cement stairs). It was particularly hard to see the cement stairs down to the driveway at night (maybe host could add some solar powered lights?). Our family has some older folks and one family member with visual impairment, so the different height risers was hard. Host offered for us to walk up from the neighbor's driveway, but it was a bit too steep and too far for my older parents. (We appreciated the offer though!) We'd love to stay again for another holiday gathering, especially if the outside stairs are brought up to code.
Our family loved the thoughtful and fun amenities provided in this large home. The small Christmas tree was especially thoughtful since we were gathering for the holidays! The host had good communication as well when we had questions. One note - the outside stairs and railings leading into the house are run down and not up to code. The risers are different heights, and the treads are uneven (especially the cement stairs). It was particularly hard to see the cement stairs down to the driveway at night (maybe host could add some solar powered lights?). Our family has some older folks and one family member with visual impairment, so the different height risers was hard. Host offered for us to walk up from the neighbor's driveway, but it was a bit too steep and too far for my older parents. (We appreciated the offer though!) We'd love to stay again for another holiday gathering, especially if the outside stairs are brought up to code.
10
kimberly m.
19 Jul 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
This is an older home but has been decorated and kept well. The littles loved the bunk beds, game room and many kid friendly extras!! Everyone slept well on comfortable beds and the house was very clean! We loved the amount of space we had and especially loved the large table that allowed us all to sit around it and visit! Our hosts were easy to communicate with and very friendly, I would suggest using the WiFi to communicate from the house if needed as I couldn't count on Verizon from there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend it and stay there again!
This is an older home but has been decorated and kept well. The littles loved the bunk beds, game room and many kid friendly extras!! Everyone slept well on comfortable beds and the house was very clean! We loved the amount of space we had and especially loved the large table that allowed us all to sit around it and visit! Our hosts were easy to communicate with and very friendly, I would suggest using the WiFi to communicate from the house if needed as I couldn't count on Verizon from there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend it and stay there again!
10
Michael T.
21 Apr 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
Host was very accessible and eager to make sure you are fully satisfied. Well stocked with everything you need. The 7 bedrooms are more like 6 with a couch in the 7th for a single. Very, very spacious. Recommend
Host was very accessible and eager to make sure you are fully satisfied. Well stocked with everything you need. The 7 bedrooms are more like 6 with a couch in the 7th for a single. Very, very spacious. Recommend
10
Travis F.
19 Feb 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
This is a beautiful home that is located just minutes from downtown and super easy to access in a busy city. We loved the space the home had to offer along with the location. There are some good watering holes and restaurants just a few blocks from the house. My family and friends stayed here while we attended the state wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo. We didn't know exactly how many people we were going to have stay at the house but the hosts were very understanding of that and were willing to work with us on pricing. All the adults had their own bedroom's and the kiddos enjoyed the bunk beds they got to share. The host Ryan was very transparent and a joy to work with. I highly recommend this listing if you are planning a trip to Des Moines with a large family or many friends.
This is a beautiful home that is located just minutes from downtown and super easy to access in a busy city. We loved the space the home had to offer along with the location. There are some good watering holes and restaurants just a few blocks from the house. My family and friends stayed here while we attended the state wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo. We didn't know exactly how many people we were going to have stay at the house but the hosts were very understanding of that and were willing to work with us on pricing. All the adults had their own bedroom's and the kiddos enjoyed the bunk beds they got to share. The host Ryan was very transparent and a joy to work with. I highly recommend this listing if you are planning a trip to Des Moines with a large family or many friends.
10
Tami P.
13 Jan 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
We had a large group stay in this wonderful home recently for a conference held at the convention center. It was a cozy and welcoming home and it functioned perfectly for all who stayed here. Communication was clear and check-in / check-out was easy. Definitely recommend this home.
We had a large group stay in this wonderful home recently for a conference held at the convention center. It was a cozy and welcoming home and it functioned perfectly for all who stayed here. Communication was clear and check-in / check-out was easy. Definitely recommend this home.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Convenient base near Drake University with short drives to downtown venues, the fairgrounds, and Adventureland. Guests also mention nearby groceries and restaurants and a generally quiet, older neighborhood.
Related guest reviews
10
Jody T.
17 Nov 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
We stayed for a family wedding and the house was very accommodating for 10 people. Anywhere you want to go in Des Moines is only 15 minutes from this location!
We stayed for a family wedding and the house was very accommodating for 10 people. Anywhere you want to go in Des Moines is only 15 minutes from this location!
10
J R.
15 Sept 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
10
Dirk C.
