The Surety Hotel occupies a beautifully restored 1913 Beaux-Arts bank building at 206 Sixth Avenue in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, situated in the historic financial district between the Court Avenue entertainment corridor and the core of the city's office and government quarter. Originally constructed as the home of the Iowa Loan and Trust Company, the building's conversion to a boutique hotel has preserved its defining architectural features — original marble floors, coffered ceilings, carved stone facade details, and the dramatic banking hall that now anchors the ground floor as Juniper, the hotel's signature restaurant. Guest rooms occupy the upper floors and are divided into standard rooms, king deluxe configurations, and suites, each featuring rainfall showerheads, blackout curtains, quality bedding, and contemporary furnishings that complement rather than compete with the building's historic character. The Juniper restaurant and bar operate in the former banking hall and serve contemporary American cuisine using locally sourced Iowa produce and seasonal ingredients; the bar component offers craft cocktails and a curated wine selection in one of Des Moines's most visually distinctive interior spaces. The Surety does not have a full-service spa or swimming pool, but a fitness center is available on the lower level. Bike Share access is integrated into the hotel's guest services, reflecting the property's positioning within Des Moines's urban cycling network. The Surety hosts weddings, corporate events, and private functions in its atmospheric event spaces, which retain much of the original bank building's grandeur. The Iowa Events Center and Wells Fargo Arena are approximately a 10-minute walk west along Grand Avenue. The East Village neighborhood's independent galleries, boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants extend eastward from the hotel along Court and Grand Avenues. The Principal Riverwalk along the Des Moines River is accessible within 15 minutes on foot. Des Moines International Airport is approximately 6 miles southwest.
Room types
- Standard Room
- King Deluxe
- Suite
Amenities
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Concierge
- Fitness Center
- Bike Share Access
Location
206 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
41.5855, -93.6248 View on map
Highlights
- Historic 1913 Beaux-Arts bank building with original marble floors, coffered ceilings, and carved stone facade
- Juniper restaurant and bar in the restored former banking hall, serving contemporary American cuisine
- Prime downtown Des Moines location between Court Avenue entertainment district and the financial core
- Boutique guest rooms with rainfall showerheads, quality bedding, and design that honors the building's history
- Bike Share access integrated into guest services, with event space for weddings and corporate functions
Tips for visiting
- Request a corner room on an upper floor for views over the downtown Des Moines skyline and historic streetscape
- The Juniper bar is a popular local gathering spot; arriving before 7 p.m. on Friday evenings is advisable for seating
- Court Avenue district, three blocks south, offers additional dining and nightlife options for guests exploring after dinner
- The hotel's event spaces book well in advance; inquire early for weddings or corporate gatherings
- Bike Share stations near Sixth Avenue connect to the Principal Riverwalk and Meredith Trail cycling network
Accessibility
The Surety Hotel provides ADA-compliant guest rooms including roll-in shower options, and the main entrance on Sixth Avenue is equipped with ramp access. An elevator serves all guest floors, and the lobby, Juniper restaurant, and fitness center are wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility or other accessibility requirements should contact the hotel prior to arrival to ensure appropriate room assignment.
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Frequently asked questions
What makes The Surety Hotel distinctive among Des Moines hotels?
The Surety Hotel is housed in a restored 1913 Beaux-Arts bank building with original marble floors and a dramatic former banking hall, now occupied by the Juniper restaurant, giving it one of the most architecturally significant interiors of any hotel in Des Moines.
Does The Surety Hotel have a pool or spa?
The Surety Hotel does not feature a swimming pool or full-service spa; a fitness center is available to all guests. The property's primary draws are its historic design, the Juniper restaurant, and its central downtown location.
Is the Juniper restaurant open to the public?
Yes, the Juniper restaurant and bar are open to hotel guests and the public; the venue is a popular choice among Des Moines residents for dinner and weekend cocktails, and reservations are recommended on busy evenings.
How far is The Surety Hotel from the Iowa Events Center?
The Iowa Events Center and Wells Fargo Arena are approximately a 10-minute walk west along Grand Avenue or Fifth Avenue from The Surety Hotel at Sixth Avenue.