Vacation rentals in Polk County

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Polk County

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A vibrant living room features a curvy orange couch, complementing a playful area rug with geometric patterns. A glass window allows natural light to illuminate the space, highlighting the eclectic decor on a nearby shelf. Seating includes a striped chair and a coffee table.
Home in Des Moines
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 260 reviews

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!

Guest favorite
A spacious living area features large windows, offering expansive views of the skyline. Modern furnishings include a cozy couch, two accent chairs, and a coffee table. A sleek electric fireplace is positioned beneath a wall-mounted TV, enhancing the contemporary design of the space.
Townhouse in Des Moines
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

This is the best Des Moines has to offer!

Welcome to a beautiful 3 story townhome in the heart of Des Moines. If an upscale modern home with an incredible view is your thing, you will be in heaven. Inside you’ll find a clean, bright and well decorated home with all the amenities you'll need to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. Minutes from shopping, dining and nightlife. The bike trail is across the street where you can ride to Gray’s Lake or stroll to downtown DSM and enjoy the Farmer's Market, Civic Center and Principal Park.

Superhost
A contemporary tiny house exterior is showcased, featuring a wooden facade and a garage below. A private deck rests atop, surrounded by greenery. Large windows allow natural light, while the entrance is framed by two sleek doors, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming appeal.
Tiny home in Des Moines
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews

Des Moines' coolest Tiny Home! +Deck/garage

Kick back and enjoy this calm, stylish tiny house. In an awesome location near downtown, it's the perfect place for a memorable stay in Des Moines! (Fall 2025*, please note there is an active new construction project next door- which shouldn't effect your peace or experience.) You can easily walk to great bars, restaurants, grocery, etc. Peaceful and large deck to relax and unwind.. Convenient garage parking included! *Large trucks may not fit fully in garage. Tiny house experience! 🛖

Top guest favorite
A comfortable living area features a black leather sofa adorned with light-colored pillows, complemented by a dark brown ottoman. Soft light emanates from a floor lamp against a navy wall, while sheer curtains gently filter natural light. A massage chair is visible in the background.
Place to stay in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 344 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
A private patio area is sheltered by a wooden overhang, featuring a comfortable seating arrangement. Decorative lights hang from the ceiling, and a small wind chime adds a subtle decorative touch. Lush greenery surrounds the space, offering a sense of privacy.
Guest suite in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 606 reviews

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 🏫❤️.

Top guest favorite
Barn in Des Moines
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 306 reviews

“The Miles Barn” Gorgeous Industrial Loft

Welcome to our beautiful open concept industrial loft. Upon entering our cozy abode, you'll find a clean, bright, well decorated home with many great amenities where you can kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. If high ceilings and beautiful polished concrete floors are your thing, you will be in heaven. Steel railings give it a true industrial feel. Everything needed for your stay is well thought out and ready to be used. We hope you love our loft as much as we do! ***Pet Fee is $125***

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area is visible, featuring two recliner chairs facing a small circular table. A flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall in front, with light-colored walls and wooden flooring creating a welcoming ambiance. The kitchen area can be seen in the background.
Apartment in Ankeny
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 314 reviews

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!

Top guest favorite
A warm living area features a brown leather sofa with decorative blue pillows, positioned next to a round coffee table on a soft area rug. A blue armchair complements the seating arrangement, and natural light enters through nearby windows. Archways lead into the adjoining rooms.
Home in Des Moines
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 213 reviews

Peaceful Setting & Modern Style

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to your own private oasis with this charming 2 Bedroom Airbnb. The house provides present-day amenities while still honoring the original 1930s character. You’ll enjoy a new and sparkling clean kitchen, complete with all the appliances and utensils you need. The bathroom, laundry, dining room, reading nook and living room have all been beautifully updated as well, ensuring that you'll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

Top guest favorite
An open living area showcases comfortable seating and a decorative ottoman on a dark rug. The kitchen is visible in the background, featuring wooden cabinetry and appliances. Walls are adorned with framed art, contributing to a well-appointed and welcoming space.
Guest suite in Pleasant Hill
5 out of 5 average rating, 198 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a single-story house is showcased, featuring a well-maintained lawn with green grass and landscaped bushes. A large tree provides shade in front of the home, which has a combination of stone and siding. Clear skies and sunlight create a bright environment.
Home in Ankeny
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 195 reviews

Newly Remodeled Home with Walk-In Shower

My home is located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Ankeny with a 16 min. drive to downtown Des Moines and Wells Fargo Arena. The high trestle trail is about 8 blocks away with a nice park 1 block away. The highlight of my home is the newly remodeled bedrooms and bathroom. There are queen beds in each of the bedrooms. The guest bed is brand new. The living room has a 55” LG OLED 4k TV with a PlayStation 5. I have high-speed cable internet with cable through slingTV.

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area is characterized by a large, curved sectional sofa in a warm tone, centered around a geometric coffee table. Subtle wall art and a decorative vase add elegance, while an electric fireplace below a flat-screen TV provides a cozy focal point.
Barn in Des Moines
5 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

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***

Guest favorite
A private bedroom features a spacious bed adorned with decorative pillows and a patterned comforter. Two bedside lamps stand on wooden nightstands, alongside a dresser with framed pictures. Natural light filters through a window, brightening the warm-toned wooden flooring.
Guest suite in Ankeny
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 251 reviews

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.

Popular amenities for Polk County vacation rentals

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