26 Oct 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The home is beautiful. Ryan was an awesome host, great communicator. Location is close to everything you need or would want to do. There were 12 of us and all loved that there was enough room to spread out and also be together when we wanted that.
The home is beautiful. Ryan was an awesome host, great communicator. Location is close to everything you need or would want to do. There were 12 of us and all loved that there was enough room to spread out and also be together when we wanted that.
10
Kurt B.
3 Dec 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
10
Andrew R.
11 Jan 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
It was really close to downtown. The place was great for us, and accommodated all of our needs!
It was really close to downtown. The place was great for us, and accommodated all of our needs!
10
Mike M.
15 May 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
While the house is much closer to the Drake University Campus (just down the street), it was the closest for our larger group to stay two nights while we attended my son's Iowa State graduation in Ames. The 35-40 minute drive really didn't seem like a hassle at all, especially when hotel rooms were going for 3x normal rates in Ames! The property was perfect for our needs and if ever we have a need to have a large group in the Des Moines / Ames area again this house would be at the top of the list, assuming it's available! The owners have done a great job thinking through many of the little details that make staying away from home so much easier: Well Stocked Coffee Bar, Large Towels in all Bedrooms ( Washcloths and Hand Towels in the Bathrooms), Extra Hangars in the Bedroom Closets, Numerous Games for kids from 2 to 18 (and Older!), Large Ceiling fans in many Bedrooms, Hair Dryers, Full-size Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash Products in the Showers, A nice Grill and Outdoor Eating Area, Plus so much more Thanks again for making our visit wo worry-free!
While the house is much closer to the Drake University Campus (just down the street), it was the closest for our larger group to stay two nights while we attended my son's Iowa State graduation in Ames. The 35-40 minute drive really didn't seem like a hassle at all, especially when hotel rooms were going for 3x normal rates in Ames! The property was perfect for our needs and if ever we have a need to have a large group in the Des Moines / Ames area again this house would be at the top of the list, assuming it's available! The owners have done a great job thinking through many of the little details that make staying away from home so much easier: Well Stocked Coffee Bar, Large Towels in all Bedrooms ( Washcloths and Hand Towels in the Bathrooms), Extra Hangars in the Bedroom Closets, Numerous Games for kids from 2 to 18 (and Older!), Large Ceiling fans in many Bedrooms, Hair Dryers, Full-size Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash Products in the Showers, A nice Grill and Outdoor Eating Area, Plus so much more Thanks again for making our visit wo worry-free!
10
Tammy B.
19 Jan 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
We loved this property! It was a lovely, big house for our sports team. The location was great and the neighbors were super friendly.
We loved this property! It was a lovely, big house for our sports team. The location was great and the neighbors were super friendly.
10
Keith C.
22 Aug 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
10
Travis F.
19 Feb 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
This is a beautiful home that is located just minutes from downtown and super easy to access in a busy city. We loved the space the home had to offer along with the location. There are some good watering holes and restaurants just a few blocks from the house. My family and friends stayed here while we attended the state wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo. We didn't know exactly how many people we were going to have stay at the house but the hosts were very understanding of that and were willing to work with us on pricing. All the adults had their own bedroom's and the kiddos enjoyed the bunk beds they got to share. The host Ryan was very transparent and a joy to work with. I highly recommend this listing if you are planning a trip to Des Moines with a large family or many friends.
This is a beautiful home that is located just minutes from downtown and super easy to access in a busy city. We loved the space the home had to offer along with the location. There are some good watering holes and restaurants just a few blocks from the house. My family and friends stayed here while we attended the state wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo. We didn't know exactly how many people we were going to have stay at the house but the hosts were very understanding of that and were willing to work with us on pricing. All the adults had their own bedroom's and the kiddos enjoyed the bunk beds they got to share. The host Ryan was very transparent and a joy to work with. I highly recommend this listing if you are planning a trip to Des Moines with a large family or many friends.
10
Jessica O.
5 Jul 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We had 2 families of young adults and teens. Plenty of space for our needs and well located.
We had 2 families of young adults and teens. Plenty of space for our needs and well located.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
The kitchen is well equipped for cooking and group meals, with plenty of seating at a large dining table and breakfast bar. One guest noted a minor utensil gap, but overall meal prep was easy.
Related guest reviews
10
J R.
15 Sept 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
This was the perfect stay for family traveling in from around the US. Easy location for multiple airport trips, space for everyone to eat together, and large comfortable bedrooms. The play space for the 3 year old was more than perfect, with toys and books! We would stay here again. Thank you!
