DES MOINES, Iowa
The newly constructed Hilton Des Moines Downtown opened its doors on March 21, 2018. The hotel is directly connected to the Iowa Events Center, which comprises a convention center and the Wells Fargo Arena.
"As the first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in the city, we look forward to introducing the brand's world-renowned hospitality to Des Moines and fully integrating into the fabric of the community," said Dave Marr, senior VP and global head, full service brands, Hilton. "Des Moines has many development projects in the works and we know this hotel will play a critical role in supporting the influx of travelers expected to the city."
Reflecting Des Moines' growing status as one of the nation's leading technology hubs, the 330-room hotel was designed to celebrate both the agricultural and technological influences of the city. Hilton Des Moines Downtown features windows that are arranged in a binary pattern to resemble barcodes, custom-designed, circuit board-inspired carpets and light fixtures that playfully mimic the appearance of wiring.
The tech-centric hotel offers digital check-in, USB ports throughout its lobby and a tech lounge with complimentary computers and internet. As a nod to the city's agricultural roots, the precast panels on the side of the hotel were inspired by wheat, and the windows and outside facade by corn and soybean rows.
The overall aesthetic pulls colors from its agricultural surroundings.
"I'm thrilled to celebrate the opening of Hilton Des Moines Downtown with my colleagues, city leaders and the many people who have helped make this day possible," said Matt Felling, general manager, Hilton Des Moines Downtown. "We appreciate the vision of community leaders and the dedication of the Weitz construction team who made it possible for us to open this landmark hotel ahead of schedule."
Modern Meeting Space Aims to Bring More Groups to Des Moines
Hilton Des Moines Downtown has 14,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 10,000-square-foot ballroom that opens onto an outdoor terrace. With capacity for 1,000 guests, all meeting space is located on the same floor, allowing for easy flow among the spaces for multifunction meetings and events.
The property is the only hotel in downtown Des Moines that features natural light in every meeting room. Each space features touch-screen navigation signage and smart window lighting.
ClickShare wireless presentation technology is available in the hotel's boardrooms.
As part of the Des Moines Skywalk system, the hotel provides a direct connection to the Iowa Events Center, offering the most convenient accommodation option for convention attendees.
The hotel is also situated near the Des Moines International Airport and surrounded by some of the city's most impressive dining options, major businesses and downtown attractions like the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the city's renowned downtown Farmer's Market.
"Hilton Des Moines Downtown will attract even more people and events to central Iowa," said Greg Edwards, president & CEO, Catch Des Moines. "The fact that the hotel is connected and right next door to the Iowa Events Center is a game changer for us in luring new conventions, sporting events and trade shows to the metro.
"One of the most powerful elements of success in a community is positive momentum—prior to opening the doors of the hotel, the Catch Des Moines team has already booked over 23 new conventions, conferences and sporting events," Edwards added. "These events will have an economic impact of nearly $73 million."
The hotel's lobby features a rotating art exhibit, provided by Des Moines’ Moberg Gallery. The displayed artwork, created by local and regional artists, will be available for guests to purchase.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown will also be home to Park Street Kitchen, a modern restaurant featuring dishes created with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant will be led by Chef Nick Marino, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America who joins the team from his previous position at Waldorf Astoria Chicago.
