Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines is a lodge-style hotel at 5291 Stoney Creek Court in Johnston, Iowa, located in the northern Des Moines metropolitan area approximately 10 miles from the city center via the Interstate 35/80 corridor. The property is operated by Stoney Creek Hotels, a family-owned Midwest hospitality company known for applying a rustic cabin aesthetic to suburban hotel accommodations — the Johnston location features timber-beam design elements, stone fireplace accents in the lobby, and nature-themed decor that distinguishes it clearly from standard chain offerings in the greater Des Moines area. Guest accommodations span three room categories: standard rooms suited to solo and couples travel, family suites providing additional space for longer stays, and bunk bed suites — the brand's signature offering — designed specifically for families traveling with children, providing separated sleeping areas in a cabin-themed environment that younger guests reliably enjoy. A complimentary hot breakfast is included with all room rates and served daily in the lodge-style dining area, offering cooked items such as eggs, sausage, and pancakes alongside standard continental options. The indoor pool and hot tub operate year-round, a particularly significant amenity during Iowa's long winter season when outdoor aquatic recreation is unavailable. A fitness center supports guests maintaining exercise routines. Free surface parking is available throughout any stay with no additional charge, simplifying logistics for road-tripping families and business travelers arriving by car. Johnston's position along Merle Hay Road places the hotel within convenient reach of the Living History Farms open-air museum in Urbandale, approximately 5 miles south — a top family destination covering 500 acres of preserved Iowa agricultural history. The Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines is approximately 12 miles south; the Iowa State Fair held each August is one of the most attended state fairs in the United States. Merle Hay Mall and a broad commercial corridor offer retail and dining within 2 miles. Multiple business campuses in Johnston and Urbandale, including major employers in insurance and financial services, draw corporate travelers who value the hotel's comfortable amenities and competitive rates.
Room types
- Standard Room
- Family Suite
- Bunk Bed Suite
Amenities
- Free WiFi
- Indoor Pool
- Hot Tub
- Fitness Center
- Free Breakfast
- Free Parking
Location
5291 Stoney Creek Ct, Johnston, IA 50131
41.6773, -93.7160 View on map
Highlights
- Lodge-style hotel with timber accents, stone fireplace, and rustic cabin ambiance in the northern Des Moines metro
- Indoor pool and hot tub available year-round — a significant advantage during Iowa's cold winter months
- Bunk bed suites designed for families with children, alongside standard rooms and family suite configurations
- Complimentary hot breakfast included daily, served in the lodge-style dining area
- Free parking and easy freeway access to downtown Des Moines, Iowa State Fairgrounds, and Living History Farms
Tips for visiting
- Book bunk bed suites months in advance for Iowa State Fair week in August, when Des Moines-area hotels fill rapidly
- The indoor pool is most crowded on weekend afternoons; early-morning swims offer a quieter experience
- Living History Farms in Urbandale, approximately 5 miles south, is a full-day family activity well worth pairing with an overnight stay
- Merle Hay Mall, 2 miles south, provides convenient shopping and casual dining options during stays
- Corporate visitors to Johnston-area business campuses should ask about extended-stay or weekly rate options
Accessibility
Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines provides ADA-compliant guest rooms with accessible bathroom configurations available on request, and the hotel entrance and lobby are wheelchair accessible. An elevator serves all guest floors, and free parking includes ADA-designated spaces adjacent to the main entrance. Guests with specific mobility or accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact the hotel prior to arrival to confirm room selection.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines include breakfast?
Yes, a complimentary hot breakfast is included with all room rates, served daily in the hotel's lodge-style dining area. The breakfast typically includes eggs, sausage, pancakes, and standard continental items.
Does the hotel have an indoor pool?
Yes, the hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub available to all registered guests year-round. The pool area is particularly popular with families and provides a reliable aquatic option regardless of Iowa's seasonal weather.
How far is Stoney Creek Hotel from downtown Des Moines?
The hotel is located in Johnston, Iowa, approximately 10 miles north of downtown Des Moines via Interstate 35/80. Driving time is typically 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Are bunk bed suites available at this hotel?
Yes, bunk bed suites are a signature offering of the Stoney Creek brand and are popular with families traveling with children. These suites should be booked in advance during busy periods, particularly around the Iowa State Fair in August.