10
Family M.
26 Nov 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
Loved our stay! The house was perfect and felt like a hotel in terms of attention to detail - everything was new, super clean and tastefully decorated - the house had spacious bedrooms, comfortable beds, new bedding and towels, updated kitchen and baths (tile, appliances, fixtures), new washer/dryer, large kitchen table and breakfast bar for dining, a great room for gathering with lots of seating options, fireplace nook for a more intimate space, separate game/TV room, big front porch and patio. The newly refinished hardwood floors were beautiful - just a lovely property with charm and character. Our host was very responsive and easy to communicate with. It was everything we wanted for our stay and would highly recommend this property.
10
Kurt B.
3 Dec 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
Shared this house with my extended family for Thanksgiving - six adults and six kids of all ages. House was spacious enough to spread out in. Decent kitchen and large dining room met our needs. House is older - a lot of interesting nooks and rooms, but heating was inconsistent. Owner noted that heating vents may have been closed to cause that issue. Piano, TVs, air hockey, board games, kids toys were all a hit. Neighborhood is older and fairly quiet, close to Drake University. It met our needs very well.
10
Troy H.
27 Aug 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
We really enjoyed the weekend that we spent at your property. The house has been remodeled very nicely with all the amenities. It was stocked very well with dishes in the kitchen and towels, and sundries for bathrooms and the outside. The house was very clean, and the outside porch was very usable, and had plenty of seating. The beds were very comfortable and the rooms were clean and large.
We really enjoyed the weekend that we spent at your property. The house has been remodeled very nicely with all the amenities. It was stocked very well with dishes in the kitchen and towels, and sundries for bathrooms and the outside. The house was very clean, and the outside porch was very usable, and had plenty of seating. The beds were very comfortable and the rooms were clean and large.
10
Rachael B.
12 Mar 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
This was a great well stocked location. Plenty of room for our retreat. It had everything we needed. We would stay there again!
This was a great well stocked location. Plenty of room for our retreat. It had everything we needed. We would stay there again!
10
Carrie C.
15 Apr 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
We had such a great weekend and this was an amazing place to stay. Can’t tell you enough how comfortable the beds and the whole house was. Only thing missing was a pizza cutter but they had plenty of knifes that did the job. I would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a great place to stay.
We had such a great weekend and this was an amazing place to stay. Can’t tell you enough how comfortable the beds and the whole house was. Only thing missing was a pizza cutter but they had plenty of knifes that did the job. I would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a great place to stay.
10
Keith C.
22 Aug 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
We had a great stay at this property! It has a great location near Drake with grocery stores and restaurants nearby - some within walking distance. We had a family gathering for the fair (a <15 min drive or <5 min to fair shuttle) and it was great for the kids. We enjoyed having the extra space for family get together. Dinners were easy with the kitchen and large dining table. Highly recommended this place for groups given the size and location!
10
Lori K.
29 Dec 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
We were able to sleep 11 people comfortably and never had to worry about being in each others way in this sizable, remodeled, beautiful house! Ryan has done an amazing job setting up the house to accommodate large groups. We slept 11 comfortably and had 15 over for meals regularly. Everything was provided and we were able to find exactly what we needed. As well, the remodeled bathrooms are beautiful. We had a terrific time and hope to be back. My 95 year old mother enjoyed having her bedroom and bathroom on the first floor very close to all of the action! We set up a small artificial tree in the living room and had a great holiday! Thank you Ryan! It was perfect!
We were able to sleep 11 people comfortably and never had to worry about being in each others way in this sizable, remodeled, beautiful house! Ryan has done an amazing job setting up the house to accommodate large groups. We slept 11 comfortably and had 15 over for meals regularly. Everything was provided and we were able to find exactly what we needed. As well, the remodeled bathrooms are beautiful. We had a terrific time and hope to be back. My 95 year old mother enjoyed having her bedroom and bathroom on the first floor very close to all of the action! We set up a small artificial tree in the living room and had a great holiday! Thank you Ryan! It was perfect!
10
Robyn M.
22 Aug 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We stayed here during our annual trip to the Iowa State Fair and Adventureland. We had 5 couples and 2 children. We had plenty of space for all of us, including bedrooms. There were even toys for the kids! We had plenty of seating at meal time and found everything we needed in the kitchen for meal preparation. The beds were so, so, so comfortable! We would definitely stay here again!
