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From71US$ /night
Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

5000 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale, Iowa, United States, 50322
-
Near Terra Lake
Guest rating
5.1
5.2
/10
2.5
2.1
/5

Amenities

The hotel's standout feature is the indoor water park, offering a variety of water slides and a lazy river. A spacious fitness center is available for guests who want to maintain their workout routine during their stay. An arcade provides entertainment for guests of all ages with various games and activities.

Rooms

Accommodations at the hotel include family suites and king rooms, designed to meet diverse guest needs. Each room is equipped with a refrigerator and microwave, making it convenient for families and extended stays. Select rooms even provide views of the indoor water park.

Location

Situated in Urbandale, the hotel is conveniently located near the Des Moines area, providing easy access to local attractions. Guests can explore nearby sites such as the Living History Farms and the Des Moines Art Center. Interstate 80 is also just a short drive away, connecting visitors to further destinations.

Dining

On-site dining at the hotel includes a restaurant offering a variety of American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A bar area provides beverages and light snacks, enhancing the dining experience. Additional dining options are conveniently found within a short drive from the hotel.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The hotel is suitable for families, featuring spacious accommodations and recreational facilities. The indoor water park allows for hours of fun without leaving the premises. Additionally, children's activities are organized to keep young guests entertained.

Highlights

Location: Conveniently located near the Des Moines area

Rooms: Family suites and king rooms available

Dining: Restaurant offering a variety of American cuisine

Entertainment: Indoor water park with multiple slides

“The resort's indoor water park certainly stands out, a potentially convenient draw for families. I noted the conference facilities, with adaptable meeting rooms, could serve diverse business needs. Still, I see that upkeep in some areas seems inconsistent, according to what I've reviewed.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
King Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
Deluxe King Room Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
Queen Room Mobility Access or Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Coffee machine
Heating
1 Queen Bed Accessible Room Poolside Non-Smoking
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Coffee machine
Heating
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Bowling
  • Golf course

Services

  • Laundry
  • Shops/Commercial services
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Poolside snack bar

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Children's menu
  • Children's pool
  • Water slides
  • Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Plunge pool
  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Aqua park
  • Live entertainment
  • Jacuzzi

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr offers an inviting dining scene featuring hearty American fare in family-friendly settings. Enjoy delightful meals alongside refreshing beverages, whether poolside or at a lively sports bar, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr Urbandale Restaurant photo

Boss' Pizzeria and Chicken Sports Bar

American
Ambiance
Family-friendly sports bar atmosphere with vibrant decor, ideal for casual gatherings.
Key Offerings
Specializing in pizza and chicken dishes, this spot is perfect for game day or family dinners, serving up hearty meals and a lively vibe.
Reservation
No
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Castaways Bar and Grill

American casual dining
Ambiance
Relaxing poolside setting that captures the joyful spirit of resort living, perfect for unwinding in the sun.
Key Offerings
Enjoy refreshing drinks and light bites while soaking in the festive atmosphere, ideal for leisurely meals or snacks throughout the day.
Reservation
No
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; specific hours may vary.

Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr Location

5000 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale, Iowa, United States, 50322
Map view
5000 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale, Iowa, United States, 50322
Nearby
Trestle to Trestle Trail
3400 ft
American Reading Academy
3600 ft
Restaurants
Bandit Burrito
4100 ft
5340 Merle Hay Rd
Sonic Drive-In
3900 ft
5350 Merle Hay Road
Explore Urbandale
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Lions Park
25 minutes' walk
Family-friendly park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails for leisure and relaxation.
Terra Lake
30 minutes' walk
Picturesque lake offering fishing options, spacious parks, and scenic walking paths for outdoor enjoyment.
Trestle to Trestle Trail
15 minutes' walk
Long scenic trail perfect for walking and biking, with views of nature and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
25 minutes' walk
Craft brewery and cinema with a vast selection of beers and movies, ideal for a relaxed night out.
Biking the Trestle to Trestle Trail
15 minutes' walk
Thrilling biking experience on a scenic trail. Rentals are available locally for an adventurous day.
Nearby Parks Exploration
25 minutes' walk
Multiple parks within walking distance offer calm walks, picnics, and outdoor activities for relaxation.
Bandit Burrito
Bandit Burrito
15 minutes' walk
Casual spot known for delicious burritos. Fresh ingredients and vibrant atmosphere make it ideal for quick meals.
Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In
15 minutes' walk
Classic fast-food chain with an American flair, offering a wide range of burgers, sides, and shakes.
Flix Brewhouse Des Moines
25 minutes' walk
Unique brewpub cinema with weekly events, boasting craft beer and movies in a vibrant social atmosphere.
Live Music at Local Bars
10 minutes' drive
Exciting nightlife options with local bands performing regularly at nearby venues, perfect for music lovers.
Getting around town
City Centre
Urbandale35 min  ·  1.8 mi
Airports
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)25 min  ·  10.2 mi
Boone Municipal (BNW)92 min  ·  37.8 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
All visitors are offered a continental breakfast for a fee. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2009
Number of rooms:
242
Former name
Holiday Inn Merle Hay

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 705 verified reviews
4.9/10
Guest rating
29%
Recommend
Breakfast
4.4/10
Cleanliness
5.9/10
Comfort
5.9/10
Facilities
5.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.1/10
Location
7.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.6/10
Staff
6.8/10
Value for money
5.9/10
Pros
Balcony upgrade
Accommodating bar
Reasonable check-in
Nice arcade
Cons
Dirty rooms
Rude staff
Closed water park
Guest reviews
based on 442 reviews
5.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr
How far is Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr from Des Moines International Airport?
The hotel is 15 km from Des Moines International Airport.
What attractions are nearby Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
Nearby attractions include Iowa Gold Star Military Museum (7 km) and Buccaneer Arena (8 km).
What are the check-in and check-out times at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What amenities are available at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, free parking, a fitness centre, an indoor swimming pool, and a water park.
Is parking available at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
Free private parking is available on-site without reservation.
What dining options does Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr offer?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant, Castaways Bar and Grill, and poolside dining.
What type of rooms are available at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
Rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and some have seating areas and jetted hot tubs.
What recreational facilities are offered at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
Guests can enjoy an 1672.3 m² indoor water park, game room, and golf course.
What services are provided at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
The hotel offers 24-hour reception, laundry services, and wedding/event services.
What nearby restaurants are available to guests at Ramada By Wyndham Des Moines Tropics Resort & Conference Ctr?
Nearby restaurants include Wendy's (0.5 km), Jimmy John's (1 km), and Sonic Drive-In (1 km).

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Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room