Family-friendly vacation rentals in Polk County

MidCentury, technicolor Ranch w/yard, w+d, parking

- Ranch home in Des Moines' friendly Beaverdale neighborhood - Steps from grocery store, ice cream shop+dining - Blocks to more dining+shops - Less than 5 minutes from Drake University - Around 10 minutes from downtown, Des Moines, Arts Center, parks - Easy access within 15 minutes to suburbs - 1000+ feet with open living, dining and kitchen, 2 beds, 1 bath, laundry and on-site parking - Outdoor front porch, back patio+fire pit - Perfect for a family or two couples ***Send your special requests!

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.***

Historic 1-bedroom carriage house apartment

Located in the heart of the Sherman Hill Historic District, this charming one bedroom carriage house has everything you need whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure. It features a plush king bed that guests rave about, a 50” television, massage chair, fully stocked kitchen, large shower, high end linens and beautiful courtyard. The property is within walking distance to downtown, historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater, restaurants, a world class sculpture park and live entertainment.

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!

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.

Luxury Barndominium perfect for larger groups

Welcome to The Lodge on 3rd - a massive 8000 sq ft Barndominum. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With 3 spacious bedrooms and a large loft, there is plenty of room for you and your guests to unwind in style. This property is next door to Luxury Living on Third. airbnb.com/h/luxurylivingonthird These combined properties are ideal for family reunions, etc. ***$200 Pet Fee***

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.

Disco Dreamhouse | Insta-Worthy Stay Near Downtown

Ball Pit | Palm Springs Vibes | Pet-Friendly Welcome to the ultimate Insta-worthy getaway! Featuring a ball pit, Swiftie vibes, & stylish decor, this bold & playful space is perfect for bachelorettes, birthdays, & weekend escapes. Enjoy a fully fenced yard, fire pit, stocked kitchen, & peaceful hammock. No pet fees—treats & toys included! 🐾 Pet-friendly | Self Check-In | Free Parking 📍 7 min to downtown. Book now for a one-of-a-kind stay!

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!

Entire brick ranch in Ankeny two queen beds

Relax individually or with the whole family. Be it your passing through or visiting friends/family. House is centrally located between Ames and Des Moines max of 20-30min drive. Great backyard and cozy living spaces. Warm up by the fire this winter or relax with a good meal. Feeling a bit home sick look as if ours is just like home.Rent the entire house (excluding Basement and garage) for your visit.