We stayed here during our annual trip to the Iowa State Fair and Adventureland. We had 5 couples and 2 children. We had plenty of space for all of us, including bedrooms. There were even toys for the kids! We had plenty of seating at meal time and found everything we needed in the kitchen for meal preparation. The beds were so, so, so comfortable! We would definitely stay here again!
10
Eugene Q.
2 Aug 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
This home had everything we needed and more. New stylish bathrooms with great hot water and good pressure. The beds were super comfortable with very nice quality bedding. The sofas and chairs were great for both sitting and napping!! The kitchen was well stocked, washer and dryer, fridge and dishwasher were all high quality. Our family of 7 ranged from age 11-70 and all of us loved the home. It was perfect for active entertainment for the children, and had charming quiet corners for adults to work or read. The porch was delightful for evening chats and games. The owner responding within hours to one request we had and he was entirely pleasant to deal with. This charming old home was refurbished with attention to detail.
This home had everything we needed and more. New stylish bathrooms with great hot water and good pressure. The beds were super comfortable with very nice quality bedding. The sofas and chairs were great for both sitting and napping!! The kitchen was well stocked, washer and dryer, fridge and dishwasher were all high quality. Our family of 7 ranged from age 11-70 and all of us loved the home. It was perfect for active entertainment for the children, and had charming quiet corners for adults to work or read. The porch was delightful for evening chats and games. The owner responding within hours to one request we had and he was entirely pleasant to deal with. This charming old home was refurbished with attention to detail.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
10
Johnny N.
22 Jun 2026
·
Stayed 4 nights
Great place with plenty of space for large groups. Check in was easy and the property was very clean. Communication with the host was great as well. Will be considering the property again for our next stay when in town.
Great place with plenty of space for large groups. Check in was easy and the property was very clean. Communication with the host was great as well. Will be considering the property again for our next stay when in town.
10
Sarah H.
15 Jun 2026
·
Stayed 3 nights
We had a group with 7 kids and 4 adults and this space was perfect. There was enough space for eating, sleeping, showering, and playing! I would highly recommend staying here. The property description said one of the bedrooms had 2 queen beds which was inaccurate. We wish there was more yard to enjoy but we utilized the front porch and front patio area for outdoor grilling and picnicking.
We had a group with 7 kids and 4 adults and this space was perfect. There was enough space for eating, sleeping, showering, and playing! I would highly recommend staying here. The property description said one of the bedrooms had 2 queen beds which was inaccurate. We wish there was more yard to enjoy but we utilized the front porch and front patio area for outdoor grilling and picnicking.
10
Ellen F.
30 May 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Perfect location and space for our group. The house was comfortable and had everything we needed including many kid friendly things! Would stay again.
Perfect location and space for our group. The house was comfortable and had everything we needed including many kid friendly things! Would stay again.
10
Emily Z.
17 Apr 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Great for a big group. Good communication with host!
Great for a big group. Good communication with host!
10
Piper O.
23 Feb 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
We had an excellent stay at this Vrbo! The host was awesome and the accommodations exactly what we were looking for. Thank you for the great experience!
We had an excellent stay at this Vrbo! The host was awesome and the accommodations exactly what we were looking for. Thank you for the great experience!
Property policies
Check-in
Check-out
Check-in from 16:00
Before 10:00
FAQs about Beautiful remodeled historic Drake Univ home minutes from downtown and all metro
Is parking available at the property?
Yes, there is a large parking lot in the back of the house that can accommodate around 5 cars, along with additional space for about 6 cars in the double-wide long driveway. Alley access is also available for convenient entry and exit.
What are the standard check-in and check-out times?
The standard check-in time is 16:00, and check-out is at 10:00. Early or late check-in/check-out may be available upon request.
Where is the property located in relation to key landmarks?
The property is situated in the Drake neighborhood of Des Moines, just minutes from downtown and close to attractions such as Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland. It is also within walking distance to Drake Stadium and Knapp Center.
Are children allowed to stay at the property?
Yes, children are permitted at the property. Children aged 0-17 can stay for free.
Does the property offer extra beds or cribs?
The property does not provide extra beds or cribs. Guests should inquire about any specific needs prior to their stay.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Check-in must be done by someone who is at least 21 years old.
Popular amenities
Refrigerator
TV
Microwave
Hair dryer
Desk
Towels
General
Refrigerator
Microwave
Hair dryer
TV
Desk
Towels
Highchairs
Fireplace
Children's Games
Smoke-Free Property
Activities
Arcade/Game Room
Books
Games
Outdoor Furniture
Fitness Center (nearby)
Services
Laundry Facilities
Internet
Free wi-fi